Sweden Travel Guide
Country Scandinavian country known for its welfare system
Sweden entices with its serene landscapes and vibrant cities. Stockholm’s archipelago offers a unique blend of nature and urban life, while Gothenburg tempts with seafood at Feskekörka. In the north, the Northern Lights dance over Lapland’s snowy expanses, drawing adventurers seeking both tranquility and thrill.
Why Visit Sweden #
Stockholm’s archipelago has thousands of islands reachable by ferry - hop from Gamla Stan to Vaxholm or Fjäderholmarna for coastal villages, seafood and quiet swims. Use the local ferries for day trips rather than pricey tours. Summer weekends fill up, so book cottages early if you want an overnight island stay.
Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland is one of the most reliable places to see the aurora, thanks to its clear skies and location under the auroral oval. Combine aurora hunts with snowmobile trips, dog sledding or a stay at the Aurora Sky Station. Winter nights are long and cold, so layer up and plan outdoor windows carefully.
The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi is rebuilt each winter from river ice and offers art‑carved suites, an ice bar and guided cold‑weather activities. Even if you sleep elsewhere, take a tour to see the seasonal room art and learn about ice construction. Summer visits are possible too - the area becomes a birch‑covered base for fishing and hiking.
Experience Swedish fika culture - café breaks with cinnamon buns - in Stockholm’s Södermalm or Gothenburg’s Haga, then browse Scandinavian design shops for ceramics and textiles. Small boutiques and museums like the Nationalmuseum showcase Swedish minimalist design. It’s a relaxed way to sample local life between outdoor excursions.
Gothenburg and the Bohuslän coast are known for seafood: try shrimp sandwiches, fresh oysters and crayfish parties (kräftskiva) in season. Island hopping among granite skerries offers kayaking and secluded nature. The archipelago is car‑free on many islets, so bring comfortable shoes and expect seafood menus to change with the tide.
Who's Sweden For?
Stockholm’s Gamla Stan, archipelago ferries and cozy fika culture create atmospheric romantic getaways. Winter lights and summer midnight sun both lend seasonal charm.
Sweden’s play-friendly museums, well-kept parks and attractions like Liseberg in Gothenburg keep children entertained. Safety, healthcare and family services make travel straightforward.
Hostels, hiking trails and long-distance buses support backpackers, but high prices and spread-out rural distances can quickly strain a tight budget.
Excellent broadband and abundant coworking across Stockholm and Gothenburg suit nomads, though living costs and housing competition are among Europe’s highest.
New Nordic restaurants, seafood, pickled herring and fika pastries make Swedish dining varied. Stockholm’s food markets like Östermalms Saluhall showcase local produce and craft foods.
Lapland dog-sledding, Northern Lights chases and coastal kayaking provide year-round thrills. Winter sports and summer hikes both deliver memorable outdoor experiences.
Stockholm and Gothenburg host lively clubs and summer festivals; student towns throw big parties, though the scene quiets in off-season months.
Vast forests, archipelago islands and Lapland tundra deliver classic Scandinavian wilderness with strong conservation and easy access from cities for hiking and wildlife.
Best Places to Visit in Sweden
All Cities ›
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Where to Go in Sweden #
Stockholm
An archipelago capital of islands, cobbled alleys and design-savvy neighbourhoods. Stockholm pairs world-class museums with easy ferry trips between scenic islets; cafés and boutiques in Södermalm give the city a relaxed, creative pulse. Summers are for outdoor dining and long daylight, winters for museums and cozy interiors.
Top Spots
- Gamla Stan - Winding medieval streets and royal palace steps.
- Djurgården - Museums, green space and waterfront promenades.
- Södermalm - Vintage shops, cafés and creative nightlife.
West Coast
Rocky archipelagos, seafood-rich harbours and a convivial maritime culture define Sweden’s west. Gothenburg anchors the region with culinary and cultural scenes, while Bohuslän’s islands offer kayaking, seafood shacks and granite skerries. It’s summer territory for island hopping and coastal relaxation.
Top Spots
- Gothenburg - Harbour city with seafood, canals and lively festivals.
- Bohuslän - Granite islands, kayaking and coastal villages.
