11 Must-See Destinations in Sweden

Sweden has significantly enriched the global cultural scene. From chart-topping pop stars and acclaimed songwriters to renowned filmmakers and Nobel laureates, the country continues to shine.

Yet, some of this Scandinavian nation's most remarkable achievements lie hidden within its borders, eagerly waiting for travelers to uncover them. Spanning from the Arctic wilderness of Lappland to the lush farmlands and sandy shores of Skåne, Europe’s fifth-largest country offers something for every kind of explorer.

Looking for chic, fashionable cities brimming with culture? Your choices are tempting. Fascinated by historic landmarks? Ancient cultures are ready for you to explore. Want to experience breathtaking and varied natural scenery? Sweden is home to some of the world's most beautiful landscapes. Begin your journey now with our selection of the best places to visit in Sweden.

1. Stockholm

Ideal Destination for History, Culture, and Nature Enthusiasts

Few cities harmonize history, culture, and nature as seamlessly as Stockholm. Established around 1252, Sweden’s capital spans 14 islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. With breathtaking views, unique neighborhoods, and plentiful green spaces, it’s a delightful area for exploration.

Wander through the charming cobblestone lanes of Gamla Stan, walk along the scenic waterfront boulevard of Strandvägen, embark on a boat tour of the stunning archipelago, or enjoy a coffee and pastry at one of the many delightful cafés. For a more focused experience, Stockholm boasts a plethora of attractions, including City Hall, the Royal Palace, and renowned museums like Skansen, Fotografiska, and Vasamuseet.

2. Gothenburg

Top Spot for a Relaxed, Laidback Atmosphere

Sweden’s second-largest city, known locally as Göteborg, exudes a laidback west-coast charm. Streetcars glide past 17th-century canals, bustling squares, and the wide boulevard Kungsportsavenyn, lined with vibrant pubs and restaurants.

In addition to its lush parks, eclectic neighborhoods, and excellent shopping and dining options, Göteborg features a fantastic city history museum and an art museum renowned for its impressive collection of Nordic paintings. Nautical enthusiasts should visit Maritiman, where you can explore various vessels, including a historic lightship, a submarine, and a destroyer.

3. Bohuslän

Top Spot for Coastal Scenery

Nestled between Göteborg and the Norwegian border, Bohuslän boasts stunning coastal landscapes, charming small towns, and rich history.

Visit the remarkable 17th-century Carlsten Fortress on Marstrand island, marvel at ancient petroglyphs near Tanum, kayak through the fjords surrounding the many islands, or hike along a coastal trail. When you need a break, enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant summer vibe in the scenic seaside towns like Smögen, Fjällbacka, and Grebbestad.

6. Dalarna

Best Destination for Traditional Arts and Crafts

Few regions have influenced Sweden's global reputation as significantly as Dalarna, a place steeped in cultural heritage and tradition. The area surrounding Lake Siljan is a hub for folk music, dance, and craftsmanship, showcasing the iconic wooden Dala horses, which are hand-carved and painted at factories in Nusnäs.

In Falun, you can explore Sweden’s most significant copper mine, which closed in 1992 after a millennium of operation, now transformed into an intriguing tourist destination with underground tours. Other notable sites include the residences of artists Carl Larsson and Anders Zorn, along with composer Hugo Alfvén.

7. Uppsala

Top Destination for Spiritual Exploration

Uppsala has served as a vital center for education, religion, culture, and authority for over 1500 years. At Gamla Uppsala, just north of the city center, three large royal burial mounds highlight the area's significance in the 6th century, complemented by a nearby museum featuring captivating exhibits on local history.

In contemporary Uppsala, take a leisurely walk along the Fyrisån River and explore the parks, squares, and cobblestone streets surrounding the oldest university and the largest cathedral in the Nordic region, both established in the 15th century. For plant enthusiasts, the university's Linnaean Gardens of Uppsala are a must-visit, featuring a botanical garden, an orangery, and a tropical greenhouse, among other highlights.

8. Lappland

Ideal Destination for Northern Lights Viewing

In Sweden’s northernmost region, Lappland spans a vast area, and your destination will depend on your specific interests. If you seek breathtaking alpine landscapes and wilderness hikes, this region offers an abundance of both, featuring several national parks and the renowned long-distance trail, Kungsleden.

