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Capital city: Stockholm
Government system: Constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy
Surface Area: 450,295 square kilometres
Population: Approximately 10.6 million (2025)
Languages Spoken: Swedish (official), with widespread English proficiency
Major Religions: Christianity (primarily Lutheran), with smaller communities of Islam, Catholicism, and other faiths
Country Overview
Sweden is a country that combines striking natural beauty with a highly developed modern society. Stretching from the rolling southern farmlands to the remote wilderness of Lapland, it offers dramatic contrasts of landscape. Forests, lakes, and mountains dominate much of the territory, while its coastline along the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Bothnia provides scenic archipelagos and fishing communities. Stockholm, the capital, is often celebrated for being built on a series of islands, seamlessly blending historic charm with contemporary design and technology-driven living. Sweden has consistently ranked high in global quality-of-life indexes, reflecting its strong focus on welfare, equality, and education.
The Swedish people are known for their deep respect for nature, which is protected by the principle of “allemansrätten” or the right of public access. This allows anyone to walk, camp, or pick berries and mushrooms almost anywhere in the countryside, encouraging both locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors responsibly. Culture is equally important, with Sweden’s literary, musical, and cinematic contributions known worldwide, from the works of Astrid Lindgren to global phenomena like ABBA and Ingmar Bergman. The country is also a pioneer in sustainability, renewable energy, and green technology, aiming to become carbon neutral by 2045.
For tourists, Sweden is welcoming and easy to travel through. English is widely spoken, public services are efficient, and infrastructure is modern. Whether you are interested in history, with mediaeval towns and Viking sites, or outdoor adventure, with hiking, skiing, and dog sledding opportunities, Sweden offers something year-round. The nation’s commitment to inclusivity and equality is also evident in its laws and daily life, making it a comfortable and safe place for international visitors.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Currency & banking
💰 Currency Overview
Sweden’s official currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK), often abbreviated as “kr”. While many businesses accept major credit cards, it is always advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas or smaller towns. The country is highly digital, with mobile payment apps like Swish commonly used by locals, though these often require a Swedish bank account.
💵 Banknotes and Coins
The Swedish Krona is divided into 100 öre, though öre coins are no longer in circulation. Banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 kronor, featuring famous Swedes such as Astrid Lindgren and Greta Garbo. Coins are available in 1, 2, 5, and 10 kronor. Tourists will find that notes and coins are still accepted, but cash is used less frequently than in many other European countries.
💳 Currency Exchange
Currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange offices, or airports, though rates are generally better in banks and city exchange bureaus. Major currencies like the Euro, US Dollar, and British Pound are easy to exchange. ATMs usually offer competitive exchange rates compared to exchange offices. It is recommended to avoid exchanging money at hotels, where rates are often less favourable.
🏧 Credit Cards and ATMs
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across Sweden, even in small shops, taxis, and cafes. Visa and Mastercard are the most common, while American Express and Diners Club may have limited acceptance. ATMs, known locally as “Bankomat,” are plentiful in cities and towns, offering 24-hour service. Tourists should notify their bank before travelling to avoid blocked transactions, and it’s advisable to check fees for foreign withdrawals.
Tipping
🍽️ Tipping in Restaurants
Tipping in Sweden is not compulsory, as service charges are generally included in the bill. However, rounding up to the nearest 10 or leaving around 5–10% for good service is appreciated in restaurants, especially in more formal establishments. In casual cafes or bars, rounding up is sufficient.
🏨 Tipping in Hotels
Hotel staff do not expect large tips, but small gestures are welcome. Leaving 20–30 kronor for housekeeping or giving the porter 10–20 kronor per bag is considered polite. At luxury hotels, a slightly higher tip may be appropriate.
🚖 Tipping in Taxis
Taxi fares are metered and include service charges, so tipping is not expected. That said, rounding up to the nearest 10 kronor or adding 5–10% for a helpful driver is common courtesy, especially if they assist with luggage or provide useful local advice.
🧭 Tipping Guides and Drivers
Tour guides and drivers do not have a fixed tipping culture, but a small tip is always appreciated. Around 50–100 kronor per day for guides and 20–50 kronor per day for drivers is a reasonable amount if you feel they have gone above and beyond.
Communications
📶 Public WiFi
Public WiFi is widely available across Sweden, particularly in larger cities, airports, train stations, and even some buses. Many cafes and libraries also provide free access, making it easy for tourists to stay connected without relying heavily on mobile data.
🏨 Hotel WiFi
Most hotels, from budget to luxury, include free WiFi in their room rates. The connections are usually reliable, although speed can vary in remote areas. Some hotels may offer premium high-speed options at an additional cost, which can be useful for business travellers.
📱 Mobile Networks and SIM Cards
Sweden has excellent mobile coverage, with 4G widely available and 5G expanding in urban centres. Tourists can purchase prepaid SIM cards from providers such as Telia, Telenor, or Tele2 at convenience stores, airports, and kiosks. These SIM cards typically include generous data packages, making them a cost-effective solution for staying connected during your trip.
Getting around
🚇 Metro and Local Transport
In Stockholm, the metro system (Tunnelbana) is efficient, clean, and well-connected, making it the easiest way to travel around the capital. Trains run frequently, and stations are decorated with impressive artwork, adding cultural charm to daily commuting. Gothenburg and Malmö rely more on trams and buses, both of which are reliable and simple to navigate.
