Quintessentially Scandinavian, Sweden’s world reputation
is well entrenched thanks to names like ABBA, Volvo and
IKEA. Recent currency devaluation now makes it an almost
affordable destination that boasts plenty of nature, pleasant
cities and the typical Swedish liberalism.
Surprisingly laid-back and small for a capital, Stockholm
is a medieval city situated on many small islands,
giving the city a charming, photogenic appeal. Gamla Stan
is the old town (13th C), a fantasy of lanes, arches and
stairways. The 18th century Royal palace is a chief attraction,
while the Vasamuseet is an incredible achievement in marine
archaeology, revealing the city’s maritime past. The
Djurgården offers wonderful parklands and a concentration
of fine museums, especially the interesting open-air museum
of Skansen.
Set along Lake Vättern, beautiful Vadstena
is one of the most pleasant towns in Sweden. The Renaissance
castle Vadstena slott looks straight over the harbour and
lake.
More industrial in character, though just as charming,
Gothenburg has a magnificent harbour, a lively
atmosphere, several museums and the popular Liseberg. Gateway
to Denmark, Malmo, in the south, is smaller,
historical and has an unhurried atmosphere. The walled and
cobbled medieval port of Visby is a living
relic, Öland is an historic island,
Vadstena is beautiful with its lakeside
location and the magical landscape of Sarek National
Park makes it worth exploring the remote north.
Driving through the mountains of Fulufjället
is beautiful. Jokkmokk, inside the artic
circle, is a popular place to see the midnight sun.
Stockholm receives the bulk of international
flights, but Gothenburg is also busy, and many chose to
fly to Copenhagen and cross to Sweden via the new undersea
tunnel.
Sweden can be expensive, especially entertainment and accommodation,
limiting its appeal as a tourist destination, but it is
well organised, with a thorough infrastructure for visitors
to enjoy the well-preserved nature of this country. There
are also very few ‘ugly’ aspects to this socially
conscience country, making it pleasant.
