25 ultimate tips for a summer in Sweden

What is it? Far up north, above the Arctic Circle in Sweden, lies the small village of Riksgränsen in Norrbotten, complete with ski lifts, hotels and restaurants. Here, you can ski under the midnight sun in late May. If there’s plenty of snow, the lifts reopen over the Midsummer weekend, when the sun is at its highest. To the delight of ski enthusiasts, it’s recently been confirmed that this will be the case this year too – the lifts will stay open all the way until June 21.

Why go? Skiing in the middle of the night beneath a sun that never sets is something you might only experience once in a lifetime. In Riksgränsen, it’s surprisingly accessible. While the lifts close at 16.00, they reopen at 22.00 on Fridays and Sundays in May and stay open until after midnight. The official midnight sun doesn’t appear until May 25, but even a couple of weeks earlier, it’s already light through the night.

Time Out tip: If you want to go ski touring in the mountains beyond the pistes, it’s entirely possible – but it requires solid knowledge of safety and avalanche risk, as well as the right equipment. Gear can be rented on site.

What is it? A morning in northern Lapland. You step off the platform and arrive in Abisko: one of Sweden’s most legendary mountain destinations. In Abisko National Park, streams, ravines and dramatic landscapes await.

Why go? A summer trip to Abisko is best experienced by rail. From Stockholm, the journey runs via Boden. It takes a while – 17 hours – and it’s hard to tear yourself away from the train window. When the silhouette of Lapporten appears, you know you’re approaching the bare mountain plateaus, the birch forests and the peace and quiet. AAs the starting point—or finish line—of the Kungsleden Trail, Abisko is ideal for both day hikes and longer treks. And the big summer bonus? Midnight sun for seven weeks every year.

Time Out tip: Try the 12km return day hike through the Kärkevagge valley to Trollsjön/Rissájávri. The water is so clear it almost feels unreal. Start at the parking area along the E10 near Låktatjåkka, 30km from Abisko (transport required). A longer and more demanding option is the 19km hike to Låktatjåkko Mountain Station, Sweden’s highest mountain station.

What is it? Deep in the forests of northern Sweden, surrounded by dramatic wilderness, lies Europe’s largest unregulated rapid. Huge volumes of water thunder forwards at incredible speed, creating a roar that gives the place an almost overwhelming atmosphere.

Why visit? This is where you get truly close to the forces of nature. During the spring flood, the water flow can reach as much as 870 cubic metres per second. Wooden walkways run right alongside the rapids, making the experience both intense and accessible. There are several hiking trails to choose from, depending on how far you want to venture into the dense, dark-green wilderness. The area also has a visitor centre with a souvenir shop and café for anyone wanting a break from the outdoors. The combination of the deafening roar and the dramatic setting makes Storforsen unlike anywhere else.

Time Out-tips: Check into Hotell Storforsen, lace up your hiking boots and head out along the rapids. Afterwards, take a dip in the natural rock pools carved out by the rushing water.

What is it? A five-star family resort in the coastal town of Piteå in northern Sweden. Surrounded by pine forests, shallow sandy beaches and the sea, Pite Havsbad delivers a classic Swedish summer experience for the whole family.

Why visit? Pite Havsbad is often called the ‘Riviera of the North’ – and in summer, it’s easy to see why.

The wide sandy beach is made for lazy days in the sun, while restaurants, cafés and laidback beach life create a proper holiday atmosphere. When evening arrives, the area comes alive with live music, funfairs and summer activities for both kids and grown-ups. And if the weather turns, there’s also a water park, indoor play centre and mini golf on site. Pite Havsbad is perfect for anyone wanting to combine relaxing nature with activities and family fun.

Time Out-tips: Let your days stay spontaneous. At Pite Havsbad, there’s more than enough to do for the holiday planning to practically sort itself out – whether the family chooses beach days, water slides or evenings of live music beneath the midnight sun.

What it is: It’s July, the height of summer. You’re in Hemavan in southern Lapland — the gateway to Sweden’s legendary 450-kilometre hiking trail, the King’s Trail (Kungsleden). With tired legs after one of your first day hikes, you settle into Björk, an architect-designed mountaintop restaurant whose geometric silhouette rises against the softly rolling landscape.

