Things to do in Sweden, 9 tips you can’t miss!
Looking for things to do in Sweden? Then search no more. Our blog article gives you 9 amazing things to do in Sweden, the amazing land of the Vikings.
From majestic natural landscapes to vibrant cultural experiences, Sweden, a Scandinavian gem, is teeming with attractions that offer a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Here is an exploration of the best things to do in Sweden.
1. Unveil History at Stockholm’s Gamla Stan
A trip to Sweden would be incomplete without visiting Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s oldest district, dating back to the 13th century. This picturesque neighborhood is home to the Royal Palace, the Nobel Museum, and the iconic Storkyrkan Cathedral.
The cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and quaint shops add to Gamla Stan’s unique charm. A leisurely stroll here transports you back in time, making it a must-visit spot.
2. Explore Sweden’s Natural Marvel – Abisko National Park
Located in Swedish Lapland, Abisko National Park offers breathtaking vistas, especially for those seeking outdoor adventures. It’s home to Kungsleden, one of Sweden’s longest and most famous hiking trails.
Moreover, Abisko is an excellent place for witnessing the Northern Lights in winter and the Midnight Sun during summer months, making it a bucket-list destination for nature enthusiasts.
3. The Vasa Museum Experience
The Vasa Museum in Stockholm is a must of things to do in Sweden. The Vasa Museum showcases the only preserved seventeenth-century ship in the world, the Vasa.
The museum tells the compelling story of this warship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was recovered nearly 333 years later. A testament to Swedish maritime history, the museum attracts millions of visitors annually.
4. Immerse in the Tradition of Fika
To truly experience Swedish culture, partake in the tradition of ‘Fika.’ This custom, a coffee break usually accompanied by sweet pastries, is more than just a refreshment; it’s a Swedish institution of slowing down and appreciating the good things in life. Visit one of the many cafés in Stockholm, Gothenburg, or Malmö, and savor the moment.
5. Discover Gothenburg’s Universeum
Gothenburg’s Universeum, Sweden’s National Science Centre, is a delight for explorers of all ages. It houses seven different exhibitions, including a rainforest, a discovery room for kids, and a space station.
Visitors can explore an array of fascinating creatures from the rainforest, discover underwater life, or learn about space exploration.
6. Delve into Viking History at Birka
When you’re searching for things to do in Sweden, Birka is a must. Located on the island of Björkö in Lake Mälaren, Birka was the largest and most important Viking trade centers. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering insights into the Viking Age.
Take a guided tour to explore the archaeological sites and the Birka Museum, where fascinating exhibits showcase the Viking way of life.
Being a Viking was a profession, not an ethnicity. While many Vikings from Sweden’s smaller brothers Norway and Denmark sailed west, most of the Swedish Vikings turned east.
The Swedish Vikings made it all the way to Constantinople and it is said that the Swedish Vikings also helped found modern-day Russia and Ukraine. There are also accounts of how the Swedish Vikings served as personal bodyguards, the so-called Varangian Guard, to the Byzantine emperor,
While there are many writings about the Norwegian and Danish Vikings written down, much thanks to the English monks, who wrote about the raids and the Vikings’ progress in England, there are not nearly as many writings about the Swedish Vikings’ progress in the east, much because the old Russian communist regime did everything to hide the importance of the Swedish Vikings in the founding of the country.
The Vikings themselves recorded their exploits not in books but on rune stones. There are over 3000 known rune stones in Scandinavia, around 2500 of which are in Sweden. One of the most famous is today on Björkö at Birka.
7. Awestruck by the Malmo’s Turning Torso
The Turning Torso, a masterpiece by architect Santiago Calatrava, dominates Malmö’s skyline. As the tallest building in Scandinavia, it’s a marvel of modern architecture inspired by a human turning in motion. Although the interior is not open to the public, the view from the outside is worth a visit.
8. Soak in Natural Beauty at Visby, Gotland
Known as the ‘City of Roses and Ruins,’ Visby is a preserved medieval city on the island of Gotland. Visby’s medieval town wall, cobblestone streets, picturesque houses, and abundant roses offer a whimsical charm. Don’t miss the ruins of St. Nicolai and St. Karin, reminding of the city’s rich history.
9. Celebrate Midsummer – The Swedish Way
If you’re visiting Sweden during the summer solstice, participate in the Midsummer celebrations, one of Sweden’s most significant holidays is the Midsummer and something that really needs to be on this list of things to do in Sweden.
In the north of Sweden, during Midsummer and the time just before and after Midsummer there is light around the clock for many days, a magical experience that you just have to experience yourself in the magically beautiful Sweden.
