Sweden

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Discover the enchanting beauty of Sweden, where vibrant cities seamlessly blend with pristine natural landscapes, offering a captivating mix of cultural richness, historical charm, and Scandinavian serenity. From the captivating northern lights in Lapland to the picturesque streets of Stockholm, Sweden invites you to explore its diverse wonders and experience a journey unlike any other.

“The air and the water in Sweden are crystal clear; it’s no wonder that the list of the most beautiful lakes and the longest coastlines is dominated by Sweden.” – Bjorn Ulvaeus

Top destinations:

Embark on a Scandinavian odyssey as we guide you through Sweden’s top destinations, where centuries of history, breath-taking natural beauty, and modern innovation converge. From the vibrant streets of Stockholm to the wild wonders of Lapland, Sweden beckons with a kaleidoscope of experiences that will leave you spellbound. Join us on a journey through a land where tradition and innovation harmoniously coexist.

Stockholm

Known as the “Venice of the North,” Stockholm is Sweden’s capital and largest city, spread across a series of islands in the Baltic Sea. Visitors can explore the historic Gamla Stan (Old Town), visit world-class museums like the Vasa Museum and ABBA Museum, and enjoy the vibrant cultural scene. With its picturesque canals and modern architecture, Stockholm offers a blend of old-world charm and contemporary elegance.

Gothenburg

Sweden’s second-largest city, Gothenburg, is a thriving hub of culture, industry, and entertainment. Visitors can wander through Liseberg, one of Europe’s largest amusement parks, explore the beautiful Liseberg Gardens, and savor the fresh seafood at the Feskekörka (Fish Market). The city’s relaxed atmosphere and stunning archipelago make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists..

Kiruna and Swedish Lapland

Located in the far north, Kiruna is the gateway to Swedish Lapland, a vast wilderness of forests, mountains, and the captivating Northern Lights. Tourists can experience the Icehotel, an extraordinary accommodation made entirely of ice and snow, as well as engage in activities like dog sledding, ice fishing, and witnessing the indigenous Sami culture. It’s a winter wonderland and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Gotland

Gotland, Sweden’s largest island, is a unique blend of medieval history and natural beauty. Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a medieval town with well-preserved city walls, cobblestone streets, and ancient churches. The island also boasts stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and numerous Viking-age relics. Gotland is a serene escape with rich cultural heritage.

Where to stay

Every neighbourhood has something great to offer, so regardless of where you decide to stay you’ll have loads of amenities around you. Some of our favourites are:

Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel in Sweden, officially known as the “Grand Hôtel Stockholm,” is a luxurious and iconic hotel located in the heart of Stockholm. Established in 1874, it has earned a reputation as one of Sweden’s most prestigious and historic accommodations. The hotel boasts a prime waterfront location overlooking the Royal Palace and offers a harmonious blend of classic elegance and contemporary comfort.

Elite Hotel Adlon

The Elite Hotel Adlon is a stylish 4-star hotel located in the heart of Stockholm, just a short walk from the Central Station and the bustling shopping district. This modern hotel combines Scandinavian design with contemporary comfort to create a welcoming and convenient environment for guests.

The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable beds to ensure a pleasant stay. Guests can dine at the hotel’s restaurant, which serves a mix of Swedish and international cuisine, or unwind with a drink in the bar. A fitness center is available for those looking to stay active during their stay.

Best Western Hotel

The Best Western Hotel in Sweden offers travelers a comfortable and affordable lodging option with a focus on practicality and good value. These hotels are known for providing essential amenities and services to cater to guests’ basic needs.

You can expect well-maintained rooms with standard furnishings and amenities like a private bathroom, TV, and free Wi-Fi. Daily housekeeping ensures that your room remains clean and comfortable during your stay.

