The ultimate summer road trip itinerary for Sweden
Road trips offer an unmatched sense of freedom, especially when your car is packed with your favorite tunes and delicious road trip snacks, allowing you to embrace any spontaneous adventure along the way.
A road trip through Sweden is a wonderful choice, particularly in the summer when the days seem to stretch endlessly. From south to north, you'll find vibrant cities, vast nature, coastal areas, and historic landmarks, along with some of the country's most scenic roads!
The ideal time for a road trip in Sweden
In general, summer is the best time for an extended road trip across Sweden. From June to August, you'll enjoy the longest daylight hours, optimal visibility on the roads, and the warmest temperatures.
However, the best time for your Swedish road trip really depends on your goals. If you're looking to ski or witness the northern lights in Lapland, consider traveling in February or March (just remember that December and January have very limited daylight in the far north).
Spring and autumn are typically considered off-peak seasons, but they have distinct advantages: with fewer tourists, the roads and attractions are much less crowded, and these seasons often offer lower hotel rates.
By utilizing data from Weatherbase and Numbeo, I have gathered insights on weather, prices, and other local conditions to assist you in planning your perfect trip.
Ideal vehicles for your Swedish road trip
If you'll be covering significant distances nearly every day, it's crucial to have enough space in the car. Opt for a rental car type that provides ample room, leaving an empty seat based on your travel group size. Being cramped can become uncomfortable very quickly. Fortunately, finding a suitable and spacious rental car in Sweden is generally straightforward.
Estimate your road trip expenses
Establishing a budget for your road trip will help you avoid any unexpected expenses when your journey concludes.
Vehicle rental
Lodging
14 nights in hotels
Fuel expenses
For the entire journey, covering 1690 miles will consume approximately 76 gallons of fuel in a mid-sized vehicle.
Overall expense
The total cost per person for the rental vehicle, fuel, and lodging (excluding meals) is calculated based on two travelers sharing expenses. Note that these figures do not include your flights to Sweden.
Traveling to Sweden
I suggest booking a domestic flight from Stockholm to Malmö to kick off your road trip in Sweden. You can conveniently pick up your rental car at the airport upon arrival.
You can discover some advice for driving in Europe and planning your road trip here.
14-day Sweden road trip itinerary: from south to north
Day 1: Malmö (1 night)
Your adventure kicks off in the vibrant city of Malmö, Sweden's third-largest metropolis. With its abundance of restaurants and rich cultural offerings, Malmö caters to all tastes. Explore three notable art museums: Malmö Konsthall, Modern Museum, and Malmö Art Museum.
Be sure to check out the iconic 'twisted' skyscraper, Turning Torso, in Västra Hamnen up close. The close proximity to the bustling city of Copenhagen and the historical charm of Lund may encourage you to extend your stay in Malmö for a few exciting days.
Where to stay in Malmö: Ohboy Hotell offers a chic and eco-friendly experience in Västra Hamnen, with bicycle rentals included in your room rate.
Day 2: Kivik (1 night)
Driving distance from Malmö: 75 miles, approximately a 2-hour drive
From Malmö, head down to Ystad and embark on the spectacular Eastern Coastal Road. This scenic route winds past numerous sandy beaches and the renowned ancient site of Ales Stenar, leading you to Österlen, often regarded as Skåne’s most picturesque region.
Revered as 'Sweden's fruit orchard,' this area boasts lush landscapes and abundant apple orchards. You'll also encounter charming Scanian half-timbered farms scattered throughout the fields.
Navigating the rolling hills of Brösarp, pausing to admire the idyllic scenery of Haväng, and enjoying a swim at one of Sweden's finest beaches, Stenshuvud Nationalpark, encapsulates the essence of Österlen. You will spend the night in the delightful town of Kivik.
Where to stay in Kivik: Kiviksrand Badhotell is a cozy guesthouse just steps from the beach, offering a delicious breakfast to start your day.
Day 3: Varberg (1 night)
Driving distance from Kivik: 145 miles, approximately a 3-hour drive.
This day's journey starts with a drive northwest through Skåne. Spend a few hours soaking in the breathtaking views from Kullahalvon and the charming village of Mölle.
If you plan to travel this route in a single day, unfortunately, you may have to skip delightful spots like Arild, Torekov, and BĂĄstad, as Varberg awaits. The town features a unique medieval fortress alongside a stylish wooden cold bathhouse dating back to the 19th century.
I adore Apelviken, just a few miles south, where numerous beach bars create a nearly Caribbean vibe during the summer. Its shallow beaches attract both surfers and families with children.