Why visit? Paired with the staggering views, the slightly bitter drink — lingonberry juice spiked with vodka — tastes even better. Up on the bare mountain plateau, you’ve passed pink fields of fireweed and cloudberries glowing like little golden pearls beside the boardwalk trails. For kilometres at a time, you’ll barely encounter another soul — perhaps only a lemming darting quickly across the path. If you’re lucky, you may spot reindeer too.

And if you’re not aiming big and hiking all the way to Kungsleden’s final destination, Abisko, the area is equally suited to shorter day hikes. Combine your stay with fly fishing, waterfalls and dips in ice cold mountain lakes.

Time Out tip: Hike to the summit of Atoklimpen, a relatively accessible trek rewarded with sweeping views of mountain peaks, valleys and shimmering lakes.

What is it? A berry that fills me with joy, and one whose scent and flavour I can recall instantly.

Why try it? It has a concentrated sweet-tart aroma that can be described as a mix of roses, raspberries, red wine and perhaps a hint of pineapple and lychee – though it truly has no equal. The fact that it’s difficult to pick, hard to clean and hard to cultivate only adds to its exclusivity.

It’s a berry I want in my future wedding cake, one that makes me long for the north the more I think about it and which, in the words of perhaps the world’s most famous botanist Carl von Linné, ‘surpasses all other European berries’.

I pick mine along wind-swept rocky shores in the archipelago outside Skellefteå, but they can be found along the coast from Hälsingland and northwards.

Time Out tip: Right now – in early summer 2026 – those in Stockholm can actually taste this extraordinary berry. Not fresh, of course, but as a jelly in one of the desserts on Adam and Albin’s tasting menu.

What is it? High Coast Distillery in Bjärtrå is one of Sweden’s best-known whisky distilleries, beautifully located on the banks of the Ångerman River. Here, striking cultural surroundings meet strong spirits and excellent food, with a visitor centre, whisky bar and restaurant all on site.

Why visit? For the combination of scenery and flavours — and because it’s a refreshing stop when you want to photograph something other than sea and mountains, preferably with a good drink in hand. The High Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site is right on the doorstep and offers dramatic landscapes, but the area is about more than archipelagos and hiking trails. Even if whisky isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to enjoy here: smooth rocky outcrops, deep fairytale forests and picturesque islands. The overall experience, framed by the soft northern evening light, is reason enough to make the detour.

Time Out tip: On June 26–27, the High Coast Whisky Festival takes place, with two days of whisky, live music, smash burgers and single malt by the river in the evening sun. But the distillery is worth visiting year-round.

What is it? Deep in the forest outside Rättvik in Dalarna lies an old limestone quarry with steep walls, turquoise water and outstanding acoustics. When quarrying ended in 1990, the idea emerged to transform the site. Dalhalla began as an outdoor opera venue but has since expanded to other genres, becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after and unique music arenas.

Why go? People come to Dalhalla both for the experience of a truly unique concert venue, set in nature, and for the amphitheatre carved from limestone. It’s a fairly large arena, and despite its remote location, it has attracted major international acts such as Kiss, Norah Jones, Massive Attack and Lewis Capaldi, as well as countless Swedish artists. Not just audiences but performers want to experience Dalhalla – and on a bright summer evening, it’s easy to see why.

Time Out tip: Before leaving Rättvik, take a walk along Långbryggan, which stretches out into Lake Siljan. At 628 metres, it’s said to be the longest inland pier in the world. Grab a waffle with Rättvik ice cream from the kiosk by the beach too.

What is it? There’s a version of Dalarna made for holiday photos – you know, dancing around the Midsummer pole, the Vasaloppet trail between Sälen and Mora, Carl Larsson’s house in Sundborn and Zorn’s in Mora – and then there’s the version for those in the know. Tällberg is the latter: a small village on a peninsula in Lake Siljan where the hills roll gently down to the water and nothing seems to have changed in a hundred years.

