Sweden Travel Tips: Your Ultimate Guide

Picture this: stunning archipelagos, midnight sun, the vibrant hum of Stockholm’s Old Town, and the pure, quiet beauty of Swedish nature. Sweden is a land of contrasts, blending ultra-modern cities with vast, untouched wilderness. It’s where sustainability, style, and serenity meet. If you're planning a trip, this guide will provide you with essential Sweden travel tips to ensure you experience the best the country has to offer.

From exploring its picturesque cities to navigating the cashless economy, we’ve got everything covered. Let’s dive into Sweden’s must-see sights, cultural nuances, and how to make the most of your Swedish adventure.

Things to See and Do in Sweden

Whether you're after the hustle and bustle of city life or the peace and quiet of the great outdoors, Sweden has something for everyone. Below, we’ve curated a list of top experiences to make sure you don’t miss out.

Explore Stockholm and Gothenburg

Let’s start with Stockholm, Sweden’s magnificent capital. Sprawled across 14 islands, Stockholm offers a unique mix of medieval charm and modern Scandinavian design. The Old Town (Gamla Stan), with its narrow cobblestone streets and colourful buildings, feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Here, you’ll also find the Royal Palace and the Nobel Museum, dedicated to the prestigious Nobel Prize. Don’t forget to explore Djurgården, where you can spend an afternoon wandering around the lush parks or visit cultural gems like the Vasa Museum, home to a perfectly preserved 17th-century ship.

Just a few hours away, Gothenburg often gets overshadowed by Stockholm, but this laid-back city on the west coast is a delight in its own right. Known for its stunning coastline, world-class seafood, and chilled vibe, Gothenburg is perfect for outdoor lovers. Take a boat tour around the Southern Archipelago or visit Liseberg, Scandinavia’s largest amusement park. For hiking enthusiasts, there are plenty of scenic trails just outside the city.

Take Part in Midsummer

If you’re travelling to Sweden in late June, you’re in for a treat. Midsummer is Sweden’s unofficial national holiday, and it’s celebrated with unbridled joy. Imagine dancing around a maypole, adorned with flower crowns, in a sun-drenched field with locals enjoying fresh herring, boiled potatoes, and strawberries. It’s a day-long celebration of the summer solstice, filled with music, food, and laughter.

Most Swedes celebrate Midsummer in the countryside or in the Stockholm archipelago, but if you’re staying in the city, there are still plenty of public events to join. Be prepared for a truly authentic Swedish experience and don’t shy away from joining the dance!

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Sweden’s outdoor offerings are second to none, and exploring the natural beauty is one of the best travel tips for Sweden. In the winter months, head to Lapland in the far north for skiing, dog sledding, or chasing the ethereal Northern Lights. The Åre ski resort is perfect for those seeking adrenaline-pumping slopes, while Lapland’s wild, untouched beauty is ideal for those craving solitude.

In summer, swap skis for hiking boots. The Kungsleden (King’s Trail) is Sweden’s most famous hiking route, taking you through breath-taking landscapes of mountains, valleys, and rivers. For something a little more low-key, explore the craggy beauty of the Bohuslän Coast, perfect for kayaking and coastal walks.

Money and Spending in Sweden

While Sweden offers many captivating experiences, it’s important to plan how you’ll manage your money during your stay. The official currency in Sweden is the Swedish krona (SEK), but things work a little differently here compared to many other countries.

Should I Use Cash or Card in Sweden?

In major cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg, many shops, restaurants, and even public transport systems are card-only. But having cash on you is always a good idea. You’ll find Bankomats (ATMs) if needed, or you can buy Swedish kronor before you travel.

So, what’s the best approach? It’s a good idea to carry a Travel Money Card along with a small amount of local currency for emergencies. The Travelex Money Card allows you to load up Swedish kronor before your trip, locking in your exchange rate and giving you the convenience of contactless payments throughout Sweden. It’s accepted wherever Mastercard prepaid is, so whether you’re paying for coffee in Gamla Stan or dinner in Gothenburg, you’ll be covered.

Tipping in Sweden

One of the more reassuring travel tips for Sweden is that tipping isn’t expected. Unlike in countries like the USA, where tips are an integral part of dining culture, in Sweden, you’re not required to add extra on top of your bill. That said, rounding up the bill or leaving a few kronor for exceptional service is always appreciated but never obligatory. Similarly, when paying for taxis or services, tipping is rare but rounding up the fare is considered polite.

