Things to do in Sweden

Experience nature in Sweden

Sweden is one of Europe's more sparsely populated countries, which means access to nature is never far away. Forests, lakes, coastlines, and open landscapes are part of everyday life, offering year-round opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, canoeing, skiing, skating, sailing, and wildlife observation. Seasonal changes bring new experiences throughout the year, from long summer evenings to snow-covered winters.

Northern Sweden (Norrland) is home to several large national parks, including those in Swedish Lapland, such as Abisko National Park, Sarek National Park, and Padjelanta National Park, known for mountain landscapes, long-distance trails, and summer camping. Elsewhere in the country, coastal areas, forests, and major lakes such as Vänern, Vättern, Mälaren, Hjälmaren, and Storsjön are widely used for outdoor recreation. Activities like berry and mushroom foraging are a favorite pastime of Swedes, and fishing and hunting are common (though they are regulated and require permits).

Good to know:

In Sweden, roaming freely in nature is 'Allemansrätten' (every man's right). You basically have the right to hike, camp, fish, hunt (in certain areas), and forage, no matter where you are. At the same time, you have a responsibility towards nature to always leave it as you found it.

Experience the culture in Sweden

Sweden's major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö, and Uppsala combine historic architecture with contemporary cultural scenes. Many regions also have royal castles and palaces that reflect the different periods of Swedish history, including Drottningholm Palace near Stockholm, Gripsholm Castle, and Örebro Castle.

Sweden is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Falun Mine, the Woodland Cemetery, and the Struve Geodetic Arc in northern Sweden.

Museums and cultural institutions are found throughout the country, not only in major cities. Interesting museums in more rural areas include the IKEA museum in Ãlmhult, the Morokulien Peace Park, which is found at the border between Norway and Sweden, and the Dalarnas Museum in Falun, which focuses on local folk culture and art.

Sweden has an active performing arts and cultural events scene, particularly in larger cities. Stockholm is home to major institutions such as the Royal Dramatic Theatre and the Royal Swedish Opera, while Gothenburg hosts the Gothenburg Opera. Throughout the year, cities and towns also organize concerts, film screenings, exhibitions, and seasonal festivals, many of which are publicly funded and affordable or free of charge. Expats can expect a cultural scene that is accessible and often integrated into everyday city life rather than limited to formal venues.

Experience everyday life in Sweden

One everyday ritual you will notice in Sweden is ‘fika', which is a regular coffee break shared with colleagues or friends and accompanied by pastries or desserts. Sweet pastries such as cinnamon and cardamom buns are quite popular in Sweden.

Shopping in Sweden can be expensive, particularly for everyday goods. The country is home to well-known brands like IKEA and H&M, and most towns and cities have well-developed high streets with independent boutiques, design shops, and specialty stores. Second-hand shops and flea markets are also regularly found. Gekås in Ullared is a popular destination for large-scale discount shopping.

Every day routines vary widely, but many people use public swimming facilities and spend time outdoors. Saunas (bastu) are also common and are very popular with Swedes.

Useful links:

Visit Sweden

Swedish Ministry of Culture

Sweden National Park Guide