Sweden

Sweden is a land of cultural contrast, from the Danish influence of the southwest to the nomadic Laplanders in the wild Arctic north. And while urban Sweden is stylish, modern and sophisticated, the countryside offers many simpler pleasures for those in search of tranquillity.

Stockholm
Stockholm is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, splendidly spread out over fourteen islands in the interlock between Lake Mälaren and the magnificent Stockholm Archipelago seascape with its over 24.000 islands, islets and skerries. Stockholm is the Nordic regions largest city with historic and cultural grandeur unparalleled in Northern Europe.

Northern Sweden
Many travellers who visit Northern Sweden for the first time are astonished to discover such a vast, majestic landscape, with such enormous expanses of pristine wilderness and breathtaking scenery, so close and easily accessible from the hustle and bustle of central Europe. The wilds of Northern Sweden and Scandinavia are frequently and sadly referred to as ”Europe´s last wilderness”.

Southern Sweden
Of Sweden´s nine million inhabitants, no less than eight million live in the southernmost quarter of the country. While distances in the vast north of Sweden are great, southern Sweden is more easily and conveniently travelled, offering a plethora of pleasant and enriching experiences whatever your interests and preferences may be.

Gothenburg
From being known internationally primarily as an industrial centre, with Scandinavia´s largest sea port, Gothenburg has been transformed into one of Northern Europe’s leading cities for contemporary culture and events, with a vibrant cosmopolitan scene attracting growing numbers of international visitors who come to experience Gothenburg for both professional and pleasure purposes.

Malmo
Sweden´s third city Malmö has always been characterized by a somewhat different, more ”continental” atmosphere compared with the country´s other larger towns. For much of its long history, Malmö was a Danish city. An ancient trade hub and agricultural centre, Malmö became an important industrial city during the nineteenth century, with the commercial port and shipyards influencing the city´s temperament and seafront appearance.

Activities and Tours

Sarek National Park
The magical landscape of Sarek National Park covers an area of 2000 sq km (780 sq mi). It comprises 100 glaciers and countless peaks, a handful of which are over 2000m (6560ft) high. This is beautiful yet demanding country, only for the tough and experienced.

Ajtte Museum
The welcoming and illuminating Ájtte Museum is the highlight of a visit to Jokkmokk; it gives the most thorough introduction to Sami culture anywhere in Sweden, including Sami dress, silverware and an interesting display of 400 year old shamans' drums.

Royal Palace
The 'new' Royal Palace is one of Stockholm's highlights; it was constructed on the site of the 'old' royal castle, Tre Kronor, which burned down in 1697. The north wing of the castle survived and was incorporated into the new palace, but its medieval designs are now concealed by a baroque exterior.

Vitlycke Museum
If you're bewildered by the long armed men, blue whales, sexual imagery and goat drawn chariots, cross the road to Vitlycke Museum which has a determined go at explaining them. There are handheld computer guides for hire at extortionate prices, but it's much better to catch the English tour, when a knowledgeable human being explains the carvings.

Travel Tip and useful information

Climate
Generally temperate climate thanks to the Gulf Stream. Above the Arctic Circle, winter can be described as crisp and invigorating. In the south, winter is generally mild with an average temperature above 0 degrees (Celsius), but temperatures can vary markedly in different parts of the country. Sweden’s northerly position has a definite summer advantage in that temperatures are rarely extreme and humidity levels are not high.

Population
9 million inhabitants and languages include Swedish; recognized minority languages: Sami (Lapp), Finnish, Meänkieli (Tornedalen Finnish), Yiddish, Romani Chib (a Gypsy language).

Transport
Though you may need to cover large distances (especially in northern Sweden), the country's rail network is efficient and extensive. Comfortable, modern trains are designed to deal with all kinds of weather. Motorways and roads are relatively free of traffic by international standards, and well maintained. Sometimes the only traffic you will have to look out for is the occasional deer or elk crossing the road! Flying is an efficient option thanks to the well developed system of regional airports around the country. Sweden's many lakes, islands and canals are linked by an extensive network of canal boats, vintage steamers, and ferries large and small.

Time Zone
Standard time zone: UTC/GMT +1 hour

Currency and credit cards
The monetary unit in Sweden is the krona. Major credit cards are widely accepted throughout Sweden at banks, hotels, stores, restaurants, taxis, car rental companies, and for air, ship and rail tickets. Most shops and restaurant require identity card while paying with credit card. You can get cash with your Visa, MasterCard, Maestro or Cirrus card at any “Bankomat” or “Minuten” ATM.

Dress Code
During the summer the weather in Sweden is mild and pleasant. Pack casual summer clothes, like a few medium weight sweaters, a light jacket or raincoat. An overcoat is necessary in the autumn, winter and spring. Comfortable, low heeled shoes are important, not only for the countryside, but also for sightseeing along cobblestone streets. Swedes like fashion. However, they avoid standing out in glitzy attire and will never abandon their jeans for too long.