For many travelers, visiting Sweden is a dream. An appeal to modernity, a siren call of history – whichever the draw, it's up to you to decide how much of the country's magic you'll see.
That's where this guide comes in, with tips and a six-day itinerary finely honed to offer the perfect travel experience in Sweden, ensuring each day will bear its own special magic in your memories.
Whether your vacation yearns for sweeping countryside or urban exploration, this journey will captivate your mind and invigorate your soul.
1. Considerations When Planning Your Sweden Travel Route
Before you set off for Sweden though, there are some things you should consider, that will help you ensure your trip is unforgettable for all the right reasons.
Your Budget – Money will dictate where you eat and where you sleep.
Accommodation Options – From quaint B&Bs to five-star hotels, Sweden has a bed to suit everyone’s budget and taste.
Time of Year – The season will determine the activities you can do. Summer is all about the long days for sightseeing in the cities and exploring the countryside, winter offers snow sports and perhaps a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Your Interests – Customize your trip to suit what you’re interested in. Are you a hiker, a history buff, or just here for the food?
Health and Safety – Make sure you know the latest health advice and the safety rules, to keep your trip as smooth as possible.
Travel Restrictions and Visas – Make sure you’re clued up on the most current travel advice, and any visa requirements, to ensure a problem-free entry to the country.
2. Recommended Travel Routes for Sweden
Let's map out your perfect 6-day journey through Sweden!
This 6-day itinerary showcases Sweden's beautiful landscapes and rich cultural history, with a focus on the bustling life in Stockholm and the historic charm of Gothenburg.
Day | Destination | Recommended Activities |
1 | Stockholm | Arrival, explore city center, dine at Max Burger |
2 | Stockholm | Visit Nordiska Museet, Skeppsholmen Viewpoint, Mariaberget, Skansen Christmas Market |
3 | Stockholm | Explore Royal Palace, Storkyrkan, Stortorgets Julmarknad, Narrowest Street, Kinneviks Grannen, NK Stockholm |
4 | Stockholm - Gothenburg | Travel to Gothenburg, relax at Hagabadet Spa, dine at Fiskbar 17 |
5 | Gothenburg | Visit Oscar Fredrik Church, Skansen Kronan, various churches in Haga, Palm House |
6 | Gothenburg - Stockholm | Breakfast at Cafe Husaren, lunch at Pelikan Restaurant, return to Stockholm |
Detailed Itinerary for Day 1 to Day 6:
Day 1: Stockholm Arrival
Welcome to Stockholm! Today, you’ll set out to explore the heart of Sweden’s capital, taking in the sights before tucking into some local fare at Max Burger. Here’s what’s in store:
What Can You Explore Today
The City Center: The beating heart of Stockholm, the city center is rich in modern excitement and historical grandeur. The Royal Palace sits alongside chic shops, making it a place for the inquisitive and the stylish to play. There’s no end of opportunities to lose yourself in Swedish history and culture here.
Max Burger: Give you a taste of Sweden’s gastronomic revolution. With all the fast food deliciousness you could ask for, you’ll soon see why this is a favorite with the locals: casual, tasty dining.
Where to Stay: Opting for a stay in the city center will put you right in the middle of the action, with great access to all the sights, as well as transport connections to hop around the area.
Invest early in a Stockholm Pass – it’s the ideal way to get the most out of your stay, offering free access to a wealth of museums and attractions, and unlimited use of the city’s public transport network.
Day 2-3: Cultural Immersion in Stockholm
Let a captivating mix of history and modern vibrance whisk you away. Spend the next two days getting to know some of the city's most iconic venues and scenic overlooks.
What Can You Explore in These Two Days
Nordiska Museet: A rich source of Swedish cultural history, exploring this museum will give you a feel for the country's past and present culture. Worthwhile if you want to gain a sense of Swedish lifestyle generally.
Skeppsholmen Viewpoint: From this quiet island, take in impressive vistas of Stockholm's skyline and waterways. Great for snapping pictures or unwinding for a few moments.
Mariaberget: Wandering the sloping streets will treat you to historic, colorful buildings and the best views of the city. Perfect for a laid-back walk that offers a glimpse of another era.
Skansen Christmas Market (seasonal): If you visit in the festive season, Skansen Christmas Market is a treat. Sample Swedish holiday foods and peruse crafts in an open-air museum setting.
Royal Palace: Home to the Swedish royals, the Royal Palace is filled with opulence and history. Tour its grand rooms and see the splendor of royal Swedish architecture.
