Sweden, a land of deep forests, sparkling lakes, and some of the world’s most charming cities, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, modern innovation, and rich cultural history. This 7-day itinerary covers a mix of urban and natural highlights, ensuring you experience both the vibrant cityscapes and Sweden’s quiet, breathtaking wilderness. From the stylish streets of Stockholm to the snowy landscapes of Swedish Lapland, each day is thoughtfully curated to maximize your Swedish adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Stockholm – Explore Gamla Stan & Djurgården
Activities:
- Arrival in Stockholm: Check into your accommodation in central Stockholm.
- Gamla Stan (Old Town): Wander through Stockholm’s historic heart, with its narrow, cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and iconic Stortorget Square.
- Royal Palace Tour: Visit the Royal Palace, a must-see with over 600 rooms filled with Swedish royal history.
- Djurgården Island: Head to Djurgården, where you’ll find a variety of attractions like the Vasa Museum (a preserved 17th-century ship) and the ABBA Museum.
Estimated Budget:
- Accommodation: $120 (budget hotel or Airbnb)
- Meals: $60
- Entrance Fees (Royal Palace, Vasa Museum): $30
- Transportation: $10 (Stockholm metro day pass)
Total: $220
Day 2: Stockholm – Art, Architecture & Food Tour
Activities:
- Stockholm Metro Art Tour: Stockholm’s metro is known for its stunning underground art – many stations feature striking murals and sculptures.
- Fotografiska Museum: Check out this contemporary photography museum, a favorite for both locals and tourists.
- Södermalm District: Head to Södermalm for its indie shops, hip cafes, and the scenic views from Monteliusvägen.
- Food Tour: Try traditional Swedish dishes like meatballs, herring, and Smörgåstårta (Swedish sandwich cake).
Estimated Budget:
- Accommodation: $120
- Meals (including food tour): $90
- Museum Entrance Fees: $20
- Transportation: $10
Total: $240
Day 3: Stockholm to Gothenburg – Canal Views & Scandinavian Design
Activities:
- Train to Gothenburg: Depart Stockholm in the morning; enjoy a 3-hour scenic train ride through Swedish landscapes.
- Gothenburg’s City Center: Explore Gothenburg’s beautiful canals and vibrant city center.
- Haga District: Visit Haga, Gothenburg’s oldest neighborhood, for unique shops, and try a traditional “Hagabullen” – a massive cinnamon roll.
- Göteborgs Konstmuseum: Discover Nordic art at this prestigious museum.
Estimated Budget:
- Accommodation: $100
- Train Ticket Stockholm-Gothenburg: $40
- Meals: $50
- Entrance Fees (Göteborgs Konstmuseum): $12
- Transportation: $10
Total: $212
Day 4: Gothenburg – Island Hopping in the Archipelago
Activities:
- Gothenburg Archipelago: Take a ferry to the Gothenburg Archipelago, a collection of picturesque islands perfect for hiking, cycling, or just relaxing by the sea.
- Explore Styrsö and Vrångö Islands: These islands offer charming villages, scenic hiking trails, and lovely views of the North Sea.
- Dinner in Gothenburg: Return to the city for dinner at a local seafood restaurant.
Estimated Budget:
- Accommodation: $100
- Meals: $60
- Ferry Tickets: $15
- Bike Rental: $20
Total: $195
Day 5: Train to Kiruna – Discover Swedish Lapland & Sami Culture
Activities:
- Train to Kiruna: Take an overnight train from Gothenburg to Kiruna, Sweden’s northernmost town in the heart of Swedish Lapland.
- Sami Culture Tour: Learn about the indigenous Sami people and their unique way of life. Many tours include a reindeer farm visit and Sami meal.
Estimated Budget:
- Overnight Train Ticket Gothenburg-Kiruna (including sleeper): $120
- Sami Culture Tour: $70
- Meals: $40
Total: $230
Day 6: Kiruna – Snow Adventures & Icehotel Tour
Activities:
- Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi: Experience the world-famous Icehotel, sculpted anew from ice each winter. Even if you’re not staying here, a guided tour of the hotel is fascinating.
- Snow Activities: Try a snowmobile tour or husky sledding for an adrenaline-filled adventure.
Estimated Budget:
- Accommodation in Kiruna: $90
- Icehotel Tour: $30
- Snow Activity (Snowmobiling or Dog Sledding): $120
- Meals: $40
Total: $280
Day 7: Return to Stockholm – Farewell Sweden
Activities:
- Return Flight to Stockholm: Fly back to Stockholm in the morning.
- Free Afternoon in Stockholm: Spend your last few hours shopping or exploring neighborhoods like Östermalm or Norrmalm. Relax with a fika (Swedish coffee break) at a cozy café.
Estimated Budget:
- Flight from Kiruna to Stockholm: $90
- Accommodation: $120
- Meals: $60
- Fika (Coffee Break): $10
Total: $280
Total Estimated Budget for 7-Day Trip to Sweden
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $740 |
| Meals | $460 |
| Transportation | $290 |
| Activities & Tours | $327 |
| Miscellaneous (Fika) | $10 |
| Total | $1,827 |
With a mix of urban adventures and remote escapes, this itinerary offers a diverse taste of Sweden’s beauty and culture.
