15 Best Cities to Visit in Sweden‘s stunning coastline and ancient forests provide the perfect backdrop for its remarkable cities. Charming narrow streets lead to historic castles and churches, while nearby pagan sites add to the picturesque charm of these vibrant urban centers. Quaint cafes and bars line the streets, complemented by a blend of daring modern architecture and traditional buildings, which are home to delightful museums. The nightlife options are truly exceptional, and many cities boast a significant student population, infusing the streets with a youthful and dynamic energy. Sweden’s best cities effortlessly blend the old and the new, offering a delightful smorgasbord of experiences for you to savor.
Orebro
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In addition to the captivating and exquisite castle, Orebro offers more than just its delightful moats and grounds. As a vibrant university town, it boasts a substantial student population, providing visitors with an abundance of options when it comes to terrace cafes, bars, and affordable eateries to indulge in.
Situated in close proximity to Stockholm, Orebro also boasts serene parks, relaxed lanes, and the nearby Vanern Lake, all of which contribute to its appeal as a tourist destination.
Vasteras
As you approach Vasteras from a distance, you may feel a slight sense of unease due to the industrial areas and uninviting shopping complexes that surround the city. However, at the heart of the city lies the old town, which is an absolute delight to explore. Its cobbled streets are lined with charming cottages and beautiful gardens filled with colorful flowers. Vasteras is a bustling city with excellent museums and restaurants, and it also serves as a great starting point for exploring the nearby countryside. The area boasts several ancient pagan sites that are worth visiting, as well as the stunning Malaren Lake and a massive water park, among other attractions.
Visby
Visby, the captivating capital of Gotland, is a charming medieval city that stands out as one of Sweden’s most remarkable destinations. Its intricate network of ancient, cobblestone streets and alleys casts a spell on those who explore them. The city’s enchanting allure is further enhanced by its picturesque cottages, the captivating ruins of Gothic churches, and the awe-inspiring walls that encircle the Old Town.
One cannot help but be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of the Saint Maria Cathedral, a true marvel to behold. Additionally, Visby offers a plethora of bars and restaurants, providing ample opportunities for visitors to indulge in delectable cuisine and refreshing beverages. While the summer months may bring larger crowds, it is during the annual Medieval Week that the city truly comes alive. This festive event immerses Visby in a vibrant atmosphere, as medieval costumes and events take center stage, creating an unforgettable experience for all.
Uppsala
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Uppsala, one of the oldest cities in Sweden, holds the esteemed title of being the heart of the nation. Despite its extensive and illustrious past, the city exudes a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, thanks to its thriving student population that injects a sense of youthful energy into its ancient streets.
By day, Uppsala presents itself as a relaxed and tranquil destination, but as night falls, the city truly comes alive. Nestled along the Fyris River, it offers a charming blend of atmospheric cafes and bustling bars that adorn its riverbanks. Additionally, there are delightful waterside paths that beckon visitors to take leisurely strolls. In close proximity, an enthralling archaeological site showcases the remnants of old Uppsala, adding to the city’s allure.
Conveniently accessible from Stockholm, Uppsala serves as an excellent city to include in one’s itinerary.
Umea
Despite being the European Capital of Culture in 2014, Umea remains a hidden gem with an abundance of attractions and activities. The city boasts a vast art gallery, an impressive vintage guitar museum, and several captivating museums dedicated to the indigenous Sami people and their culture.
In addition to its cultural offerings, Umea is a vibrant college town that offers a plethora of excellent bars, restaurants, and shopping opportunities. The city is also adorned with charming little parks, providing tranquil spaces for relaxation. Situated approximately 400 kilometers below the Arctic Circle, Umea serves as a popular stopover for those embarking on a journey to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Linkoping
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Linkoping is a city that boasts of a stunning medieval cathedral, which is undoubtedly its highlight. However, the city has much more to offer than just that. Despite being quite industrial in parts, with Saab taking over the city, there are pockets of its fantastic past that can be found interspersed amidst more modern and soulless buildings. Visitors can explore the lovely old castle, numerous churches, and some great museums. The city has some absolutely gorgeous parts that are worth discovering. Additionally, Linkoping is also the site of a famous battle, where Duke Karl finally won control of Sweden in 1598.
Lund
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Lund, the second oldest city in the country, is a captivating destination that beckons exploration. Its charming old lanes wind through the city, adorned with delightful architecture, while beech forests envelop its surroundings. However, it is the magnificent medieval old town that truly steals the spotlight and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
The city boasts leafy parks that seamlessly transition into remarkable museums, and its cobbled streets conceal numerous picture-perfect locations. At the heart of Lund lies the most prestigious and oldest university in Sweden, infusing the city with a vibrant and youthful ambiance. This energy is further reflected in its thriving arts and cultural scene, making it a delight to immerse oneself in.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Lund also offers an array of exciting nightlife venues and a flourishing gastronomic scene. Whether strolling through its beautiful streets or indulging in its vibrant atmosphere, Lund promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Karlskrona
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Karlskrona, a town centered around a military base, is renowned for its captivating naval architecture that can be observed throughout the city. Although the 17th and 18th Century buildings possess remarkable beauty, accessing them often requires joining a guided tour as many are still utilized by the military.
