10 day southern Sweden itinerary
Sweden itinerary
Created by:
itinerary-hub
Published on:
Dec. 21, 2022
10 days
1106 km
6 steps
Southern Sweden is an amazing destination for travellers. The stunning countryside and coastal towns are perfect for outdoor activities, like hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. Enjoy the delicious local cuisine and explore the charming villages and towns.
Step 1: Stockholm
3 days recommended
Stockholm
Stockholm is Sweden's capital and is spread across 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. The city combines medieval charm with modern urban life, making it a unique spot in Scandinavia.
The historic Gamla Stan (Old Town) dates back to the 13th century and is a maze of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the Royal Palace. In stark contrast, the city also boasts cutting-edge design, fashion, and technology scenes, reflecting Sweden's reputation for innovation.
The city's relationship with water is impossible to miss. The archipelago consists of about 30,000 islands and islets, and many locals spend summer days island-hopping or enjoying the clean waters.
Stockholm is known for its museums – from the Vasa Museum, home to a fully intact 17th-century warship, to the ABBA Museum celebrating the iconic pop group. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the Nobel Prize Museum and Fotografiska, a center for contemporary photography.
Swedish culture embraces 'fika' (coffee break), usually accompanied by pastries like kanelbullar (cinnamon buns). The city also takes pride in its sustainable approach to urban living, with extensive green spaces and efficient public transport. Despite cold, dark winters, Stockholm transforms with snow, festive lights, and holiday markets that create a special atmosphere.
Best hotels in Stockholm:
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Hotel Birger Jarl (budget hotel)
Hotel Birger Jarl is a stylish spot in Stockholm's Vasastan neighborhood. The rooms have a modern vibe with cool lighting and decor. It's in a great location - just a short walk from the Rådmansgatan metro station and about 10 minutes from the buzzing Stureplan area.
The hotel restaurant serves up tasty Swedish dishes, and there's a sleek lobby bar for grabbing a drink. One of the best things about staying here is the breakfast - guests rave about the delicious spread. The staff are known for being super friendly and helpful too.
While some rooms are on the cozy side, they're clean and comfortable. The hotel has nice amenities like free Wi-Fi, a gym, and even tea and coffee facilities in the rooms. It's a solid choice if you want a laid-back but stylish base for exploring Stockholm.
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At Six (luxury hotel)
At Six is a stylish hotel in Stockholm. The rooms are sleek and modern, with comfy beds and cool city views. There's a gym if you want to work out, and the breakfast spread is pretty great.
The bar is a nice spot to grab a drink - they do some fancy cocktails and have a terrace for when the weather's good. The restaurant serves up tasty international dishes if you're hungry.
One of the best things about At Six is the location. You're super close to all the main sights like the Royal Palace and Old Town. Tons of shops and restaurants are just steps away too.
Overall, it's a trendy place to stay that puts you right in the middle of everything Stockholm has to offer. Perfect for exploring the city or just chilling out in style.
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Blu Waterfront Hotel (medium range hotel)
The Blu Waterfront Hotel in Stockholm is a modern spot. It's super convenient - you can practically roll out of bed and onto a train at the Central Station next door. The rooms have great views of the city or lake, with comfy beds to crash in after a day of sightseeing.
The breakfast buffet is pretty epic, with tons of options to fuel up for exploring Stockholm. There's also a nice bar and restaurant if you're too tired to venture out. The staff are friendly and helpful with local tips.
While it's not the cheapest option in town, the location can't be beat if you want to be close to everything. It's an easy walk to the Old Town, shopping areas, and other attractions. Overall, a solid choice for both business travelers and tourists looking for a stylish home base in Stockholm.
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Best hostels in Stockholm:
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City Hostel (hostel)
City Hostel in Stockholm is a great spot for budget travelers looking to explore the Swedish capital. Located in the trendy Kungsholmen neighborhood, it's just a quick 10-minute walk from Stockholm Central Station and the iconic City Hall. The hostel has a laid-back vibe with comfy common areas where you can chill out and meet other travelers.
The rooms are simple but clean, with free WiFi throughout. There's a fully-equipped shared kitchen if you want to cook your own meals and save some cash. The staff are friendly and can give you tips on the best local spots to check out.
One of the best things about City Hostel is its location. You're within walking distance of tons of restaurants, bars and shops. Popular sights like Sergels Torg Square and the Old Town are easily reachable too. With 24-hour check-in and luggage storage available, it's a convenient and affordable base for exploring everything Stockholm has to offer.
