With its rich history and varied landscapes, Sweden is a traveler’s paradise and a photographer’s dream. If you love outdoor attractions, it’s certainly hard to beat.The air and water are crystal clean, and there are thousands of acres of unspoiled forests and majestic lakes to explore, not to mention vast archipelagos along its coasts. The roads and public transport are excellent; the citizens are invariably friendly and helpful; and in recent years, Swedish cuisine has undergone what can only be described as a revolution.Throw in a mind-boggling history, from notorious Viking invaders to royal dynasties and imperial intrigue,and one thing is certain: you’ll never be bored. Sweden’s tourist attractions range from opulent palaces and ancient towns to vast Arctic landscapes and the famed Ice Hotel.There are so many things to do that you’ll want to allow plenty of time to enjoy all its outdoor adventures and historic treasures.To help you pinpoint the best places to visit in this much-loved Scandinavian country,we’ve pulled together our list of the top attractions in Sweden.
1. ABBA The Museum
If you simply enjoy the upbeat and carefree tones of Mama Mia or are an Adam-Whitely-level super-fan, the ABBA The Museum in Stockholm is an exciting place to visit.Exhibits begin with a look at the personal histories of each member, complete with letters, costumes, and instruments, most of which are displayed in re-creations of the actual settings they frequented.One of the neatest exhibits is the museum’s replica of the Polar Studio, complete with almost entirely original equipment, where you can feel, see, and hear what it was like to be in the studio with them.Tourists can also see a full range of ABBA memorabilia, from trinkets to gold record awards.If you really want to be immersed in the experience, take advantage of the museum’s virtual performance space, where you can “try on” costumes and even perform onstage alongside holograms of Agnetha, Benny, Björn, and Frida.
2. Lund Cathedral
This cathedral is one of the most frequented locations in the southern Swedish province of Skåne and the most visited in Sweden.Upon beholding the grandiose twin turrets of the imposing Roman structure, one will comprehend the reason for this.Lund Cathedral (Lunds domkyrka), the oldest and greatest Romanesque structure in Sweden, was established around 1080 by Danish King Canute IV.The current structure was constructed in the twelfth century. Eleganceously carved in the 14th century, a reredos above the altar is the creation of a north German master.The crypt comprises the cathedral’s earliest section.The cathedral’s canopy is supported by carved stone pillars adorned with figures that, according to tradition, symbolize Finn, a legendary giant credited with its construction.The renowned astronomical clock from the 14th century, situated in the aisle, exhibits figures of the Three Kings twice daily: at noon and 3pm on weekdays, and at 1pm and 3pm on Sundays.
3. Abisko National Park, Lapland
In summer, this is the Land of the Midnight Sun with 24-hour daylight lasting several weeks. Abisko National Park is some 77 square kilometers in size and is famous for its pristine natural beauty and Nordic wildlife. It’s a great place to visit for Scandinavian winter adventures and long summer hikes. Abisko is situated approximately 100 kilometers west of the town of Kiruna and is more than 200 kilometers inside the Arctic Circle within the auroral oval, an area that is considered to be one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights.Regular flights operate to Kiruna from Stockholm, and bus, train,or taxi transfers are available to the park.Weather permitting, make sure you visit the spectacular Aurora Sky Station.
4. Stockholm Archipelago, Stromma Boat Tours
The city of Stockholm is frequently called the “Venice of the North.” The enchanting archipelago of Stockholm comprises approximately 30,000 islands and is surrounded by water.Some islands feature distinctive summerhouses made of timber in red and yellow, whereas others have been left completely untouched.A cruise, whether it be around the city or to one of the islands, should be at the top of your itinerary regardless of the season (cruises operate throughout the year).Lunch or dinner is provided on a number of the excursions, and each offers a distinct viewpoint of the city.Additionally,hop-on, hop-off options are provided.The distinctive Stromma boats are difficult to spot when in the heart of the city.
5. Sigtuna
Established in the final century of the Viking Age, in 980 CE, the picturesque village of Sigtuna is renowned for being the first settlement in Sweden. Situated adjacent to Lake Malaren in the verdant Uppland region, it is located north of Stockholm.The remarkable historical legacy of Sigtuna is preserved in its medieval churches, ruins, rune stones, and existing structures. Storgatan, an ancient thoroughfare spanning over a millennium, is lined with clusters of charming boutiques specializing in handicrafts, fashion designer goods, and merchandise. Sigtuna is easily accessible by vehicle in thirty-five minutes from Arlanda airport, twenty minutes from the medieval university town of Uppsala, and forty minutes from Stockholm.
