Sweden

Sweden, a land of vast landscapes and diverse experiences, invites travellers to discover its hidden gems and iconic landmarks. This beautiful country offers something for everyone. Urban explorers can get lost in the mazes of Sweden’s largest cities, while adventurers will seize the chance to embark on an adventure to Lapland.

Read this list of the 20 best things to do in Sweden and explore the wealth of architectural, cultural, and outdoor experiences this Scandinavian country offers.

Explore the vibrant capital city

Spread across 14 islands, Stockholm is Sweden’s most popular destination, enticing travellers with the historic Gamla Stan, elegant architecture, world-class museums, and delicious cuisine. The country’s bustling capital is also a haven for shopping and entertainment.

Exploring the historic Gamla Stan is a pleasure, as travellers can trot its narrow winding streets and visit historic landmarks, including the Royal Palace and the Nobel Museum. Strandvägen, an elegant waterfront boulevard lined with luxurious buildings, is another iconic landmark that captivates visitors from around the world.

Stockholm is also an ideal city for museum-hopping. Visiting the Vasa Museum — home to the perfectly preserved 17th-century warship — is a must. The open-air Skansen Museum provides a fascinating introduction to Swedish culture, while fans of pop culture flock to the interactive ABBA The Museum. And art lovers will undoubtedly enjoy visits to the Nationalmuseum and Moderna Museet.

Stockholm also offers excellent options for day trips, including cruises around the archipelago and a visit to the majestic Drottningholm Palace on the outskirts. And while not particularly renowned for its cuisine, Stockholm’s food scene will delight those willing to explore its diverse offerings.

Overall, spending at least a couple of days in this beautiful city is a must and arguably one of the best things to do in Sweden. Read more.

Travel to the fascinating island of Gotland

Gotland, Sweden’s largest island in the Baltic Sea, lies just south of Stockholm and serves as an ideal destination for a weekend getaway — especially in summer.

Visitors to Gotland should explore Visby, Gotland’s administrative centre and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Regarded by many as Scandinavia’s best-preserved medieval town, Visby boasts colourful Hanseatic architecture, well-preserved city walls, and a beautiful botanical garden. In the town, travellers can visit the St. Mary’s Cathedral, Visby’s only surviving medieval church, learn about the island’s history at the Gotland Museum, and lose themselves in its narrow, winding lanes. Stortorget, Visby’s central plaza, is surrounded by beautiful Hanseatic buildings, providing an idyllic atmosphere for a drink or a meal at one of the local cosy cafés.

Across Gotland, visitors will find well-preserved medieval churches scattered throughout the countryside. Bungemuseet, a local open-air museum, provides insight into the lives of the island’s residents from the 17th to 19th centuries. And travellers with children should definitely entertain a visit to the Kneippbyn Theme Park in Visby.

Above all, Gotland abounds with fantastic natural sights that truly captivate. Rauks, the unique limestone sea stacks found on the island of Fårö, north of Gotland, are a must-see. So are the fascinating Lummelunda Cave, featuring stalactite and stalagmite formations, and Närsholmen, a peninsula boasting an open landscape that resembles an African savannah. And for a refreshing swim in the stunning turquoise water, travellers can head to the Blå Lagunen, a former limestone quarry.

With such a wealth of natural attractions, Gotland is a perfect destination for outdoor activities — from hiking and cycling to swimming and simply relaxing on the beach. Overall, taking a weekend break with a trip to Gotland is undoubtedly among the best things to do in Sweden.

Journey through the expansive wilderness of Swedish Lapland

Swedish Lapland encompasses nearly a quarter of the country’s total landmass, offering a wealth of outdoor activities and cultural experiences year-round.

Kiruna, the country’s northernmost town, serves as a gateway to exploring the region and is arguably one of the best places to visit in Sweden. Nearby Jukkasjärvi is home to the extraordinary ICEHOTEL, which is meticulously rebuilt annually, while the tiny village of Abisko, nestled in the Arctic wilderness, offers excellent opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights. Travellers can also immerse themselves in the unique Sámi culture in Jokkmokk, which has hosted the annual winter market for 400 years, or at the open-air Nutti Sámi Siida museum near Kiruna.

