The Coolest Places to Visit in Sweden

Mariaberget, Stockholm, Sweden
Mariaberget, Stockholm, Sweden. Photo by Raphael Andres on Unsplash

Sweden is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, as well as amazing natural wonders. If you’re planning on visiting, it might be hard to pin down the best spots to check out, especially if you want to go beyond the biggest tourist spots. Here are some awesome places to visit that will give you a taste of just how unique a country Sweden is.

Ice Hotel

At the northernmost point of Sweden is Lapland, which is covered with ice and snow in the winter and is a great place for water sports in the summer thanks to the beautiful rushing river Torne. Using ice from the river which freezes in the winter, a local phenomenon is built: the world’s first hotel made of ice. Each year it is reformed in a new shape, and many of the rooms actually allow you to sleep in a decorated cavern made entirely of ice and snow.

Sigtuna

Less than an hour outside of Stockholm is Sweden’s very first town, Sigtuna. Its roots go all the way back to the Viking Age, with some buildings still standing since its founding in 980 BCE. There you can view medieval churches and ruins as well as modern boutique shops, bakeries, and bookstores.

Drottningholm Palace

Just like any self-respecting European nation, Sweden has a beautiful several-hundreds-years old palace where its royal family resides. Built in 1699, this palace lies on the island of Lovö, just a ferry ride away from Stockholm. In addition to the palace itself, you can view its terraced sculpture gardens and its magnificent theatre with its own theatre museum.