Storkyrkan: Stockholm's oldest church, next to the Royal Palace, is a stunning piece of religious architecture. Inside, find elaborate interiors and historical relics going back generations.
Stortorgets Julmarknad: Another holiday treat, the Christmas market in the old town is filled with seasonal cheer, as well as wonders like pepparkakor (ginger snaps) and hand-made crafts.
Narrowest Street and Kinneviksgrannen: Explore the twisted alleyways of Old Town. Clean and quaint, these passages offer a look back at medieval Stockholm, perfect for visitors seeking a hidden corner.
NK Stockholm: Round out your day at NK Stockholm, the city's top department store, where you can shop for a range of high-quality Swedish and international goods, from fashion to furnishings.
Where to Stay: A hotel in the city center remains the best choice, for ideal proximity to cultural hotspots and easy access to any landmark you choose.
An early start is a good idea; Skansen during the holiday season can get very crowded, and anyone wanting to grab relatively unpopulated snaps of the sites are best getting up with the sun.
Day 4: Journey to Gothenburg
Head from Stockholm's cosmopolitan history to Gothenburg's coastal present, with travel and relaxation combining today as the adventure continues...
What Can You Explore Today
Gothenburg Bound: Take a scenic rail trip from Stockholm to Gothenburg, enjoying the countryside views in the journey between the two cities, where fields and forests shift to serene seascapes and idyllic villages.
Hagabadet Spa: Pamper yourself at the historic Hagabadet Spa, with its beautifully maintained old architectural features providing a unique location for a wide selection of modern treatments.
Fiskebar 17: Don't miss some of the city's finest seafood at Fiskbar 17, where dishes are as beautifully presented as the surroundings.
Where to stay: An on-Haga-hotel offers both cultural proximity and accommodation near the relaxing Haga district, a jumble of cobbled streets and carefully preserved homes.
Book your train travel nice and early to secure the best fare and your perfect seat for a comfortable journey, watching the scenery glide by as you travel to Gothenburg.
Day 5: Discovering Gothenburg
Today’s itinerary will see you wandering around Gothenburg’s architectural wonders and historical sites, from iconic churches to a verdant escape in the Palm House.
What Can You Explore Today
Oscar Fredrik Church: A stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture, the church is a feast for the eyes: as you explore, take time to appreciate the intricate detail, and the meditative atmosphere within.
Skansen Kronan: Explore this former fortress to discover Gothenburg’s military history, and for stunning views over the city from its hilltop location.
The churches of Haga: On a wander around the neighborhood, you’ll pass several charming churches – absorb their spiritual role and historical importance in the development of Gothenburg.
The Palm House: In Gothenburg’s Garden Society, this greenhouse is a peaceful oasis, surrounded by exotic flora and impressive glass architecture.
Where to Stay: Book a hotel near Haga, where you’ll find charming cafés and independent shops a stone’s throw away.
You’ll want a good sense of direction for navigating Gothenburg’s labyrinthine streets – consider picking up a physical map of the city, or ensuring your smartphone is loaded with a reliable GPS app.
Day 6: Return to Stockholm
End your Swedish journey with a return to Stockholm, soaking in the very best of Swedish cuisine before you leave.
What Can You Explore Today
Have breakfast at Café Husaren: They may claim to serve the biggest cinnamon buns in Sweden, but the deliciously sweet and doughy offerings at Café Husaren are very much the real deal, and a must-taste treat.
Have lunch at Pelikan: Pelikan’s lunch menu serves up the likes of classic Swedish meatballs and herring, offering a taste of Swedish cuisine in the wonderful old Stockholm surroundings.
Return to Stockholm: On the journey back, take some time to absorb all the experiences and check off everything you set out to do. Paint the train or bus trip back with the adventures you've had and prepare to return home.
Where to Stay: It's most convenient for flights or train journeys home if you are lodged close to the central station.
Know the train or bus timetable so you can make the most of your final hours in Sweden and have an almost stress-free journey back, if traveling directly from the airport.
Tips for Adjusting the 6-Day Route:
To extend your journey, consider adding nearby destinations like Malmö or the picturesque Swedish countryside. For a shorter visit, focus on Stockholm’s highlights and skip the return to Gothenburg, utilizing local day trips instead.
