Taking a Holiday in Sweden

Sweden lies in far northern Scandinavia, bordering Norway and Finland. In recent decades, Sweden has become one of the world’s leading cultures. It is a vibrant, modern society steeped in history and tradition. The beautiful southern towns and the northern lights are just some of the attractions Sweden has to offer. There is no wonder why Swedish people rank among the happiest in the world considering their high quality of life. With vast glaciers, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains, Sweden is a delight for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit some of these amazing places while you’re in the land of the Swedes.

Stockholm

Stockholm is the most popular entry point for people entering Sweden. With over 50 bridges, this very large city is actually spread across 14 separate islands. It is a modern city with a vibrant feel, but it has a fantastic historic Old Town and numerous parks, green spaces, and waterways as well. There are several districts in Stockholm. Throughout Stockholm, one can find everything from the economic center to the affluent neighborhoods.

Gamla Stan is the main area of the old town. Located here is the Royal Castle which was built in the 17th century, serving as the official residence of the royal Swedish family. The royal apartment and museums can be viewed. The Stockholm Cathedral, a medieval church, and the Medieval Stockholm Museum are also located here. Restaurants, pubs, and small shops abound. Stockholm’s famous Christmas fair is also held here in December, making December a particularly picturesque month.

Skansen is a fascinating look at Swedish life in centuries past. The first open-air museum was established in 1892. You can find traditional houses, shops, and even the Nordic Zoo, which has native wildlife. As well as restaurants serving traditional and non-traditional foods, one could easily spend an afternoon exploring this area.

The nightlife in Stockholm is among the most vibrant in Europe. There are a lot of bars, pubs, and nightclubs in summer as well as many concerts and festivals. A perfect place to grab dinner and then stroll the streets listening to laughter and music.

Gothenburg

Gothenburg is located on the southwest coast of Sweden. In recent years, this second-largest city in Sweden has quickly become known as a seafood mecca and has attracted chefs from around the world. The coastal waters offer more than just food, but also fantastic kayaking, boating, and canoeing opportunities. Thousands of islands and wildlife can also be found here. Coastal villages are centered around fishing, and the cold waters provide mouth-watering lobster, oysters, and fish. In the surrounding countryside, there are fertile farmlands and dense forests. Near Gothenburg, the Dalsland region features dark forests, babbling rivers, and wild elk and deer. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy fishing, hiking, and even wildberry hunting in this region.

All over western Sweden, small cafes and restaurants serve rich, mouthwatering food from farms and fishing villages. Here you will find delicious baked goods, cheeses, and pastries that will make you understand why this is a culinary haven.

Lapland

Arctic life dominates northern Sweden. Winters here are long, but the people have grown accustomed to them. During the summer months, the misty forests are full of wildlife and offer world-class fishing for salmon or other fish. Sweden IceHotel is a hotel whose walls and ceiling are entirely made of ice, and guests even sleep on beds made of ice, although they are lined with warm reindeer fur. Winter sports include snowmobiling, dog sledding, and skiing, while summer activities include white water rafting or riding reindeer.

The Aurora Sky Station offers the opportunity to gaze up at the Northern Lights or explore the ancient Gammelstad Church village. Red houses and white doors distinguish this small village, which is also a World Heritage Site. On the Swedish High Coast, you can take guided tours and view wild bears, beavers, and many other unique wildlife and sea creatures.