Sweden's Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions You Can't Miss On Your First Trip

Like most of Scandinavia, Sweden exudes stylish, effortless charm. Perhaps it's because it's one of the world's happiest countries, or the fact that it's basically one giant national park. Maybe it's the daily coffee ritual (fika), or the fact that Sweden has the most islands in the entire world, and therefore an incredible coastline. Or, perhaps it's that Swedish Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Maybe it's the hip capital, Stockholm, with 14 islands, amazing museums, and what may just be the cleanest and most artistic metro stops on the planet (connected, they become the world's longest art gallery). Maybe it's the Swedes themselves, who tend to be friendly and polite even though Swedish doesn't have a word for "please." 

Whatever this indefinable quality is (likely a combination of all of the above), we've rounded up 10 of the must-visit attractions in Sweden you can't miss on your first trip, using Sweden experts, traveler reviews, tourism websites, and personal experience. Visit these destinations to experience the best of Sweden, with open-air museums that take you back in time, cities established by the Vikings, beautiful traditions, coastal magnificence, medieval charm, and cutting-edge yet eco-friendly cities.

Stockholm, the stately capital of Sweden, is spread across 14 islands on the Baltic Sea, earning it the nickname "Venice of the North." The innovative city, founded circa 1252, is the center of Swedish culture, featuring distinct districts, gorgeous metro stations, world-class museums, incredible nature, and a famously tolerant, eco-friendly, and happy populace. There's a lot to see in Stockholm, from the elegant Östermalm to the artsy Södermalm to the colorful and charming Old Town (Gamla Stan). Gamla Stan, where Stockholm began, is one of the best neighborhoods to wander, discovering beautiful squares, historic churches, the daily changing of the guard at the Royal Palace, and the best cafés for fika, the Swedish tradition coffee-loving tourists can't miss (akin to the afternoon British tea).

After exploring Gamla Stan, take a public ferry (part of the transit pass) to the island of Djurgården, home to a selection of Stockholm's best museums. Visit the awe-inspiring Vasa Museum, featuring a reconstructed ship that sank off the Swedish coast in 1628. In the 1960s, the Vasa was completely salvaged from the seabed, nearly perfectly preserved thanks to the cold sea waters. It's estimated that 98% of the original ship remains intact (including some of the paint). 

Djugården also features the world's biggest open-air museum, the Skansen Open Air Museum, which immerses you in traditional Swedish life. Even the on-site restaurant aims to create recipes traditionally! Skansen also features examples of Swedish architecture from across the country and throughout its history. Other sites on Djugården include the permanent "ABBA The Museum" exhibit at the Swedish Music Hall of Fame, and families will want to see Nordic animals at the zoo or visit the Gröna Lund amusement park.

National Geographic nominated the Stockholm Archipelago as one of its top destinations in 2025, and it's not hard to see why. The archipelago comprises around 30,000 islands and islets, many just a short ferry ride away from the capital. The region is gaining recognition for the gorgeous new hiking trail connecting Stockholm with the many stunning islands of the archipelago. The Stockholm Archipelago Trail stretches across 21 of the archipelago's islands over a distance of 168 miles, incorporating ferry rides and stops at classic Swedish inns. 

If you'd rather stay closer to Stockholm, join a kayaking tour (or rent a kayak) and explore by sea. Discover gems like the charming Vaxholm, with a historic fortress, and the serene Bogesund Nature Reserve. Or, hop a 25-minute ferry to Fjäderholmarna, a group of four islands, or onwards to other islands like Grinda and Möja, still within easy distance for a day trip. Several companies offer dinner cruises through the archipelago, with spectacular sunset views, although it doesn't traverse the full 80 miles of island water. 

Skåne County, in southern Sweden, manages to be rural yet stylish, historical yet modern, scenic yet well-connected. The capital of Skåne, Malmö, an eclectic melting pot with seaside charm, manages to combine old and new seamlessly. There's the charming Old Town (Gamla Staden) paired with innovative architecture, residents that hail from over 150 countries, yet undeniably Swedish roots. Classic Swedish restaurants serving produce right from Skåne's farmlands vie for space with international offerings, from the acclaimed Nordic-Fusion Mutantur to falafel stands.

