Your guide to Sweden - Swedeninfo

VOLVO OVERSEAS DELIVERY
DREAM CAR. DREAM VACATION.
• Roundtrip tickets for two
• Free hotel night in Gothenburg, Sweden
• VIP delivery at the home of Volvo Cars
• Fifteen day European Car Insurance coverage
• Tourist automobile registration
• Complimentary home shipment services
• U.S. Customs Duty, port clearance fees included
• Up to 8% savings (varies by model) off the U.S. MSRP
• See full list of program benefits at: volvocars.us/mybagsarepacked
VOLVOCARS.US/MYBAGSAREPACKED
Your guide to Sweden
Sweden
Friendly urbanity
Stockholm, Gothenburg
& Malmö — modern
cities close to nature
A Swedish
culinary voyage
A flavorful journey from
the apple groves of
Skåne to the mountain
creeks of Lapland
Swedish stories
from fairy tales to
“Swede-crime”
When Karen and Howard Webb first heard about this offer they thought it was, “too good to be true.” Red carpet treatment. English-speaking staff. Factory tour.
Personal delivery. Customized tours of Scandinavia, continental Europe or the UK ,“We told them where we wanted to go and they had a package for us”. And
no-hassle home shipment, “Everything has been done for you.” To say they are merely satisfied customers today is – typically Swedish – an understatement.
Welcome to Fjällbacka —
a jewel of the West Coast!
VOLVO OVERSEAS DELIVERY
Visit your Volvo retailer and ask about the Volvo Overseas Delivery program or call (800)641-1102, visit www.volvocars.us/mybagsarepacked
to see a full list of program benefits and join us on www.facebook.com/volvooverseasdelivery. Restrictions apply.

Contents
3
Minneapolis, MN
Sweden your way! Whether your style is urban hotels and city tours, a
cruise, mountain hiking from lodge to lodge, or something inbetween, allow our
Destination Specialists to design a trip that is a perfect fit for you! We offer country
combinations with Denmark, Finland, Greenland, Iceland and Norway, too.
30 24
Contents
04 Stockholm — the city on fourteen islands
10 Gothenburg — city of the sea
12 Malmö — gateway to the continent
14 Sweden goes gay
15 A vibrant, contemporary and creative
tradition
18 My Swedish food trip
24 Swedish stories — from fairy tales
to “Swede-crime”
29 See Sweden from the sun deck
30 Nature — Sweden’s national religion
34 Nature’s Best — experiences
on nature’s terms
36 Become a child again
38 Swedish gems
42 Travel facts A ― Z
43 Accommodation
43 Transportation
44 Regional and local tourist offices
45 North American travel companies
46 Map
Sweden — the best
of both worlds
First-time visitors to Sweden are typically struck by two
things. Firstly, the country’s progressiveness in every respect
— from technology, design, fashion and lifestyle to behavior
patterns, consumption habits and societal systems. And
secondly, an authenticity in the natural world, and in the
Swedish people’s fondness for their history, heritage,
customs and traditions.
We often boast that Sweden offers the best of both worlds
— all the benefits and attractions of contemporary society,
but few of its common disadvantages. If you’ve visited
Sweden you know what we mean. Welcome to Sweden
— the country we love.
VisitSweden
655 Third Ave,
New York NY 10017, USA
Phone: +1 212-885 9700
Fax: +1 212-885 9710
E-mail: usa@visitsweden.com
Opening hours:
Monday − Friday 9AM − 5PM EST
For residents in other countries:
E-mail: info@visitsweden.com
Sweden 2013 is printed at an environmentally certified
printer, on chlorine-free bleached paper, which is produced
from FSC-certified pulp. This means the pulp comes from
environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and
economically viable forestry operations.

Citybreak
Stockholm
4 5
Stockholm — the city
on fourteen islands
The royal Swedish capital of Stockholm is frequently referred to as one of the world’s most
attractive cities. Its beauty is a result of its magnificent location, spread across fourteen
islands in the heart of the spectacular Stockholm Archipelago. The combination of dramatic
beauty, historic splendor and contemporary buzz gives Stockholm its unique attraction.
Top: The world’s most beautiful city
View of the medieval island Riddar holmen
and the Old Town, the waterways flowing
out to the Stockholm Archipelago, and
the tower of the City Hall in the foreground.
Classic Svenskt Tenn, one of Stockholm’s
foremost furniture, design and gift stores.
Outdoor cafe at the picturesque Mosebacke
Square in the chic, bohemian
district of Södermalm.
The royal Swedish capital of Stockholm is frequently
referred to as one of the world’s most attractive cities.
