Top 10 Places to Visit in Sweden

The capital city of Sweden is a wonderful blend of history, culture, and nature — a great place to start your Swedish holiday. Whether you want to stroll through the historic, cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, explore world-class museums, or take a scenic boat tour through the breathtaking archipelago, Stockholm offers a diverse array of attractions, making it one of the best places to visit in Sweden. The city also has a great culinary scene, an excellent shopping neighborhood, and plenty of green spaces.

Highlights:

• Explore the stunning Gamls Stan, Stockholm’s old town, known for its cobblestone streets, colorful historic buildings, and charming squares. Make sure to explore the Royal Palace and Stortorget, the vibrant main square with its iconic red and gold houses.
• Visit the Vasa Museum to marvel at the well-preserved 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage, offering a fascinating insight into Sweden’s maritime history.
• Stroll through Djurgården, a beautiful island in central Stockholm, home to lush parks, historic buildings, and ABBA Museum, and Skansen.
• Take a boat tour of Stockholm’s archipelago, consisting of around 30,000 islands, to enjoy stunning views of the city’s waterfront, picturesque islands, and idyllic villages.
• Admire the panoramic views of Stockholm from the Ericsson Globe, the world’s largest spherical building, by taking a ride in the SkyView gondola to the top for breathtaking vistas of the cityscape and waterways.

Quick tip: Get a Stockholm Pass, which gives you free entry to many top museums like Vasa Museums, Skansen Open-Air Museum, etc. and attractions as well as free public transportation.

Nestled on the west coast of Sweden, Gothenburg is known for its maritime history and for being the birthplace of Volvo. It is also one of the most sustainable cities in the world. At the heart of Gothenburg is the picturesque Haga district, famed for its cobblestone streets, cozy cafes and boutique shops. The city’s bustling Feskekorka fish market offers the freshest seafood, while the beautiful parks and canals provide serene relaxing spots. Gothenburg is also home to Lisberg, one of Europe’s top amusement parks, and the stunning Southern Archipelago, accessible by ferry.

Highlights:

• Wander through Haga, Gothenburg’s charming historic district, with its cobblestone streets, wooden houses, unique boutiques, and cozy cafes, perfect for experiencing the city’s world charm and vibrant atmosphere.
• Explore the Universeum, a fascinating science center with interactive exhibits, an indoor rainforest, and an ocean tank, providing an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.
• Stroll through the Gothenburg Botanical Garden, one of Europe’s largest botanical gardens, featuring diverse plant collections, serene walking paths, and a beautiful rock garden.
• Take a scenic boat tour through Gothenburg’s picturesque canals and harbor, enjoying views of the city’s waterfront, historic buildings, and modern architecture, while learning about the city’s maritime heritage.

Quick tip:  Set aside at least half a day to explore Haga to fully experience its rich history and culture.

Swedish Lapland is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sweden. This enchanting area is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including vast forests, crystal-clear lakes, and towering mountains. Traditional Sami villages offer a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage, while the Northern Lights provide a spectacular natural light show. In winter, you can enjoy the famous Icehotel in Jukkasjarvi and thrilling activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling. Summer in Sweden brings the magic of the Midnight Sun, bathing the land in endless daylight, perfect for hiking and exploring.

Highlights:

• Embark on a thrilling husky sled ride through the pristine wilderness of Swedish Lapland, experiencing the exhilarating rush of gliding across snow-covered landscapes while being guided by expert mushers and their loyal sled dogs.
• Experience the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Northern Lights illuminating the Arctic sky, creating unforgettable memories under the starry night, especially during winter in Sweden, from September to March, when long nights provide optimal viewing conditions for this celestial display.
• Explore the unique Sami culture and traditions by visiting traditional Sami villages, where you can learn about indigenous reindeer herding, taste Sami cuisine, and participate in cultural activities such as reindeer sledding and traditional storytelling.
• Stay in a cozy wilderness lodge or a traditional Sami tent, known as a lavvu, for an authentic Arctic experience.
• Venture into the Arctic wilderness on a guided snowmobile safari, traversing frozen lakes, snow-covered forests, and rugged terrain, while discovering the breathtaking beauty and untamed wilderness of Swedish Lapland.

Quick tip: Book your Northern Lights tour well in advance, as places fill up quickly during the winter season.

The Gota Canal isn’t just a waterway in Sweden; it’s a historic marvel weaving through stunning landscapes, charming villages, and captivating history. This iconic canal, stretching from Gothenburg on the west coast to Soderkoping on the east, offers travelers an unforgettable journey through Sweden’s heartland. Whether cruising its tranquil waters, cycling along its scenic towpaths, or exploring its fascinating locks, the Gota Canal promises adventure and discovery at every turn. Hands down, one of the top places to visit in Sweden.