Why go? Tällberg is lifestyle Dalarna: atmospheric and pared-back, with several spas packed into a small area. Or, as they call it locally, ‘gästgiveri’. Åkerblads is the natural anchor – historic surroundings, a spa that makes the most of the views, food that takes its ingredients seriously and Lake Siljan within easy walking distance for a late-night swim.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss coffee and waffles at Holens Kaffestuga – one of Sweden’s oldest cafés, with nearly a century behind it – and Klockargården, where local artisans showcase high-quality art and woodcraft. Also swing by Tällbergs Keramik, which has been producing stoneware for three generations since 1961.

What is it? As the summer evening turns to dusk in the Swedish forests, something stirs. Hearing wolves howl is something few Swedes ever experience, but with the help of guides from Wild Sweden, it’s a bucket-list dream that can come true. The excursions can be arranged in different ways – with comfortable hotel accommodation or a more nature-focused experience, sleeping outdoors in a hammock tent.

Why go? You approach the wolves’ territory carefully and respectfully, then sit and wait. And wait. But when it happens – when you hear a wolf howl and perhaps a whole litter of pups responding through the forest, before joining together in a chorus – the goosebumps are instant. There are no guarantees, of course – these are wild animals – but the guides are knowledgeable and do everything they can to create a great experience.

Time Out tip: You can combine the wolf howling with other excursions from the same organiser, such as bear watching (from a hide) or moose spotting.

What is it? 30,000 islands, smooth cliffs, towering pine trees, creaking jetties and sailboats slowly gliding across the sea. The Stockholm archipelago is one of Sweden’s most beautiful destinations – a place where salty swims among seaweed and perch meet idyllic fishing villages, wood-fired saunas and sun-soaked natural coves. The best part? Many of the islands are easily reached by archipelago ferry straight from the city centre.

Why visit? Ask any Stockholmer about their favourite place in the city during summer and there’s a good chance the answer will be the archipelago. Sure, the inner city has plenty to boast about – outdoor terraces, grand boulevards, tiny wine bars by the water, fascinating museums and leafy parks – but once summer arrives, few things beat a day out in the Stockholm archipelago. From jetty parties and yacht life on Sandhamn to cosy cafés and ostrich safaris on Möja, then onwards to snorkelling in marine nature reserves out on Bullerö in the outer archipelago – there’s an island here for every taste.

Time Out-tips: Don’t have your own boat – or just don’t fancy squeezing onto the ferry? One of the archipelago’s best day trips is only a bus ride from Slussen. At Björnö, you’ll find swimming coves that almost feel tropical, sparkling water, hiking trails and great opportunities for both camping and an evening dip from the soft sandy beach.

What is it? They’ve become known for their delicious, beautifully decorated waffles, but it doesn’t stop there. When sisters Elisabeth and Matilda opened a guesthouse in their old hometown, deep in the countryside of Östergötland, they soon built an entire world of cultural events, courses and café activities – right in what many would call ‘the middle of nowhere’.

Why go? If it’s closeness to nature you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. Forest paths lead you on small adventures, and there are canoes and a sauna. An evening dip in the pond is a must on warm summer nights. But people don’t come to Borkhult Lapphem just to stay in the individually decorated rooms. Each summer also brings concerts by well-known Swedish artists, along with courses and workshops that bring out your creative side.

Don’t miss: Art also plays a central role at Lapphem. Each year, an artist is invited to stay as an artist in residence, and various exhibitions are organised.

What is it? In Värmland and Dalsland, a small paradise awaits anyone who loves canoeing and spending time in nature. Thanks to a network of long lakes, along with canals and locks, you can travel up to 253 kilometres through deep forests and quiet communities by canoe or kayak. There are several rental points in the area, and along the way you can camp at prepared sites for a small fee.

Why go? Life doesn’t get much simpler than sitting in a canoe stocked with food for a few days, with drinking water beneath you – many of the lakes actually have drinkable water. You travel as far or as little as you like each day and stop wherever you feel like it. Passing through the locks is also part of the experience, and where there’s a lock, there’s often a café.

Time Out tip: For a more luxurious touch, book a night at the design hotel Upperud 9:9 and visit the aqueduct in Håverud.

What is it? Along Fårö’s northwestern coast stretches Digerhuvud, Sweden’s largest rauk field. Here, hundreds of limestone formations rise towards the sky, shaped by sea and wind over thousands of years. The whole of Fårö is worth exploring, but don’t miss the rauks.