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Generator (party hostel)
Generator Stockholm got a hip vibe with a stylish lounge, bar, and social spaces where you can hang out. The location is awesome - just a short walk from the main shopping street and central station.
The rooms range from dorms to private rooms, all with city views. While there's no shared kitchen, they've got a restaurant and cafe on-site serving up local eats. The bar mixes Nordic-inspired cocktails if you want to grab a drink.
Overall, it's a great base for exploring Stockholm, especially if you're looking for a social atmosphere. The staff are friendly and it's got that fun hostel energy, but with some nice hotel-like amenities too. Definitely worth checking out if you want a lively, well-located place to stay without breaking the bank.
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Step 2: Uppsala
1 days recommended
Uppsala
Uppsala is a city with a lot of character, sitting about 70 kilometers north of Stockholm. It's Sweden's fourth largest city but still feels really manageable to explore on foot or by bike. The city is famous for housing Scandinavia's oldest university, Uppsala University, which was founded back in 1477 and gives the whole place a vibrant student atmosphere.
The skyline is dominated by the impressive Uppsala Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Scandinavia. It's a massive Gothic building that towers over everything else. The city is actually split by the Fyris River, with the historic part on one side featuring the cathedral and castle, while the other side has more modern development.
The city has some serious historical credentials. It was once the religious center of pagan Sweden and later became an important Christian site. Uppsala was actually Sweden's capital during the Viking era, which is pretty cool to think about while walking its streets. You can explore this history at Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala), an ancient site with burial mounds from the 5th and 6th centuries.
Swedish culture is strong here, from fika (coffee break) traditions in cozy cafés to seasonal festivals. The city comes alive in spring with locals enjoying the outdoors after the long winter. With its combination of student energy, historical significance, and classic Swedish charm, Uppsala offers a more relaxed alternative to Stockholm while still providing plenty to see and do.
Best hotels in Uppsala:
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Clarion Hotel Gillet (budget hotel)
The Clarion Hotel Gillet is just a short walk from the city's main sights like Uppsala Cathedral and Stora Torget square. The rooms have a modern Scandinavian style with smart TVs and comfy beds.
One of the best things about staying here is the breakfast - guests rave about the huge spread of options, from fresh pancakes to smoothies. There's also an on-site restaurant and bar called The Social that serves up international dishes with a Swedish twist.
If you need to unwind after a day of sightseeing, the hotel has a spa with hot tubs and saunas. The friendly staff get lots of praise for being helpful. Overall, it's a solid choice if you want a central location and good amenities in Uppsala.
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Hotel Villa Anna (luxury hotel)
Hotel Villa Anna is steps from the cathedral. The 19th century building has been lovingly restored, blending historic character with modern comforts. Rooms are individually designed with Swedish furniture and luxury beds, offering city views.
The on-site restaurant serves up traditional Swedish cuisine with a contemporary twist, using local and organic ingredients when possible. There's also an impressive wine cellar for pairing your meal. With its central location, you can easily walk to Uppsala's main sights and attractions.
While intimate in size, the hotel doesn't skimp on amenities. Free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars come standard in the rooms. The helpful 24-hour front desk staff can provide local recommendations. Overall, it's a stylish and comfortable base for exploring this historic university town.
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Grand Hotell Hörnan (medium range hotel)
Grand Hotell Hörnan is an old building from the early 1900s, just a short walk from the train station and main pedestrian street. The rooms have a classic feel with modern comforts like flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Some even come with balconies overlooking the city.
The hotel has a cozy lobby bar where you can grab drinks and light bites. Their breakfast buffet gets rave reviews - it's served in a stylish dining room and has lots of options to choose from. Location-wise, it's hard to beat. You're steps away from Uppsala Cathedral and all the main sights.
Overall, it's a great pick if you want a central hotel with character. The staff are known for being super friendly and helpful too. Just keep in mind some rooms can be on the smaller side, which is pretty typical for older European hotels. But the prime location and historic charm more than make up for it.
Best hostels in Uppsala:
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Vandrarhem Uppsala (hostel)
Vandrarhem Uppsala is a cozy hostel located in a quiet neighborhood, just a short walk from the city center. The rooms are simple but clean and comfortable, with options for both private and shared accommodations.
One of the best things about this place is the well-equipped shared kitchen. It's great for whipping up a quick meal or chatting with other travelers over coffee. The free WiFi is reliable too, which is always a plus when you're on the road.
The staff here are friendly and helpful. They can give you tips on the best local spots to check out in Uppsala. While it's not fancy, Vandrarhem Uppsala offers good value for budget-conscious travelers looking for a convenient home base to explore the city. Just keep in mind it can get a bit noisy at times with shared spaces.