6.Domkyrka (Uppsala Cathedral), Uppsala
The Uppsala Cathedral, which was completed in 1270, is the crown jewel of this metropolis. It has gained additions throughout the centuries, with each epoch imparting its own distinct influence. Additions of neo-Gothic spires and stained-glass windows during the same renovation era constitute its most notable exterior characteristics. Observe the intricate carvings on the Baroque pulpit,which was erected in 1707. Additionally,be certain to tour the Silver Chamber of the north tower,which houses a gold brocade robe that Queen Margaret wore around 1400 and the final resting place of King Eric IX (St. Eric),whose reign lasted until 1160.A museum (Gustavianum) affiliated with Uppsala Universitet,the medieval university of Uppsala,is situated directly opposite the cathedral. It contains an extensive assortment of artifacts,including jewelry and Viking weaponry as well as Egyptian relics, including a number of mummies. An art collection and displays on the cultural history of Sweden are also present.
7. Oresund Bridge, Malmö
A 15-minute journey from the city center of Malmo will transport visitors to the magnificent Oresund Bridge. The structure, which has been a global landmark since its opening in 1999 after decades of planning,has acquired additional notoriety with the release of the hit Danish/Swedish television drama “The Bridge.” By virtue of this extraordinary marvel of engineering, Sweden is now connected to Denmark, and by extension, the entire continent of Europe. Crossing both rail and road, the bridge empties into a tunnel on the Danish side to prevent aircraft from colliding with it at Copenhagen airport. Cross the bridge and pass through the tunnel to neighboring Denmark, and if you so choose, spend some time in Copenhagen investigating its attractions.
8.Kärnan & the Fredriksdal Open-Air Museum, Helsingborg
The town of Helsingborg, situated across the Oresund strait from Helsingor (Elsinore), Denmark, is replete with historic locations. The town’s most notable characteristic and renowned landmark is a towering masonry structure known as Karnan (The Kernel), which was originally constructed during the 14th century as a watchtower turret for the fortification. Towering 35 meters above the market square (Stortorget), it is situated at the apex. Its 190 steps provide astute visitors with breathtaking vistas of the town below, the Oresund Bridge, and Denmark. Visit the Fredriksdal Open-Air Museum & Botanical Garden (Friluftsmuseum) for an authentic glimpse at Swedish daily life in the past, following an exploration of the city’s historic core. Visitors may also explore the Fredriksdal Mansion, a magnificent Botanic Garden, the Grafiska Print Museum, and a Music Museum, in addition to an operational Skåne farm where history is brought to life.
9. Liseberg Theme Park, Gothenburg
Liseberg is a highly frequented destination in Sweden, attracting over three million visitors annually to its park. An extensive variety of attractions can be found within the premises, encompassing thrilling activities for speed demons, bumper cars, four roller coasters, and children’s carousels and a fairy-tale castle. Even during the summer, the park hosts concerts and is a favorite among both Swedish families and foreign visitors. The park stages a splendid Christmas market. An abundance of dining establishments and aesthetically pleasing blossoms are prevalent throughout the summer season. Experience Gothenburg at its finest with a ride atop the Big Wheel.
10. Stockholm City Hall
An astounding eight million bricks were used to construct Stockholm City Hall (Stockholms stadshus), one of the most renowned structures in Sweden, between 1911 and 1923. Designed by the architect Ragnar Ostberg, it is regarded as one of the loveliest illustrations of National Romanticism. At its 106-meter height, three crowns adorn the summit. A portion of its history is recounted on a tour that is extremely educational, and guests are also informed about the Nobel Prize, which is awarded annually here. The tour will include a visit to the Nobel Dinner Hall, known as the Blå Hallen, as well as the Golden Hall, Gyllene Salen, which is adorned with an extensive collection of 18 million gold mosaic tiles. Those desiring to delve deeper into history may choose to pay a visit to the Royal Palace (Sveriges Kungahus), which is situated on Queen’s Island (Drottningholm). After a scenic ferry journey, visitors can explore this Baroque palace from the 18th century, which contains over 600 rooms. The Tre Kronor (Three Crowns) Museum, the Museum of Antiquities, the Armoury, and the Treasury are among the numerous institutions housed within. Ensure that your visit coincides with the daily officer change.