Within Malmö, explore the Malmö Castle, one of Scandinavia's oldest Renaissance castles, and wander through the historic, 16th-century square of Lilla Torg. For the more modern side of Malmö, head to the Turning Torso, Sweden's tallest residential building, which does indeed rotate (climb for the views). Nearby, stop for a dip at Ribersborg Beach's open-air bathhouse and sauna. Consider taking a day trip to Copenhagen, linked to Malmö via a tunnel and scenic bridge.

There's more to Skåne than Malmö, of course. The county, known for its fertile land, has incredible food experiences: pick berries from Hallongården, sip wine from Hällåkra Vingård, and drink cider from Kiviks Musteri. In the spring, fields of rapeseed bloom yellow, and the ancient beech forests seem to glow in the autumn. Depending on what you're looking for, you'll head to a different region of Skåne. For beaches, head to the coastal Österlen; for quaint city vibes, visit Lund (don't miss the Lund Cathedral). Immerse yourself in fishing village charm in Arild and Mölle, and explore Viking lore at Ale's Stones (Ales stenar), a ship-shaped stone monument known as the "Stonehenge of Sweden."

Gotland, which means "good land," is undoubtedly one of Sweden's best hidden gems, a Baltic Sea island with a charming capital and wild beaches. Gotland, the largest Swedish island, is without a doubt home to some of Sweden's most gorgeous natural scenery, along with its most beautiful medieval town, Visby. The UNESCO-listed Visby is known for its medieval walls, cobbled streets, well-preserved ruins, and fairytale vibes. Visby's history goes back to at least the 12th century, the same age as its most important church, the Sankta Maria Cathedral. The charming Old Town is a must, and so is the Visby City Wall — while you're exploring, stop at a bakery to try a local specialty, like a saffron pancake with dewberry jam and cream (saffranspannkaka). 

Outside of Visby, Gotland continues to be a dream. In the northeast, find the tiny island of Fårö (reached via a free, six-minute ferry), with lighthouses, fishing villages, beaches, and fresh seafood. The south is more rolling hills, while the north is more windswept cliffs; they each have their charms. There's ample opportunity to stop at a traditional sauna (try the Sauna at Surflogiet), or explore Viking lore at the reconstructed village of Stavgard Vikingagård. Visby is amazing year-round, and is especially a favorite vacation spot of Swedes in July, so if you're planning on a summer trip, book ahead! Gotland can only be reached by ferry (around three hours from the mainland) or by plane. When on the island, get around by bicycle or by the local bus system.

Considered one of the best destinations to view the Northern Lights, Swedish Lapland is also home to many Indigenous Sámi settlements, outdoor recreation, and incredible Arctic landscapes. If you come in the summer, expect long days under the midnight sun; in the winter, long nights under the aurora. Abisko National Park is the center of Northern Lights viewing in Swedish Lapland. Within Abisko, the Aurora Sky Station is the star, with no light pollution, a microclimate with consistently clear skies, and a lot of darkness, all within the auroral oval. 

Sweden's northernmost city, Kiruna, is also an ideal destination for aurora-hunters — consider combining a Northern Lights adventure with dogsledding or skiing. If you're hoping to see the Northern Lights while discovering more of the unique Sámi culture, plan a visit to the traditional town of Jokkmokk in early February for the Jokkmokk Winter Market, Sweden's largest Sámi festival. Jokkmokk is also home to the Ájtte Museum, with exhibits dedicated to every facet of Sámi history and culture. Throughout Swedish Lapland, there are also opportunities to stay with Sámi people, like at the Geunja Sámi Ecolodge, to experience their traditional lifestyle (like reindeer herding).

Swedish Lapland is vast, covering a full quarter of the country. One way to explore is via train on the Inland Line (Inlandsbanan), which traverses a large section of Lapland through Sweden's interior. Another great way to explore Lapland? On the back of a traditional dog sled — there are actually more huskies in Swedish Lapland than there are people! However you experience Swedish Lapland, from a train or sled, with skis on your feet or a fishing pole in your hand, under the endless sun or the longest night, one thing is certain: it'll be an adventure.