Lapland’s picturesque coastal area along the Bothnian Bay is worth exploring, too. Visitors often flock to the charming seaside towns of Piteå and Luleå, which boast top-notch resorts and a plethora of outdoor activities, offering boat trips to the nearby archipelagos. Close to Luleå, travellers can also visit the well-preserved Gammelstad Church Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A trip to Lapland is undoubtedly among the best things to do in Sweden in winter. This region offers a world of unforgettable Arctic adventures during the winter months — from thrilling Northern Lights safaris and exhilarating snowmobiling trips to enchanting reindeer and dog sledding tours. And an overnight stay in a unique igloo hotel is an unforgettable experience in itself.

However, summer is also an excellent time to explore the vast wilderness of the Swedish Lapland. Adventurers can join wildlife-watching expeditions or hike along the abundant trails in the region’s national parks, such as Abisko, Sarek, and Padjelanta. Alternatively, visitors can paddle a kayak while enjoying the mesmerising midnight sun on the Lapland’s tranquil lakes and rivers, which also provide excellent fishing opportunities. Undoubtedly, this region of untouched natural beauty deserves a spot on the itinerary of every traveller to Sweden.

Hunt the awe-inspiring Northern Lights

Joining a thrilling Aurora chase is one of the essential things to do in Sweden in winter. The country’s north offers exceptional opportunities for witnessing the Northern Lights — from prime viewing locations to comfortable accommodations and exciting activities that complement Aurora expeditions.

Kiruna, Sweden’s northernmost town, and the tiny village of Abisko are among Europe’s premier destinations for experiencing the mesmerising Northern Lights. Other excellent locations for Aurora viewing in Sweden include Jukkasjärvi, Jokkmokk, and the Luleå archipelago.

While the Aurora lights can be observed in northern Sweden from late September to late March, many visitors travel to Lapland during the winter months, taking advantage of the opportunity to combine Aurora expeditions with a variety of Arctic activities — from exhilarating dog and reindeer sledding to unique stays at a snow hotel in Jukkasjärvi. Tour operators also offer the chance to join Northern Lights safaris by snowmobile or enhance their photography skills with a dedicated lesson.

Embrace exhilarating Arctic activities in winter

While witnessing the mesmerising Northern Lights is an essential winter experience in the country, northern Sweden presents a plethora of thrilling Arctic adventures that extend beyond the awe-inspiring light show.

Swedish Lapland is a haven for unforgettable Arctic experiences. Travellers can spend a night at the extraordinary ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi, embark on an exhilarating reindeer or dog sledding expedition, or venture out on a snowmobile beneath the Northern Lights. The region’s vast national parks provide excellent terrain for cross-country skiing, while its tranquil lakes and rivers are ideal for ice fishing.

Adventure seekers should consider a winter trip to Lapland, too. The numerous frozen waterfalls — particularly those near Abisko — draw enthusiasts of ice climbing. Lapland’s extensive coastline along the Bothnian Bay is also ideal for extraordinary icebreaker cruises, often culminating in an unforgettable ice-floating experience in thermal suits.

With such a diverse range of exhilarating activities, making a trip to Lapland and embracing these Arctic adventures is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Sweden in winter.

Discover Sweden’s hidden gems on a castle-hopping adventure

The medieval Örebro Castle, built in the 13th century on a small island in the Svartån River.

Few countries in the world can rival Sweden in its wealth of royal castles. Many of these hidden gems — built centuries ago upon the orders of Swedish monarchs — remain off the beaten path, offering a more intimate and authentic experience.

Of course, the country also boasts renowned castles that attract many visitors — from the majestic Stockholm Royal Palace in the heart of Gamla Stan to the UNESCO-listed Drottningholm Palace, often referred to as “Sweden’s Versailles.” Kalmar Castle, an iconic medieval stronghold, played a crucial role in the country’s history, while the well-preserved Skokloster Castle provides a glimpse into Sweden’s 17th-century Golden Age. For picturesque scenery, travellers can explore Läckö Castle on Vänern lake or Gripsholm Castle on Lake Mälaren.