Step 3: Kalmar
1 days recommended
Kalmar
Kalmar is a coastal city in Sweden with a rich history dating back over a thousand years. Located in the southeast region, it's famous for the stunning Kalmar Castle, a Renaissance style fortress from the 12th century that once played a crucial role in Swedish history - particularly during the Kalmar Union when Sweden, Denmark and Norway were united under a single monarch.
The city offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern Swedish living. The old town, with its well-preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings and cobblestone streets, contrasts beautifully with the vibrant shopping areas and contemporary waterfront developments. Kalmar's location by the Baltic Sea provides spectacular coastal views, especially from the wooden boardwalks that line parts of the shore.
What many visitors don't realize is that Kalmar was once one of Sweden's most important cities and a key defensive point against Danish invasions. Today, it serves as a gateway to Öland, Sweden's second-largest island, connected to the mainland by one of the longest bridges in Europe. The city also has a strong university presence, giving it a youthful energy that complements its historical significance. The locals are known for their laid-back attitude and love of 'fika' - the Swedish coffee break tradition that's more about socializing than caffeine.
Best hotels in Kalmar:
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Frimurarehotellet (budget hotel)
Frimurarehotellet in Kalmar is housed in a beautiful late 19th-century building on Larmtorget Square, just steps away from Kalmar Central Station. The location can't be beat - you're right in the middle of all the action, with easy access to shopping, restaurants, and attractions like Kalmar Castle.
The rooms have a cozy, classic feel with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. While each room is unique, they all have that warm, welcoming vibe. The breakfast gets rave reviews from guests, with a big spread of tasty options to fuel up for a day of exploring. And after a long day of sightseeing, you can relax in the sauna or grab a drink at the hotel bar.
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Home Hotel Packhuset (medium range hotel)
Home Hotel Packhuset in Kalmar is in an old harbor warehouse, so it's got this awesome industrial-chic vibe going on. Some of the rooms even have exposed wooden beams and timber walls, which gives them tons of character.
The views are pretty killer too - you can see across the Kalmar Sound and get a great look at the Öland Bridge. Location-wise, it's super convenient. The train station is just a short walk away, and you're right in the heart of town near shops and restaurants.
One of the best parts is that they include both breakfast and a light dinner buffet with your stay. Nothing fancy, but it's nice not having to worry about finding food after a long day of sightseeing. Overall, it's a solid choice if you want somewhere with a bit of history and charm, but still with modern amenities.
Best hostels in Kalmar:
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Vandrarhem Svanen (hostel)
Vandrarhem Svanen in Kalmar offers a modern waterfront stay just a short distance from the city center. Located on the island of Ängö, this hostel provides great views over the lake and easy access to nature walks along the shore. The rooms are bright and clean, with wooden floors and work desks. While bathrooms are shared, some rooms do have private toilets.
The hostel has a well-equipped guest kitchen where you can prepare your own meals, as well as a popular breakfast buffet served each morning in the dining room overlooking the water. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, a TV lounge, and even a sauna for guests to enjoy. The friendly staff can help arrange canoe rentals if you want to get out on the water. With its peaceful setting and proximity to Kalmar's attractions, Vandrarhem Svanen is a great budget-friendly option for exploring this charming Swedish city.
Step 4: Lund
1 days recommended
Lund
Lund is a charming university town in southern Sweden, just a short train ride from Malmö. Founded in 990 AD, it's one of Sweden's oldest cities with a rich history that's visible throughout its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture.
The city revolves around Lund University, established in 1666, which gives the place a youthful, intellectual vibe. Students on bicycles zip around town, filling cafes and bringing energy to this otherwise calm Swedish locale. The impressive Lund Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, stands tall with its Romanesque architecture and astronomical clock.
The Botanical Garden offers a peaceful retreat with thousands of plant species, while the open-air museum Kulturen showcases Swedish life through the centuries. In spring, the city bursts with white cherry blossoms, creating picture-perfect scenes in parks and along streets.
Despite being small (you can walk across the center in about 20 minutes), Lund packs a cultural punch with numerous museums, concerts, and festivals throughout the year. The locals appreciate fika (coffee break) culture, and you'll find excellent cafes serving cinnamon buns and strong coffee on almost every corner. With its blend of historic charm and student energy, Lund offers a slice of Swedish life that's both authentic and accessible.
Best hotels in Lund:
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Hotell Nordic Lund (budget hotel)
Hotell Nordic Lund is super close to all the main sights - you can walk to the cathedral and city park in just 10 minutes. The rooms are pretty sweet, with kitchenettes and smart TVs. Plus, you get free WiFi throughout the place.