Its beauty is a result of its magnificent location, spread
across fourteen islands in the heart of the spectacular
Stockholm Archipelago. The combination of dramatic
beauty, historic splendor and contemporary buzz
gives Stockholm its unique attraction.
In Stockholm you can experience the history and
culture of several of our country’s great eras, from the
Middle Ages on. The Stockholm of today is a dynamic,
fast-growing, multicultural city. It is recognized
internationally as a leader in the development of progressive
innovations, trends and behavior patterns in
lifestyle, environment, and in particular technology
and communications.
We often boast that Stockholm has all the advantages
and assets of a contemporary world center
with few of the downsides and nuisances. Stockholm
offers an enormous diversity of experiences, sights,
attractions and night-life. In terms of fashion, art,
design, gastronomy and other creative pursuits, the
Stockholm scene has — justifiably — received plenty
of publicity on the global stage in recent years. Today
the city has two distinct nodes of urban creativity,
culture and entertainment: one is the chic, established
district around the squares of Stureplan and
Norrmalmtorg, the city center and exclusive Östermalm,
and the other is the younger, trendier, more
experimental and bohemian Södermalm.
Still, what sets Stockholm apart most of all is its incomparable
juxtaposition of sophisticated urbanism
and wild, majestic nature. Untouched wilderness and
magnificent marine worlds surround and crisscross
Stockholm in all directions, including Ekoparken, the
only urban national park of its kind in the world. The
city’s extensive stretches of coastline, whether quayside
or forested, are accessible for a stroll — or why not
paddle a kayak alongside them, or navigate between
them on ice skates in the winter. The water that
surrounds the city is clean enough to swim in and fish
from. Stockholm is a metropolis where you can enjoy
the outdoors literally steps from a vibrant urbanity —
and vice versa. It’s a happy combination that gives
Stockholm a quality of life you won’t find elsewhere.
www.visitsweden.com
www.visitstockholm.com
Al fresco relaxation at the Lydmar
Hotel, just across the water from
the Royal Palace.
Wait staff at the popular
Boqueria restaurant in the new
Mood shopping center, which
serves quick, tasty modern
and traditional tapas.
www.boqueria.se
Other dining suggestions:
Frantzén/Lindeberg — a small
restaurant in the Old Town, with
a big reputation for innovative
cooking and two Michelin stars,
aiming for a third. Ranked as
Sweden’s best restaurant.
www.frantzen-lindeberg.com
Gubbhyllan at Skansen. Classic
Swedish fare with an elegant
modern twist. Local, organic
ingredients are prepared with
love, in a fascinating historical
environment.
www.gubbhyllan.se

Citybreak
6
Stockholm gems
City of green and blue
PHOTO: JEPPE WIKSTRÖM
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1. Moderna Museet
One of the world’s foremost museums of modern
art. The collection of international pop art is world
renowned. Marcel Duchamp and Picasso are well represented.
Of course this is also the place for everyone
with an interest in contemporary Swedish art. Located
in central Stockholm, on the museum island of Skeppsholmen,
which previously belonged to the Navy. The
island is an idyllic destination for a walk, with several
interesting museums, restaurants and cafés. The
Moderna has a sister museum in Malmö.
www.modernamuseet.se
2. Skansen
The world’s oldest and possibly most beautiful open-air
museum, with a collection of historical buildings from
various periods and many parts of the country. Located
on Royal Djurgården island in the National City Park,
with fantastic views of the city. There’s also a zoo
with Swedish animals, a children’s zoo, traditional crafts,
restaurants, cafés, a market, traditional Christmas
celebrations, entertainment venues and many other
attractions. A must-see! www.skansen.se
3. Drottningholm
A common misconception is that Drottningholm Palace,
the residence of the Swedish royal family, is a Scandinavian
replica of Versailles. The fact is, the two are
contemporaneous. Drottningholm was built as early
as the late 17th century. The palace and park, as well
as the unique palace theater, are a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. Another gem is the Chinese Pavilion, a gift
from King Adolf Frederick to Queen Louisa Ulrika on
her birthday in 1753. Drottningholm is a wonderful
destination that can also be reached by boat from
central Stockholm. www.kungahuset.se
4. Stockholm Archipelago
Yes, Stockholm is fantastic. But many people would
argue that the city’s magnificent attraction is the
unique expanse of islands surrounding it: the Stockholm
Archipelago, with more than 30,000 islands and
islets. It offers an extraordinary wealth of natural
experiences, adventures, destinations and sights,
accessible more or less throughout the year. From
central Stockholm you can access the entire archipelago
with the classic white boats. Much of the
archipelago can also be reached by other means
of public transport.
www.visitstockholm.com
5. Old Town and Royal Palace
Stockholm’s historical Old Town is Europe’s largest and
best-preserved medieval city center. It offers an enormous
selection of sights, shopping, restaurants, cafés
and pubs in the picturesque narrow streets and lanes.