But one of the truly best things to do in Sweden is to venture beyond the well-trodden tourist trails and explore the more understated castles, often overlooked by larger crowds. Skåne, the country’s southernmost region, is particularly rich in architectural masterpieces, including the 13th-century Bäckaskog Castle with its beautiful gardens, Svaneholm Castle with its tranquil lakeside setting, and the well-preserved Skarhult Castle in Renaissance style. Other remarkable fortresses include Ekenäs Castle near Linköping, Teleborg Castle in Växjö, and Vadstena Castle by Lake Vättern.

The sheer number of exceptional castles in Sweden — especially in the south — can make it challenging to create an itinerary that encompasses them all. But visiting at least a couple of these gems is absolutely essential on any trip to Sweden.

Take a scenic road trip through Sweden

Travellers wondering what to do in Sweden can entertain the idea of taking a scenic road trip through the country, discovering both renowned destinations and hidden gems along the way. Sweden’s excellent infrastructure, diverse landscapes, and safe driving conditions make road trips an ideal option for exploring this vast country.

Several routes offer perfect settings for a memorable road trip. The E4 highway, spanning nearly the entire length of the country, runs from Helsingborg in the south to the Finnish border in the north. This drive allows travellers to visit several vibrant market towns (Jönköping, Linköping, Norrköping, and Nyköping), explore Stockholm, and continue the trip through charming towns like Uppsala, Piteå, and Luleå.

Another excellent drive lies through the southern regions of Skåne and Blekinge, offering the scenic landscapes of rolling hills, historic castles, charming towns, and tranquil lakes. For a cultural immersion, travellers can drive through the Dalarna region in central Sweden, experiencing midsummer celebrations and embracing Swedish traditions in picturesque villages.

The West Coast route offers a journey through many charming coastal towns, while a circular route around Lake Mälaren encompasses visits to multiple royal palaces, historic towns, and the city of Stockholm itself. Overall, exploring this Scandinavian country on a road trip is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Sweden in summer — you just have to pick a route.

Relax by Sweden’s serene lakes

Sweden boasts nearly 100,000 lakes throughout its vast territory — particularly in the south — earning it the fifth position on the list of countries with the most lakes in the world. With such an abundance of water bodies, travellers enjoy a wealth of choices for lakeside getaways.

Lake Vänern, Sweden’s largest, feels almost like an inland sea and is a prime destination for boating, sailing, fishing, and island exploration. The beautiful Baroque Läckö Castle and the vibrant city of Karlstad grace the lake’s shores, enticing visitors to explore their attractions.

Another picturesque lake, Vättern, is renowned for its clear, deep waters and the charming towns of Jönköping and Gränna. And Mälaren lake is ideal for a trip from Stockholm, offering easy access to several iconic destinations, including the UNESCO-listed Drottningholm Palace and the majestic Gripsholm Castle.

Beyond these three largest lakes, visitors can take a day trip to Siljan lake in Dalarna (for an immersion in Swedish culture), Torneträsk lake in Swedish Lapland (for hiking and midnight sun experiences), or Åsnen lake in Småland (for excellent birdwatching opportunities). With so many options to choose from, relaxing by one of the country’s lakes must surely be among the top things to do in Sweden.

Visit the fascinating Liseberg amusement park in Gothenburg

Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, is undoubtedly one of the best towns in Sweden to visit — particularly for families with children. This vibrant city is an ideal destination for a family getaway, offering a delightful mix of attractions and activities catering to various ages and interests.

The city’s main attraction is the renowned Liseberg amusement park, where visitors can enjoy an impressive array of rides, a beautiful park with gardens, and even attend a show or performance. Liseberg is particularly celebrated for its thrilling rides, including Helix (a long and fast steel coaster) and Balder (a popular wooden roller coaster). AtmosFear — the name speaks for itself — is an extraordinarily tall free-fall tower that will challenge even the most passionate adrenaline seekers. Younger visitors will appreciate a wide selection of family-friendly rides, such as water rides and carousels.

But Gothenburg offers much more than just an amusement park. Universeum, an interactive science centre, is a captivating experience for both children and adults, making learning easy and fun. The Maritime Museum will fascinate visitors with its extensive collection of historic ships, while Slottsskogen Park provides ample space for outdoor recreation and is home to a charming Nordic zoo.