Where to eat

Fäviken Magasinet

Fäviken Magasinet is an extraordinary culinary destination located in a remote part of Sweden. It is known for its innovative and sustainable approach to fine dining. The restaurant is set in a 20-seat converted barn on a working farm and focuses on using local, seasonal ingredients. Chef Magnus Nilsson creates a unique, ever-changing menu that showcases the flavors of the region. Dining here is an immersive experience that allows you to savor the essence of Swedish cuisine in a truly authentic and remote setting.

Smörgastarteriet

Smörgastarteriet is a top-notch restaurant in Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city. It offers a contemporary take on traditional Swedish and Scandinavian dishes. The restaurant’s commitment to using local and organic ingredients ensures fresh and delicious meals. The setting is modern and stylish, making it an ideal place to experience the fusion of Swedish culinary traditions with a modern twist. The seafood dishes are particularly noteworthy, given Gothenburg’s coastal location.

Pelikan

Pelikan is a classic Swedish restaurant located in Stockholm. Established in 1904, it exudes a nostalgic atmosphere and is renowned for its traditional Swedish dishes, including herring, meatballs, and cured salmon. Dining at Pelikan is like stepping back in time and enjoying the flavours of Sweden’s culinary heritage. The restaurant’s historic interior and hearty, time-honoured dishes provide a memorable and authentic Swedish dining experience.

Pizza by the slize is actually really popular with locals and younger tourists in Barcelona and you can find some amazing pizza places. This is a great option when you’re just looking for some good, simple food for a light lunch or dinner. We fid you often get fed up of huge meals when travelling, and this little place is one of our favourites. Be sure to ask what they’ve just taken out of the oven when you pop in to get some of the best, freshest pizza in the city. Enjoy!

Top Tips

If you're a couple

Explore Nature: Sweden’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring. Whether it’s hiking in national parks, taking a boat trip through the archipelago, or watching the Northern Lights in Lapland, don’t miss the chance to connect with nature.

If You’re A Group Of Friends

Midsummer Festival: If your visit coincides with the summer solstice (late June), participate in Sweden’s Midsummer celebrations. You’ll experience traditional dances, flower crowns, and delicious Swedish food.

If you're a family

Wildlife Safari: Join a wildlife safari in the Swedish wilderness. You may encounter moose, reindeer, or even the elusive brown bear.

Need to know

Currency
Swedish Krona

Best Time To Travel

Ultimately, the best time to visit Sweden depends on your interests and the type of experience you’re seeking. For outdoor adventures and the Midnight Sun, summer is ideal. For winter sports and the Northern Lights, visit in the winter. Each season has its unique appeal, so plan your trip based on your preferences and the activities you want to enjoy.

Tips
– In many restaurants, cafes, and bars in Sweden, a service charge (usually around 12-15%) is included in the bill. This means that the service charge is already considered the tip. Check your bill to see if a service charge has been added, and if it has, no additional tip is necessary.

Time Difference
– GMT+01:00

Flights
– Directs from Manchester and London – around 2hours 15/30 minutes

Public Transport
– Sweden has an efficient and well-developed public transport system, making it relatively easy to get around the country using various modes of transportation (trains, buses and trams.)

Local Laws

Freedom of Expression: Sweden is known for its strong commitment to freedom of expression and press freedom. Censorship is rare, and journalists are afforded significant protection.

Alcohol Laws: The sale and consumption of alcohol are regulated by the state-owned Systembolaget, which has a monopoly on the retail sale of alcoholic beverages. The legal drinking age in Sweden is 18.

Environmental Laws: Sweden has strong environmental laws and regulations to protect the natural environment. These laws cover areas like waste management, air and water quality, and wildlife protection.

Etiquette

Swedes value punctuality. If you have an appointment or are meeting someone, arrive on time. Being late without a good reason is considered impolite.

Swedes respect personal space and value privacy. Avoid standing too close to someone when in conversation, and do not initiate physical contact unless you are well-acquainted.

Sweden is known for its strong commitment to gender equality and social egalitarianism. Treat everyone with respect, regardless of their gender, race, religion, or background.