The gateway to the Old Town is the Royal Palace,
northern Europe’s largest and most stately of its kind.
The palace alone has no less than five museums, a large
number of guided tours, and the changing of the guards.
Also not to be missed is the adjacent island of Riddarholmen,
a hidden treasure with a history going back
to the 12th century. In December the locals flock to
the Old Town’s traditional Christmas market with
its charming red sheds.
www.visitstockholm.com
www.kungahuset.se
6. Fotografiska
Many people were skeptical when, in 2010, Fotografiska
opened its 6,000 square feet of exhibition space for
photographic art in the old customs house at Stadsgård
Quay in Stockholm, with beautiful views of the water,
city and parks. Today, everyone is convinced. Fotografiska
has proved a monumental success, and has
positioned itself as one of the world’s foremost arenas
for photography, with exhibitions by the biggest international
names and an ambitious program. It’s an
attractive destination that also features a popular
restaurant with outdoor seating and a museum store.
www.fotografiska.eu
7. The Vasa Museum
A museum without equal. The 226-foot long warship,
Vasa, sank on her maiden voyage in Stockholm’s harbor,
anno 1628. It was salvaged in 1961 and has, slowly and
meticulously, been restored to near-original glory over
almost half a century. It is the world’s only preserved
17th-century ship. As Sweden’s most visited museum,
it is being extended to deal with the constantly growing
patronage. The Vasa Museum will open its new sections
in 2013. www.vasamuseet.se
8. Artipelag
Spectacular new art venue and destination on the
island of Värmdö in the Stockholm Archipelago.
Opened in the spring of 2012. Located in beautiful
scenery, with stunning sea views. In addition to exhibition
space, Artipelag’s more than 100,000 square
feet of floor area includes two restaurants with outdoor
dining as well as spaces for events. The property
is large, with beautiful nature walks. It’s an ideal
destination for a day trip, as it combines art with
outdoor experiences. Artipelag has a permanent
collection as well as exciting temporary exhibitions
and events. Accessible by bus or boat from central
Stockholm. www.artipelag.se
She is built on on 14 14 greenery-covered islands islands with with sparkling sparkling blue blue
water in every direction. Welcome to the to the home home of history, of history, culture culture
and stunning scenery. Meet Meet her her at at visitstockholm.com

SWEDISH
FINE FOOD
FOR
EVERYONE
TO LOVE
EXPLORE YOUR ANCESTRY
Learn Who they were, Why they left and Who stayed behind.
We specialize in genealogical research and services
and interpretation of Swedish culture.
Est. in 1998.
Gothenburg and
West Sweden
Photo: Göran Assner, Henrik Trygg, Jurgen Wickert, Urban Jören, Frank Heuer.
At Stadshuskällaren we serve our guests modern Swedish
cuisine with a local flavor. We honor the seasons and our
specialities are game, fish and shellfish from nearby
producers. You can also order the Nobel menus from
any year since 1901. Welcome!
www.stadshuskallarensthlm.se
+46 8 586 218 30 hantverkargatan 1, stockholm
cultureandkin.com
facebook.com/cultureandkin
Gothenburg
by the sea
www. westsweden.com
Set off on a
seafood safari
www.gothenburg.com
Thriving culture in
Gothenburg
Camilla Läckberg’s
Fjällbacka
@WestSwedenTB
facebook.com/GothenburgWestSweden
Flying to
Sweden
Then you probably will arrive in Stockholm,
Göteborg or Malmö. And you know what
If you choose us for your airport transfer
you will reduce both costs and emissions.
Mystery is
Better when
Shared
Sheraton Stockholm
Millennium Experience
Discover the beautiful
city of Stockholm with our
Millennium Guide Book and
walk in the footsteps of
author Stieg Larsson.
20 MINUTES
ARLANDA AIRPORT STOCKHOLM CITY
Book online: arlandaexpress.com
Package
deal from
per person
SEK 798 per night*
Please visit Sheratonstockholm.com or call +46 8 412 3502
Buy your ticket at
www.flygbussarna.se
©2013 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights
Reserved. Sheraton and its logo are the trademarks of
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.
*In a double room, single supplement applies.

Citybreak
Gothenburg
10 11
Gothenburg —
city of the sea
Gothenburg — city of commerce, culture and
entertainment — has always been influenced
by its location by the sea.