Beyond its family-friendly attractions, Gothenburg entices travellers with well-preserved neighbourhoods, relaxing boat tours, and a vibrant culinary scene. Haga, one of the city’s oldest districts, offers a cosy atmosphere and numerous understated boutiques housed in historic buildings. Located on Sweden’s west coast, Gothenburg also provides excellent opportunities for exploring the nearby archipelago and sampling seafood fresh from the sea, with the iconic Feskekörka fish market serving as the best venue for a culinary adventure.

Overall, those seeking the best things to do in Sweden with kids should definitely plan at least a weekend trip to Gothenburg.

Set out on a multi-day hiking adventure

A hiker gazes into the Swedish wilderness from Lulep Gierkav mountain, located in Stora Sjöfallet National Park within the Laponia World Heritage Area of northern Sweden.

Hiking scenic trails amidst the expansive natural landscapes is undoubtedly among the best things to do in Sweden in summer — especially for travellers with a passion for outdoor adventures. The country’s vast size and diverse terrain create exceptional opportunities for hikers of all levels.

Kungsleden, or the King’s Trail, is one of the most renowned hikes, stretching over 400 kilometres through the stunning alpine wilderness of Lapland in northern Sweden. This iconic route offers overnight stays in mountain huts and the chance to witness the Northern Lights from autumn to spring. The section from Abisko to Nikkaluokta also provides the option of climbing Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain.

Further south, travellers can follow Jämtlandstriangeln, a relatively easy multi-day trek that includes comfortable accommodations in huts with amenities. Near Stockholm, the Sörmlandsleden network of trails extends over 1,000 kilometres through enchanting forests, serene lakes, and picturesque landscapes, with options for both short and multi-day hikes to suit every hiker’s preferences.

In the south, Skåneleden traverses the entire region of Skåne, spanning over 1,700 kilometres and showcasing the captivating vistas of rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic coastal paths. With such a well-developed network of hiking trails and diverse scenery, hiking through Sweden is a must-do for any adventurer in this Scandinavian country.

Take a scenic cruise along the Göta Canal

The Göta Canal, a 190-kilometre waterway traversing southern Sweden, connects a series of lakes and rivers — from Sjötorp on Lake Vänern in the west to the charming town of Mem, the gateway to the Baltic Sea, in the east. A significant portion of the canal — officially opened in 1832 and featuring 58 locks — was dug by hand, making it one of Sweden’s largest construction projects.

Today, the Göta Canal is a popular tourist attraction, offering travellers a chance to experience Sweden’s beauty by cruising on a historic canal boat. Visitors can choose from short excursions to multi-day voyages, all winding through scenic landscapes of tranquil lakes, lush forests, and charming coastal towns.

Major attractions along the route include the insightful Trollhättan Canal Museum, the Gothic Vadstena Abbey, the magnificent Läckö Castle, and the imposing Karlsborg Fortress. Undoubtedly, exploring Sweden’s picturesque landscapes on a cruise along the Göta Canal is among the best things to do in Sweden in summer.

Explore the bizzare side of Malmö

Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city that lies across the strait from Denmark’s Copenhagen, is a fascinating destination that perfectly combines modern architecture with historic landmarks.

Visitors can begin their exploration at the 16th-century Stortorget square, surrounded by historic buildings, including the imposing rådhuset and the Gothic Sankt Petri Kyrka. The 15th-century Malmöhus Castle, one of Scandinavia’s oldest preserved Renaissance castles, is the city’s major landmark, today housing several museums (an art and a history museum), an aquarium, and even a World War II-era submarine.

For a delightful stroll, travellers can explore the charming Lilla Torg square in the Old Town or walk along the vibrant waterfront promenade at Västra Hamnen — a former industrial area transformed into a modern district. Kungsparken, a green oasis in the city centre, is perfect for a relaxing break, while the lively Möllevångstorget square is renowned for its diverse street food offerings.

For a truly unconventional experience, visitors can venture to the Disgusting Food Museum, which exhibits a collection of peculiar dishes from around the world, designed to challenge perceptions of taste. The visit to this bizarre museum is arguably one of the best things to do in Sweden, offering a unique and sensory-rich adventure.

With its mix of historical charm and contemporary attractions, Malmö is undoubtedly one of the best cities to visit in Sweden and deserves a prominent place on every traveller’s itinerary.