"Sweden in Miniature," the charming region of Dalarna in central Sweden, offers the best of Sweden, with its gorgeous nature and long traditions of Swedish culture, through music, dance, handicrafts, and the Swedish people themselves. Dalarna is known for its signature Dala Horses (dalahäst), a beloved symbol of Sweden, its iconic festivals, and the distinctive red paint adorning many a Swedish house, called Falun red (Falu Rödfärg), after Dalarna's capital. Dalarna also offers a plethora of outdoor recreation opportunities that occur throughout the year, from the shores of Lake Siljan to the peaks of Sälen. Dalarna is also known for its many waterfalls, including one of Sweden's highest, Njupeskär, in Fulufjället National Park.

Dalarna is considered the best place to celebrate Midsommar in Sweden (Midsummer), Sweden's most famous festival, occurring annually on the closest Friday to the summer solstice. Flower crowns, maypoles, folk song and dance, boat races on Lake Siljan; small communities in Dalarna go all in, and Swedes come from all over to partake in the festivities.

Even if you can't make it for Midsommar, Dalarna is worth a visit. See the world's largest Dala Horse in Avesta, or watch artists craft the iconic wood statues at a workshop in Nusnäs. Dalarna's capital, Falun, is home to Sweden's prominent (now defunct as of 1992) copper mine, from which the Falun red pigment originated. Nowadays, you can tour the "Great Copper Mountain in Falun," now on the UNESCO Heritage List as "one of the most outstanding industrial monuments in the world" (via UNESCO). Falun is a two to three-hour trip from Stockholm, and makes an ideal base to explore Dalarna. Dalarna can be easily traversed via bus, although a car may make it easier to explore smaller villages and hiking trails.

The charming city of Kalmar is home to perhaps what is the most magnificent medieval castle in Scandinavia, Kalmar Castle (Kalmar Slott). Originally dating to the 12th century, the imposing structure, surrounded by moats, was once the "key to the kingdom" due to its location. In addition to playing medieval lady or knight on the ramparts, you can take a tour with an expert, visit the refurbished royal apartments, and even explore the dungeon. The castle has several exhibits dedicated to the history of the castle and the region, and features an on-site restaurant, ideal for a fika break and local fare.

In Kalmar's center, the cobblestoned alleys of its Gamla Stan (Old Town) are worth a visit, as is the 17th-century cathedral. Across the Kalmar Strait, connected by bridge, is Öland Island. This little island is a treasure trove, with several ruins, including Iron-Age Eketorp Fortress, a lighthouse at each tip, a sandy beach (Böda Sand), historic fishing villages, and a mystical forest (Trollskogen). To explore Öland, rent a bike (its size and flatness make it a favorite for cyclists) or a car — just note that northern Öland is more remote.

Kalmar is also a gateway to Sweden's famous Glass Country, or "Glasriket." The "Kingdom of Crystal" is a heavily forested region that turned to glass-making in the mid-1700s with the collapse of the iron industry. Although it seems an unlikely pivot, the combination of natural resources and experience with hot materials actually made the transition from iron mills to glass houses a natural step. The oldest glass house in Glasriket, Kosta Boda, still hand-blows glass as it has for generations. Visit the Kosta Glass Center for demonstrations and to try out glassblowing yourself, then purchase unique souvenirs at smaller studios.

Much like Cambridge or Oxford in England, Sweden's main university town is within easy distance of the capital (35 minutes), has its own beautiful buildings and historical monuments, and is a thriving, hip city. Many Swedes choose to live in Uppsala and commute to Stockholm for work, because Uppsala is just that nice. Located on the banks of the Fyris River (Fyrisån), Uppsala has easy access to nature (like most of Sweden, it seems), but is also a cultural powerhouse. The Uppsala University, circa 1477, is one of the oldest in Scandinavia. In addition, the famous scientist Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, did most of his research in Uppsala. Today, visit the Linnaean Gardens, the Linnaeus Museum, and, just outside of town, Linnaeus' Hammarby, his former estate-turned-museum, where many of the plants Linnaeus himself studied still thrive. Other notable attractions in Uppsala include the impressive Uppsala Cathedral, known for its stained glass, and the 16th-century Uppsala Castle. Much of the university is open to the public, as well, including its museum, Gustavianum, and the beautiful, historic Carolina Rediviva library.