Why go? The journey begins with the free ferry from Fårösund to Fårö’s distinctive and rugged landscape of open heath, wind-bent pines and long sandy beaches – no wonder Ingmar Bergman chose to settle here. Wandering among the rauks feels like stepping into a natural art gallery. Just to the north you’ll find Langhammars’ iconic formations, and in between lies the fishing village of Helgumannen, whose simple huts tell stories of life by the sea. Many gather along the coast to watch the sun sink into the horizon. When the sky turns orange and pink and the rauks become dark silhouettes against the sea, you’re guaranteed a summer evening to remember.

Time Out tip: Sitting here enjoying something to eat, or grilling at one of the barbecue spots, feels like stepping into a real-life fairytale. Swimming by the rauk field, however, is not recommended. The water is deep and currents can be strong. Instead, the popular Suderstrand, or the more remote – but magically beautiful – Norsta Aurar are much better options.

What is it? On northern Gotland, in Fleringe, lies an old limestone quarry. Today it’s filled with crystal-clear water that shimmers in blue-green tones against the white limestone walls. The Blue Lagoon is one of the island’s most popular and talked-about swimming spots.

Why go? It’s not hard to see why this turquoise oasis has also become one of Gotland’s most photographed places. The road here winds through rugged pine forests and heathland before the landscape suddenly opens up to reveal the sparkling water. Many come here to swim from the cliffs, sunbathe on the warm limestone slabs or simply enjoy the unique surroundings. The water is clear and refreshing, perfect on hot summer days. Or why not go for an evening swim, when the water glitters in the setting sun?

Time Out tip: Since the Blue Lagoon is well known, it can get crowded on the sunniest days in mid-summer. If you want to enjoy the place at a more relaxed pace, a cloudy day or a visit at sunset is a good idea.

What is it? Probably Bohuslän’s most famous tourist destination, buzzing with life, where fresh seafood and ocean delicacies take centre stage.

Why go? On Sweden’s west coast, fresh prawns are a must. A classic place to enjoy them is along the 800-metre-long Smögen pier, where colourful boathouses sit tightly packed, housing shops, cafés and restaurants.

During a stroll here, you can enjoy the boating life and the wide selection of freshly caught fish and seafood. These delicacies can either be bought over the counter in fish shops or enjoyed at one of the many restaurants. The range is enormous and of top quality, whether you’re craving freshly caught fish, ultra-fresh mussels or crayfish. It was actually at Skäret Krog, here in Smögen, that the classic prawn sandwich is said to have been created in the early 1930s. From Smögen pier, boat trips also depart to nearby Hållö and Kungshamn, as well as cruises through the beautiful Sotekanalen. Seal safaris and deep-sea fishing trips are also available.

Time Out tip: The west coast is home to several other charming communities, such as Hunnebostrand, Fjällbacka and Grebbestad. Turn it into a road trip – or why not a cycling tour – and tick them off one by one.

What is it? At the far end of the Långenäs peninsula, 20 minutes from central Gothenburg and beautifully located by Lake Landvetter in Mölnlycke, you’ll find Restaurant Signum – the Gothenburg area’s only two-Michelin-starred restaurant.

Why go? The setting is cosy and tranquil, with a menu that follows the Nordic seasons. The roughly 18 courses form a carefully composed cavalcade of small dishes, as beautiful as works of art. This is a culinary experience of the highest calibre without being pretentious. The chefs are deeply passionate, the sommelier knowledgeable and the service both professional and personal. The menu focuses on fish and seafood, with influences from vegetable gardens, farms and the wild Swedish landscape. Signum also has its own nearby cultivation of herbs, salads, vegetables and root crops, as well as its own seaweed farm in the ocean.

Time Out tip: Turn your visit into a staycation and spend the night at nearby Hällsnäs Hotel & Restaurant. The area is idyllic, with golf, tennis and padel close by.

What it is: A car-free rocky island in the Bohuslän archipelago, 45 minutes northwest of Gothenburg. Maritime history, a gigantic 17th-century fortress towering above the rooftops, and Sweden’s sailing capital — all packed into a picturesque harbour you can stroll around in just 20 minutes.

