Sweden offers visitors a unique range of travel experiences. In the frozen vastness of the north, where snowmobiles plough across fresh snow and the northern lights dance up above, tourists can check in at grand mountain lodges and hotels made of ice. On the beautiful islands that speckle the Swedish coastline, accommodation types range from pretty little cabins to sumptuous spa hotels. And in the handsome and historic cities of Sweden, you will find luxury hotels and rooms from well-known chain brands, as well as a bunch of quirky lodging options, such as boat hotels.

With a flight time of around two-and-a-half hours, efficient transportation, amazing restaurants, and world-class attractions, short breaks in Sweden are hugely popular throughout the year. But beware: stay in a hotel in Sweden for just one or two nights and you will definitely won’t want to leave.

Read on to discover the major destinations in Sweden with our guide on where to stay. Then check out some of the nation’s top attractions and best events.

And once you are sold on a sightseeing mission to Sweden, simply use the search tool on TravelSupermarket to compare the very best deals on accommodation in Sweden. Using our price-comparison tool is also a handy way to compare and save on flights to Sweden, as well as car hire and a host of other travel extras. 

Just like the rest of Scandinavia, Sweden can be an expensive place to visit. It’s easy to find cheap flights to Sweden, but food, drink and accommodation can be pricey when you arrive. Cheap hotels in Sweden are available, with plenty of budget hotels in the cities and a number of low-cost lodging options amid the natural landscapes of the country. However, they are snapped up fast, so booking early is one of the best ways to save money on your hotel in Sweden. The summer months in the cities are busy and hotels are in great demand, so why not time your trip in late spring or early autumn, when crowds are thinner and the weather mild? Or head there for the festive season, when Christmas markets fill the major cities with spice-scented joy (again, it is sensible to book your hotel well in advance).

Car hire in Sweden is an excellent idea and getting around is easy. You could begin your journey in Stockholm, the nation’s capital, before driving to destinations such as Uppsala, a friendly city with family attractions just an hour north of Stockholm, and Vasteras, just a 90-minute drive from Stockholm. Vasteras is an enchanting lakeside city where water parks and boat cruises keep all the family happy. And both cities have a wonderful selection of hotels to choose from, as do other southern cities such as Gothenburg, Malmo, Orebro, Linkoping and Helsingborg.

If you plan to stay in Stockholm, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to hotels. There are plenty of four- and five-star hotels, with many occupying prime waterside locations. Well-known hotel operators include Radisson Blu, Hilton, and Park Inn. Picking a central spot in which to stay is a smart move if you plan to tour the main attractions on foot. Many visitors stay on the island of Gamla Stan or on the central island of Sodermalm, which is directly connected to Gamla Stan.

Compare prices on the best hotels in Sweden using the search tool on TravelSupermarket.

Top five attractions

Old Town (Gamla Stan)

The main lure for visitors to Stockholm is the magical Old Town, where centuries-old architecture stands tall over public squares and where visitors lose themselves amid a warren of cobbled alleys, shops, cafes, and bars.

Museum of Modern Art

It seems fitting that, in a nation obsessed with clean lines and contemporary design, visitors should take a look at Sweden’s most impressive modern art. So make a beeline to this museum during your break in Stockholm and see one of Europe’s best collections.

The northern lights

Head north between early autumn and late March and keep your fingers crossed that you will see one of the most soul-stirring spectacles that nature can provide. The aurora borealis will enchant, inspire and stay with you forever.

Turning Torso

Located in Malmo, this skyscraper is the tallest in Sweden and is a mind-bending piece of modern architecture. It looks like it was built and then twisted. Get a closer look during a break in magnificent Malmo.

Gothenburg Botanical Garden

For many, Sweden is about historic buildings, water-based pursuits and soaring mountains, so take an alternative look at the nation amid the blooms, trees and landscaped gardens of this attractive site in Gothenburg.  

Taste of Stockholm; June: This is the biggest and best food festival in Sweden and the perfect place to try Swedish cuisine. Live music and entertainment keep guests occupied between cookery demonstrations and much sampling. 

National Day of Sweden; June 6: There are parties galore on this day, which used to be (and still sometimes is) known as Flag Day. Stockholm is a great place to be on June 6, although there are events across the country.

Christmas Market in Stockholm; November-December: Make your festive season unforgettable this year by spending a magical short break among the Yuletide happenings in the Swedish capital. Grab a mulled wine and fill your Christmas stockings with a delightful selection of charming gifts.