Just north of Uppsala is one of Sweden's paramount archaeological sites, the burial mounds at Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala). There are at least 300 burial mounds at Gamla Uppsala, including three royal burial mounds (the largest), from the Viking period between the 6th and 12th centuries. The massive site can be explored freely on foot or by bike; the on-site museum also provides relevant information and displays artifacts and relics from the Vikings buried at Gamla Uppsala. To reach Gamla Uppsala, hop a 20-minute bus from the main square (Stora Torget).

The Göta Canal remains one of Sweden's most ambitious engineering projects, a vital link connecting Sweden's two coasts. While once it was an integral thoroughfare, nowadays it's more of a tourist attraction, although it's still used by plenty of other industries. The "blue ribbon of Sweden" was originally built in the 19th century, and winds through the center of Sweden for 120 miles, from the Baltic Sea to Gothenburg, connecting to other lakes, rivers, and bodies of water along the way. The canal is lined with walking and biking trails, but a canal cruise is an idyllic way to experience both the canal and the lovely Swedish countryside. The canal can be traversed in sections, on day trips, over multiple days, or on your own via rented boat. The classic route along the river on a historic riverboat takes five days during the shoulder seasons (May to mid-June and mid-August through September) and a full week during the high season (mid-June through mid-August).

While the canal is closed to boats in the winter, the trails are open year-round, and certain sections of the canal become ice-skating rinks if you time your visit right. Like much of Sweden, the Göta Canal will give you an entirely different experience depending on when you go: lambs and lushness in the spring, festivals and lively crowds during long summer days, gorgeous colors in the autumn, and snowy serenity in the winter. 

Sigtuna, the "First Town of Sweden," has seen over 1,000 years of Swedish and European history, and the cozy streets are a marvel to experience. One of the highlights is the Sigtuna Museum, built on what was once the home of Sweden's first king, Eric the Victorious, who founded Sigtuna in 980 C.E. Sigtuna is also known for its vast array of Viking runes (runestones) — more can be found here than anywhere else in the world. In addition to its ancient Viking history, Sigtuna features Sweden's oldest pedestrian street, the country's smallest town hall, and the country's first phone booth-turned-free library. 

While all of these sites are certainly worth a visit, Sigtuna is simply picturesque, situated on the scenic Lake Mälaren and surrounded by no less than 10 nature reserves. Just walking the streets of Sigtuna makes you feel as if you're stepping back in time. You'll marvel as you wander down the main street, Stora Gatan, with its well-preserved treasures scattered all over, from an errant runestone, medieval church ruins, castles within reach, charming facades, and ancient cobblestones. Don't miss the romantic, brick, 13th-century St. Mary's Church, and make sure to stop for fika (and a cinnamon roll, of course) at one of Sweden's oldest cafés, Tant Brun Kaffestuga. Sigtuna is an easy day trip from Stockholm, about 1.5 hours by train, or from Uppsala (one hour north), although it merits longer, if you can swing it.

To compile this list of 10 of Sweden's best sights for first-timers, we first gathered information from Sweden's tourism boards, including Visit Sweden and the Swedish Tourist Association, along with travel writers, bloggers, and reviews from travelers on the ground. We've endeavored to include a wide variety of destinations, from city to nature, from the famous to the hidden gems, to give a true representation of this scenic country. For each destination, we consulted local tourism sites, such as Destination Sigtuna, City Guide Stockholm, and Visit Skåne, as well as individual attraction pages, to ensure up-to-date information. When applicable, we also sourced data from UNESCO and National Geographic, and used our own personal experience, as well.