Immerse yourself in Sweden’s vibrant music festivals

Attending one of the country’s many music festivals is definitely among the best things to do in Sweden in summer. This Scandinavian nation boasts a thriving musical landscape, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Way Out West, hosted in Gothenburg’s Slottsskogen park, offers a diverse program of indie, rock, hip-hop, and electronic music, typically taking place in August. For a taste of the country’s energetic rock scene, visitors can head to the Sweden Rock Festival in Sölvesborg in June.

But Sweden also offers more niche-focused festivals for travellers seeking to broaden their musical horizons. The Bayside Festival in Helsingborg draws large crowds with its energetic atmosphere and blend of pop and rock elements, while the South Ocean Festival in Malmö primarily caters to fans of indie, pop, and electronic music. Live at Heart in Örebro showcases emerging talent in indie and alternative music. And the Urkult festival in the small northern town of Näsåker is ideal for exploring the captivating world of folk music.

For music lovers wondering what to do in Sweden in summer, adding a festival visit to their travel plans is an absolute must.

Cross the iconic Øresund Bridge to Denmark

One of the best things to see in Sweden is the Øresund Bridge, a remarkable feat of engineering that spans the namesake strait and connects Malmö in Sweden’s Skåne region with Copenhagen in Denmark. Historically, the whole province of Skåne, along with Malmö, was part of the Danish Kingdom until the 17th century. Today, this modern marvel, comprising an 8-kilometre bridge section, an artificial island, and a tunnel, offers a unique opportunity for a quick and easy day trip from Sweden to the charming Danish capital.

Travellers staying in southern Sweden should definitely consider a day trip from Malmö to Copenhagen, where they can experience the iconic Nyhavn harbour and visit the timeless Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Deservedly considered one of Europe’s premier destinations, Copenhagen entices visitors with its majestic royal residences, world-class art museums, and Scandinavia’s most advanced and sophisticated cuisine. Discover more about the best things to do in Copenhagen on our website.

Overall, driving across this impressive structure, the Øresund Bridge, and experiencing the seamless connection it provides to another vibrant Scandinavian capital, is a unique highlight for any visitor to southern Sweden.

Go foraging for wild berries and mushrooms

This Scandinavian country, renowned for its vast and seemingly endless dense forests, offers an excellent opportunity for those wondering what to do in Sweden: venture outdoors and forage for berries and mushrooms. The country’s Allemansrätten, or the “Right to Roam,” grants everyone the freedom to travel the land and enjoy recreational activities, including foraging.

Among the best places to visit in Sweden during summer for berry picking is Lapland, particularly known for its abundance of prized cloudberries in its boggy and marshy areas. Central Sweden, especially Dalarna and Jämtland, offers a rich bounty of blueberries, lingonberries, and mushrooms, while Southern Sweden boasts an earlier season with a great mix of berries and mushrooms.

The best time to gather these natural treats is from mid-summer to early autumn. Foraging for berries is undoubtedly among the best things to do in Sweden in summer, with the berry season typically beginning in July. While cloudberries have a shorter season, blueberries and lingonberries, both common in forested areas, can often be found in September and October. The mushroom season usually begins around August and extends well into autumn. Overall, outdoor enthusiasts will definitely enjoy a rewarding foraging adventure in Sweden’s scenic and abundant natural areas.

Experience a joyous Midsummer celebration

Midsommar is one of the most significant and cherished holidays in Sweden, second only to Christmas. Widely regarded as a quintessential Swedish tradition with pre-Christian origins, this holiday embodies the joyous celebration of the summer solstice, light, and the fertility of nature. Witnessing the Midsummer celebration firsthand is undoubtedly one of the most memorable things to see in Sweden during summer — especially for those interested in the country’s rich culture.

Midsummer, held annually on the Friday closest to the summer solstice (from 19th June to 25th June), marks the longest day of the year, after which the days begin to shorten. The most iconic symbol of the celebration is the raising and dancing around the maypole, adorned with flowers and greenery. People hold hands and dance in rings around the tall pole, singing traditional songs. Participants often wear woven wreaths of wildflowers on their heads, celebrating the beauty and abundance of summer.

