Sweden

Places to visit in Sweden

In the summer, explore Stockholm’s archipelago of islands, wander the historic streets and marvel at how close nature is! Gothenburg is a lovely coastal city, just a couple of hours from seaside towns, wild countryside where moose roam freely, stunning lakes and picturesque islands

In the winter, head north high above the Arctic Circle into Swedish Lapland to explore the snow-covered forests around Kiruna, the wintry coastal delights of Lulea or travel further north towards the Norwegian border and discover the secrets of the polar night in Abisko National Park.

The colourful buildings of Gamla Stan in Stockholm - Swedish family holidays

Stockholm’s Stortorget Square, with its medieval merchant houses

Explore the capital of Sweden with its cobblestone streets and ochre-coloured buildings in the Old Town (Gamla Stan). You could jump on a boat cruise around the islands or spot wildlife with a private guide. Maybe visit the Paradox Museum for some mind-bending illusions, perhaps hit the Skanksen open air museum and witness some living history or channel your inner Dancing Queen and head to the ABBA museum. Take a leisurely stroll around Skeppsholmen and Kastellhomen, the two islands in the middle of the city for a bit of nature nestled in the cityscape around you.

Gothenburg is a very easy city to explore with plenty of family-friendly activities on offer. Hop on a sightseeing cruise and drift through the canals while enjoying a freshly prepared local lunch or rent a bike and head off on a self-guided cycling tour of the city and its parks. Gothenburg is home to the famed Liseberg, one of Sweden’s most popular theme parks, as well as lots of fascinating museums including the Universeum (the Nordic region’s largest science discovery centre), the Hasselblad Centre with its collection of world-class photos and of course, the World of Volvo!

Centre of Gothenburg, summer itinerary for families in Sweden

Gothenburg’s central canal and historic district

Charming seaside towns, hundreds of small islands and harbours and all the seafood you could ever hope for, this is true Sweden away from any city crowds. Ride bikes on the Koster Islands where no cars are allowed, try your hand at crab fishing and haul in the catch of the day or meander through the islets by kayak before stopping at a local bakery in Grebbestad to pick up some local fika.

Fishing dock on South Koster Island

Canals, lakes, forests, wild roaming moose and hiking trails for miles, Dalsland is ‘Sweden in miniature’ and home to nature at its best. Pack a picnic and explore the forests on foot or take a trip out to Mellerud to have lunch on a boat sailing down the canal. After a day of exploring, cook over an open fire and relax to the sounds of nature.

Dalsland Canal in Haverud

Visit Lapland for a picture perfect winter break above the Arctic Circle. Kiruna is Sweden’s northernmost city, where you can experience the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. Head out to a wilderness lodge and mush your own husky sled through the snow, visit Sami reindeer herders and cast a line into the ice for a few hours of fishing. Lulea and the Arctic Coast, Harads, Björkliden and Abisko National Park are all key locations offering magical winter experiences – not forgetting the famed ICEHOTEL at Jukkasjärvi (though we recommend a day visit rather than a chilly overnight stay).