The hotel has a real family-run vibe to it. The staff are friendly and go out of their way to help. Breakfast is included and gets rave reviews from guests. There's also a fitness center if you want to work off all those Swedish pastries.
Location-wise, you can't beat it. You're a short stroll from restaurants, shops and the train station. And Malmö is just a quick trip away if you want to explore more of the region. All in all, it's a great home base for checking out charming Lund and beyond.
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Grand Hotel Lund (medium range hotel)
The Grand Hotel Lund is built in the 1800s, this sandstone beauty sits just a couple minutes' walk from the train station, making it super convenient for travelers.
Inside, you'll find elegant rooms with wooden beds, Persian carpets, and luxury touches like bathrobes and fancy toiletries. The hotel has a real old-world vibe, but with modern comforts like free Wi-Fi throughout.
Food lovers will be in heaven here. The Gambrinus Bistro serves up gourmet dishes and has an impressive wine cellar. Meanwhile, the Grands Matsal Restaurant focuses on Swedish cuisine made with local ingredients. There's also a bar, billiards room, and cigar lounge if you want to unwind after a day of sightseeing. All in all, it's a classy place to rest your head while exploring charming Lund.
Best hostels in Lund:
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Winstrup Hostel (hostel)
Winstrup Hostel in just a quick walk from the train station. The bright, airy rooms have a modern vibe with wooden floors. While there's no staff on-site, the self check-in process is super easy and they give you all the info you need beforehand.
The hostel has a great kitchen where you can whip up your own meals, plus there are tons of restaurants and cafes just steps away. The location can't be beat - you're within walking distance of shops, bars, and major sights like the Lund Cathedral.
Overall, Winstrup offers a comfy and convenient home base for exploring Lund. The free WiFi, clean facilities, and central location make it a solid budget-friendly choice. Just keep in mind rooms and beds can be on the smaller side, which is pretty standard for European hostels.
Step 5: Malmö
2 days recommended
Malmö
Malmö is Sweden's third largest city and sits at the southern tip of the country, just a 30-minute train ride from Copenhagen across the famous Öresund Bridge. This bridge, which opened in 2000, transformed Malmö from an industrial city in decline to a vibrant cultural hub.
The city blends old and new in a way that's distinctly Swedish. The historic center features the main square Stortorget, with its impressive Town Hall, while the modern Western Harbor district showcases cutting-edge architecture like the Turning Torso, a twisted skyscraper that's become Malmö's iconic landmark.
Malmö is one of Sweden's most diverse cities, with residents from over 170 countries bringing their cultures and cuisines. This international flavor is evident in neighborhoods like Möllevången, where you can find food from around the world.
The city takes sustainability seriously, with extensive bike lanes, green spaces, and eco-friendly buildings. Malmö was actually one of Europe's first cities to commit to being climate-neutral.
For history buffs, Malmöhus Castle offers insights into the region's past as part of Denmark until 1658. And food lovers shouldn't miss Malmö's emerging culinary scene that combines Swedish traditions with global influences. The city's commitment to organic and locally-sourced ingredients has made it a foodie destination in recent years.
Best hotels in Malmö:
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The Mill (budget hotel)
The Mill in Malmö is close to the trendy Möllevången neighborhood and just a short walk from Triangeln Shopping Center.
The rooms are modern and comfy, with all the usual amenities like flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Some even have nice views of the city. The hotel has its own restaurant and bar called Brasserie X where you can grab lunch or dinner. And the breakfast buffet is supposed to be pretty great too.
Location-wise, it's hard to beat. You're within walking distance of popular spots like Folkets Park and Lilla Torg square. Plus the Triangeln train station is nearby if you want to explore further. Overall, it seems like a solid choice if you're looking for a centrally-located hotel in Malmö with good amenities and easy access to the main sights.
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Clarion Hotel (medium range hotel)
The Clarion Hotel Malmö Live is a modern hotel right in Malmö. With its prime location just steps from the central train station, it's super convenient for exploring the city. The real showstopper here is the sky bar on the 25th floor - the views over Malmö and the Öresund strait are seriously impressive.
The rooms are stylish and comfortable, with all the amenities you'd expect from a high-end hotel. Some even have bathtubs, which is always a nice touch. The breakfast gets rave reviews from guests, with tons of options to fuel up for a day of sightseeing. There's also a fitness center and sauna if you want to squeeze in a workout.