The traditional Midsummer feast is an important part of the celebration, featuring classic dishes that include sill (pickled herring), nypotatis (boiled new potatoes with dill), gräddfil och gräslök (sour cream and chives), grillat (grilled meat), and jordgubbstårta (strawberry cake).

While Midsummer is celebrated throughout the country, some places are particularly renowned for their vibrant and authentic festivities. Dalarna, a region in central Sweden, is especially famous for its strong folk traditions and elaborate Midsummer celebrations. The coastal islands near Stockholm and Gothenburg often host lively gatherings with bonfires and dancing. For a truly authentic experience, travellers can seek out smaller towns and villages — plan in advance and look for hembygdsgårdar (local heritage centres), which often host traditional Midsummer events.

The traditional Midsummer celebration is definitely a must-do and one of the best things to do in Sweden in summer, offering a unique and joyful insight into Swedish culture.

Sail through the 30,000-island archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago, a breathtaking and sprawling collection of over 30,000 islands, islets, and skerries, extends from Sweden’s capital into the Baltic Sea, captivating travellers with its stunning natural beauty. Its islands range from large, inhabited havens with towns and villages to tiny, uninhabited skerries, providing a world of diverse experiences — from tranquil pine forests and rugged rocky coastlines to inviting sandy beaches and charming bays.

Travellers can explore its enchanting waterways on an island-hopping adventure, utilising the reliable ferry services of Waxholmsbolaget or opting for private water taxis. This extensive archipelago is also a paradise for boaters, sailors, and kayakers, making it one of the top places to visit in Sweden during summer. Guests are welcome to relax on the numerous secluded beaches, basking in the sun before taking a refreshing swim in the cool Baltic Sea.

The Stockholm Archipelago boasts plenty of remarkable destinations, with the most popular including Vaxholm (home to a historic 16th-century fortress), Sandhamn (a renowned sailing hub), and Grinda (a favourite for families). Overall, exploring this unique archipelago and cruising its charming waterways is undoubtedly among the top things to do in Sweden in summer.

Travel to the historic town of Kalmar

Kalmar, situated on the country’s eastern coast and serving as a gateway to the island of Öland, is undoubtedly one of the best towns to visit in Sweden. Boasting a medieval historic centre and the well-preserved Renaissance Kalmar Castle, this charming town is also a perfect base for enjoying water-based activities.

The main attraction is the magnificent Kalmar Castle, where visitors can wander through its grand halls, descend into the atmospheric dungeons, and learn about the pivotal history of the Kalmar Union, which unified the Nordic countries under Danish leadership for over a century. Gamla Stan, Kalmar’s charming medieval old town, is a pleasure to explore, with the stunning Baroque cathedral gracing the skyline.

Stortorget, Kalmar’s main square, offers a relaxed atmosphere with its local shops and inviting cafés, perfect for pausing and enjoying the unhurried pace of local life. Travellers can also head to the appealing beaches of Stensö and Kalmarsundsbadet for sunbathing and water activities, or cross the Öland Bridge to discover the picturesque namesake island, renowned for its distinctive landscapes and historic windmills. Kalmar, with its significant place in the country’s history and beautiful architecture, is deservedly considered one of the best places to visit in Sweden.

Enjoy Helsingborg’s coastal atmosphere

Located just across the Øresund Strait from Denmark and facing the world-famous Hamlet’s Castle, Helsingborg is widely regarded as one of the best towns to visit in Sweden. With roots dating back to the Viking Age, Helsingborg was a key strategic point for centuries for both Scandinavian countries.

Today, Helsingborg attracts visitors with its vibrant cultural scene, abundant green spaces, and coastal beauty, manifested through sandy beaches, charming promenades, and stunning views across the strait. Sofiero Palace, a former royal summer residence, is not just the town’s major attraction but also one of the country’s most beautiful castles, boasting stunning gardens with an impressive rhododendron collection.

Kärnan, the iconic medieval tower, is the only remaining part of the once mighty Helsingborg Castle and offers spectacular views of the town. Visitors can also explore the city centre and vibrant art galleries, or discover the expansive open-air Fredriksdal Museums, featuring historic buildings, farm animals, and stunning botanical gardens.