Eager to witness the Northern Lights? Abisko National Park is particularly famous for its optimal aurora viewing conditions, although you can catch glimpses of the lights throughout northern Sweden during autumn and winter.

Looking for a unique hotel stay? Visit the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi or the Treehotel in Harads. If you’re interested in learning about Scandinavia’s indigenous cultures, Jokkmokk serves as a Sámi hub, featuring the engaging cultural museum Ájtte and a lively annual winter market.

9. Höga Kusten

Top Destination for High-Altitude Hiking

Nestled between Härnösand and Örnsköldsvik, the High Coast has been steadily rising since the last Ice Age, elevating the ancient shoreline by as much as 286 meters (938 feet) above the current coast. Hiking trails, a chairlift, and a via ferrata provide access to the summit of Skuleberget, where you'll find breathtaking panoramic views.

Visit Skuleskogen National Park for additional hiking trails that reveal the region’s intriguing geology, or discover the charming offshore islands, such as Ulvön and Trysunda. Further south, the E4 highway crosses Sweden’s longest suspension bridge, with a viewpoint at the northern end offering striking views of this remarkable structure.

10. Skåne

Best place to explore an alternative perspective on Swedish history

Once a Danish province, Skåne officially became part of Sweden in 1658, and its unique heritage is reflected in its distinctive dialect and the charming half-timbered homes found in medieval towns like Lund and Ystad. Malmö, Sweden's third-largest city, offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern architecture, highlighted by the iconic Turning Torso.

Skåne boasts stunning natural landscapes, from the pristine white-sand beaches of Österlen and the rugged cliffs of Kullaberg to lush forests and golden agricultural plains beneath expansive skies. The region is also home to magnificent castles and palaces, including Sofiero, famous for its exquisite gardens.

11. Kalmar and Glasriket

Best destinations for historical landmarks and glass artistry

Once a significant hub in the Middle Ages, Kalmar boasts one of Sweden’s finest Renaissance castles and a county museum featuring thousands of remarkably well-preserved artifacts from the royal ship Kronan, which sank nearby during a 1676 battle.

To the west lies Glasriket, a wooded area known as the Kingdom of Crystal, home to over a dozen unique glassworks where you can observe skilled artisans at work, shop for pieces, and even try glassblowing yourself. The most famous of these, Kosta Boda, has been crafting glass since 1742.

Adjacent to this is the Kosta Boda Art Hotel, adorned with beautiful art glass, including an impressive blue-glass bar. For a different aesthetic, visit Malerås, known for its distinctive painted and engraved glass art.

12. Gotland

Best destination for a medieval adventure

A fiercely contested center of Baltic trade for centuries, Sweden’s largest island features picturesque sheep farms, quaint fishing villages, ancient ruins, medieval churches, and dramatic sea stacks (raukar) shaped by nature. The charming town of Visby boasts one of Scandinavia’s most well-preserved medieval centers, complete with an intact city wall and an outstanding museum detailing the island’s rich history.

Just a short complimentary ferry ride from Gotland’s northeastern shore lies the breathtaking, windswept Fårö, a favorite of filmmaker Ingmar Bergman. Off the west coast of Gotland, Stora Karlsö is renowned for its massive seabird colonies.

13. Öland

Best destination for striking landscapes

Just a bridge from Kalmar, the elongated island of Öland offers a dramatically different natural landscape. Southern Öland showcases breathtaking scenery characterized by stone walls, vibrant wildflowers, traditional windmills, and rugged pastures. In the north, you'll find Böda Sand, a stunning and highly frequented beach, as well as Trollskogen, an enchanting forest filled with pine trees contorted into whimsical shapes by nature.

The island features two picturesque lighthouses, Långe Erik in the north and Långe Jan in the south. Other notable attractions include the remarkable ruins of 17th-century Borgholms Castle and the lush gardens at Solliden Palace, the summer residence of the royal family. Öland is also renowned as one of Sweden’s premier birdwatching locales, boasting several nature reserves that draw both resident and migratory birds.