Skåne
Southern Sweden’s gentle farmland, sandy beaches and historic towns make for easy travel transitions into continental Europe. Malmö blends contemporary design with diverse cafés; small towns like Ystad provide half-timbered charm and coastal promenades. The landscape is softer and warmer than inland Sweden.
Top Spots
- Malmö - Modern waterfront, multicultural food and short Öresund crossings.
- Ystad - Timbered streets and coastal walks popular with day-trippers.
Swedish Lapland
Vast Arctic wilderness of tundra, birch forests and dramatic northern lights. This is the place for winter aurora hunts, reindeer encounters and long summer days under the midnight sun. Travel here is about wild, quiet landscapes, remote hiking and indigenous Sami culture.
Top Spots
- Kiruna - Aurora viewing, midnight sun and nearby national parks.
- Abisko - Renowned for northern lights and trekking access.
Dalarna & Inland
Forest-draped lakes, red-painted villages and Sweden’s folkloric heartland. Dalarna’s summer festivals, woodworking traditions and scenic lakeside drives appeal to travellers seeking outdoorsy calm and cultural rituals. Expect canoeing, cottage stays and slow-paced countryside exploration.
Top Spots
- Falun - Historic copper mine and cultural heritage sites.
- Lake Siljan - Red cottages, folk traditions and summer festivals.
Top Things to Do in Sweden
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Planning Your Trip to Sweden #
1 Week Sweden Itinerary
One week in Stockholm visits Gamla Stan, Vasa Museum, Skansen, Fotografiska, and a half-day archipelago boat trip to Vaxholm or Fjäderholmarna including local fika and neighborhood walks.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Stockholm, stroll Gamla Stan and waterfront cafés
- Day 2 - Vasa Museum and Skansen open-air museum visits
- Day 3 - Fotografiska and Nybroviken boat tour
- Day 4 - Day trip to Vaxholm in the archipelago
- Day 5 - Explore Södermalm and hip cafés, local shopping
- Day 6 - Royal Palace, Nationalmuseum, and evening fika rituals
- Day 7 - Final markets, packing, depart from Arlanda
2 Weeks Sweden Itinerary
Two weeks travel Stockholm, ferry to Visby on Gotland, Gothenburg's Haga district and Liseberg, Malmö and Öresund Bridge, plus archipelago islands and coastal drives and seafood.
Show itinerary- Day 1-3 - Stockholm core: museums, Gamla Stan and boat archipelago trips
- Day 4-6 - Ferry to Visby, Gotland: medieval walls and island cycling
- Day 7-9 - Train to Gothenburg, Haga district and Liseberg amusement park
- Day 10-11 - Drive or train to Malmö and Lund cathedral visit
- Day 12-14 - Coastal towns, seafood meals and archipelago island hopping
- Day 15 - Return to Stockholm and depart
3-4 Weeks Sweden Itinerary
Three to four weeks include Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö, Gotland (Visby), Arctic Lapland in Kiruna or Abisko for northern lights or midnight sun, and Swedish coastal villages.
Show itinerary- Day 1-4 - Stockholm museums, archipelago day trips and neighborhood food tours
- Day 5-8 - Gothenburg and West Coast fishing villages, seafood feasts
- Day 9-12 - Malmö, Lund and Öresund Bridge exploration
- Day 13-16 - Ferry to Gotland (Visby) medieval town and island cycling
- Day 17-21 - Fly or train north to Kiruna or Abisko; Lapland hikes and light viewing
- Day 22-25 - Return south through scenic drives and coastal villages
- Day 26-28 - Final Stockholm days, museums, fika, depart
Best Time to Visit Sweden #
Sweden has a pronounced seasonal climate with cold, dark winters and mild to warm summers; conditions vary strongly from south to north. Coastal and southern areas are milder in winter, while the north experiences long, snowy winters and midnight sun in summer.
January
Deep winter across much of Sweden with snow common, especially inland and in the north. Short daylight hours in January - expect cold temperatures and winter travel conditions; good for skiing in mountain areas but limited daylight for sightseeing.
Events
No major festivals this month.
February
Similar to January with cold, snowy conditions and improving daylight by month end. Northern lights are still visible in the far north, and alpine resorts remain busy with winter sports.