And of course, travellers can easily hop on a ferry across the Øresund Strait for a visit to Helsingør and its iconic Kronborg (Hamlet’s) Castle. With its stunning natural beauty and vibrant city life, Helsingborg is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Sweden during summer.

Wander Kurt Wallander’s streets in Ystad

Ystad, a beautiful town in the province of Skåne on Sweden’s southeastern coast, boasts well-preserved medieval architecture and picturesque cobblestone streets that evoke a fairytale setting. Dating back to the 12th century, Ystad has largely retained its historic street plan, where cobblestone lanes and colourful half-timbered houses create a unique atmosphere.

In addition to the iconic Lillgatan and Pilgränd streets, this town also features several notable attractions. The 13th-century St. Mary’s Church offers panoramic views of the town and the sea from its tower, while the Ystad Art Museum displays a solid collection of modern and contemporary art. Visitors can also see the well-preserved remains of a medieval Franciscan monastery or venture outside the town on a trip to Ales Stenar, a mysterious and monumental megalithic monument often called “Sweden’s Stonehenge.”

Ystad has gained worldwide recognition as one of the best places to see in Sweden thanks to the work of Henning Mankell, the author behind the acclaimed crime novels about Inspector Kurt Wallander. Enthusiasts of the renowned investigator will find plenty to explore in Ystad, visiting the very locations from the fictional world.

Mariagatan, often referred to as “Wallander’s street,” doesn’t feature the exact building Wallander lived in — that was fictional — but the neighbourhood evokes the atmosphere felt while reading the books. Fridolfs Konditori is the real-life café where Wallander heads for moments of contemplation, while Lilla Östergatan street and the town’s harbour are frequently featured in the books and TV series. And, of course, the Ystad Police Station serves as a real-life counterpart to the fictional detective’s office.

Overall, Ystad is a charming travel destination for many visitors, and Wallander fans will certainly regard it as one of the best towns in Sweden to visit.

Getting around

Sweden stretches 1,572 kilometres from north to south, but its excellent public transportation system makes it easy to travel around this Scandinavian country. A combination of trains, buses, ferries, and air travel helps travellers navigate this vast land.

While all major cities and towns boast excellent public transportation connections, reaching remote towns and villages without a car can be more challenging. Still, Sweden’s infrastructure is outstanding, making it relatively easy to explore this Scandinavian country independently.

By car

Driving around Sweden allows travellers to explore this charming country and its most secluded corners at their own pace. Car rentals are available in all major cities, and the country’s extensive network of well-maintained roads ensures that driving is a breeze.

Southern Sweden is generally flatter and easier to navigate by car, while the northern regions — especially Lapland — can have more winding and mountainous roads. In winter, driving can be challenging, as snow and ice are common and can lead to accidents. Drivers are required to have winter tyres from December 1 to March 31.

Most of Sweden’s highways are toll-free, but a few roads may require a toll fee. Additionally, Stockholm and Gothenburg have congestion charges.

By train

Sweden boasts a well-developed railway network that connects major cities and towns, allowing travel even to Lapland in the north. Trains are generally comfortable, efficient, and a quick way to get around the country.

Polar Express passing Kiruna, a historic mining town in Swedish Lapland.

There are different types of trains, including high-speed trains between large cities, regional trains, and commuter trains that connect major cities with suburbs. SJ, the national railway company, operates most of the train routes, and travellers can find schedules and buy tickets on their website.

By bus

Towns and villages not covered by the train network can usually be travelled to on a bus. The country’s comprehensive network of bus routes reaches even the most secluded villages, and buses are generally more affordable than trains.

There are multiple bus operators, but the major one is FlixBus, Europe’s largest low-cost bus operator.

By ferry

Given that Sweden has tens of thousands of islands, ferry connections are essential for getting around the country. Regular ferry routes run between the mainland and large island destinations, such as Gotland, the Stockholm archipelago, and Öland.

By plane

Domestic flights are available between major cities and regions, making them a good option for travelling longer distances. In addition to larger airports in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, Sweden has airports in every region.

Domestic flights also provide access to more remote areas, such as the Lapland in the north and the islands of Gotland and Öland, which can be time-consuming to reach by other means of transportation.