Ever thought of visiting Sweden? In this post, I’ll share 55 reasons why everyone should visit Sweden at least once. It’s such a beautiful country and it’s about time to let the world know about my home country and our hidden gems, foods, traditions and much more!
Of course, there are a lot more than 55 Reasons to visit my beautiful homeland, but this is a good start, especially if you’re a first-time visitor!
1. Nature
If you’re longing for wild nature filled with mountains, trees, lakes, and animals. Guess what? Sweden is one of the best places to experience it.
In total, there are 29 national parks in Sweden. Going to a city? No worries, every city is close to nature.
2. Crayfish Party
Don’t worry if you’re thinking “what the heck is a crayfish party?”. It’s one of our unique traditions in Sweden, and basically, we make decorations, prepare a massive plate with crayfish, put on our crayfish hats and a bib, singing silly songs that we finish by drinking our famous schnapps.
It’s a huge tradition in Sweden, and if you’re visiting during August, you’ll have the opportunity to see what the fuss is all about. I can assure you that the crayfish party will be a memory for life!
3. See Reindeer
YES! We have reindeer in Sweden, and they are amazing and roam freely. If you’re traveling by car in the northern part, don’t be surprised to see your road being blocked by a herd of reindeer.
4. Castles
Do you like castles? Then I’ve got some good news. From Stockholm and below there are hundreds of castles to check out. In Ekerö outside Stockholm, it’s possible to visit the Drottningholm castle where the Swedish king and queen live.
At the picture, you can see the famous Gripsholms Slott, which is often named one of the most beautiful castles in Sweden. The nearby guesthouse, Gripsholm Inn, is also deemed one of the most haunted places in Sweden.
5. Stockholm
The capital of Sweden with all of its canals and small islets and islands. Stockholm is a wonderful capital, not too big, not too small, just about right. The rich history and culture offer a fascinating visit as well as the surrounding nature and broad range of entertainments.
6. The Vasa Ship
One of the most well-preserved ships from the 1600s. It was a royal ship that now stands in the Vasa Museum in Stockholm. The Vasa ship is remarkable and shouldn’t be missed if you’re going to Stockholm.
7. Birka and the Viking heritage
The Viking era is a famous part of Swedish history, and in Birka it’s possible to experience that heritage and see what life was like. The boat trip is about 15 min to 2 hours depending on where you are in the Capital area.
Another cool thing about Birka is that you can see runic scripts or go for a boat ride on a traditional Viking ship. Or simply just learn more about the famous vikings.
8. Sauna
From the beginning an invention from Finland, but the Sauna is also a huge part of the Swedish culture. A sauna is basically a wooden room with a special heater where you throw water to raise the temperature.
Then you sit there for a while, but most people can only manage to stay for 10 minutes before they need to cool down. It can be up to 90 degrees Celsius in a sauna, and it’s meant to be relaxing and allow your body to release toxins.
9. Fresh drinkable water
Not many countries have fresh drinkable water almost everywhere. The tap water is delicious, but what’s even better is the water from the fjords and streams up in the north. I have never tried better-tasting water.
10. Midsummer
Probably our funniest and most “weird” tradition. In short, we are celebrating summer by dancing around a Maypole like frogs and drinking way too many schnapps while singing silly songs.
For visitors that are looking for an unusual and fun cultural experience, Swedish Midsummer is definitely a good reason to visit Sweden.
11. Astrid Lindgren’s world
Does it ring a bell when I say Pippi Longstocking? Astrid Lindgren was a famous Swedish writer. Other children’s book stories that have been translated into English: Ronia the robber’s daughter, Mio min Mio, Karlsson on the roof, and the Brothers Lionheart.
In Astrid Lindgren’s World, these characters come to life. It’s a theme park that your kids will absolutely love!
12. Skåne, Southern Sweden
This is my home region, and the landscapes here are open, vast, and colorful. When the canola fields are blossoming, Skåne turns into a golden region filled with canola flowers everywhere in the countryside.