Highlights:

• Cruise along the Gota Canal, an engineering marvel and Sweden’s largest construction project of the 19th century, aboard a historic canal boat or modern pleasure cruiser, taking in the views of stunning countryside and picturesque waterways.
• Explore charming canal-side towns and villages such as Söderköping and Töreboda. Here, you can stroll along cobblestone streets, visit historic landmarks, and dine at local cafes, immersing yourself in the region's rich history and culture.
• Experience the unique locks of the Gota Canal, including the famous staircase locks at Berg. These locks raise or lower boats 18 meters, providing an unforgettable spectacle of engineering ingenuity and maritime heritage.
• Cycle or hike along the scenic towpaths that parallel the Gota Canal, offering panoramic views of tranquil lakes, lush forests, and rolling countryside.

Quick tip: Take a multi-day cruise along the entire canal instead of just short-day trips to fully appreciate the beauty of Gota Canal.

Uppsala, a charming city north of Stockholm, is steeped in culture and history. The city is home to Uppsala Cathedral, one of Scandinavia’s largest churches, boasting stunning Gothic architecture and intricate craftsmanship. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Gamla Uppsala, an ancient Viking settlement with burial mounds dating back to the Iron Age. Uppsala's blend of historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and natural beauty offers a delightful experience for travelers seeking an authentic Swedish experience.

Highlights:

• Explore the historic city of Uppsala, home to Sweden’s oldest and most prestigious university. With its charming cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and beautiful parks, Uppsala offers a captivating blend of academic excellence and cultural heritage.
• Visit the impressive Uppsala Cathedral, Scandinavia’s largest church known for its Gothic architecture, towering spires, and rich history. It is also the final resting place of Swedish kings and notable figures such as scientist Carl Linnaeus.
• Discover the ancient Viking burial mounds at Gamla Uppsala, a Unesco World Heritage Site, where you can explore centuries-old archaeological remains, including the legendary Royal Mounds and the fascinating Viking museum.
• Stroll through the lush botanical gardens of Uppsala University, one of Europe’s oldest botanical gardens, featuring a diverse collection of plants worldwide, tranquil walking paths, and charming greenhouses.

Quick tip: Rent a bike to get around Uppsala easily and explore the university areas, parks, and surrounding countryside.

Known for its stunning coastline, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, Oland offers visitors a diverse range of experiences. Explore the ancient ruins of Borgholm Castle, dating back to the 12th century, or stroll along the beautiful beaches and coastal cliffs. Nature lovers can hike or bike through the island’s scenic landscapes, including the Unesco-listed Alvaret, a unique limestone plain teeming with rare flora and fauna.

Highlights:

• Explore the picturesque island of Öland, Sweden’s second-largest island, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rugged coastline, and rich cultural heritage.
• Take a tour of the Royal Domain of Solliden, the summer residence of the Swedish royal family, surrounded by beautiful gardens, parklands, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the sea.
• Discover the ancient Viking history of Öland at Eketorp Castle, a well-preserved ring fortress dating back to the Iron Age, where you can explore reconstructed Viking houses, artifacts, and immersive exhibitions.
• Stroll along the Alvaret, a unique limestone plain stretching across Öland’s southern coast, featuring rare flora and fauna, mysterious stone formations, and panoramic vistas.
• Wander through the charming seaside villages and coastal towns of Öland, with their colorful wooden houses, quaint harbors, and vibrant local culture. 

Quick tip: Time your visit to Oland for the annual Harvest Festival in late August or early September to experience the island’s rich agricultural heritage through harvest markets, folk performances, and traditional farming activities.

Known for its well-preserved city walls and cobblestone streets, Visby exudes Sweden’s historical charm. The heart of Visby's tourism is centered around the picturesque town square and the stunning St. Mary's Cathedral. Stroll along the narrow alleys lined with medieval houses, and be sure to visit during the annual Medieval Week when the town is illuminated with festivities and historical reenactments.

Highlights:

• Explore the medieval town of Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the island of Gotland. Travel back to the Hanseatic era as you tour the well-preserved city walls, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings.
• Discover the enchanting Botanical Garden of Visby, where you can stroll through lush greenery, colorful flower beds, and ancient ruins — a peaceful oasis in the city's heart.
• Visit the impressive Visby Cathedral, also known as St. Mary's Cathedral, featuring stunning Gothic architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and a rich history dating back to the 12th century.
• Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Medieval Week in Visby, an annual festival featuring historical reenactments, medieval markets, and costumed parades.
• Admire the breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea from Visby’s cliffside promenades and coastal paths.