Originally established to enable the King of Sweden to maintain control over the Baltic Sea, Karlskrona has gradually evolved into the country’s third-largest city. Consequently, there is an abundance of attractions and activities to engage in.
One can explore the charming old churches, modern shopping malls, and a diverse range of restaurants and bars. During the summer, the archipelago offers numerous enchanting and secluded swimming spots to discover.
Helsingborg
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Helsingborg, with its strategic location and close proximity to Denmark, was once a site of numerous battles between the Swedes and the Danes. Today, it boasts impressive castle ruins that overlook the harbor, adding to its historical charm. Situated on the Oresund, the city offers a picturesque waterfront adorned with numerous cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Every year, Helsingborg attracts millions of visitors, along with its Danish neighbor Helsingor, thanks to its vibrant theater and arts scene. The city’s charming cobblestone streets wind their way through the urban landscape, passing by unique turreted buildings that contribute to Helsingborg’s distinctive appearance.
Malmo
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Malmo, the third-largest city in the country, is a melting pot of cultures with more than 150 nationalities residing there. This diversity has fostered a progressive and inclusive atmosphere. Situated near Copenhagen and with Germany just across the Baltic, Malmo has been shaped by various influences, resulting in an impressive selection of Middle Eastern markets and a wide range of cuisines to savor. The city’s thriving art and culture scene boasts fascinating architectural landmarks to explore. From the charming old castle and picturesque squares in the Old Town to the modern waterfront with its stunning promenade, Malmo is a city waiting to be discovered.
Gothenburg
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Gothenburg, a city known for its relaxed atmosphere, offers a pleasant experience for both tourists and residents. Its strong connection to the maritime world is evident in every aspect of the city. Exploring the waterfront is a delightful experience, as the city is intersected by charming 17th Century canals. The port is bustling with ships, and museums dedicated to the sea can be found scattered throughout the city.
In addition to its maritime charm, Gothenburg boasts beautiful architecture and a thriving arts and cultural scene. Throughout the year, there are numerous events and festivals that cater to different interests. The city’s large student population adds a youthful energy to the atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the lively bars, cozy cafes, and excellent shopping options. Furthermore, Gothenburg is renowned for its delectable fish-filled cuisine, providing yet another reason to explore this captivating city.
Stockholm
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Spread across fourteen islands, the residents aptly refer to their capital as the ‘beauty on water,’ and it is evident why. Stockholm boasts a captivating blend of contemporary and traditional architecture, offering different facets to explore. The old town, in particular, exudes a delightful charm with its enchanting cathedrals, opulent palace, and meandering cobblestone streets, all surrounded by the mesmerizing presence of water.
Everywhere you turn, practical yet alluring design is prevalent, be it in the cozy cafes, vibrant bars and restaurants, or even in the very structures themselves. Additionally, Stockholm houses a couple of exceptional museums dedicated to showcasing this remarkable aspect of the city. As a fashionable destination, Stockholm is renowned for its trendy nightlife scene, featuring lively nightclubs and an array of incredible restaurants that serve up delectable and diverse cuisine.
Karlstad
If you have a passion for the great outdoors, Karlstad is the perfect destination for you. Located on the banks of Lake Vanern and with the Klaralven River flowing through it, this city offers a plethora of water activities to indulge in. The lake is massive and offers a stunning backdrop for scenic walks along the shore. Despite its small size, Karlstad is a vibrant city with a youthful vibe, thanks to its large student population. You’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants to explore and enjoy during your visit.
Halmstad
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Rewritten: Despite the fact that the fire of 1619 destroyed the majority of the buildings and monuments in this formerly fortified city, Halmstad remains a delightful and well-liked destination. Although there are numerous excellent restaurants and a noteworthy museum, the primary draw for most visitors are the beaches located just beyond the city center. During the summer months, these beaches are bustling with activity and the outdoor bars are a favored location for revelry.
Sundsvall is one of the 15 Best Cities to Visit in Sweden
Situated on the coast of Bothnian, Sundsvall is a vibrant city that has much to offer. Although it may not boast any iconic landmarks, its cohesive architecture creates a charming atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls along its broad boulevards adorned with beautiful stone structures.
In a devastating turn of events in 1888, the city was nearly destroyed by fire within a mere half-day. However, it was swiftly reconstructed with remarkable efficiency, earning it the nickname ‘stone city’. With an abundance of excellent dining establishments, inviting bars, and quaint cafes tucked away, Sundsvall is a destination that should not be missed.