Gothenburg’s essence and character emanate from its
maritime location amidst the pink-tinged granite of
the salty Bohuslän Archipelago. Historically, trade
and shipping have been the city’s driving forces. Today
the ferry traffic to numerous northern European
cities, an advanced commercial shipping industry and
pleasure craft from far and wide give Gothenburg an
international, maritime flavor. The city is still an
important center for trade and industry, and the home
of corporations like Volvo and SKF. In recent decades
it has undergone an exciting post-industrial transformation.
The shorelines on both sides of the Göta
River have developed from industrial/port precincts
to modern waterfront neighborhoods.
Gothenburg’s pedestrian-friendly city center offers
an attractive selection of culture, shopping, sights,
restaurants and nightlife. On the car-free streets of
the picturesque Haga district and in the blocks around
Magasinsgatan, you’ll find an array of interesting
places selling creative fashion and design, music,
second-hand and vintage goods and books, as well
as bars, restaurants and cafés.
The Art Gallery is a beautiful, classic museum
with a first-rate collection of 19th and 20th century
Scandinavian art, and older international works. The
Röhsska is one of Scandinavia’s foremost museums
for design and crafts, with a large collection of its own
as well as interesting temporary exhibitions. Universeum
and the Museum of World Culture are dynamic
additions to the museum mix. The Botanical Garden
is well worth a visit. The music scene is particularly
vibrant, with the outstanding Gothenburg Symphony
Orchestra, Sweden’s national orchestra, under the
direction of Kent Nagano. During the warmer months,
major international artists descend on the city for big
music festivals like Way Out West and Metaltown.
Gothenburg is a leading entertainment and events
city in Scandinavia. At the beautiful Liseberg amusement
park and the extensive events district adjoining
it there are trade fairs, concerts and all sorts of events
that attract visitors from around the world, throughout
the year. Christmas in Gothenburg has developed
into something special, when the entire downtown
area becomes a carnival of lights and decorations, and
large Christmas markets are held at Liseberg and
other places around town.
In recent years Gothenburg has received coverage
in the international press as an exciting culinary
destination, with four Michelin-star restaurants and
many more first-class eateries. Seafood from the West
Coast is much acclaimed and Gothenburg is the best
place to enjoy it. And don’t miss the famous “Fish
Church”, where seafood is sold and auctioned.
From Gothenburg you can make excursions to a
number of picturesque destinations in the Bohuslän
Archipelago, with a wide range of adventures such
as lobster safaris and sea kayaking.
www.visitsweden.com
www.goteborg.com
Opposite page, top: Aschebergsgatan
24, a design store
in the charming, pedestrianfriendly
center of Gothenburg.
Opposite page, bottom:
Gothenburg has a global reputation
as a seafood mecca.
Restaurant Gabriel in the city’s
Fish Market serves super-fresh
seafood from the clean, cold
waters of the North Atlantic.
www.restauranggabriel.se
Other dining suggestions:
The elegant Kock & Vin, with
a Michelin star, serves modern
international cuisine. Ranked
third in the country in the
prestigious White Guide.
www.kockvin.se
Bhoga. Small, recently opened
restaurant by the canal. Pleasant,
relaxed atmosphere and ambitious
international cuisine
based on Swedish ingredients.
Reasonable prices.
www.bhoga.se
This page: Seaside city with
maritime influences. View of the
port and river, with four-masted
barque Viking, launched in 1906,
in front of the Gothenburg Opera
House. Popular summer restaurant
Port Du Soleil, at the city’s
waterfront, has a dining room,
large lounge with sunbeds and
renowned night club.

Citybreak
Malmö
12 13
Malmö — gateway
to the continent
Malmö, Sweden’s third largest city, is an old
shipbuilding and industrial center. It has undergone
a metamorphosis in recent years, since
being linked to the Danish capital of Copenhagen
by the spectacular Öresund Bridge.
Left: Some of the many outdoor
cafés and restaurants
at the multicultural Möllevång
Square, famous for its diversity
of ethnic restaurants and
food stores.
Right: Belle Epoque — a popular
meeting place in restaurantpacked
Malmö. It’s a neighborhood
bistro with friendly,
relaxed atmosphere and creative,
modern cooking based
on first-class local ingredients.
www.belle-epoque.se
Other dining suggestions:
Bastard Mat & Vin. Hugely
popular restaurant and meeting
place hip, happy and friendly,
with a long zinc bar and wellmade
traditional fare with an
international touch.
www.bastardrestaurant.se
Bloom in the Park. Experimental,
creative restaurant, currently
ranked number one in
the city. Doesn’t use a menu
or winelist. Just jump on for
the ride!
www.bloominthepark.se
Stroll in the picturesque
Gamla Väster district —
a beautiful example of how
an old city center can be
restored. Its heart is the
charming square, Lilla Torg,
which goes back to the
Middle Ages.