It’s also here you can see many of the old windmills as well as charming old towns, such as Ystad.
Besides canola fields and windmills, Skåne is also famed for its beaches, cute little villages/towns, farmers, and of course the unique accent that we southerners have.
13. Mountains
The tallest mountain in Sweden is called Kebnekaise with a height of 2 106 meters. There are other mountains as well, and you will find lots of beautiful scenery and hiking paths throughout the country.
14. Architecture
Sweden’s architecture offers a mix of the old and new. Many cities have preserved the old style and you won’t see a lot of skyscrapers here. The details are phenomenal, just look at this photo below which is taken in Stockholm.
While we don’t have a lot of skyscrapers, we do have quite a few unique buildings with cool architecture. Our biggest skyscraper can be found in Malmö. It’s called Turning Torso and was the first twisting tower in the world.
It has also been voted as one of the seven wonders of Sweden.
15. Smörgåstårta
This can be translated into Sandwich cake, and if you know a Swede, you might already know that we are huge fans of sandwiches. It’s the most common breakfast, so why not make a cake out of it?
There are plenty of varieties of the “Smörgåstårta” and it differs depending on which region you’re visiting. One thing is certain though; it’s freaking delicious, and a classic among Swedish food for large gatherings.
16. 100 000 lakes
With over 100 000 lakes in total, there’s a lake that suits everyone. And I mean, who doesn’t love a peaceful lake with beautiful scenery? Some of the largest lakes in Sweden are also ranked as some of the largest lakes in Europe.
17. Glögg and Gingerbread
Glögg and Gingerbread are two of our most cherished Christmas delights. Glögg is a beverage that can be enjoyed with or without alcohol. The most famous one is produced by Blossa, pictured below.
While Gingerbread goes hand in hand with Glögg, it can also be eaten on its own. And do we love our gingerbread? Yes, we do! Each Christmas people buy them like crazy.
It’s definitely something you have to try while visiting Sweden, and the best ones are those called “Annas Pepparkakor”.
18. Gothenburg
On the opposite side of Stockholm, on the western coast lies Gothenburg, which is the second-largest city in Sweden. It’s a charming city with a laid-back culture and beautiful canals along with islets in the Gothenburg Archipelago.
19. Snowmobiling
Ever tried a snowmobile? In Sweden, you can! In fact, during wintertime up in the north, driving a snowmobile is very common.
20. Swedish Fika
Fika is our sacred ritual that occurs every day, no matter if you’re at work, home, or out with friends. The Swedish Fika is a part of who we are, but to explain it shortly – Having coffee, snacks, or some pastries.
But it’s more than that; it’s a way of socializing and relaxing from work and stress. It’s one of the most defining features of Swedish culture.
You’ll see cafées everywhere, and I would go as far as to say that it’s mandatory to sit down and have a traditional Swedish fika while visiting Sweden.
21. Snow
YES! We do have snow in Sweden, and lots of it every winter. However, to be certain to see a good amount of snow – go to the northern part. There you have snow in abundance!
22. IKEA
You’ve probably already heard of, or even been to an IKEA, which is the most famous export of Sweden. A huge furniture store that offers good quality at low prices. The catch? Well, you’ll need to put them together yourself!
A piece of cake for the handyman/woman. To be honest, one doesn’t need to be handy to put them together, and that’s also why IKEA has become such a big company.
23. The Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi
Did you know that Sweden is home to the world’s first Ice Hotel? In Jukkasjärvi, in the northern part one can stay in a room made up entirely of ice, oh well, actually the entire hotel is made of ice.
They even have an Ice bar. For sure one of the coolest hotels in the world.
24. Beaches
Sweden is not really considered a beach destination, but as a matter of fact – The beaches of Sweden’s southern parts are both stunning and clean.
There are some nice beaches around Stockholm and Gothenburg as well, but the southern coast has the best range. If you travel to Sweden during summer, make sure to visit some beaches!