Events
No major festivals this month.
March
Transition month: still wintry in the north but progressive warming in the south. Snow can persist inland, while southern coastal areas begin to see more daylight and thawing conditions.
Events
No major festivals this month.
April
Spring arrives unevenly - southern Sweden sees budding trees and milder days while higher latitudes can still be wintry. Travelers should pack layers and expect a mix of rain, sun and chilly nights.
Events
No major festivals this month.
May
Late spring with rapidly lengthening days and comfortable temperatures in most populated areas. Parks and coastlines become pleasant for walking; shoulder-season prices are lower than mid-summer.
Events
No major festivals this month.
June
Early summer with long daylight hours - the midnight sun effect in the far north and warm, pleasant weather in the south. Popular tourist month with higher prices and busy attractions, especially around Midsummer.
Events
- National Day (June 6) - Sweden's National Day is celebrated with flag events and some local festivities.
- Midsummer - Midsummer (late June) is one of Sweden's biggest holidays with maypole dancing and local celebrations, especially in rural areas.
July
Warmest month of the year in most places, ideal for coastal trips and island-hopping in the Stockholm archipelago. Expect peak tourist crowds and the highest accommodation prices.
Events
- Stockholm Pride - One of the largest Pride festivals in Scandinavia, with parades and events (usually late July/early August).
August
Late summer with generally pleasant weather but gradually shortening days. Busy tourist spots remain active, though evenings start to cool; good time for outdoor activities before autumn sets in.
Events
No major festivals this month.
September
Early autumn brings cooler, crisper weather and fall colours beginning in the north and inland. Crowds thin after August, making it a good shoulder-season option for lower prices and easier bookings.
Events
No major festivals this month.
October
Autumn with shorter days, more rain and falling temperatures; coastal areas remain milder than the interior. Museums and city attractions are quieter; the landscape turns to autumn colours.
Events
No major festivals this month.
November
Late autumn into early winter with decreasing daylight and more frequent frost or snow inland. Travel conditions can become wintry, and many rural tourism services reduce hours.
Events
No major festivals this month.
December
Cold winter conditions with short daylight hours; Christmas markets and seasonal events are common in cities. Northern parts offer strong chances to see northern lights when skies are clear.
Events
- Saint Lucia (Dec 13) - Lucia day is celebrated with candlelit processions, particularly in schools and churches.
- Nobel Prize Ceremonies (Dec 10) - The Nobel Prize award ceremonies and related events take place in Stockholm in early December.
How to Get to Sweden #
Most international travellers arrive in Sweden by air, with Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) the primary hub, plus significant international service to Gothenburg Landvetter (GOT) and Malmö (MMX). Overland and ferry links connect from neighbouring Norway, Finland and Denmark (via Copenhagen Kastrup CPH and the Øresund bridge).
- Sweden is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of EU/EEA/Schengen countries, the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and many other countries can enter visa-free for short stays (typically up to 90 days in any 180‑day period).
- Nationals not eligible for visa‑free entry need a Schengen visa; check consular pages for category and application procedures.
- Passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area and should have been issued within the previous 10 years; carry proof of onward travel and funds when asked.
- Border checks are routine; travellers from outside Schengen may be asked for accommodation details or travel insurance. COVID and health documentation requirements vary - verify with the airline or embassy before travel.
International Airports
Border Crossings #
Sweden ↔ Denmark
The Sweden-Denmark link is dominated by the Öresund fixed link between Malmö and Copenhagen: road and rail traffic cross the bridge/tunnel daily with frequent regional trains. Trains across the bridge are run by Øresundståg (and some services by SJ/DB in cooperation); cars and buses use the tolled road link. Schengen rules apply (both countries are in Schengen), but occasional police checks occur - carry ID. Expect a bridge toll for private vehicles and book train tickets in advance for peak times.
Crossings
- Öresund Bridge (Malmö - Copenhagen) (Skåne (Sweden) to Zealand (Denmark)) - The main road-and-rail connection between southern Sweden and Copenhagen. Use regional Øresundståg trains or drive over the bridge (toll applies); good for commuters and short city breaks.
