Sweden

Southern Region

Explore the Historical Heart of Central Sweden - Stockholm

  • Visit Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, with its royal palaces, museums, and vibrant city life. Explore the Royal National City Park (Djurgården) for green spaces.
  • Explore the charming Gamla Stan (Old Town) with its narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
  • Discover world-class museums like the Vasa Museum, ABBA The Museum, and the National Museum.
  • Enjoy boat tours through Stockholm's canals and waterways, offering stunning city views.
  • Experience the vibrant culinary scene, from traditional Swedish cuisine to international flavors. Don't miss trying "fika" (coffee break with pastries).
  • Explore the diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character and attractions.

Explore the Charm of Skåne

  • Wander through the picturesque medieval city of Malmö with its modern architecture.
  • Visit the historic university town of Lund and its impressive cathedral.
  • Discover the sandy beaches and charming fishing villages along the Österlen coast, known for its apple orchards and art studios.
  • Explore the Renaissance castle of Sofiero with its beautiful gardens and views over the Öresund.
  • Hike in the scenic national parks like Söderåsen with its dramatic cliffs and beech forests.
  • Enjoy the culinary scene with its focus on fresh, local produce, especially seafood and game. Don't miss trying "gåsamiddag" (goose dinner) in autumn.

Experience the Lakes and Forests of Småland

  • Visit the "Kingdom of Crystal" (Glasriket) and watch glassblowing artisans at work.
  • Explore the birthplace of Astrid Lindgren and visit the theme park Astrid Lindgren's World.
  • Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the numerous lakes surrounded by dense forests, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Hike or bike through the vast forests and nature reserves, keeping an eye out for wildlife like moose.
  • Discover charming small towns like Gränna, known for its polkagris (candy canes) and the surrounding fruit orchards.
  • Visit historic castles and manors scattered throughout the region, often set in beautiful natural surroundings.

Discover the Coastal Beauty of West Sweden (Västsverige)

  • Explore Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city, with its canals and vibrant cultural scene. Enjoy fresh seafood at the Feskekörka fish market.
  • Visit the picturesque Bohuslän archipelago with its charming islands and fishing villages, offering fantastic opportunities for kayaking and seal spotting.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood like oysters, mussels, and shrimp, a regional specialty, and coastal walks along the rocky shores.
  • Explore historic fortresses like Bohus Fortress, offering views of the surrounding river landscape.
  • Discover unique rock carvings in Tanum, a UNESCO World Heritage site set within a rural landscape.
  • Experience sailing, kayaking, and other water activities in the archipelago's clear waters.

Discover the Island Charm of Öland

  • Cross the Öland Bridge, one of the longest in Europe.
  • Explore the unique Stora Alvaret, a vast limestone plain with rare flora and fauna (UNESCO), perfect for hiking.
  • Visit Borgholm Castle, a dramatic ruin with a rich history and views over the island's landscape.
  • Relax on the sandy beaches along the coast, popular for birdwatching.
  • See the royal summer residence of Solliden Palace with its beautiful gardens.
  • Discover charming villages and windmills dotting the landscape, and try local specialties like "kroppkakor" (potato dumplings).

Experience the Coastal Beauty of Blekinge

  • Explore the Karlskrona archipelago, a maritime World Heritage site with numerous islands perfect for kayaking and boat trips.
  • Visit the Naval Museum in Karlskrona to learn about Sweden's naval history.
  • Enjoy sailing, kayaking, and fishing in the Baltic Sea, surrounded by scenic islands and skerries.
  • Discover charming coastal towns like Ronneby with its historic spa park and surrounding forests.

Explore the Historical Significance of Kalmar

  • Visit Kalmar Castle, one of Sweden's best-preserved Renaissance castles, situated by the sea.
  • Stroll through the charming old town with its cobblestone streets and proximity to coastal walks.
  • Enjoy the coastal views and perhaps take a boat trip in the Kalmar Strait.
  • Visit the Kalmar County Museum to delve into the region's history and culture, including its maritime heritage.

Discover the Lakes and Nature of Östergötland

  • Explore the Göta Canal as it passes through the region, offering scenic towpaths for walking and cycling.
  • Visit Linköping, a university city with a blend of modern and historic sites, surrounded by agricultural landscapes.
  • Discover the beautiful Lake Vättern and its surrounding landscapes, perfect for fishing and enjoying the shoreline.
  • Hike or bike in the Kolmården forests, known for their wildlife including moose and wolves, and visit the Kolmården Wildlife Park.
  • Visit Vadstena, a charming town with a medieval castle and abbey, located on the shores of Lake Vättern.

Northern Region

Experience the Wilderness of Lapland

  • Witness the magical Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) during the winter months.
  • Learn about Sami culture and learn about reindeer herding.
  • Stay in an Ice Hotel or explore other unique accommodations.
  • Enjoy dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing in the winter.
  • Hike and fish in the vast wilderness during the summer.
  • Visit national parks like Abisko and Sarek with their stunning Arctic landscapes.

Discover the Coastal Beauty of Northern Sweden

  • Explore the Bothnian Coast with its unique High Coast (Höga Kusten), a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Enjoy hiking, kayaking, and boat trips along the dramatic coastline.
  • Visit charming coastal towns and fishing villages.
  • Experience the midnight sun during the summer months.
  • Discover the Kvarken Archipelago, a unique geological area with thousands of islands.

Explore the Inland Wonders of Northern Sweden

  • Hike in the mountainous regions of Jämtland and Härjedalen.
  • Visit Åre, a popular destination for skiing and outdoor activities.
  • Explore the vast forests and numerous lakes perfect for fishing and canoeing.
  • Discover the cultural heritage of the inland regions.
  • Enjoy the peace and quiet of the sparsely populated areas.

