Are you planning a trip to the northern country on the Scandinavian Peninsula? Then you need information on what to see in Sweden. For those who don't know, the country borders Norway, Finland, and even Denmark. Sweden's attractions are all, without exception, worthy of a visit.
Sweden is world-famous for many things, but especially for its fairytale landscapes that have inspired countless children's stories, its picturesque fishing villages, and its innovative contemporary architecture. Whether you're looking for a cultural holiday, a nature getaway, or a road trip, Sweden has it all. Here's an overview of the best places to visit in Sweden.
Discover bucket-list things to do in Sweden, a country of raw beauty, Nordic traditions, and never-ending nature and adventure. Whether chasing the Northern Lights, sleeping in a hand-carved ice hotel, or floating in a mirrored treehouse above the Arctic forest, Sweden offers dreamy moments for every kind of traveler.
Take a polar plunge in a frozen lake, sea kayak along Sweden’s untouched coasts, or be introduced to the epicenter of Viking life. Sweden isn’t your average destination - it is a haven to the north overflowing with remarkable experiences.
Most of the country lies in a temperate climate zone, so the southern part of the country experiences warmer weather and relatively low rainfall. This creates ideal conditions for exploring the country's top tourist attractions.
1. Vadstena Castle
Vadstena Castle Palace is a majestic structure on the shores of Lake Vättern. An impressive testimony to the state's glorious history is worth exploring. The castle described is one of the oldest on its territory, having been built as early as 1545.
Not all tourists know that Vadstena Castle originally had four round towers, three stone residential buildings, and several outbuildings. At some point, the fortifications were no longer needed, so they were hidden away.
The decision to convert the building into a historical monument was made in the 20th century, and extensive restoration work was carried out.
2. Vasa Museum
Sweden's attractions cannot fail to amaze with their diversity and uniqueness. A vivid example of this is a museum in the form of a ship, which has survived from the 17th century. It is still considered the pride of the Swedish navy.
It supposedly sank because calculations were incorrect, carrying too much jewelry and gold. The ship sank to the bottom of Stockholm harbor during its maiden voyage, which took place in 1628.
3. Old Town Gamla Stan, Stockholm
Wondering what to visit in Sweden? Visit Stockholm's historic center, known until the 1980s as the City Between Bridges. Founded in the 13th century, its medieval alleys, cobblestone streets, and North German Gothic-style houses suggest this.
In the center lies a picturesque square known as Stortorghet. In 1520, it was here that the Danish king brutally massacred Swedish nobles. Many other Swedish attractions are concentrated in the Old Town, Gamla Stan.
4. Skansen Open-Air Ethnographic Museum
It's one of the most interesting places in the country described. It's represented by a unique ethnographic complex on the island of Djurgården in Stockholm. It's a sort of village, where you can't lose your bearings in time.
Different eras, peoples, and styles are represented, which is bound to be fascinating. The photos are sure to turn out fantastic. If you're traveling with children, they'll also enjoy the open-air museum, as it houses an interesting menagerie of wild and domestic animals.
5. ABBA Museum
This Swedish attraction opened in 2013 and is dedicated to the world-famous Swedish quartet, which existed for 10 years. Located next to the Grena Lund theme park, the facility showcases the band's work in a modern and interactive way.
The rating for this place is simply off the charts, as visitors are given the opportunity to feel like "kings and queens of dance" and even record their own renditions of ABBA hits.
6. Globen Arena or Globus - a sports arena in Stockholm
One of Sweden's top attractions is one of the world's largest spherical structures. It hosts numerous prestigious competitions in a wide variety of sports. If you're lucky, you might even catch concerts by international stars.
The SkyView funicular deserves special attention. Many people travel there just to ride it. It's a great opportunity to see Stockholm as if it were in the palm of your hand and take original photos and videos.
7. Sarek National Park
What to see in Sweden? There are many things to see in this Nordic country. The park area in the municipality of Jokkmokk, in Norrbotten, is known as the wildest because there is only one trail, called the Royal Trail.
The park boasts eight mountain formations, rising over 2,000 meters above sea level. Reviews suggest that this place is best suited to experienced travelers with extensive mountaineering and long-distance hiking experience.
8. Gripsholm Castle
It is located on the shores of the famous Lake Mälaren, in the south-central part of the country. The fortress was designed by Bo Jonsson Griep. It belonged to his family until the villa was confiscated.
Today, only the façade of the wall remains of the original. Inside, there is a museum of paintings and interesting works of art. An exceptional collection of portraits has made this place famous worldwide. If you're thinking about where to go in Sweden, Gripsholm Castle is an ideal place to visit.