25. Cinnamon buns (Kanelbullar)
A classic bun, that could even be considered as the national bun. If you ask a Swede about cinnamon buns, the chance to see a smile on their face is almost guaranteed! The cinnamon bun even has its own day in Sweden.
26. Wild blueberries
A superfood and antioxidant growing wild in Sweden. And yes, you’re allowed to pick them. They grow in forests all over the country and blueberry picking is a favorite activity among families during the blueberry season from June to September.
27. Visby, Gotland
Gotland is a Swedish island that is home to one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved cities from the medieval era. The most notable remaining is the stunning 3.4 km long wall encircling the town center.
Since 1995 Visby is also on UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites. There are currently 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sweden.
28. Endless forests
When traveling by car through Sweden or flying, one will notice that there are trees surrounding you almost all the time. Approximately 53% of Sweden’s area is covered by trees, so no wonder the forests seem endless.
29. The Dala Horse (Dalahästen)
You probably wonder, what on earth is this? Is this the Trojan horse? Well, not really. It’s called the Dala horse, and this particular one is situated in Avesta and measures a whopping 13 meters.
All around Sweden, you’ll see smaller variants of this, and the Dala horse was from the beginning a wooden toy and decoration. It’s a classic symbol and souvenir.
30. Lucia
Lucia is a tradition that originates from Italy, but nowadays it’s one of our most celebrated days of the year. Check out the video below and see what to expect on December 13th.
31. The Lynx
One of the coolest cats on earth is roaming freely in the northern parts of Sweden. However, one will be considered very lucky to spot them in the wild since they are shy and normally stay away from humans.
32. West Coast
The west coast has a stunning archipelago as well as beautiful lush nature. When visiting the Swedish West Coast one can also enjoy fresh fish & seafood as well as quaint coastal towns.
33. Visit the Sami people
The Sami People are one of the indigenous folks in Sweden. They even have their own language and still, live by old traditions. The Sami people live in the northern parts of the country.
It’s very interesting to go to Sápmi (as it’s known in the local Sami language) and get to know the locals and learn more about their way of living.
34. Lapland
Often referred to as “the last wilderness of Europe” since vast areas of the Lapland region consist of unspoiled nature.
And look at the beauty of it below, definitely one of the most wonderful places in the world and a good reason to visit Sweden.
35. Swedish Meatballs
You’ve probably heard about meatballs, and it could almost be considered to be the national dish of Sweden. Whenever I travel and come back home to Sweden, I have cravings for meatballs, mashed potatoes in brown sauce, and lingonberries.
36. Northern lights
Aurora Borealis, one of the natural wonders of the world can be seen during winter in the northern part of Sweden. Abisko is typically viewed as one of the best places to see Aurora Borealis in Sweden, but there are plenty of places in the north.
For example, you could stay at the Ice and Light Village in Kalix where you have big windows in the ceiling with the possibility of viewing the northern lights from your bed.
37. Delicatoboll
Another craving I get when I’m traveling around the world – The Swedish Delicato ball, it can also be called a chocolate ball. To this date, I haven’t seen these in any other country, which is a shame because they’re so delicious.
Delicato is the brand to buy when you’re trying this yummy treat!
38. Midnight sun
Ever wondered what it would be like if the sun never went down? Well, in Sweden you can, and during summer the sun remains visible all day and night up in the north.
39. The Moose
The king of the forest – The moose is an iconic animal that’s walking freely in our forests.
40. Valborg
Valborg is another tradition that goes back to the time before we became Christians. Valborg is always celebrated on the 30th of April, and basically, we are lighting up a huge bonfire and dance around it and socializing all night long.
In recent years we have also, of course, added some schnapps and other alcoholic beverages.
41. Music Festivals
As the third biggest exporter of music after The US and UK, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that we love music. During summer there are many Swedish music festivals in different cities.
One of the biggest is the one called Summerburst, where world-famous DJ:s around the world are playing. Check out the video below!