Buy Swedish Kronor with a Travel Money Card

Planning to travel to Sweden? It’s smart to have both cash and a card. The Travelex Travel Money Card, powered by Mastercard®, is your perfect companion. You can load up with Swedish kronor before you go, lock in your exchange rate, and enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your spending is safe and secure. Whether you’re exploring the Stockholm archipelago or shopping for Swedish design in Gothenburg, your Travelex Money Card is accepted wherever Mastercard prepaid is.

Travelling Around Sweden

Sweden is a large country, but getting around is easy thanks to an efficient and comfortable transportation system. Whether you prefer scenic train journeys or road trips through the countryside, Sweden has plenty of travel options.

By Train

Sweden’s rail network is extensive and offers a comfortable way to see the country. The SJ trains link major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö with ease, and if you’re looking to go further north, night trains to Lapland are an experience in themselves. The trains are clean, punctual, and offer the added benefit of allowing you to enjoy the Swedish countryside as you travel. If you're travelling to Sweden from the UK, train connections from Denmark are also excellent.

By Car

For more flexibility, renting a car is a fantastic way to explore Sweden, especially if you plan to visit rural areas or smaller towns. Roads are well-maintained, and driving is fairly straightforward, though be prepared for snowy conditions if you’re visiting in the winter months. Make sure your rental car is fitted with winter tyres if you're driving in colder months, as they’re legally required in Sweden from December to March.

By Bike

Sweden is incredibly bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and rental bikes available in most cities. Cycling is a great way to explore places like Stockholm, Malmö, and Uppsala, with flat terrain and scenic routes making it easy even for beginners. In Stockholm, many locals cycle around the city’s islands, and you’ll find plenty of rental options to join them.

By Foot

Swedish cities are designed for walking, and there’s no better way to get to know Stockholm, Gothenburg, or Malmö than on foot. If you're up for a challenge, Sweden’s hiking trails are legendary. From the sprawling wilderness of Lapland’s King’s Trail to coastal paths along the Bohuslän archipelago, you’ll have endless opportunities to stretch your legs in the great outdoors.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Sweden

Before you embark on your Swedish adventure, it’s worth keeping these essential Sweden travel tips in mind.

Weather

The Swedish climate varies dramatically depending on where you are. If you’re heading north, expect cold, snowy winters and long summer days with the midnight sun. In the south, summers are warmer, with temperatures sometimes reaching the mid-20s, while winters are chilly but milder. Layering is key when it comes to packing, as the weather can change quickly.

Language

The official language is Swedish, but don’t worry — most Swedes speak excellent English, especially in tourist areas. That said, it’s always nice to learn a few basic phrases like “Hej” (hello) and “Tack” (thank you) to use during your stay. The Swedes will appreciate your effort, even if they effortlessly switch to English to help you out.

Culture and Etiquette

Swedes are known for their politeness and respect for personal space. Queuing is taken seriously, so always wait your turn and avoid pushing in. Similarly, Swedes are less inclined toward small talk, especially with strangers, so don’t be surprised if conversations are kept brief and to the point in more formal settings.

Order Your Swedish Kronor with Travelex

Now that you’ve got all the tips, you’re ready to explore Sweden. Whether you're heading to the cosmopolitan streets of Stockholm, hiking the Kungsleden, or chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, the first step is to get your money sorted. Buy Swedish kronor online and enjoy free home delivery on orders over £500, or choose click & collect from any of the convenient UK locations, including major airports. Get great rates and pay no commission when you buy online now from Travelex.

Travelex Money Card

The Travelex Money Card, powered by Mastercard, is the secure, easy way to spend abroad. You can load up to 22 currencies, including Swedish kronor, and it’s not linked to your bank, so your account stays safe while you spend abroad. You lock in your exchange rate before you travel, so you don’t have to worry about fluctuations. Plus, it’s accepted at millions of locations around the world, wherever Mastercard prepaid is accepted. Get your Travelex Money Card now from Travelex.

Now that you’ve read through these Sweden travel tips, you’re all set to make the most of your Scandinavian adventure. Whether it’s the magic of the midnight sun, the charm of Stockholm’s cobbled streets, or the quiet serenity of the Swedish wilderness, there’s something for everyone in this stunning country. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment in beautiful Sweden!