One of Malmö’s many multicultural
food stores, selling goods
from all over the globe.
Now the two cities are just 25 minutes apart, and
the daily interaction between them is intense. Malmö,
today a multicultural melting pot, has built an international
reputation as a creative, progressive and
environmentally aware city. For centuries Malmö was
part of Denmark, and on a walk around its cozy center
you can clearly see a continental style of architecture
that differs from the more northerly Swedish cities.
The area around the medieval square Lilla Torg and
the majestic Stora Torget is home to a diverse range of
attractive restaurants, bars and cafés, design stores,
museums and galleries. A five-minute walk takes you
to the growing new neighborhood of Västra hamnen,
a modern, exciting meeting place for people from the
entire region, with many popular restaurants, bars,
clubs and stores, as well as the famous Turning Torso
skyscraper. Malmö has a strong art scene, and in
2009 Stockholm’s Moderna Museet opened its southern
sub sidiary here. There’s also Malmö Konsthall
— an unusually beautiful venue — and a number of
interesting galleries. The music scene is also vibrant,
with a range of dynamic venues for classical, rock, jazz
and all types of club music, such as Debaser Malmö
and Kulturbolaget.
Malmö’s restaurant scene has evolved massively in
the past decade. In and around the city center there is
now a large number of top-notch restaurants and
culinary destinations, many specializing in cuisine
based on fine local and seasonal ingredients. The
streets around Möllevången in central Malmö offer
a selection of ethnic foods virtually unparallelled
in northern Europe.
During the warmer months, life in Malmö is influenced
by its seaside location and the long Ribersborg
Beach next to the city center. From Malmö you’re
just 30 minutes by car from a number of attractive,
historically interesting destinations, picturesque
towns, villages and manor houses in the fertile,
undulating Skåne countryside.
www.visitsweden.com
www.malmotown.com
The new seaside
district of Västra
Hamnen, with spectacular
views of the
Sound, is a vibrant
meeting place for
the entire region.

Gay
Swedish lifestyle
14 15
Sweden
goes gay
Glass vase by
Martti Rytkönen
for Orrefors.
We’re delighted that Sweden is often ranked
as Europe’s most gay-friendly country.
Sweden is a country that values tolerance, diversity
and respect, where everyone is welcome regardless of
origins, opinions and orientation. Unlike many cities
overseas, Swedish cities don’t have specific gayfriendly
districts; the venues are sprinkled throughout
an array of neighborhoods.
The Swedish capital, Stockholm, is known internationally
as a gay-friendly city that has been genuinely
transformed in recent years, with a rich, diverse and
constantly growing selection of clubs, meeting places
and events. In particular the lesbian scene has
boomed. Many of the best-known spots are in the
districts of Södermalm and the Old Town. Torget in
the Old Town is a classic place to get together and find
out what’s going on in town. The restaurant Roxy is
one of several lesbian favorites. In summer there’s
Mälarpaviljongen, set up on three barges off the isle
of Kungsholmen — a stunning location with a perfect
groove, seven days a week. Stockholm Pride Week in
August has grown into Stockholm’s biggest public
party, with an enormous selection of events and
festivities. Of course the parade is the highlight,
drawing some 50,000 participants and about half
a million spectators. Another indication of the significance
of Pride in Swedish society is that many of our
leading politicians take part.
Sweden’s two other major cities, Gothenburg and
Malmö, are also gay-friendly destinations with a
diverse range of attractions and venues. For info on
everything that’s happening on the gay scenes in our
Swedish cities, there are a number of frequently
updated websites and groups, including:
Twitter: GayStockholm + LesbianSthlm
www.visitstockholm.com/gay-lesbian
www.stockholmpride.org/en/
www.facebook.com/StockholmInFullGlory
www.qx.se/english/
Above left: Mälarpaviljongen on the Kungsholmen waterfront,
one of Stockholm’s most popular gay locations in
summer. The Pride Parade in Stockholm draws over 50,000
participants and half a million spectators.
Spring/summer 13 by
Altewai Saome, new
star in Swedish fashion
design.
Groundbreaking cuisine
from Frantzén/Lindeberg,
with two Michelin stars,
and their sights set on
a third.
A vibrant,
contemporary and
creative tradition
In recent decades we have witnessed a broad-based
revolution in Swedish creative culture — a phenomenon
that has generated considerable buzz in the global
media. In a major international survey a few years
ago, Sweden was ranked as the world’s most creative
nation. There can be no doubt that Swedish creatives
have made a strong global impact in the spheres of
music, design, fashion, film, marketing, multimedia,
art, cuisine and more.