Sweden ↔ Norway
Sweden and Norway share a long, well-used land border with many road and rail links. Cross-border travel is straightforward for Schengen nationals - train services (e.g., SJ/Vy cooperation on Oslo-Stockholm routes) and major roads like the E6 carry most traffic. For drivers, be prepared for changing speed limits and occasional border or customs checks, especially when transporting goods.
Crossings
- Svinesund (E6) - Strömstad (SE) / Halden (NO) (Västra Götaland/Bohuslän to Østfold) - The busiest road crossing on the west coast, handling large volumes of passenger cars and freight on the E6. Useful for road trips between Gothenburg/Oslo; expect commercial traffic and sometimes short delays at peak times.
Sweden ↔ Finland
Sweden and Finland have an open Schengen border with multiple road crossings in the north and improved links in the east. The Haparanda-Tornio area is the best-known road gateway near the Gulf of Bothnia; public buses and regional road services connect border towns. Schengen rules mean minimal formalities for visa-exempt travelers, but carry ID and check seasonal transport timetables in northern areas.
Crossings
- Haparanda - Tornio (Norrbotten (SE) to Lapland (FI)) - A practical road and pedestrian crossing at the Swedish-Finnish border town pair. It's well used by shoppers and regional traffic and links directly into the E4/E8 road network.
How to Get Around Sweden
Domestic and regional flights connect Stockholm (ARN), Gothenburg (GOT) and northern gateways such as Luleå (LLA). Airlines like SAS and Norwegian operate frequent services on these routes and to other Nordic/European airports.
Domestic flight fares vary by season; short domestic hops often cost a few hundred SEK while last‑minute tickets can be higher (roughly 300-1,500 SEK).
Long‑distance rail is served by SJ with fast connections between Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö and regional services across the country. Trains are comfortable and a good option for mid‑range distances, with seat reservations recommended on popular routes.
Typical fares for long‑distance journeys range from about 200-800 SEK for standard tickets; booking in advance yields the best prices.
Intercity and low‑cost coach services are common - operators such as FlixBus run frequent routes linking major cities and airports. Coaches are usually the cheapest overland option but take longer than trains.
One‑way coach fares often start around 100-300 SEK depending on distance and how early you book.
In cities use local taxi companies or ride‑hailing apps; Stockholm and other cities have multiple app options for black‑car and standard taxis. Airport express buses and dedicated airport taxis also operate.
Typical city taxi fares start with a flag drop and then per‑kilometre rates; short inner‑city rides commonly cost 100-300 SEK, while airport transfers are higher depending on distance and time of day.
Urban transit networks are efficient - in Stockholm use SL tickets for metro, buses and trams; Gothenburg uses Västtrafik. Single tickets are time‑based and cover transfers within the paid period.
A single adult urban trip typically costs roughly 30-70 SEK depending on zone and city; day and multi‑day passes reduce per‑ride costs for visitors.
Ferries serve the Stockholm archipelago and routes to Åland and Finland; services operate year‑round on major routes and seasonally to smaller islands. Book ahead for popular summer sailings.
Short archipelago trips can be inexpensive (a few hundred SEK or less), while longer international ferry crossings are priced higher and depend on cabin choices.
Where to Stay in Sweden #
Stockholm’s Norrmalm, Gamla Stan and Södermalm host most hotels and short-term apartments; Gothenburg and Malmö offer similar options. Central hotel stays make transit easy and reduce commuting time to attractions and ferries.
Swedish vandrarhem (hostels) are widespread in cities and tourist areas; they offer private rooms or dorms with kitchen access. They’re a cost-effective option for families and solo travellers, especially outside peak summer weeks.
Renting a stuga or cabin near lakes, the archipelago or Dalarna is a classic Swedish choice. Summer cottages provide self-catering facilities; check transport links and bring mosquito repellent during midsummer season.
For stays of a month or more, look for furnished apartments in Stockholm suburbs or Gothenburg districts. Verify utilities and access to public transit; long-term rentals often become significantly cheaper than nightly bookings.
Sweden’s right of public access (Allemansrätten) allows free camping on uncultivated land with respect for nature. Established campsites provide facilities and are common in summer; wild camping rules still require responsible behaviour.