Where to stay in Varberg: Varbergs Stadshotell, located in a beautifully restored historic building, features a new rooftop pool with stunning views.
Days 4 & 5: Gothenburg (2 nights)
Driving distance from Varberg: 46 miles, about a 1-hour drive.
In Gothenburg, you'll experience the charming vibe of a cozy, intimate big city. Despite its size, many attractions in the city center are just a short walk away. Starting your exploration with a tram ride and a stroll through the Garden Association park is a great way to get acquainted with Gothenburg. Don't miss wandering through Haga, a neighborhood filled with quaint wooden houses, cafes, and shops.
Four hundred years old, Gothenburg is also a hit with families. Liseberg amusement park and Universeum science center guarantee fun for the little ones. Meanwhile, a modern Gothenburg is developing, particularly in Hisingen, marked by the upcoming Karlatornet, set to be the tallest building in the Nordic region.
Where to stay in Gothenburg: Hotel Eggers offers a glimpse into history as one of Sweden's oldest continuously operating hotels.
Day 6: Lysekil & Bohuslän (1 night)
Driving distance from Gothenburg: 85 miles, approximately a 2-hour drive.
Taking the E6 north from Gothenburg opens up a wealth of opportunities for detours to the classic seaside resorts of Bohuslän. You'll also have the chance to explore the west coast, renowned as one of the country's most beautiful coastal areas. Notable destinations include Marstrand, Smögen, Fjällbacka, Strömstad, and Lysekil, each offering its unique charm.
The striking and massive rock formations are equally breathtaking. Be sure to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock Carvings in Tanum as well.
Personally, I recommend trying Dinogoing in Grundsund near Lysekil or embarking on a half-day hike in Ramvikslandet.
Where to stay in Lysekil: Strandflickornas guest house blends modern vintage style with plenty of old-world charm.
Day 7: Kinnekulle & Skövde (1 night)
Driving distance from Lysekil via Läckö: 159 miles, roughly a -hour drive.
Leaving the west coast, your journey takes you inland towards the stunning Västergötland region. Be sure to visit Läckö Castle, a remarkable Renaissance fortress perched on a headland overlooking Lake Vänern.
In the afternoon, explore the Kinnekulle Nature Reserve, often referred to as 'the blooming mountain' due to its diverse flora, including ten types of orchids. The views from the observation tower at Kinnekulle will leave a lasting impression. Just below, you'll find Forshem, home to a unique 12th-century church featuring depictions of Arn, the Knight Templar, along with Sweden's oldest guest farm, dating back to 1564.
From Forshem, you can travel to Timmersdala and then take Vallevägen towards Varnhem. This road meanders past 365 small lakes and numerous hills, making it one of Sweden's most scenic routes, though it remains relatively unknown to many.
Where to stay in Skövde: Knistad Herrgard, located just outside Skövde, is a premier golf hotel with views of the course from every room.
Day 8: Vadstena (1 night)
Driving distance from Skövde: 111 miles via Gränna, approximately a 2.5-hour drive.
Today's journey takes you past Jönköping along the E4. Just north lies one of Sweden's most breathtaking routes, elevated above the eastern shore of Lake Vättern. The ruins of Brahehus Castle provide a perfect stopover near the charming town of Gränna, which is worth exploring itself.
If you have extra time, catch a boat from here to Visingsö, a cigar-shaped island filled with intriguing sights. Eventually, you'll veer off the E4 towards the historic treasure of Vadstena, where relics from various eras coexist harmoniously. Vadstena resembles a scene from a children's storybook, featuring Gustav Wasa's 16th-century castle, St. Birgitta's 14th-century monastery, and the well-preserved royal palace of King Valdemar.
Be sure to visit MĂĄrten Skinnares' intriguing house in Vadstena, an exceptional residential structure dating back to the early 16th century.
Where to stay in Vadstena: Vadstena Klosterhotell is nothing short of luxurious, boasting a restaurant, wine cellar, and spa.
Day 9 & 10: Stockholm (2 nights)
Driving distance from Vadstena: 153 miles, approximately a 3-hour drive
The Swedish capital is a fantastic destination any time of year, brimming with attractions. Notable highlights include the charming old town, the royal palace, the city hall, and the Vasa Museum, among many others.
Stockholm truly shines in the summer, when the entire city seems to burst with energy. Experience the lively atmosphere at the floating restaurants around DjurgĂĄrdsbron or visit the new rooftop bar Frejya at Slussen. From up high, you can see the entire expanse of Stockholm before you.
Skansen and Gröna Lund are fantastic options for a family road trip, and if the weather turns rainy, there are plenty of excellent museums to explore. A boat excursion from Stockholm is also a must-do, whether you're heading into the archipelago or to Lake Mälaren.