We now have the explanation for this well-known
phenomenon. Swedes are a well-educated, welltraveled
people, extremely open to influences from
abroad — influences which they have always been able
to transform into something of their own, something
new, fresh and innovative.
A notable trend on the Swedish scene is how today’s
creatives don’t only seek inspiration from the outside,
from the global scene. They also look inward and
backward, to our own Swedish cultural history.
It’s fascinating to see how our classic folk expressions
and forms are continually rediscovered in new interpretations
by talented young Swedes.
One field where Sweden is undoubtedly a global
superpower is design, in the broadest sense. Swedish
design is a well-established phenomenon among
connoisseurs worldwide. Its history goes back to the

Swedish lifestyle
Swedish lifestyle
16 17
18th century, but it was during the 20th
century that a long list of Swedish designers
in a range of fields became household
names internationally. In the 21st century
we have seen a renaissance in Swedish design.
Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö are
home to a number of museums, galleries
and stores — good news for everyone with an
interest in the distinctive Swedish style.
Another place well worth a visit is the
Kingdom of Crystal in Småland. For design
lovers a good time to visit Stockholm is during
the Furniture Fair in February. It’s one of the
Nudie Jeans, Sweden’s largest
international jeans brand,
takes the environment
seriously.
world’s largest design happenings, with
loads of interesting exhibitions and events
for the public.
A couple of years ago when people started
talking about a “Swedish fashion miracle”,
the phrase might have seemed exaggerated.
But a few seasons later, the prophesy has
proven correct. Sweden, and in particular
Stockholm, has firmly positioned itself as
one of the most exciting, dynamic and innovative
fashion scenes outside the big,
established capitals. Media and bloggers
keep their eyes on the city, and the Stockholm
Fashion Weeks in spring and fall attract
more international attention every year.
It was in the broad-based, trend-conscious
low- and medium-priced segments
that Swedish fashion started to make its
mark about a decade ago, naturally with
retail giant H&M as a key driver. Brands
such as Filippa K, J. Lindeberg, Whyred,
Hope and Acne began to build their reputations
with their clean, low-key and wearable,
yet very updated, on-trend and clever
looks. Acne, in particular, has achieved global
success and set an example for a profusion
of younger, more artistic and cutting-edge
Swedish fashion brands. These include
Ann-Sofie Back, Fifth Avenue Shoe Repair,
Rodebjer, The Local Firm, Carin Wester,
Ida Sjöstedt, Camilla Norrback, Sandra
Backlund and AltewaiSaome — to name just
a few. And every season there are new
designers making their debut on the podium
at Stockholm Fashion Weeks.
Especially in Stockholm, but also in
Gothenburg and Malmö, you’ll find flagship
stores for an array of Swedish fashion brands.
Also not to be missed is the excellent selection
of vintage stores located in the larger
Swedish centers, many blending new and
old, fashion and design.
Interested in Swedish handicrafts You
can find interesting museums and stores in
all the larger cities, as well as throughout the
countryside, where the traditions are very
much alive. One of the most renowned craftproducing
provinces is Lapland in the far
north, with beautiful Sami pieces, traditionally
made from reindeer horn, silver and
leather. Swedish crafts have their true
stronghold in Dalarna province and the
districts around the beautiful Lake Siljan,
with the characteristic kurbits painting. This
is also the home of the small wooden Dala
horse, a national symbol. Traditions are alive
and well here, with colorful folk costumes,
varying from village to village, proudly worn
at midsummer celebrations.
Farmhouse in Hälsingland, on UNESCO’s World
Heritage List. Interior from Kristofers in Stene.
Exterior Fägelsjö Farmhouse.
Samis in traditional costume. In their culture,
blue represents water as the elixir of life, red
is the flame of heat and love, yellow is the
sun in long-lasting life and green is the plants
and nature.
Shoe from the globally
acclaimed fashion house,
Acne.
My Granddaughter’s Cabinet,
made of birch, oak and cherry,
by Lisa Hilland for Gärsnäs.
Contemporary embroidered
waist band. Svensk Hemslöjd
had its centenary in 2012.
Throughout Sweden, the
crafts are thriving.

Culinary
18
Fredrik Eriksson is one of Sweden’s most famous
chefs. He has featured on TV for twenty years,
and has won numerous awards, including Chef
of the Year. Eriksson runs the popular restaurant
Långbro Värdshus, south of Stockholm. Join him
on his trip through culinary Sweden.
My Swedish food trip
“Following the progress of Swedish culinary culture
in recent years has been an enormous pleasure.
Swedish cuisine and our Swedish ingredients and
flavors are finally getting plenty of attention from
overseas. It’s well deserved.
