SWEDEN

Sweden has a diverse climate depending on the region, making it a great year-round destination:

• May–September (Summer & Midnight Sun): Best for outdoor activities, hiking, island hopping, and long daylight hours.
• October–November (Fall): Ideal for autumn colors, fewer crowds, and cultural experiences.
• December–March (Winter & Northern Lights Season): Best for skiing, dog sledding, and seeing the aurora borealis in Swedish Lapland.
• April (Spring): Great for mild weather, blooming flowers, and off-season travel deals.

• Stockholm & Gamla Stan – The historic old town with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the Royal Palace.
• The Vasa Museum – A 17th-century warship museum, one of Sweden’s most famous attractions.
• Drottningholm Palace – A UNESCO-listed royal residence, often called Sweden’s Versailles.
• Icehotel (Jukkasjärvi, Lapland) – A stunning hotel made entirely of ice and snow, rebuilt every winter.
• Abisko National Park – One of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights.
• The Göta Canal – A beautiful waterway stretching across Sweden, perfect for scenic cruises.
• Lund Cathedral – A magnificent medieval cathedral with an astronomical clock.
• Visby (Gotland Island) – A fairytale-like medieval town with Viking history and coastal charm.
• The Archipelago Islands – Thousands of islands off Stockholm’s coast, ideal for kayaking and sailing.
• Kiruna & Swedish Lapland – A winter wonderland with reindeer sledding, Sami culture, and Arctic adventures.

• Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) – Served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and creamy gravy.
• Gravlax – Cured salmon served with mustard-dill sauce.
• Smörgåsbord – A traditional Swedish buffet featuring cold and hot dishes.
• Toast Skagen – A delicious shrimp toast with mayonnaise, dill, and lemon.
• Knäckebröd – Crispy Swedish crispbread, often served with butter and cheese.
• Räkmacka – An open-faced shrimp sandwich with egg, mayo, and dill.
• Jansson’s Temptation – A creamy potato casserole with anchovies.
• Pea Soup & Pancakes (Ärtsoppa och Pannkakor) – A classic Thursday dish in Sweden.
• Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar) – Sweden’s famous sweet and spiced pastries, enjoyed during fika (coffee breaks).
• Glögg & Julmust – Swedish mulled wine and Christmas soft drink.

• Flights: Arrive at Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN), Gothenburg (GOT), or Malmö (MMX).
• Trains (SJ Rail): Sweden has a fast and efficient rail network connecting major cities and regions.
• Buses: A budget-friendly way to travel between towns and countryside destinations.
• Car Rentals: Recommended for exploring the countryside, Lapland, and coastal regions.
• Ferries: Ideal for traveling between Stockholm’s islands and Gotland.
• Public Transport: Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö have excellent metro, tram, and bus systems.
• Biking & Walking: Sweden is one of the most bike-friendly countries, and cities are highly walkable.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Sweden’s Schengen visa requirements based on nationality.
• EU Travelers: Can enter freely with a valid national ID or passport.

• Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK).
• Credit cards are widely accepted, and Sweden is mostly cashless.
• ATMs are available throughout the country, but many businesses prefer card payments.
• Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and exchange offices.

• Swedish is the official language.
• English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
• No translator is needed, but learning basic Swedish phrases like “Tack” (Thank you) is appreciated.

• Personal space is important – Swedes value their privacy and quietness.
• Tipping is appreciated but not required – Service charges are often included in bills.
• Be punctual – Swedes are known for their precision and respect for schedules.
• Swedes love nature – Respect the environment and follow “Allemansrätten” (the Right of Public Access).
• Fika is a daily ritual – Swedes take time to enjoy coffee and pastries with friends and colleagues.

• Restaurants: Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated.
• Bars & Cafés: No need to tip, but rounding up the bill is common.
• Hotels: Tipping is not expected, but a small tip for excellent service is welcomed.
• Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest SEK is polite.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: SEK 50–100 per person for excellent service.

• For peak season (June–August & December for Northern Lights tours): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (September–May): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For popular fjord cruises & train journeys: Book at least a few months in advance.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Weather changes quickly—always dress in layers and bring waterproof gear.
• Alcohol is expensive due to high taxes—buy at duty-free if you plan to drink.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com