3. Top 10 Swedish Foods and Drinks
Now, moving from the great sights of Sweden to its delicious tastes, here are the top 10 Swedish foods and drinks to add to your must-try list, each providing a tantalizing introduction to the country’s hearty – and sometimes unusual – flavors.
1. Köttbullar (Swedish Meatballs):
Sweden’s signature dish, köttbullar, is usually served with gravy, lingonberry jam, and smooth mashed potatoes, with the meal famously consumed at Christmas.
2. Räksmörgås (Shrimp Sandwich):
Popular throughout Scandinavia, räksmörgås is an open sandwich with mayonnaise, dill and hard-boiled egg, and abundant shrimp, a staple of cafes.
3.Surströmming (Fermented Herring):
This pungent treat is best sampled with potatoes, tunnbröd cracker, and onion: if you ever travel to northern Sweden – and only then – aim for late summer.
4. Smörgåstårta (Sandwich Cake):
A special-occasion dish, smörgåstårta features loaf layers loaded with various cream spreads, cheese, and an assortment of toppings, such as egg or cucumber.
5. Jansson’s Temptation (Janssons frestelse):
A rich, creamy potato dish made from thinly sliced spuds, onions, pickled sprats, cream, and breadcrumbs – more commonly served at Christmas.
6. Västerbottensostpaj (Cheese Pie):
Made with Västerbotten cheese, a Swedish variety with a distinctive taste, this pie is a favorite at Swedish crayfish parties.
7. Kanelbullar (Cinnamon Bun):
Another fika staple, the soft buns are flavored with cinnamon and cardamom. The best excuse for an afternoon coffee break.
8. Kräftskiva (Crayfish Party):
Traditionally, held in August and served with bread, Västerbotten cheese, beer, and schnapps, the Kräftskiva is a combination of food and celebration.
9. Blåbärspaj (Blueberry Soup):
Served hot or cold, this sweet soup, made with blueberries (similar to blueberries), is a mainstay of Swedish households, as well as a toasty winter street food.
10. Glögg (Mulled Wine):
A winter classic, this spiced drink mixes red wine, sugar, and a variety of spices – most commonly cinnamon and cardamom – with almonds and raisins, typically served at Christmas.
4. Additional Tips for Traveling in Sweden
Packing Essentials:
Pack layers for Sweden’s changeable weather – t-shirts, sweaters, a waterproof jacket. In summer, you’ll need sunglasses and a cap, while in winter thermal wear and a heavy winter coat will be necessary.
Cash and Local Apps:
While it’s generally true it’s necessary to carry a lot of cash in Sweden, as the country is basically a cashless society, you probably won’t need it here. Major credit cards are widely accepted though. Consider downloading local apps such as Swish for payments and SL (Stockholm’s public transport provider) to make getting around simpler and quicker.
Local Etiquette and Customs:
Punctuality is key in Sweden, as are manners and politeness. Always shake hands firmly, and look the other person in the eye when you do so. Always be on time – you’ll be expected to be. When visiting someone’s home, remove your shoes. Swedes tend to be very reserved in public, so follow their lead. Learn “Hej” (Hello) and “Tack” (Thank you) as a minimum.
Transport Options:
Sweden has one of the best public transport systems in the world, with extensive bus, train, and ferry networks – the latter two are particularly useful if you’re in or near a city. If you need to travel further afield, SJ (the national railway company) runs comfortable and reliable services throughout the country. Most cities have their own local transport apps with real-time schedules too.
Renting a Car or Scooter:
Renting a car or scooter can give you more freedom, though be mindful of traffic and expensive parking in city centers. Traffic drives on the right in Sweden, and speeding is strictly enforced.
Communication:
Most Swedes speak English, to varying levels of proficiency. However, Swedes appreciate the effort if you learn a little local lingo. “Hur mår du?” is “How are you?” and “Förlåt” is “Excuse me”. You may even try starting a conversation with a Swede in Swedish, particularly at a tourist site – it’s a mark of respect for their country and language.
Summary
That’s all about my itinerary for you! I'm so excited to finally be able to share with you this expertly curated six-day itinerary that hops and skips you through some of Sweden's most incredible landscapes, culture, and cityscapes.
Whether walking the cobbled streets of Stockholm or the serene wilderness of Gothenburg, every day is filled with carefully selected sites and local treasures - you'll be wanting for nothing.
I truly hope the itinerary adds to your travels in this beautiful country and leaves you with a suitcase of memories. Have an amazing trip, and then some - let it be everything you hoped for!