Sweden is a long, narrow country, extending all
of 978 miles from Treriksröset in the north to
Smygehuk in the south. Our 25 provinces have
different cultures and historical backgrounds, and
varying potential for agriculture, animal husbandry,
fishing and hunting. The ingredients and the climate
have shaped the local cuisines, as have the traditional
methods of making use of harvests and catches
from meadows, forests, lakes and the ocean —
methods such as smoking, salting, boiling, souring
and curing. Join me on my Swedish food trip!”
Småland — lingonberries, cheesecake
and contemporary food craft
Vimmerby is the home of the Astrid Lindgren’s
World theme park, with over half a million
visitors annually. I collaborate with the restaurants
there. We have stopped serving the standard theme
park fare, such as pizzas, hamburgers and French
fries. Instead we’re serving well-made, traditional
local food, as mentioned in Astrid Lindgren’s books:
local isterband sausages, cheese cake (Småland style),
potato dumplings and lingonberry jam, to name just
a few. Småland has a long-standing reputation for its
entrepreneurial spirit, and this tradition is clearly
evident in contemporary food craft. Here you’ll find
lots of talented, ambitious producers who grow and
refine the local ingredients, and maintain and advance
the traditional cuisine. PM&Vänner in Växjö,
one of Sweden’s top-ranking restaurants, is a pioneer
in this respect. And nestled in the heart of the famed
Kingdom of Crystal is the Kosta Boda Art Hotel, where
food and glassware merge in a synthesis of culture
and gastronomy.
Öland — isle of herbs
Öland, the long, skinny island east of the
Småland mainland, is famous for its
unusual plain, the Great Alvar, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site because of its unique natural qualities.
This is where chef Karin Fransson picked her herbs
long before “locally grown” became a culinary concept.
At her Hotel Borgholm, Fransson runs a groundbreaking
kitchen based on these herbs and locally
grown ingredients. Many great chefs have trained
with Fransson. Öland has a strong tradition of harvest
festivals and other food-related events. On Öland
they pay tribute to classic Swedish foodstuffs like the
brown bean and traditional dishes like potato
dumplings.
Gotland — the sunny island with
the fine ingredients
Summer, sun and vacation — that’s
Gotland. But in my opinion it’s most beautiful and most
relaxing off season, for instance on an early-spring
bicycle ride. That’s when ramson and sand leek thrive in
the lime-rich Gotland soil. Both of these delicate wild
onions are used in soups, salads and more. Gotland
also gives us the saffron pancake that we always serve
at the Christmas buffet at Långbro Värdshus. The island
has first-rate animal husbandry. The renowned Gotland
lambs and beef cattle graze freely in the poetically
barren countryside. Our restaurant sources beef
from Gotland. All over the island, the food craft scene
buzzes with entrepreneurial spirit. Träkumla Rom
has started making rum from sugar beets. At Stafva
Farm Dairy they produce delicious dessert cheeses
called Blå, Vit and Ockra, plus several other types.
Skåne — the province of fertile soils
The province of Skåne used to be called
“Sweden’s breadbasket”. It has the country’s
most fertile soils. Here the generous harvests are
collected earlier than in the rest of the country. In
a good year, the country’s first new potatoes are harvested
as early as May. These early-picked potatoes
are a genuine delicacy.
In Skåne the star chef Anders Vendel serves up
some brilliant cooking at the restaurants Sandskogen
and Sture, with innovative menus based on ingredients
and traditions from the region. Throughout
Skåne you’ll find restaurants in beautiful settings
where you can enjoy exquisite seasonal, local ingredients,
prepared with a contemporary touch and respect
for culinary heritage.
An important day in Skåne is the traditional goose
dinner on November 10, with goose blood soup as a
starter, followed by roast goose, and then egg cake.
In Skåne they also raise top-quality chicken, such as
Bosarp ecological chicken.
The famous Gotland sheep
graze freely in the open
cultural landscape. Cheese
from Stafva gårdsmejeri.
Apples from Österlen in
Skåne. Influential herbal
focus at Karin Fransson’s
Hotel Borgholm.
“Österlen on the east coast
of Skåne has a poetic beauty.
It’s the garden of Sweden,
and apple heaven. In spring
the apple orchards are in full
bloom and in fall we harvest
our sumptuous Swedish apple
varieties with enchanting
names such as Aroma, Signe
Tillisch, Alice and Ingrid Marie.
Their characteristic crisp, fresh
flavor comes from ripening
slowly in the open countryside.
Many farms have their own
facilities for making apple
juice.”

Culinary
20
“Right through the fall, visitors
to the West Coast can sample
fantastic shellfish. The lobster
safaris in October are an experience.