Quick tip: Stay within the medieval city walls for at least one night to soak in the magical atmosphere of the place.

This stunning royal residence, located on the island of Lovon, serves as the private home of the Swedish royal family. The main hub of Drottningholm’s tourism is centered around the beautiful palace gardens and the historic Drottningholm Court Theatre, which make it one of the best places to visit in Stockholm. Make it a point of visiting the palace when illuminated at night to admire the magical view of this architectural masterpiece.

Highlights:

• Stroll through the expansive Drottningholm Palace Gardens, inspired by French formal gardens, with meticulously landscaped lawns, ornate fountains, and a picturesque parterre.
• Visit the Drottningholm Court Theatre, one of the world’s best-preserved 18th-century theaters, where you can tour its exquisite auditorium's original stage machinery and learn about its rich history.
• Discover the Chinese Pavilion, an exotic 18th-century pleasure palace within the Drottningholm estate, adorned with intricate Chinese-inspired decor, lavish rooms, and beautiful surrounding gardens.
• Enjoy a leisurely boat ride from central Stockholm to Drottningholm Palace, cruising through scenic waterways, passing charming islands and waterfront homes.

Quick tip: Arrive early to explore the perfectly manicured gardens before they get crowded later in the day. 

Kalmar is a charming historical city with beautiful architecture. Located on the southeast coast of Sweden, it is renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance castle and picturesque old town. You can explore the cobblestone streets, visit the Kalmar Castle, and enjoy stunning views of the Baltic Sea. Kalmar offers a blend of rich history and scenic beauty, making it one of the top 10 places in Sweden.

Highlights:

• Explore the historic Kalmar Castle, a beautifully preserved Renaissance fortress with grand halls, dungeons, and fascinating exhibits, offering a glimpse into Sweden’s medieval and Renaissance history.
• Stroll through the charming streets of Kalmar’s Old Town, lined with colorful wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings.
• Visit the Kalmar County Museum, home to the famous Kronan shipwreck exhibit, where you can learn about the region’s maritime history and see artifacts recovered from the sunken 17th-century warship.
• Relax at Kalmarsundsparken, a beautiful waterfront park offering stunning views of the Kalmar Strait, scenic walking paths, and areas for picnicking and enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Discover the history of the Kalmar Union at the Kalmar Cathedral, a majestic Baroque church with impressive architecture, beautiful interiors, and an informative exhibition about the union that once united the Nordic countries.

Quick tip: Time your visit for one of Kalmar's lively annual events, such as the Midsummer celebrations in June, which feature folk dancing and music, or the Medieval Days festival in July, when the castle grounds transform into a medieval village. 

Most people visit Umea as a gateway to the stunning northern wilderness, but this vibrant city is much more than just a starting point. Known for its lively cultural scene and numerous museums, Umeå offers plenty of attractions for visitors. If you’re looking for a dynamic city with a rich history and modern amenities, Umeå is one of the unmissable places to visit in Sweden.

Highlights:

• Stroll along the picturesque Ume River, where you can enjoy scenic waterfront views, charming bridges, and riverside promenades. These are perfect for leisurely walks, cycling, or picnicking.
• Visit the Umeå Arts Campus, a creative hub housing several renowned cultural institutions, including the Umeå University School of Architecture and the Umeå Institute of Design, to explore cutting-edge exhibitions and artistic installations.
• Discover the fascinating exhibits at the Västerbottens Museum, showcasing the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Västerbotten region through interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
• Experience the natural beauty of Umeå by exploring nearby outdoor destinations such as the Umeå Folkpark, with its scenic walking trails and recreational activities, or taking a day trip to nearby national parks and nature reserves for hiking, wildlife spotting, and outdoor adventures.

Quick tip: Time your visit in late June to experience the Midsommar/Midsummer festivities in Umeå. This is one of the biggest celebrations of the year, where locals dress up in traditional costumes, dance around the maypole, and partake in herring meals and other customs. 

If you plan a trip to Sweden, include these top destinations on your itinerary. Explore the medieval charm of Visby on Gotland Island, marvel at the stunning architecture of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Swedish Lapland. With so many of the best places to visit in Sweden, the hardest part is narrowing down your options!

If you are looking for a personalized travel experience, contact our travel expert for a customized trip to Sweden. Be sure to check out our guide on how many days to spend in Sweden and the best time to visit Sweden to help you plan a hassle-free journey.