42. Dammsugare
Another classic when it comes to Swedish pastries and cookies. This one could be called both a “dammsugare” or a “punschrulle” meaning punch roll in English.
There are many different brands, but the best one is without a doubt the ones from Delicato (and I know, because I have tried almost every brand, yes I love “dammsugare”).
If I were to translate it into English it would be called “vacuum cleaner”.
43. Dalhalla
Dalhalla is an amphitheater that is located in a former limestone quarry, in the middle of nature. During the summer one can enjoy between 20-30 events ranging from opera, jazz, and other music genres as well. Dalhalla offers an amazing musical experience combined with nature.
44. Wild wolves
Ever dreamt of seeing a wild wolf? In Sweden, you can! Another amazing reason to visit Sweden.
45. Sala Silvergruva
An old silver mine that has been transformed into the world’s deepest hotel. The rooms are located approx 150 meters below the surface. At the hotel, you can explore underground lakes, join a guided tour in the silver mine, and much more.
A unique stay that will give you memories for life!
46. Ice Hockey
Ice Hockey is together with football sort of the national sport, and almost every city has its own Ice Hockey team. As a matter of fact, some of the most successful hockey players are from Sweden, such as Peter Forsberg and Nicklas Lidström.
47. Saffron Buns
Another Christmas treat that we bake already when it’s Lucia. A favorite bun among many Swedes. The Swedish word for these saffron buns is “Lussebulle” or “Lussekatt”.
48. Allemansrätten
Translated to “All man’s right” with the meaning that nature is free for everyone. You can pass almost everywhere you want, pick wild fruits and berries, and you can also camp almost everywhere as long as you don’t disturb others.
Only a few countries in the world have something similar like the right to roam in the wilderness, and most of them are other Nordic countries, like Finland and Norway.
49. Christmas markets
Christmas is a huge deal in Sweden, and so are the Christmas markets. One of the most famous is the one in Stockholm Old Town and “Jul på Liseberg” in Gothenburg.
But you might also be interested in the ancient Christmas markets of Jokkmokk, Gröna Lund, and Skansen as well. Most cities will also have their own Christmas market.
50. Skiing
We love snow and we also love to ski, and many Swedes are traveling to the northern parts each winter to go for a ride in the ski slopes!
51. Kolarbyn
Want to experience life out in the woods, without electricity, running water, and so on? Kolarbyn is one of the world’s most unique hotels and an unforgettable experience!
52. Surströmming
Fermented herring is a famous dish in Sweden, known as Surströmming in Swedish. While it’s not for everyone it’s definitely unique and something that you have to try!
53. King’s Garden (“Kungsträdgården”)
Each year you can enjoy the King’s Garden during cherry blossom. It was a gift from Japan, which has now become a sign of spring in the Swedish capital.
54. Stockholm Pride
Everyone is equal here and we welcome all people, no matter race or sexuality. The Stockholm Pride is a big celebration each year to honor and celebrate the freedom of HBTQ people in Sweden.
Visitors from all over the world come here to enjoy the festivities.
55. The Archipelago (Skärgården)
One of Sweden’s most famous attractions – The Stockholm Archipelago. Thousands of islets and islands where locals go during the weekend and summer to swim and relax.
Personally, I could probably list 100 places and things to do in Sweden as more reasons to visit Sweden. It’s a wonderful country that has a wide range of nature, sightseeing, and culture.
Wasn’t your favorite thing listed? If you’re from Sweden or have traveled here already and have some more tips to share, please share in the comment section!
And if you have some more questions about visiting Sweden, leave a question or send me an email and I will happily answer.
Damn, I really feel like I have to go to Sweden now :) Especially curious about the cake sandwich I have to say!
The Sandwich cake is so good and there’s a flavor for everyone :)
it is the best….you really have to try it. It is like a Cake but with things you use to have on a sandwish… It is awsome… The best”
Here’s how you do it in English:
https://www.saveur.com/article/Recipes/Smorgastarta-Sandwich-Layer-Cake
Add or take away the things you dont like.