Why visit? To swim from smooth granite cliffs, eat a classic shrimp sandwich at Lasse-Majas Krog, and climb up to Carlsten Fortress for views stretching towards the Pater Noster lighthouse. During the last week of June, GKSS Match Cup Sweden takes place — a legendary match racing competition where boats duel close to the cliffs while spectators follow the drama for free from shore. Don’t miss Strandverket Art Hall either, housed in a former fortification where contemporary art meets sea views.

Time Out tip: Carlsten Fortress receives ten times more day visitors than evening visitors. Stay for the last ferry, have dinner at Tenan at the Grand Hotel — a royal summer villa dating back to 1892 — and walk along the fortress walls in the evening light, when you’ll almost have them to yourself.

What is it? An amusement park in the heart of Gothenburg with more than 40 rides and a packed events calendar all year round. Pairing the park with a few days in Sweden’s second-largest city makes for the perfect weekend getaway closer to home.

Why visit? Liseberg isn’t just an amusement park – it’s a leafy summer oasis in the middle of Gothenburg where laughter, butterflies in your stomach and the smell of freshly baked waffles fill the air. Thrilling rollercoasters sit alongside lush walkways, cosy restaurants and entertainment for the whole family. Feel your pulse race on the Balder rollercoaster, cool off on Kållerado and explore Rabbit Land, where younger visitors are greeted by carousels, rabbit discos, theatre shows and huge play areas. After a full day in the park – or two – the experience continues in Gothenburg’s charming neighbourhoods. Wander the cobbled streets of Haga, settle into cosy cafés, discover the city’s award-winning restaurants or hop on a boat out to the archipelago.

Time Out tips: Try to plan your visit around a concert on the Main Stage when your favourite artist comes to town. There are few better ways to end the day than with live music, twinkling fairground lights and that unmistakable summer feeling only Liseberg can deliver.

What is it? Sweden’s answer to the Hamptons! Torekov is a small fishing village on the western tip of the Bjäre Peninsula in north-west Skåne that has been a summer paradise for wealthy Stockholmers, celebrities and other well-heeled holidaymakers for more than a century. Expect a natural harbour, rocky coastline and the Hallands Väderö nature reserve just offshore.

Why visit? For early morning swims from the jetty, ice cream by the harbour and the sight of beautiful sailboats gliding past. Just a short bike ride away lies Hovs Hallar, where Ingmar Bergman filmed Death playing chess with the knight in ‘The Seventh Seal’, among dramatic rocky ridges plunging into the Kattegat Sea. Add a round at Torekov Golf Club – one of Sweden’s oldest courses dating back to 1924 – and dinner at the classic G. Swensons (where Hugh Grant, who owns a summer house here, is often spotted during the season).

Time Out tip: Set your alarm for 06.30 and head down to the morning jetty in the harbour. Locals in bathrobes (the more worn-out, the better) have been taking a dip here before breakfast since the nineteenth century – a tradition that has survived generations. Then hop on the Väderötrafiken boat out to Hallands Väderö (15 minutes, around SEK 220 return) for a day among seals, twisted pine trees and silent coves.

What is it? Sweden’s tennis capital and one of the country’s most beloved summer destinations. This coastal town on Laholm Bay has attracted Sweden’s holiday elite since the 1930s, and every July the harbour transforms into a glamorous summer party when the Nordea Open takes over the centre court.

Why visit? Few places have such a distinct summer DNA as Båstad. Every July, Sweden’s oldest international tennis tournament takes place here – this year for the 78th time. The rest of the season moves at a gentler pace: days are spent swimming at Malen and sipping drinks at Hotel Skansen’s cold-bathing house, 60 metres out in the Kattegat Sea. Round things off with a visit to Norrviken Gardens or an evening at Pepe’s Bodega by the harbour – the iconic summer club celebrates its 35th anniversary in 2026.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss the gastro hotel Furuhem by star chef Magnus Nilsson, formerly of the world-famous restaurant Fäviken Magasinet in Åre.

What is it? Exactly where Österlen begins and ends is a sensitive topic – especially for the people who live there. In practice, the area is usually considered to be the south-eastern part of Skåne, but its boundaries have been debated ever since Österlen started being used as a tourism term in the 1920s.

