A Backpacker’s Guide to Sweden
A visit to Sweden can be compared to the walk right into the home-décor magazine. The streets of cities, cafes, cottages and public spaces are well decorated and maintained throughout the country. The Swedish Style is never too showy and it is linked with the simple and moderate society inspiring and value culture. The best thing about Sweden is its natural beauty. To really explore the charms of the country you have to leave the city behind and dive deep into the rural atmosphere. Whether it means sailing across the archipelago, or trekking towards a natural trail, everything depends on your likings. Apart from nature, the history has also left its mark too. At Sweden, you will discover the marvel of Viking ruins and medieval castles.
Basics to know before Visiting Sweden
- Capital: Stockholm
- Currency: Swedish Krona / SEK
- Language: Swedish
- Time Zone: CET (UTC+1)
- Calling Code: +46
- Drives On: Right
- Credit Cards: Visa/MC widely accepted
- Emergency Number: 112
The best time to visit Sweden
Summer, is probably the best time to explore the natural beauty of this European country. While the country rarely gets hot, it makes the most of the long days and the mild sunshine. Everyone wants to travel to Sweden to celebrate the festive spirit. On the other hand, winter is the low season but the country has lights up for the holidays and is master at turning hotels, restaurants shops as the most inviting spaces to celebrate the cold.
Major cities to explore
- Stockholm
The city gracefully holds the patchwork of some of the historic bridges and buildings. It is a home to dozens of royal castles, art galleries and historic museums which are irresistible to visit. If you are a royal fan, then you must visit Kungliga Slottet where you can witness the crown jewels, royal apartments and other royal treasures.
You can also visit Vasamuseet which describes the lifestyle of the Vasa, Sweden’s Mary Rose. It is a pride for Swedish navy and has been restored in its prominently good shape.
For food lovers, there is much more to explore at the Ostermalm food hall. It is a hottest destination for casual lunch and fine dining. Visit Sodermalm and Folkungagatan for off beating vintage shopping. Apart from this, there is worth taking ferry rides and make a visit towards country’s island, archipelago past fjords, and other wealthy members of the cities.
- Gothenburg
Although Stockholm offers many breathtaking attractions Gothenburg is still one of Sweden’s most beautiful cities. It’s smaller area makes it easy for you to navigate down the streets and enjoy cozy cafes. The city is a center for creative people from the industries like fashion, music, and art. It is a home to the art collection of some of the most famous artists of the world including Picasso, Munch, Van Gogh and Rubens. You can also visit the famous amusement park Liseberg which houses more than 30 thrilling rides including the 380ft free fall tower.
- Lake Siljan
In order to explore the natural beauty of rural Sweden, it is wise to head towards Lake Siljan. As the name itself suggests, it is a lake surrounded by a village. It celebrates many festivals to cherish by the locals for the tourists. It is an ideal place to cycle or hike through good natural trails.
Things you must do in Sweden
– Cruising through Stockholm’s Canals
– Seeing the Northern lights
– Hiking and cycling in Lake Siljan
– Skiing on the Kungsleden
– Sailing through the Archipelago
– Exploring nightlife at Malmo
– Discover the historic monuments at Stockholm’s old town
Money Saving Tips
Drink beer instead of Alcohol
Beer is quite affordable than Alcohol. You can buy beer as low as 50 SEK and hotels will have the best-priced bars overall.
Book in Advance
Travel in Sweden is quite expensive if you are booking only a day or two before. The prices of booking hotels and transportation can be widely varied if you book your trip for two to three months in advance. While booking trains or busses tickets before four weeks can avail you up to 50% discount. You can also consider major transportation companies like MTR, SJ, and others for the bookings.
Buy a city tourism card
Buying a city tourist pass will provide you an access to public transportation and free entrance to most of the museums and tourists attractions across the major cities like Stockholm, Gutenberg.
Explore local restaurants
Dining out in Sweden is very much expensive. If you want to eat out, explore local food vendors that are available on the street. You can find a decent variety of multi-cuisines like Thai, Continental, Middle East and Chinese at just 70 SEK. You can also get affordable hotdogs and sausages for around 30 SEK.
Get a refillable water bottle
Tap water is easily accessible across all the Sweden. Also, it is cleaner than the bottled water. You can save a lot of bucks by bringing a refillable water bottle.
Buy a rail pass
If you want to travel across the country, then you need to buy a rail pass which will help you to save a few hundred dollars. You can also book the rail pass in advance.
Key Takeaways
Outside of a few gleaming of cities like Gothenburg, Stockholm, the country has pristine wilderness. Travelling Sweden is one big outdoor adventure which is perfect for travelers who are searching to explore trekking, hiking, cycling and paddling along nature. Right from frozen wastelands to Vikings lore, you will find everything that has impeccable style and to die for dining.
This article is written by Sarah Bennett, senior editor in www.holidoi.com, a leading holiday & travel portal in Dubai, UAE.