Loved looking at beautiful Sweden and have to visit one day to see my dads country .
Its one of the most beautiful place s on earth.
Warm welcome to Vrångö, an Island in The West Coast archipelago outside Gothenburg. Probably The most beautiful Island there is :-)
I’ve only been to Skane (Lund & Malmö) when visiting friends, but now I have tons of reasons to go back to Sweden and to explore more! :) Would definitely love to see more of the nature :)
Yay, Skåne is where I’m from! The Swedish nature is definitely underrated and deserves more credit, there’s just so much of it!
This makes me realise I have so much more to see in Sweden. I have been to Gothenburg, Stockholm and Astrid Lindgren’s world. Would love to experience midsummer and the Ice Hotel is definitely on the bucket list! Thanks for this great post! Gonna pin it for later :D
The same goes for me in Norway. Got so many places I need to visit over there! Thanks for the nice words Vibeke :) The Ice Hotel is definitely bucket list material!
Wow don’t think you needed 55 reasons but still thanks for such a detailed and lovely post. Huge fan of all the Scandinavian countries and Sweden is one where I haven’t been yet.
You only need one – Sweden is awesome ;) Thanks for the nice words. Hope you get to visit Sweden some day. The rest of the Scandinavian countries are beautiful as well.
Sweden seems amazing guys! Love the pics. Would love to stay in the ice hotel! Brrrr..
Great list!! Makes me wanna travel my own country soon again – always something new to discover ?.
One can notice that you are not from Göteborg though since there are some really great spots left out but that would burst the frame I suppose. Looking forward to the next one!
Thank you :) Yes, it’s easy to forget the beauty that your own country has when you want to travel to other places. I think there are great spots left out all over the country and I could probably come up with a list of 1000’s of reasons to visit, but most wouldn’t read it :) So I’m aware that not all the good stuff are listed.
If you do have any particular spots to recommend in Gothenburg or any place in Sweden, feel free to share, the more the merrier :)
Hej
I went to Sweden 8 months ago, in Göteborg. I have been fell in love with Sweden for many years and I save money to go there again. I would have added seafood (Feskekôrka in Göteborg, Räksmörgås is delicious and in my opinion your national dish rather than meatballs..Your list gives a good overview of Sweden :)
Sorry I am not fluent in English
Gotland with the medieval festival, semi wild ponies (Russ) etc is not to miss!
Hiking in the mountains. Horse back riding in mountains, forests, beaches. In snow or midnight sun. Or by sledgde!
Jokkmokk winter market
Being Swedish and having lived abroad for 20+ years, I always have an ’88’ ice cream when visiting. I also miss ’filmjölk’ which is great for breakfast.
I am a Swedish 40 year old woman living in Uppsala county. I miss Uppsala Cathedral. It’s really worth a visit! I also miss Öland. I’ve been there many times, the beaches are wonderful as well as “trollskogen”! .
I agree with this comment. The flora on Öland and Gotland should not be missed.
I am Swedish and, having also lived abroad for 25+ years, I am longing to go back and explore with my two half Swedish children. Thank you, Alexander, for refreshing my memory of all the beautiful experiences to be had back home! I am also a “skåning” and would love to explore the more northern regions. Just a little hint though….and this is not me trying to dig holes…..but that is not a reindeer in your picture. Just thought you might like to know!;D
Thanks again, Alexander!
Wow! I never realized how beautiful Sweden is! Now I definitely want to go there! I love the attitude of the Swedish people, so laid back and accepting. I love all of the traditions they have as well, and that they don’t seem to get too caught up in the “why” behind it. But rather they focus on the celebrating with others. Such wonderful people!
GREAT article!
Sorry but the Lynx and wolf are hunted and killed, see them before they become extinct.
Yes, let’s hope it won’t get that far. It’s really a shame that these beautiful animals are facing extinction in Sweden.