Staying Connected in Sweden #
Sweden has high-quality internet nationwide, with strong mobile and fixed broadband performance in cities and towns. Average mobile and broadband speeds are typically high, supporting streaming, cloud work and frequent video conferencing without issue.
Strong broadband and plentiful coworking spaces in Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö. Cafes and libraries often offer free Wi‑Fi; paid coworking spaces provide fast, stable connections suitable for video conferencing and heavy uploads.
Coverage is excellent across populated areas but can thin in remote northern regions. eSIMs and strong roaming options are available from major carriers.
Money & Currency in Sweden #
Sweden uses the Swedish krona (SEK). Cards and contactless payments dominate daily life; cash is increasingly uncommon and some businesses are card-only. ATMs exist in towns and cities but have declined in number, so plan ahead if you need cash.
Approximate mid-market rates · Charts & history
- Tipping: Tipping is not required and generally modest - rounding up or leaving a few percent for good restaurant service is common, but not expected everywhere.
- Cards & Cash: Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere; many places also accept contactless mobile payments. Cash-only exceptions are rare but can occur at small market stalls or remote locations.
- ATMs & Mobile Payments: ATMs are available in cities and larger towns but less common in rural areas; local banks may charge for foreign cards and your bank may levy international withdrawal fees. Swish is the widely used mobile payment app for locals and requires a Swedish bank account.
- Banknotes: kr20, kr50, kr100, kr200, kr500, kr1000
- Coins: kr1, kr2, kr5, kr10
Health & Safety in Sweden #
Sweden is a safe, well-organized country with strong public services and low violent crime. Primary traveler concerns are seasonal weather hazards (ice, snow), tick-borne illnesses in rural areas, and occasional urban petty crime or targeted scams.
- General Safety & Crime - Sweden is generally very safe with low violent crime, though pickpocketing and opportunistic theft can target tourists in cities. Avoid poorly lit suburbs at night and monitor local advice about specific neighbourhoods with higher gang-related activity.
- Winter Weather Hazards - Winter brings ice, snow and short daylight hours; roads and sidewalks can be slippery. Use winter tyres or studded tyres when driving, wear appropriate footwear, and allow extra travel time during heavy snow or black ice.
- Health Risks & Ticks - Tick-borne infections (Lyme disease, TBE in some areas) occur in rural and forested regions during spring-autumn. Use repellents, check for ticks after outdoor activities, and seek prompt medical advice for fevers or rashes.
- Road & Cycling Safety - Cycling is widespread; watch for bike lanes and expect cyclists in city centres. Drivers should respect bicycle infrastructure. On rural roads, watch for wildlife crossings and adjust speed for winter conditions.
- LGBTQ+ & Women Travelers - Sweden is LGBTQ+-friendly and generally safe for women and solo travelers. Normal city precautions apply at night; public services and emergency support are accessible. Respect local norms but expect inclusive attitudes in most urban areas.
- Scams & Digital Safety - Scams are mainly digital (phishing) and occasional tourist overcharging. Use secure payment methods, avoid public Wi‑Fi for sensitive transactions, and monitor cards for unusual activity. Report fraud to local police promptly.
History & Culture of Sweden #
Swedish culture combines a long history from the Viking Age to modern social democracy with strong ties to nature, design and social equality. Distinctive practices include fika (coffee breaks), respect for personal space, and the right to roam in the countryside.
History of Sweden
Sweden’s history stretches from the Viking Age through consolidation under kings like Gustav Vasa (1523) to its 17th-century role as a European great power. Visitors will encounter Viking sites, well-preserved medieval towns and monuments from the era of empire in museums and cityscapes.
In the 19th and 20th centuries Sweden industrialized and developed a social democratic welfare model, maintaining neutrality through both world wars and building a reputation for social reform and design. Contemporary Sweden balances modern, urban life with strong commitments to nature and cultural traditions that are visible in everyday life.
Notable Figures
- Gustav Vasa - Sixteenth-century king often regarded as the founder of modern Sweden after leading the country out of the Kalmar Union.
- Alfred Nobel - Inventor and industrialist whose endowment created the Nobel Prizes, a major cultural association in Sweden.
