Sweden is a country where nature and modern life exist in perfect balance. Endless forests, sparkling lakes and long coastal roads stretch between stylish cities and quiet villages. From the sleek design and vibrant culture of Stockholm to the medieval streets of Visby and the wild beauty of Lapland. Sweden is a place where calm landscapes meet innovation and every trip feels both relaxing and inspiring.
Exploring Sweden by road lets you see the country’s soul. You can drive through fields of wildflowers in summer, follow winding roads through dense pine forests or head north to chase the midnight sun. In winter, snow covers the land like a blanket and the Northern Lights fill the sky with color. Along the way, you’ll find cozy cabins, crystal-clear lakes perfect for a swim and towns that blend tradition with Scandinavian simplicity.
Sweden’s charm lies in its contrasts. Ancient Viking heritage lives alongside modern architecture and centuries-old wooden churches stand near contemporary art museums. Life here moves at a gentle pace. Shaped by nature, design and a love for the outdoors. Sweden lets you slow down and experience its quiet beauty at your own rhythm.
Sweden in a nutshell
- Population 10.6 million people (2025)
- Capital Stockholm
- Citizens are Swedish
- Native language is Swedish
- Local currency Swedish Krona (SEK)
- Size 450.295 km²
The Big Four
Fun Facts
- Fika culture Swedes treasure fika: a daily ritual of slowing down over coffee and something sweet, often cinnamon buns. It is more than a snack, it is a way of life that celebrates balance, social connection and simple pleasure.
- Nature belongs to everyone Sweden’s Right of Public Access lets you roam free in nature. You can hike, camp and even pick berries or mushrooms almost anywhere as long as you treat the land with care. It makes every road trip feel like true freedom.
- Invented the pacemaker and seatbelts In 1958, the first implantable pacemaker was created, transforming modern medicine. A year later, Volvo’s Nils Bohlin invented the three-point seatbelt, now standard worldwide. Both innovations show Sweden’s gift that save lives.
- Rockets from the Arctic Esrange Space Center near Kiruna is one of the world’s northernmost space research bases. Scientists study the atmosphere, launch rockets and test new technology under the northern sky.
Explore the regions
Sweden's history
Sweden’s story begins in the time of the Vikings over a thousand years ago when seafarers and traders from these northern lands explored far across Europe. The Vikings from Sweden sailed east toward Russia and Byzantium, leaving behind runestones and legends that still stand in the countryside. By the 11th century Sweden had become a united kingdom and slowly adopted Christianity, marking the start of a new chapter.
In the Middle Ages Swedish kings expanded their influence and the country grew through trade with the cities along the Baltic Sea. In the 16th century King Gustav Vasa led Sweden to independence from the Kalmar Union with Denmark and Norway and built the foundation of the modern state. The 17th century brought power and ambition as Sweden became a strong force in northern Europe with territories that reached into today’s Finland, Estonia and Germany.
After years of conflict Sweden chose a path of peace and progress. It stayed neutral during both World Wars and became known for diplomacy, equality and innovation. You will notice traces of this rich past in Viking sites, royal palaces and medieval towns. Sweden’s history lives side by side with modern life, creating a country that respects its roots.