Travel to Sweden: A Complete Guide to Planning Your Nordic Experience
Sweden is one of Northern Europe’s most fascinating destinations, combining pristine nature, modern and liveable cities, ancient traditions, and surprising cuisine. In this guide, you’ll find useful information to help you plan your trip: where to go, when to leave, how to get around, what to know, and what to taste.
Road rules and driving tips
If you plan to visit Sweden by car, remember a few basic rules:
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You drive at right, overtaking on the left.
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Speed limits: 40-50 km/h in the city, 70-90 km/h on rural roads, up to 110-120 km/h on the motorway.
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Headlights always on, even during the day.
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Very low blood alcohol limit: 0.02%.
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Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
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Winter tires are mandatory between December and March.
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Beware of wild animals (moose and reindeer), especially night.
Useful information
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Language: Swedish is official, but almost everyone speaks excellent English.
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Currency: Swedish krona (SEK). Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but carrying some cash can be helpful.
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Alcohol: Sold only at state-owned Systembolaget stores with limited hours.
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Emergencies: European emergency number 112.
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Fika: the traditional coffee break with sweets is an unmissable moment of conviviality.
- Nature: thanks to the right of public access (Allemansrätten), it is possible to camp and move freely in nature, respecting the environment and private property.
Where to go: the unmissable destinations
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Stockholm: the capital stands on 14 islands connected by bridges. It offers unique museums (Vasa, ABBA, Moderna Museet), the medieval quarter of Gamla Stan, and trips to the archipelago.
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Gothenburg: A vibrant city on the west coast, renowned for its restaurants, culture, and access to picturesque islands.
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Bohuslän Coast: Perfect for those who love the sea, with fjords, fishing villages, and outdoor activities like kayaking and climbing.
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Gotland: Baltic Sea island with medieval villages, beaches, and summer festivals.
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Dalarna: heart of Swedish folklore, with lakes, traditional red houses, and typical handicrafts (the famous Dala horse).
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Swedish Lapland: paradise for those seeking the Northern Lights, the midnight sun, and activities such as husky safaris, snowmobiling, and trekking.
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Skåne: in the south of the country, it offers hills, beaches, and a milder climate. mild.
When to go
Sweden offers very different experiences depending on the season:
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Summer (June-August): Long days, lush nature, festivals, and ideal weather for hiking. Perfect for visiting cities and archipelagos.
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Spring and autumn (May, September-October): fewer tourists, lower prices, spectacular colors (blossoms and foliage). Variable climate.
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Winter (November-March): snow-covered landscapes, winter sports, and the Northern Lights. Consider the short daylight hours and intense cold.
What to eat in Sweden
Swedish cuisine surprises with the variety and quality of its ingredients:
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Köttbullar: meatballs with mashed potatoes and blueberry sauce red.
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Gravlax: marinated salmon with sweet mustard.
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Smörgåsbord: traditional buffet with fish, cured meats and salads.
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Marinated herring: in various preparations.
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Räkmacka: open sandwich with prawns.
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Nordic meats: elk and reindeer, typical of Sami cuisine.
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Sweets: kanelbullar (cinnamon rolls), semlor (soft filled brioche), berry cakes.