'Take a cue from my summer routine: head to Smedsudden on Kungsholmen, where you can enjoy swimming at Smedsuddsbadet, followed by dancing and drinks at the lovely outdoor club, Eden.”
Where to stay in Stockholm: Haymarket Hotel boasts a prime location at Hötorget, right across from Stockholm's concert hall.
Day 11: Mora
Driving distance from Stockholm: 191 miles, roughly a 4-hour drive
Traditional Mora is nestled in the heart of the captivating cultural region surrounding Siljan. This city is home to the Zorn Museum and Zorns Gammelgard, which are must-visit spots, but there's so much more to discover.
While on your road trip through Sweden, make sure to explore the Siljan area, including the picturesque villages of Tällberg and Plintsberg. The traditional farms and homes here are a key part of Sweden's cultural heritage, and the views over Siljan are breathtaking. Both Mora and Leksand, the towns by Siljan, vie for the title of hosting the grandest midsummer celebration in the nation.
As you depart from Stockholm, kick off your day by taking a detour to Sigtuna from the E4. This charming location is among Sweden's oldest cities, and many consider it to be the most beautiful as well.
Where to stay in Mora: Mora Hotel & Spa serves as the town's main hotel, offering views of Siljan and a delightful spa experience.
Day 12: Ă–stersund
Driving distance from Mora: 193 miles, roughly a 4.5-hour drive.
Östersund may surprise you with its diverse offerings. Take a steamboat ride on Storsjön or try stand-up paddleboarding at Surfbukten. You can rent an electric bike to explore Frösön, where you'll find various attractions set against the stunning Oviksfjällen. The Jamtli Open Air Museum features actors in historical costumes and is enjoyable for all ages, just like a visit to the friendly moose at Moose Garden in Orrviken, located a few miles from the city.
For the finest views on Frösön, visit the Stocke Titt café, conveniently situated in the center of the island along the road.
Where to stay in Ă–stersund: Hotel Gamla Teatern is a delightful hotel whose retro decor complements its 19th-century architecture.
Day 13: Höga Kusten
Driving distance from Ă–stersund: 173 miles, approximately a 4-hour drive.
The world heritage site Höga Kusten, or High Coast, lies between Kramfors and Örnsköldsvik. It's a place where the mountains dramatically meet the sea, creating breathtaking scenery that is unmatched anywhere else in the Baltic region.
For drivers, the E4 serves as a direct route to Höga Kusten. Don’t overlook the exit to what’s often referred to as the 'Tourist Road' between Skuleberget and the Höga Kusten bridge, which has repeatedly been named Sweden's most beautiful road. Be sure to stop and hike a bit to fully appreciate the stunning views, or take a boat from Docksta to Ulvön. Renting canoes at the Friluftsbyn facility is another excellent option here.
Where to stay on the Höga Kusten: First Hotel Statt Örnsköldsvik is a classic city hotel located in Örnsköldsvik.
Day 14: Gällivare
Driving distance from Höga Kusten: 359 miles, approximately 7.5 hours of driving.
Only the most dedicated road trip enthusiasts tackle the final stretch of nearly 60 miles from Höga Kusten to Gällivare. However, the reward is immense. During summer, the midnight sun shines constantly, and at the summit of Dundret mountain (accessible by car), you can indulge in waffles topped with fresh red currant jam. The breathtaking view of the Swedish mountains stretching to Kebnekajse, bathed in golden light, is unforgettable.
Gällivare is a gateway to numerous mountain hikes. For those seeking a less-traveled path, consider the underrated Padjelanta, Sweden's largest national park. The complete trail takes ten days to traverse, but if four days of hiking is sufficient, a helicopter ride can whisk you back.
Where to stay in Gällivare: Grand Hotel Lapland offers cozy accommodations, a delightful restaurant, and a rooftop bar featuring a pool—especially enjoyable during the summer's midnight sun.
How does Dinogo ensure that all information in this guide is accurate?
The foundation of this guide lies in experience and research. As the author, I have spent over 20 years as a travel writer, publishing travel books and articles across more than 100 countries in Sweden's major newspapers. Traveling is my passion, and I take professional pride in staying informed about global destinations to provide my readers with reliable and easily digestible information.
Conclusion
Sweden is an excellent country for a road trip. You'll travel along well-maintained, easy-to-navigate roads, with each day's journey revealing new highlights. Over two weeks, you can explore a significant portion of Sweden, from SkĂĄne to Lapland, passing through vibrant cities, stunning natural landscapes, and historical landmarks.
1
2
3
4
5
Evaluation :
5/5