Why visit? Because nowhere else in Sweden quite feels like Österlen. Life moves at its own relaxed pace here, while the surroundings are at times almost offensively beautiful. It’s easy to understand why the area is often called ‘Sweden’s Tuscany’ – or ‘Sweden’s Provence’, depending on who you ask. One day you’re cycling a rail bike through Fyledalen, the next you’re standing at Ale’s Stones gazing out across the Baltic Sea or hopping aboard a steam train through the beech forests near Brösarp. White sandy beaches, vineyards and picturesque fishing villages sit side by side with driveway flea markets, EPA tractors and hobby potters stubbornly making mugs that are charmingly crooked and uneven.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss the historic heritage railway between Brösarp and Sankt Olof. The journey itself is half the experience: the train chugs past the rolling hills of Brösarp, follows Hanö Bay and continues through beech forests on its way across the Österlen countryside.

What is it? What started as a small container and a very large smoker has grown into one of Skåne’s biggest food destinations – Holy Smoke, set in a field in the tiny village of Bräcke outside Höganäs.

Why go? Put on your cowboy hat and bring patience along with a serious appetite. The smell of smoke hangs heavy over the beautiful surroundings and will almost certainly cling to your clothes and hair, as queues are long and can take some time. But it’s worth it. Here, you’ll find authentic barbecue cooked in true Texas style. Short ribs, pork belly, brisket, pastrami – everything a meat lover could wish for – combined with generous portions, a laid-back vibe and a friendly atmosphere. The Kullahalvön peninsula also offers plenty of other exciting things to explore, from breweries and vineyards to nature, culture and art. For swimming, the popular Kvickbadet in central Höganäs is recommended, as well as the sandy Margreteberg beach, cliff swimming at Ransvik outside Mölle or the family-friendly beach at Farhult.

Time Out tip: Afterwards, head to the adorable neighbouring village of Arild and grab an ice cream (if you can manage it) by the harbour, then wander through its charming streets. Best combined with a swim at Tussan bathing spot.

What is it? Few places are as dearly loved by Malmö residents – both locals and newcomers – as ‘Kallis’, also known as Ribersborgs Kallbadhus. A historic gem from 1914, thankfully protected and carefully restored.

Why go? Here, you can truly be yourself. People of all ages, sizes and backgrounds sunbathe, sauna and swim side by side in a wonderfully relaxing setting overlooking the Öresund. Men and women have separate sections. Nudity is the norm, but by no means compulsory. If swimming isn’t your thing, the cosy café is perfect for a coffee, beer or sandwich. Malmö is a fantastic summer city with plenty of charming outdoor terraces and fun events. New places to explore are constantly popping up.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss Cantin – a newly opened food court with street food, events and live music in nearby Varvsstaden. Perfect after a relaxing day at Kallis.

What it is: At the southwestern tip of Skåne lies Söderslätt — a landscape of salty sea breezes and small coastal villages where summer feels almost Southern European. There are plenty of gems to discover here, but two absolute must-visits are Smygehuk and Skanör–Falsterbo, where chalk-white sand dunes roll gently along the shoreline.

Why visit? We begin in Skanör–Falsterbo, at the end of the narrow peninsula where the Öresund strait meets the Baltic Sea. Here, vast stretches of water and softly shifting sandbanks await, dotted with beach huts painted in pink, sky blue and lime yellow. The scenery is so visually striking you’ll almost have to rub your eyes. Take a swim in the clear, refreshing water, then settle in at one of the simple beach kiosks or seafood restaurants gathered in clusters of red wooden cottages.

From Skanör, continue south towards Smygehuk — Sweden’s southernmost point. Here, with your toes in the sea and Baltic winds against your face, the country comes to an end, but the feeling lingers long after you leave. 

Time Out tip: For an extra touch of indulgence, check into the elegant Smygehus Havsbad. This classic spa hotel offers sea views and long dinners on its spacious veranda — the perfect place to unwind after a day along the coast. There’s also a pool for anyone not quite ready for the refreshing waters just outside. A perfect grand finale to a Swedish summer road trip.