Discover the ultimate European Roadtrip
Swedish Splendor
Stockholm - Strömstad
Stops on this Route:
Swedish Splendor
Stop 1: Stockholm 1/10
As Sweden’s charming capital, Stockholm is the perfect spot to kickstart your adventure. Take a walk through the city’s past in historic Gamla Stan and marvel at the depth of preserved medieval architecture. Stare in awe at the grandeur of the cathedral, built in 1279, or step inside the baroque Royal Palace, boasting more than 600 rooms across its 11 floors. Alongside the elegant Royal Apartments are three regal museums showcasing regalia and antiquities through the centuries. For something a bit more contemporary, visit the Nobel Museum, which celebrates Nobel Prize winners through exhibitions, movies, debates and more.
Swedish Splendor
Stop 2: Södertälje 2/10
Located on the cusp of Stockholm, this serene city offers the perfect break from the vibrant capital. Enjoy a stroll along the canal in the crisp Swedish weather or venture further afield to one of the many lakes and trails. Inside the city, delight the children at Tom Tits Experiment, a highly interactive science center designed to get their creative brains ticking. There are plenty of other museums dotted around Södertälje too, some of which offer a glimpse into the past by faithfully depicting Swedish life in the 19th century.
Swedish Splendor
Stop 3: Nyköping 3/10
Nestled on the banks of the tranquil river of Nyköpingsån, Nyköping oozes history from every pore. Venture to Nyköping Castle, one of Sweden’s most beautiful fortresses and the former home of royalty and prisoners alike. With four floors of exhibitions that delve into Nyköping’s rich history and stunning views of the town and beyond, it’s a must-see. You can get back to nature in one of the many parks and gardens dotted around the town, or explore Hållet-Marieberg-Stenbro, an untouched natural reserve.
Swedish Splendor
Stop 4: Norrköping 4/10
Nicknamed ‘The Manchester of Sweden’ due to its paper and textile heritage, Norrköping in Östergötland has reinvented itself in recent years, becoming a bustling cosmopolitan hub. Explore the city’s industrial landscape and witness the effortless marriage of past and present in its tantalizing mix of architectural heritage and cutting-edge art scene. After exploring the city, visit Himmelstalund, the site of Sweden’s biggest collection of petroglyphs – thought to date back to the Nordic Bronze Age.
Swedish Splendor
Stop 5: Linköping 5/10
Canals, cathedrals and lush green spaces define Linköping, but this a city determined to plot its own course for the future. There’s always something exciting to see here, no matter what time of year you visit. Hike the Östgötaleden trail in spring, kayak along the canals in summer, watch the city park come alive in color in the fall, or catch a hockey match in winter. Meanwhile, you can dream of taking to the skies all year round at the Swedish Air Force Museum.
Swedish Splendor
Stop 6: Visingsö 6/10
Travel to Gränna and board the ferry to be transported to the beautiful island of Visingsö on scenic Lake Vättern. Step into another world as you explore historic monuments and secluded beaches. Visit Näs Castle on the tip of the island for breathtaking views across the waters, or dive headfirst into the past with a visit to the Visingsborg castle ruins, situated in the harbor. To escape into nature, visit Västanå, a vast natural reserve offering hiking trails and viewing platforms within a preserved forest.
Swedish Splendor
Stop 7: Gothenburg 7/10
As the second-largest city in Sweden, Gothenburg is a hive of activity, brimming with entertainment, scenery and adventure. For more family fun, head to Liseberg, Scandinavia’s most-visited theme park, featuring thrilling rides and scenic walks. Alternatively, discover Slottskogen, a zoo with plenty of green spaces and sites of historic interest where a sea fortress still stands nearby. For those with a love of plants and flowers, the Garden Society of Gothenburg is a must-see. This 19th-century park is home to more than 2,000 varieties of rose, along with stunning sculptures.
Swedish Splendor
Stop 8: Klädesholmen 8/10
Known as ‘Herring Island’, this quaint destination is one of Sweden’s best-known fishing villages. Duck inside the tiny herring museum for an insight into Klädesholmen’s past, then stop off at one of the seafood restaurants along the coastline to try signature Swedish dishes. Just walking around the island is a joy, with its pretty red and white cottages against the crystal-clear waters, while sunset sees the horizon come alive in vivid hues of red and orange.
Swedish Splendor
Stop 9: Tanumshede 9/10
Situated along the west coast of Sweden, there are plenty of activities and sights to get stuck into in Tanumshede. Travel to Grebbestad for one of the most beautiful stretches of water in Europe, or explore history through the Falkeröd Trail. The main reason for visiting though is to be whisked back in time by the mysterious Tanum rock carvings. Depicting humans, animals, weapons, boats and other objects, the Bronze Age drawings are a quite incredible spectacle. The nearby Vitlycke museum offers some insights into the people who created them and once called this part of Sweden home.
Swedish Splendor
Stop 10: Strömstad 10/10
As your Sweden road trip comes to a close, reflect on your unforgettable journey at Strömstad. If you’re still left with a taste of adventure, visit Daftöland, a pirate amusement park, or enjoy your last few moments in blissful paradise at Kosterhavets National Park. Catch a ferry to the small island and enjoy the gorgeous views of the harbor.
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