Suggested length of stay
While it’s certainly possible to see some of the highlights in just a few days, we recommend spending at least a week in Sweden to really get a sense of its unique culture and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Stockholm, hiking through the lush forests of Småland, or taking a dip in the refreshing waters of the Baltic Sea.
Modes of transport
Road
Driving in Sweden can be a great experience, especially if you’re used to driving on the right side of the road. The roads are generally well-maintained and the traffic is not too heavy, so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery without worrying too much about other drivers. However, it’s important to remember that Sweden has strict laws when it comes to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, so make sure to plan accordingly if you plan on enjoying the local nightlife. Additionally, be aware of the speed limits and rules for using headlights, as these can vary depending on the time of day and weather conditions. Sweden also has high congestion taxes in most cities.
Air
SAS is the largest domestic operator at Sweden’s major airports and covers most of the country with the other domestic airlines. Most domestic flights depart from Stockholm Arlanda, north of Stockholm, where you can fly directly to virtually all of Sweden’s mainland airport.
Rail
As in Europe, train travel is enjoying a revival in Sweden, and Swedish train operators are meeting the growing interest in sustainable travel by offering a variety of rail holidays and routes. From business commuters riding the high-speed trains between Sweden’s major cities to families boarding the seven-hour Snälltåget sleeper to Åre, more and more Swedes are choosing to travel by train in Sweden. On a route like the Stockholm-Gothenburg Express, rail travel may even be more time-efficient than driving or flying and is kinder to the environment and stress-free.
Ferry
Sweden’s coastline and archipelagos are unique, and the Swedes have a particularly intimate and loving relationship with both. Both the Stockholm archipelago and the Gothenburg archipelago are easy to reach with coastal ferries. Fjäderholmarna the closest of the islands are just a mere 30 min boat trip away from central Stockholm.
Food
Swedish cuisine is known for its simplicity, freshness, and focus on natural ingredients. The country’s traditional dishes often feature seafood, such as salmon, herring, and cod, as well as meat, including reindeer and elk. Popular dishes include Swedish meatballs, pickled herring, and gravlax, cured salmon. Sweden is also known for its fika culture, which involves taking a break to enjoy coffee and pastries with friends or colleagues.
Drinking water
Sweden’s tap water is safe to drink.
Visas
Sweden is part of the Schengen area and many other European countries, meaning you can enter Sweden without a visa.
Money
Sweden’s official currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK).
Inoculations & health precautions
Health risks in Sweden are broadly similar to those in Australia.
Embassy Contacts for Sweden
Australian Embassy, Stockholm
Klarabergsviadukten 63, 8th Floor
111 64 Stockholm, Sweden
Phone: (+460) 8613 2900
Email: reception.stockholm@dfat.gov.au
Electricity
In Sweden the power plug sockets are of type F. The standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.
Getting there
Airlines such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific offer flights from major Australian cities to Stockholm via their respective hub cities.
Time Zone
Stockholm, Sweden Central European Summer Time UTC+2
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