9. Uppsala Cathedral
Let's continue describing the main attractions. Scandinavia's largest Gothic building deserves attention. It is not only a functioning church with regular Lutheran services, but also an original museum. Its walls display entire collections of sacred vestments, as well as stone statues created centuries ago. The church's interior is decorated in neo-Gothic style.
10. Skugsschurkogorden Forest Cemetery
Despite its complex name, this Swedish landmark is very interesting. It is a true cemetery, designed in a style that demonstrates the development of architecture from classicism to mature functionalism.
We can now see how the use of the natural landscape created a sort of atmosphere of tranquil beauty. The architects of their time thought of everything, down to the smallest detail. This was clearly reflected in the design of mass graves in other countries.
11. Eresund Bridge Tunnel
This Swedish attraction is truly unique because it comprises 8 kilometers of road on a bridge, 3.5 kilometers of a tunnel, and 4.5 kilometers of an artificially created island. This structure connects the Danish capital with the Swedish city of Malmö. It was inaugurated and put into operation in 2000.
The Queen of Denmark and the King of Sweden attended the ceremony. The official description states that during the construction process, unexploded bombs from World War II were found at the bottom of the strait.
12. Nobel Museum, Sturtorget Square
As the name suggests, this is the place dedicated to the Nobel Prize and its winners. Guides in Sweden often visit this museum with their groups because it is located in one of the most beautiful 18th-century buildings. It was once a stock exchange.
To raise awareness of the Nobel Prize winners, their achievements, and the prize itself, regular exhibitions, films, and even theatrical performances are held. A visit to the museum is not only interesting, but also worthwhile.
13. Drottningholm Palace - royal residence on the island of Lovø
What to visit in Sweden? Naturally, the palace complex, whose name translates as Queen's Island. It was once presented by the sovereign as a gift to his wife Katarina Jagiellonka. After the building was damaged by a severe fire, it was rebuilt.
It turned out to be a rather modest structure, without massive walls and towers. In 1991, it was decided to add the palace complex to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
14. Lake Melaren
Stockholm is known for its location on the shores of the Baltic Sea. But this isn't the only natural body of water nearby. Lake Mälaren also borders the city. It ranks third among the largest lakes in the country. It is 120 kilometers long and 64 kilometers wide.
The lake is surrounded on all sides by many islands, which explains the abundance of nearby attractions in the form of ancient castles, palaces, manors, and villas. The lake has always attracted tourists with its mystery and enigma.
15. Francisco Anzola Museum of Modern Art, Stockholm
Not sure what to see in Sweden in one day? It's worth visiting one of Europe's best museums. It offers tourists examples of modern art, displayed in descending order.
This place has very positive reviews: wandering from room to room, it's simply impossible not to be amazed by the genius of modern art creators. It's worth noting that the meaning of some exhibits isn't entirely clear, but you can always ask the guide for explanations.
16. Vic Castle
It's not uncommon for excursions in Sweden to include a castle that has retained its appearance unchanged since the mid-Middle Ages. It sits on the shores of Lake Melaren, in the town of the same name.
Looking at it, you feel like you're in a fairytale, as evidenced by its appearance with unusual turrets and spires on the roof. Although built in the 15th century, its architecture is more reminiscent of the 13th century, when similar buildings were found in Normandy.
The castle's originality was preserved thanks to the surrounding moat. If you look closely, you can see traces of its past on the walls.
17. The World of Astrid Lindgren
This amusement park is dedicated to the famous Swedish author. It opened in 1981. It's a 130,000 m² area where Astrid's favorite books have literally come to life. Fans of works like Pippi Longstocking, Carlson Who Lives on the Roof, and others can see the characters firsthand.
If you're traveling with children, this Swedish attraction is worth a visit. During the summer, fairy tale performances featuring the most beloved characters are held here.
18. Liseberg Park
This is another interesting place for a holiday with children. There are many attractions spread across a large area, including a children's pavilion, which hosts circus performances, concerts, and dances.
The park's foundations were laid in 1923, in honor of Gothenburg's 300th anniversary. The site is open to visitors from April to September.
19. Kalmar Castle
It is a unique architectural monument, whose history dates back to 1160. Its construction began with a round watchtower, and over time the castle developed around it. The Kalmar Union was once concluded there.
The building once served as an important fortification, due to its location near the border between Sweden and Denmark. Negotiations between representatives of the various countries were held here.
20. Stockholm City Hall
The building in question is the city council building of the city of the same name. It is located on the eastern side of Kungsholm Island. Inside, there are numerous offices, conference rooms, reception rooms, and a luxurious restaurant that deserves special attention.
This attraction is deservedly considered one of Sweden's top attractions and demonstrates the Swedish National Romanticism in architecture. Not far from the building is a park decorated with works by famous sculptors. The 20-meter monument erected in honor of Engelbreckt Engelbrektsson is noteworthy.