For dinner, you can choose between Italian cuisine with a view at the rooftop restaurant or more casual fare at the Living Room Bar. All in all, it's a great home base for taking in Malmö's sights and sounds. Just be prepared for the price tag that comes with the prime location and fancy amenities.
Best hostels in Malmö:
step 5: Malmö
step 6: Gothenburg
Step 6: Gothenburg
2 days recommended
Gothenburg
Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city, sits pretty on the country's west coast. This coastal hub mixes old-world charm with a modern twist, creating a unique atmosphere that's different from Stockholm but equally captivating.
The city has deep maritime roots, with its iconic harbor being central to its identity. Gothenburg was founded in 1621 by King Gustav II Adolf, and its Dutch-inspired canals give it a distinctive character. The locals (Gothenburgers) are known for their friendly demeanor and distinctive accent that other Swedes often playfully imitate.
The city boasts impressive architecture, from the historic Haga district with its wooden houses to the modern structures along the waterfront. Liseberg amusement park, the Gothenburg Museum of Art, and the Feskekôrka (Fish Church) fish market are among its well-known attractions.
Gothenburg has earned a reputation as a culinary destination in recent years. It's surrounded by fertile farmland and the sea, giving chefs access to fresh ingredients for both traditional Swedish fare and innovative cuisine. The city also hosts numerous music and cultural festivals throughout the year, showing off its vibrant arts scene.
With excellent public transport, including iconic blue trams, getting around is simple. Gothenburg offers a perfect balance of urban excitement and natural beauty, with its archipelago just a short boat ride away.
Best hotels in Gothenburg:
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Good Morning+ (budget hotel)
Good Morning+ Göteborg City offers a unique hotel experience in Gothenburg. Located just a short walk from the central station, this floating hotel is actually a converted ship docked on the river. The rooms are compact but clean and comfortable, with some offering nice views of the water.
Guests rave about the breakfast buffet, which has plenty of options to start your day right. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar on board for grabbing a bite or drink. While the rooms aren't huge, they have everything you need for a cozy stay. The friendly staff get high marks for their helpful service too.
The central location makes it easy to explore Gothenburg's sights and attractions on foot. Overall, Good Morning+ provides a fun and different kind of stay that's a good value for the price. Just keep in mind it's on a boat, so expect smaller spaces than a typical hotel. But the river views and unique experience make up for it.
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Dorsia Hotel & Restaurant (luxury hotel)
Dorsia Hotel & Restaurant in Gothenburg is a true standout. This hotel oozes style with its bold decor and luxurious touches. Just a short walk from Central Station, it's perfectly located for exploring the city.
The rooms are a feast for the eyes, with vibrant colors and plush furnishings. Carpe Diem beds and Egyptian cotton sheets ensure a dreamy night's sleep. The restaurant serves up delicious international cuisine with a French flair. Don't miss the amazing breakfast buffet - it's worth waking up early for.
Service here is top-notch, with staff going above and beyond to make guests feel welcome. While some rooms are on the cozy side, the overall experience more than makes up for it. If you're looking for a memorable stay in Gothenburg, Dorsia Hotel hits all the right notes.
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Avalon Hotel (medium range hotel)
Avalon Hotel in Gothenburg rooms have a modern vibe with comfy beds and cool art on the walls. One of the best things about this place is the rooftop pool - it's open during the summer and has awesome views over Gothenburg.
The hotel restaurant is pretty popular and focuses on seafood dishes. For breakfast, they put out a big spread with lots of options to choose from. Location-wise, you can't beat it - it's super close to shops, restaurants and main sights in the city center.
Overall, Avalon Hotel seems like a great choice if you want to be in the middle of everything in Gothenburg. The mix of sleek design, good food and that rooftop pool make it stand out from other hotels in the area. Just keep in mind it can get busy during peak times, especially at breakfast.
Best hostels in Gothenburg:
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Slottsskogens Hostel (hostel)
Slottsskogens Hostel is a laid-back vibe and is super close to Slottsskogen park, perfect for morning jogs or picnics. The rooms are simple but comfy, with shared bathrooms and a communal kitchen where you can whip up your own meals if you want to save some cash.
One of the best things about this place is all the cool events they put on. There's everything from walking tours to bar crawls and karaoke nights - great for meeting other travelers. The staff are really friendly and always happy to give tips on the best local spots to check out. And if you're feeling lazy, you can just chill in the lounge or challenge someone to a game of pool.
The location is awesome too - you've got loads of cute cafes, restaurants and shops right on your doorstep in Linnéstaden. And getting around is easy with the tram stop just a few minutes walk away. All in all, it's a great base for exploring Gothenburg without breaking the bank.