Day 1: Arrival in Stockholm – Explore Gamla Stan
Welcome to Sweden! Start your adventure in the capital, Stockholm. After you arrive and settle into your accommodation, head to Gamla Stan, the Old Town. It’s one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe.
Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, and take in the colorful buildings. Grab a fika (Swedish coffee break) at a nearby café. You’ll spot lots of places to stop and soak up the old-world charm.
Make sure to see the impressive Royal Palace. If you’re up for it, check out the changing of the guard. End the day with a traditional Swedish dinner at one of the cozy restaurants nearby.
Where to Stay in Stockholm:
Stay in a hotel or hostel near the city center for easy access to major landmarks. Try City Backpackers Hostel or Hotel Sven Vintappare for budget-to-midrange options.
Day 2: Stockholm – Vasa Museum and Djurgården
Kick off your first full day at the Vasa Museum. The Vasa ship, which sank in 1628, is the main attraction and is incredibly well-preserved. It’s a must-see and gives you a glimpse into Sweden’s maritime history.
Next, spend the afternoon on Djurgården, a beautiful island full of attractions. If you’re into history, visit the Skansen open-air museum. Prefer something more laid-back? Just roam the lush parks or rent a bike and explore the island.
For dinner, head back into the city center where you’ll have lots of options. Try out some Swedish meatballs (köttbullar) with lingonberry sauce!
Day 3: Stockholm – Södermalm and Archipelago Excursion
Start your day exploring Södermalm, Stockholm’s trendy district. It’s full of quirky shops, cool bars, and fantastic street art. Head to the Fotografiska Museum for some cutting-edge photography exhibitions.
In the afternoon, take a boat tour of the Stockholm Archipelago. Sweden has over 24,000 islands to explore. Even if you don’t visit them all, a scenic cruise through the islands can be a relaxing break from city sightseeing.
End the day with dinner at a local spot in Södermalm. The district has some of the city’s best spots for casual dining.
Day 4: Uppsala – Day Trip from Stockholm
Take a day trip to Uppsala, just a 40-minute train ride from Stockholm. It’s a small, university town with a lot of charm and a rich history.
Visit Uppsala Cathedral, which is the largest church in Scandinavia. You can also check out Uppsala University, one of the oldest in Europe. Don’t miss Gamla Uppsala, an ancient burial site that dates back to the Viking age.
After a day of exploring, return to Stockholm and enjoy a quiet evening or explore more of the city’s vibrant nightlife if you’re up for it.
Day 5: Gothenburg – Arrival and Explore the City Center
This morning, take the train to Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city. It’s got a laid-back vibe compared to Stockholm but offers plenty to do.
After checking into your accommodation, begin your afternoon with a walk around the city’s center. Head to Kungsportsavenyn (commonly known as Avenyn), the city’s main boulevard, lined with shops, bars, and restaurants.
In the evening, grab dinner at Feskekôrka, a famous indoor fish market with great seafood options.
Day 6: Gothenburg – Explore the Archipelago
Today is perfect for an island getaway. Take a ferry ride to the southern Gothenburg Archipelago. The islands are car-free, making them super peaceful and perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking or biking.
If the weather’s good, bring a swimsuit. You’ll find small beaches on islands like Styrsö or Brännö. There’s nothing like a refreshing dip in Swedish waters!
In the evening, return to Gothenburg and enjoy some local seafood or opt for a more casual pub atmosphere.
Day 7: Gothenburg – Museums and Botanical Gardens
Start the day with a visit to the Universeum, a science center packed with interactive exhibits. It’s a fun spot for kids and adults alike.
Next, head over to the Gothenburg Museum of Art, which boasts impressive collections, including works by Nordic artists.
For a relaxing afternoon, wander the Gothenburg Botanical Garden. It’s one of Europe’s largest and offers a serene place to enjoy some greenery.
Day 8: Malmö – Arrival and Explore
Take an early morning train from Gothenburg to Malmö, which should take around 3 hours. Once you arrive, check into your accommodation and grab lunch at Lilla Torg, the city’s cozy old square.
After lunch, visit Turning Torso, the tallest building in Scandinavia. Next, walk over to Malmö Castle, which hosts a small museum.
Where to Stay in Malmö:
You’ll find budget-friendly hostels like Rut & Ragnars or Riverton Hotel for a mid-range stay with easy access to city attractions.
Day 9: Day Trip to Lund
Take a quick 15-minute train ride to Lund, a small town with a beautiful historic center. Visit Lund Cathedral, one of the oldest in Sweden. The town is home to Lund University, so there’s a vibrant student population, making it great for affordable dining and culture.
After your leisurely visit to Lund, return to Malmö in the afternoon and spend the evening strolling by the waterfront or enjoying a final Swedish meal at one of the city’s renowned restaurants.
Day 10: Copenhagen or Departure
If you have extra time, Copenhagen is just a short train ride over the Øresund Bridge. It’s perfect for a quick day trip to experience Denmark’s capital. If you’re flying back home, Malmö also has easy access to Copenhagen Airport (CPH), which makes your departure smooth.
Take this final day to reflect on your time in Sweden and enjoy a last fika before heading off to your next destination!
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