Göta Kanal
Tree houses
Semla!!!!
Amazing list of Sweden!!!
I’m Swedish and I noticed that you didn’t mention the High Coast World Heritage, our stunning part of Sweden where the nature still teaches us about the ice age irl!
Thank you :) Yes, that’s another good suggestion!
Plus: Dogsledding, Snowshoeing, The Arctic Circle, Bears, Ice Skating on the Sea, Hiking Kungsleden, Wild Camping, Wolverines, Linjonberry Wine…to add 10 more awesome reasons :-D
Hi, am in a wheelchair. Is Stockholm disabled friendly?
Hello Vivienne, Yes I would say so :) most Swedish cities are disabled friendly. Same goes for public transportation. Many tourist attractions have ramps for wheelchairs or elevators.
Wonderful article. Made me “homesick” for Sweden.
I’m from the US and I’ve been blessed to spend 3 summers in Sweden. I lived with my penpal from Sweden and her wonderful family when I was 18 & 22.
Last summer- 2017 I got to bring my 17 year old daughter and husband with me. My daughter stayed 10 days longer with my lifelong penpal’s daughter who’s 16. Two generations of Swedish/ American friendship and now my daughters 2nd family too.
They’ve too become great friends. I love all things Swedish- Midsommer, Fika, Swedish Design and textiles- Burka Design and Ernst. I’ll always consider Sweden my 2nd home country.
I can’t wait to visit again.
Very nice ! Wish you would include Max Martin as the Swedish music wonder… most hitrecords in the world after Lennon and McCartny as producer and composer/writer
–there are beaches up north too, as good s the ones down south;)
Sweden sounds amazing. Will definitely cross off some things from your list next year.
What I love about Sweden are the castles. I just can’t resist the princess in me(dreaming)!!! Thanks Alex for the wonderful post…
I can’t wait to visit here one day. My great grandparents were from Sweden, so I’ve always wanted to go. Loved the Midsummer video as well!
Alex:
We are coming to Sweden in July 2019 and have about 2.5 days to spend in Stockholm. Do you think going to Birka is a good use of our limited time? Thanks!
– Craig
Hello Craig, how nice! I think that depends, almost a full day will go to that since you have to get there as well. But if you’re keen on seeing Birka I believe it’s a good use of your time.
Hi Alexander,
I have enjoyed your blog.
I am an American who does not travel but your blog makes me want to visit.
Would it be possible to email with you instead of public post?
Thanks for all the information!
Laura
Hey Laura, of course. You can send me an email at contact@swedishnomad.com or use the contact form.
Hi there, was just in Sweeden in Nov 2018 and LOVED IT! Sadly we only had 3 nights and it’s not enough time to do it justice. This said you have the most beautiful downtown area, some of the best cafes and an amazing market by the palace. We were lucky enough to get a small snow storm so it was beautiful. I can’t wait to return and follow some of your advice. Specifically the moose, I have an obsession with them! PS, why are there so many Italian restaurants? Not that the food was not great – it was but I was surprised by the volume of Italian food….. Nikki
Hey Nikki :) Happy to hear you liked Sweden! Did you go to Stockholm?
We LOVE Italian food, and Thai food and Sushi. Most people cook their own food at home, so when we go out and eat, we want to eat something different. Or Pizza and Kebab, those two are so common that it could be considered a part of the Swedish cuisine these days :)
Hello, do you have favorite things to do in Skane? My sister and I will be in Sweden in June and want to explore Skane so would like your opinion on what we should do. Also, would you suggest a quaint town to stay in. Thank you!
Hello Cindy, unfortunately, I haven’t published a post like that yet. I have only posted this https://www.swedishnomad.com/favorite-photos-from-skane/
I suggest that you visit some Castles, but it depends if you have a car or not. Also, what are your main interests? As for a quaint town to stay in I really recommend Ystad, which a lovely old coastal town filled with colorful houses and cobblestoned streets.