Sweden covers an area of 173,860 square miles (449,964 sq km), with a population of 10.3 million people (2020 estimates). The capital city, Stockholm, is the largest city in Sweden and is home to many sites literally located on the water, combined with its vibrant streets, lively harbour areas, romantic islands, and picturesque parks spread over 14 islands. Visitors here can explore some of the world's best museums, stroll along cobblestone streets and enjoy breathtaking views from atop City Hall.
The second largest city, Gothenburg, has earned its reputation as a hub for culture and commerce. Located on the western coast of Sweden, Gothenburg's culture ranges from cutting-edge technology to centuries-old traditions. Here one can enjoy fantastic shopping at modern malls and boutique stores or take a walk along the bustling waterfront or play on one of Gothenburg's many golf courses.
Uppsala is Sweden's fourth largest city and home to the University of Uppsala—the oldest university in Scandinavia. With its beautiful green spaces, charming cafés and local restaurants, historic sites and cathedrals, Uppsala provide visitors with plenty of attractions to explore.
As far as tourist destinations in Sweden go, some of the must-visit places are Skansen — an open-air museum that allows visitors to experience Swedish culture throughout the centuries; Drottningholm Palace—a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves 17th-century court life; the Vasa Museum—home to the remains of a Swedish warship built in 1625; the Icehotel—a world-famous hotel made entirely out of ice; Abisko National Park—where you can view incredible arctic fauna and flora; and Stora Sjöfallet National Park—which boasts stunning hiking trails and stunning mountain views.
From leisurely activities such as mountain biking to thrilling ice-driving experiences on frozen lakes – there are activities for everyone in Sweden. The country also proudly hosts a multitude of music festivals during summertime such as Way Out West, Bravalla Festival & Camping, Summerburst festival Stockholm & Gothenburg, Into The Factory – Electronic Music Gathering among others. These music festivals draw thousands of people each year from all around the world who come just to experience firsthand the unique atmosphere they offer.
Culinary gems found in Sweden include Smörgåsbord – a buffet table filled with pickled herring, shrimp salad, roasted pork loin and other traditional dishes; Kladdkaka, a Swedish-style chocolate cake; Korvstroganoff, a Swedish twist on the traditional beef stroganoff dish; Kroppkakor, boiled potatoes stuffed with ground beef served with butter or cream; Falukorv, a classic Swedish sausage dish served with mash potatoes; Surströmming, fermented Baltic herrings that have a very unique smell; Västerbottenost, an iconic cheese made only with pasteurized cow's milk; Raggmunkar, Swedish pancakes prepared with potato flour and yeast; Lingonberries - sweet berries served next to several classic dishes.
In terms of drinks, they are plenty to choose from. Popular drinks include glögg (spiced hot wine), punsch (sweet liqueur), bishnoer cognac (fortified wine) and snaps (sweet alcoholic beverage) among others.
Sweden is an expensive destination but it doesn't have to break your budget if you choose wisely where you spend your money. You can easily save costs on accommodation by considering camping options or staying at hostels or Airbnb rather than hotels. Eating out can get expensive so limiting how often you do so will definitely lower the cost significantly. If you plan ahead you will be able to find deals on restaurants too as well as tours and day trips that suit your budget. So overall you should be able to still enjoy travelling without having to pay too much for it.
With its abundance of natural beauty, pleasant climate, fascinating cultural heritage and tasteful cuisine Sweden have something special to offer even the most demanding tourists!