🚆 Trains
Sweden’s train network is extensive, linking major cities and smaller towns. High-speed services, such as the SJ X2000, connect Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö quickly and comfortably. Regional and intercity trains provide scenic journeys through forests, lakes, and coastal areas, making rail travel both practical and enjoyable.
🚌 Buses
Buses serve areas not covered by trains, including rural communities. Long-distance buses are affordable, with operators such as FlixBus offering routes across Sweden and to neighbouring countries. Local city buses are modern, accessible, and easy to use with transport cards or mobile apps.
🚢 Ferries
Ferries connect Sweden’s islands and coastal communities. Services are available in archipelagos around Stockholm and Gothenburg, with additional international routes to Finland, Denmark, and the Baltic States. Ferry journeys can be both practical transport and a scenic experience for travellers.
🚗 Driving in Sweden
Driving in Sweden offers flexibility, particularly when exploring rural areas. Roads are well-maintained and clearly signposted. Drivers must carry a valid licence, insurance documents, and identification. Headlights must be on at all times, even during daylight. Speed limits are strictly enforced, with fines for violations. Winter driving requires snow tyres, and in northern Sweden, motorists must remain alert for elk and reindeer crossing roads.
Health advice
🏥 Health Advice for Tourists
💉 Suggested Vaccines
| Vaccine | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Recommended for most travellers |
| Hepatitis B | For longer stays or medical procedures |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | Recommended if visiting rural/forested areas in spring and summer |
| Rabies | Only for travellers in close contact with animals |
| Routine Vaccines | Ensure MMR, Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio are up to date |
🦠 Diseases
Sweden is generally low risk for infectious diseases. However, travellers spending time in rural areas during summer should be aware of tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease. Proper precautions, such as insect repellent and protective clothing, are advisable.
🤒 Potential Health Issues
The main health issues for tourists are related to the cold climate, including frostbite and hypothermia in winter. Seasonal allergies are common in spring, while midges and mosquitoes can be a nuisance in northern areas during summer.
🏥 Healthcare Standards
Sweden has an excellent healthcare system, with modern hospitals and clinics throughout the country. Emergency care is available to all, but non-EU visitors should expect to pay. EU citizens with an EHIC or GHIC card can access treatment at local rates.
📑 Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended, even for EU travellers. It should cover medical costs, evacuation, and unexpected expenses such as cancellations. Policies should also account for adventure activities, such as skiing or hiking, if included in your trip.
Safety
👮 Crime
Sweden is considered a safe country with low crime rates compared to many nations. Petty theft such as pickpocketing may occur in busy urban areas, particularly around transport hubs. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare.
⚠️ General Safety Issues
Tourists should be aware of weather conditions, especially in winter when snow and ice can make travel hazardous. In rural areas, wildlife such as moose may wander onto roads, posing risks for drivers. Urban areas are generally safe, with reliable policing and good infrastructure.
📜 Local Laws
Alcohol is heavily regulated, with sales controlled through government-run Systembolaget shops. Drinking in public spaces is often prohibited, and fines apply. Sweden enforces strict anti-drug laws, with zero tolerance for possession or use. Identification must be carried at all times, particularly when purchasing alcohol or using certain services.
🚨 Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police, Fire, Ambulance | 112 |
| Non-Urgent Medical Advice | 1177 |
Climate
🌸 Spring (March–May)
Spring brings milder temperatures and blooming landscapes. It is a good time for city visits, with fewer tourists and lower prices. However, weather can be unpredictable, ranging from chilly days to warm sunshine.
☀️ Summer (June–August)
Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and the famous midnight sun in the far north. Cities come alive with festivals and outdoor dining. Warm weather makes it ideal for hiking, island-hopping, and enjoying Sweden’s lakes and countryside.
🍂 Autumn (September–November)
Autumn offers colourful foliage and cooler weather. Tourist numbers decline, making it a peaceful time to travel. It is particularly appealing for those who enjoy hiking and photography, though daylight hours shorten rapidly towards November.
❄️ Winter (December–February)
Winter in Sweden is cold and snowy, particularly in the north. It is the season for skiing, snowboarding, and witnessing the Northern Lights. Stockholm and other cities host charming Christmas markets. Travellers should prepare for very short daylight hours.
🎒 Packing Tips
Travellers should pack layered clothing to adapt to Sweden’s changing climate. Waterproof jackets and sturdy footwear are useful year-round. In winter, thermal clothing and insulated boots are essential, while in summer lighter clothes with a jacket for cooler evenings suffice.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit depends on personal interests. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, spring and autumn for cultural visits and fewer crowds, and winter for snow sports and northern adventures.
📊 Climate Summary Table
| Season | Temperature Range | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 5–15°C | Blossoms, quieter cities |
| Summer | 15–25°C | Festivals, midnight sun |
| Autumn | 5–15°C | Colourful landscapes |
| Winter | -5–5°C | Skiing, Northern Lights |
Visa information
🛂 Visa Types
Sweden is part of the Schengen Area, so travellers from Schengen member states do not need a visa for short visits. Visitors from many countries outside Europe can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Those intending longer stays, work, or study require appropriate visas or permits.
🔗 Useful Websites
Swedish Migration Agency: https://www.migrationsverket.se
Schengen Visa Information: https://www.schengenvisainfo.com
Electrical
Which power plugs and sockets are used in Europe?
In Europe, the power plugs and sockets are of type F. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. Check out the following pictures.
Type F: also known as “Schuko”. This socket also works with plug C and plug E.
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| Type F: This socket also works with plug C and E |