Discover the Coastal City of Umeå

  • Explore Umeå, a vibrant university city with a youthful energy and a thriving cultural scene.
  • Visit Bildmuseet, a contemporary art museum with international exhibitions.
  • Stroll along the Umeälven river and enjoy the parks and green spaces.
  • Discover local crafts and design shops.
  • Experience the NorrlandsOperan for performing arts.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and regional specialties.

Explore the Mining History of Kiruna

  • Visit the Kiruna mine, one of the world's largest underground iron ore mines.
  • Learn about the unique challenges and urban transformation as the city moves due to mining activity.
  • Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and snowshoeing in the surrounding wilderness.
  • Consider a visit to the Esrange Space Center.

Discover the Wilderness around Jokkmokk

  • Visit Jokkmokk, an important center for Sami culture and traditions.
  • Experience the Jokkmokk Winter Market, a centuries-old event showcasing Sami crafts and traditions (usually in February).
  • Explore the Ájtte Museum, the main museum for Sami culture in Sweden.
  • Discover the surrounding wilderness with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and canoeing.

Experience the Nature of Dalarna

  • Visit Lake Siljan, the heart of Dalarna, and explore the surrounding traditional villages.
  • Witness the Midsummer celebrations, a significant cultural event in this region.
  • Explore the artwork of Carl Larsson at his preserved home, Carl Larsson-gården.
  • Enjoy hiking and skiing in the mountains around Sälen and Idre.
  • Discover traditional Swedish crafts and folk music.
  • Visit the Falun Copper Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Explore the Coast of Gävleborg

  • Visit Gävle, known for its Gävle Goat during Christmas time.
  • Explore the scenic coastline with its beaches and charming towns.
  • Visit the Axmar Bruk, a well-preserved old ironworks.
  • Discover the nature reserves and hiking trails along the coast.

Discover the Region of Västernorrland

  • Explore the city of Sundsvall, rebuilt in stone after a major fire.
  • Visit the Kvarken Archipelago (partly in Västernorrland), a unique natural area.
  • Hike in the mountains and forests of the region.
  • Enjoy fishing in the rivers and lakes.
  • Discover local museums and cultural heritage sites.

Suggested Travel Itinerary

Sweden - 6 Weeks

Days 1-7: Stockholm Archipelago & Uppsala

  • Arrive in Stockholm. Explore Gamla Stan (Old Town), Royal Palace, Vasa Museum, and City Hall.
  • Ferry trip to explore the Stockholm Archipelago: Visit one or two islands like Vaxholm (charming town and fortress) or Sandhamn (sailing hub and beaches).
  • Day trip to Uppsala: Visit Uppsala Cathedral, Uppsala University, and Gamla Uppsala (Viking burial mounds).
  • Explore the Södermalm district in Stockholm for its trendy vibe and scenic views.
  • Visit the Fotografiska photography museum in Stockholm.

Days 8-14: The South - Castles, Coast & Countryside

  • Travel south to Kalmar: Visit Kalmar Castle and explore the charming old town.
  • Cross the Öland Bridge and explore the island: Visit Borgholm Castle ruins, Solliden Palace gardens, and the Stora Alvaret (limestone plain).
  • Continue west to the Kingdom of Crystal (Glasriket): Visit a couple of glassworks (e.g., Kosta, Orrefors) and perhaps a glass museum.
  • Explore the region around Småland: Enjoy the lakes, forests, and perhaps visit Astrid Lindgren's World (if interested).
  • Visit the charming town of Gränna on Lake Vättern, known for its polkagris (candy canes).

Days 15-21: West Coast Charm & Gothenburg

  • Travel to Gothenburg: Explore the city's canals, visit the Feskekörka (fish market), and the Universeum science center.
  • Day trip to the Bohuslän Archipelago: Explore charming islands like Marstrand (fortress) or Smögen (fishing village and boardwalk).
  • Enjoy the coastal scenery, perhaps go kayaking or take a boat tour.
  • Optional: Visit the Volvo Museum in Gothenburg.
  • Consider exploring the rock carvings at Tanum (UNESCO World Heritage site), a bit north of the main coastal area.

Days 22-28: Journey North - Dalarna's Culture & Nature

  • Travel north to the Dalarna region: Visit the area around Lake Siljan (e.g., Tällberg, Rättvik) known for its traditional villages and Midsummer celebrations.
  • Explore Carl Larsson-gården in Sundborn (artist's home).
  • Visit the Falun Copper Mine (UNESCO World Heritage site).
  • Enjoy the natural landscapes, perhaps go hiking or boating on Lake Siljan.
  • Experience a traditional folk music performance and visit some of the local crafts workshops.

Days 29-35: Northern Highlights - High Coast & Umeå

  • Travel to the High Coast (Höga Kusten): Hike a section of the High Coast Trail, enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery, and visit Skuleskogen National Park.
  • Explore the Kvarken Archipelago (UNESCO World Heritage site), perhaps take a boat trip.
  • Travel to Umeå: Explore the university city, visit Bildmuseet (art museum), and enjoy the riverside.
  • Visit a local Sami cultural center in the Umeå region.

Days 36-42: Lapland's Wilderness (Seasonal Focus)

  • Fly to Kiruna (if visiting in winter for Northern Lights and ice hotel) or a more central Lapland location (if visiting in summer for hiking and midnight sun).
  • Learn about Sami culture: Visit a Sami village, learn about reindeer herding.
  • Winter: See the Aurora Borealis, consider a stay at the ICEHOTEL, go dog sledding or snowmobiling.
  • Summer: Hike in Abisko National Park (Kungsleden trail), experience the midnight sun, go fishing or canoeing.
  • Optional: Visit Jokkmokk (important Sami center) or the Esrange Space Center (near Kiruna).