HomeSweden ToursSweden Guide

Top 6 Things to Do in Sweden

Ratings of Zicasso's Service
An aerial view of an Ice hotel in Kiruna, Sweden

Photo courtesy: Icehotel in Kiruna, Sweden

Sweden remains a favorite among travelers hoping to explore the snowy peaks, uncover the history of the Vikings, and explore ancient castles, and the following represents the six top things to do on your vacation.

Discover the rich history that unravels in historic cultural villages, see the fascinating architecture that captures royal elegance, and wander the tranquil shorelines of the Stockholm archipelago when you visit Sweden. There is a wealth of marvelous things to do on a trip to the European jewel.

The following highlights are a few of the spectacular experiences to enjoy in Sweden on a dream vacation to the country’s coastline and alpine regions.

Overview
  1. 1. Stroll Through Classic Old Towns & Villages
  2. 2. Explore the Great Outdoors and Natural Wonders
  3. 3. Discover the Rich History of the Vikings
  4. 4. Experience Castles and Fortified Towns
  5. 5. Escape to Tranquil City Islands
  6. 6. Wander Museums, Markets, and Squares
  7. Experience the Essentials of Sweden with Zicasso

1. Stroll Through Classic Old Towns & Villages

Visby Old town in Sweden

Visby, Sweden

Each city in Sweden boasts a quaint and sometimes quirky old town or “Gamla” as it is referred to in Sweden. Cobblestone streets run between old buildings that look like they have stood for centuries, while cafes and restaurants invite you in for a taste of traditional delights.

Each old town and historic village has its own fascinating story to share through landmarks and legends depicted on doorways and in museums.

Best Old Towns and Villages to Visit: Stockholm | Malmo | Visby  | Uppsala | Norrboda Village

2. Explore the Great Outdoors and Natural Wonders

Swedish lapland in Kiruna, Sweden

Kiruna, Sweden

From hiking and cross-country skiing trails to the magic of Sweden’s Lapland, outdoor adventures provide phenomenal sightings and exceptional ambiance throughout the country.

Unveil a magnificent night sky where the northern lights dance in winter and the sun shines at midnight in summer.

Amble through mystical forests and grassy parks or take time to watch the surrounding waters from quiet boardwalks and antique bridges, immersive hiking trails to inspiring forested landscape.

Best Places for Outdoor Experiences: Swedish Lapland | Kiruna | Padjelanta National Forest | Kungsleden Trails | Abisko and Tornetrask Lake | Sarek | Trolls Goten Forest

3. Discover the Rich History of the Vikings

Medieval church in Uppsala, Sweden

Uppsala, Sweden

From hands-on experiences to virtual reality battles, authentic outdoor museums to indoor displays, you can learn about the rich history of the Vikings in Sweden with captivating artifacts or immersive experiences across the country.

Wander burial grounds and cultural villages, gain an understanding of how the Vikings’ valued tools were made, and partake in traditional celebrations that let you engage in Viking games and delicious feasts.

Cities highlight prominent Vikings throughout history by way of statues and monuments. No matter where you go you can sample the culture and heritage guided by the Viking past.

Best Places for Viking History: Gamla Uppsala | Bjorko Island | Stockholm Viking Museum | Rattvik House | Anu Hög | Sigtuna

4. Experience Castles and Fortified Towns

Obrero Castle in Obrero, Sweden

Obrero, Sweden

Travel back to the Renaissance period and discover magnificent castles and fortresses in Sweden.

Palaces stand as modern-day homes for current royalty, while other strongholds remain as a memory of the old Swedish military. Fortified towns with walls that extend for miles and dramatic castles only accessible by barge can create unique ambiances or hold one of Europe’s greatest art galleries.

Relive the Medieval past through exhibitions and displays across the country in city castles or at the top of hiking trails, as you discover preserved fortresses and castle ruins.

Best Castles and Palaces in Sweden: Drottningholm Palace | Gripsholm Castle | Birka | Gothenburg | Orebro Castle | Bohus Fortress

5. Escape to Tranquil City Islands

Church ruins and town in Gotland Island in Sweden

Gotland Island, Sweden

Sweden is crafted around, between, and on thousands of islands, with the Stockholm archipelago being the most famous.

Coastal gems can be found way up north and hugging the southern shoreline, with cities, parks, and other incredible discoveries that can capture your imagination. Inviting beaches and quaint villages nestled on the water’s edge all add to the tranquil setting.

With Viking museums to memorabilia, mystical sculptures to open atmospheric traditions, the islands of Sweden provide an uncompromising perspective of past and present wonders.

Best Islands to Visit: Lidingo Island | Gotland | Öland | Faro | Torso

6. Wander Museums, Markets, and Squares

Skansen Open Air Museum in Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm, Sweden

Historical Lilla Torg in Malmo is a small town square famed for its picturesque buildings and noted as the perfect place to stop for a rest.

The tradition of “Fika,” gathering with friends in city squares to relax, drink coffee, and connect embodies the contemporary culture that you can enjoy and experience across the museums, markets, and squares.

Discover Swedish culture through town-square monuments and visit a market full of local delights in major cities and quaint villages as you indulge in the authentic traditions enjoyed across the country.

Best Museums, Markets, and Squares: Stortorget Square in Malmo | Lilla Torg in Malmo | Gustaf Adolf Square in Gothenburg | Visby Town Square | Hotorget “Haymarket”, Stockholm

Experience the Essentials of Sweden with Zicasso

Swans on a lake in Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm, Swedan

Whether you prefer exploring the endless vistas, mountains, and waterways or enjoying the inviting ambiance of a city’s old-town square to bask in the classic architecture and cultural delights, Sweden exudes an unparalleled beauty that sweeps from land and sea.

Relive a Viking past or relax on tranquil waterways as you capture the spirit of Sweden at your pace. Find out more with our Sweden Tours & Vacations 2022-2023 options. You can speak with a Zicasso travel specialist to create your custom trip or call our team at 1-888-265-9707.

Your Dream Vacation

in 3 simple steps

  1. 1

    Describe your dream trip

  2. 2

    Get matched with top travel specialists

  3. 3

    Book the trip

Free service - no credit card required

Get Top Travel Specialists to Help Plan Your Trip