- Astrid Lindgren - Beloved children's author whose characters (like Pippi Longstocking) are celebrated widely in Swedish culture.
- Greta Thunberg - Contemporary climate activist from Sweden whose international profile highlights the country's engagement with environmental issues.
Key Dates
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c. 800-1050Viking Age-maritime trade, exploration and settlement shape early Scandinavian societies.
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1523Gustav Vasa becomes king, marking the foundation of modern Sweden and the end of the Kalmar Union.
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17th centurySweden emerges as a European great power with territorial expansion in the Baltic region.
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1809Constitutional change after defeat by Russia leads to loss of Finland and a new regulatory framework for the monarchy.
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1905Union with Norway dissolved peacefully, affirming Swedish independence in the modern era.
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1930s-1970sGrowth of the welfare state and social democratic policies shape contemporary Swedish society.
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1995Sweden joins the European Union, influencing trade and travel policies.
Swedish cuisine highlights preserved foods, fish, potatoes and simple, seasonal ingredients; the coffee-and-bun tradition of fika is a key social institution around meals and breaks.
Language
Swedish is the official language and is widely spoken; English proficiency is high, especially in cities and tourist areas, so travelers often manage with English but will be appreciated for attempting basic Swedish phrases.
Useful Phrases
- Hi / Hello - Hej hey
- Good morning - God morgon good MOHR-gohn
- Nice to meet you - Trevligt att träffas TREV-leet aht TRAY-fahs
- Where is ...? - Var ligger ...? var LEE-ger ...?
- How much does it cost? - Hur mycket kostar det? hur MOOK-et KOS-tar deh?
- I need a taxi - Jag behöver en taxi yahg beh-HOE-ver en TAX-ee
- May I have the menu, please? - Kan jag få menyn, tack? kahn yahg foh meh-NOON, takk?
- I am allergic to ... - Jag är allergisk mot ... yahg air ah-LEHR-gisk moht ...
- The bill, please - Notan, tack NOH-tahn, takk
- Help! - Hjälp! yelp
- Call the police - Ring polisen ring po-LEE-sen
- I need a doctor - Jag behöver en läkare yahg beh-HOE-ver en LAE-kah-reh
Responsible Travel in Sweden #
Sweden’s strong outdoor-access traditions and Sámi heritage call for respectful behaviour in nature, mindful photography, and support for local, low-impact travel choices.
- Follow Allemansrätten (Right of Public Access): Sweden’s ‘Allemansrätten’ lets you enjoy nature but requires low-impact behaviour: camp away from homes, pick berries and mushrooms responsibly, and leave no trace-see guidance from Naturvårdsverket.
- Respect Sámi Culture & Reindeer Herding: In northern Sweden seek permission before photographing Sámi communities or reindeer herders, and avoid approaching or disturbing reindeer, especially during calving and migration seasons.
- Protect Coastal & Freshwater Ecosystems: When visiting the archipelagos or lakes, avoid discharging pollutants, use mooring buoys where provided, and choose eco-certified boat tours to protect fragile marine and freshwater habitats.
- Sustainable Transport & Local Businesses: Use Sweden’s extensive public transport and cycling infrastructure, and support small producers and seasonal local foods to reduce transport emissions and sustain rural economies.
Travel Resources for Sweden #
Official
- Visit Sweden Official Tourism
- Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Sweden) Government
- Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) Visas / Immigration
Travel Advisories
Sweden Embassies Abroad
- Embassy of Sweden - Washington, D.C. USA
- Embassy of Sweden - London UK
- Embassy of Sweden - Ottawa Canada
- Embassy of Sweden - Canberra Australia
- Embassy of Sweden - Wellington New Zealand
- Embassy of Sweden - Dublin Ireland
News & Media
- Sveriges Radio (Swedish public radio; English content available) English
- The Local - Sweden English
- SVT (Swedish public broadcaster) Swedish
Useful Links
Useful Apps for Sweden
- Google Maps - Navigation, cycling and transit routes across Sweden.
- Google Translate - Translate Swedish <> English and offline phrases.
- WhatsApp - Common messaging app used by travelers and locals.
- SJ (Swedish Rail) - Buy and manage intercity train tickets across Sweden.