Oyster lovers mustn’t
miss the shucking of the large,
impressive oysters in the fishing
huts in Grebbestad, where
ninety percent of the Swedish
oysters are sourced from.”
Two dishes from Fredrik —
fresh mushrooms and freshly
boiled crayfish. Oysters from
Grebbestad, the Swedish
seafood capital. Kitchen
at Frantzén/Lindeberg, with
two Michelin stars.
Gothenburg, Bohuslän and
the West Coast — seafood mecca
Sweden’s second city, Gothenburg, is a seafood mecca,
and one of the country’s foremost culinary strongholds.
It has a solid international reputation as a food
destination, and a well-established tradition of
handling and preparing fish and shellfish. Visitors
mustn’t miss the city’s number one delicacy, freshly
caught boiled prawns, simply enjoyed with a dollop of
mayonnaise, freshly baked bread and a glass of white
wine — preferably in the famous “Fish Church” fish
market. Of the many excellent restaurants the most
classic is Sjömagasinet where many talented chefs
have trained.
The austerely beautiful West Coast, and the barren,
windswept islands in the archipelago are dotted with
picturesque fishing villages. Marstrand, Smögen,
Fjällbacka and Grebbestad — my personal favorite —
are just a few of the most well known. At all of these,
and many other places, you can enjoy the worldfamous
West Coast seafood, from the clear, cold
waters, perfectly prepared in gorgeous settings.
Dalsland and Värmland — treasures
of the deep forests
In these scenic provinces the roads are lined
with dense, deep forests, alternating with inviting
blue lakes. The forests are goldmines for mushroom
lovers. In late summer and fall it’s time to pick my
favorite, the chanterelle, as well as the delicate penny
bun. Dalsland and Värmland host mushroom exhibitions
and mushroom safaris at many locations. For
hunting enthusiasts, the deep forests are rich in
moose, deer and small game. In Vänern, Sweden’s
largest lake, you can fish for pike and zander.
Gästrikland — the herring province
There’s good reason to label the herring as the
most Swedish of all foodstuffs. This small yet
noble fish has historically been the Swedes’ most
important food, alongside the potato. Herring is the
star of all our traditional holiday buffets, prepared in
an array of much-loved dishes. Böckling, or buckling
in English, is herring soaked in brine and hot-smoked
over spruce or juniper. This traditional method
imparts a lovely golden color and a delicious flavor.
North of Gävle in Gästrikland there are buckling
smokehouses in the old fishing sheds that dot the
coastline. These are perfect places to enjoy one of life’s
greatest pleasures — sitting in the fall sun, eating
buckling on crispbread. One revered tradition in the
Swedish north is surströmming, fermented Baltic
herring known for its powerful smell — or stench, as
some would say. It’s not my personal favorite but
lots of people love it. The surströmming premiere on
the third Thursday of August is a popular and a very
Swedish event.
Stockholm and Mälardalen
— the culinary metropolis
Many of Stockholm’s finest restaurants
source their ingredients from farmers and producers
in the surrounding regions of Uppland, Södermanland
and Västmanland. Internationally renowned
restaurant Frantzén/Lindeberg has its own farmland.
As a culinary metropolis and destination, Stockholm
is recognized not only for its fine dining, but also for
all of its innovative, ambitious bistros and neighborhood
restaurants.
One of the region’s many impressive, small-scale
food producers is Jürrs mejeri, a dairy that makes
Sörmlands Ädel, an award-winning creamy blue
cheese with a rich flavor. In consistency it’s softer than
Roquefort but firmer than Gorgonzola.
For me, the tastiest — and most Swedish — meal is
toast with chanterelle mushrooms as a starter, followed
by boiled freshwater crayfish with a seed-spiced
cheese, crispbread, aquavit and beer, and for dessert,
fresh raspberries and whipped cream. At Långbro
Värdshus we have a special aquavit sommelier who
helps the guests make the best choice from the extensive
range of traditional and newly created aquavits.
One gem in Stockholm is Fjäderholmarna, a small
island just outside the city center. It’s a fantastic
environ ment where the herring practically jump up
onto the jetty. L.O. Smith, a spirits manufacturer,
controlled his empire from here. He developed the
vodka that is now the global brand called Absolut.
In Uppland, north of Stockholm, is the wonderful
coastal region of Roslagen. Here we bake Långbros
Värdshusknäcke, a crispbread made the old- fashioned
way in a small family bakery. Crispbread is a unique
Swedish tradition that is served at almost all Swedish
restaurants.
Dalarna — the most Swedish of all!
More than most other Swedish provinces,
Dalarna has a well-established tradition of
inns, located in magnificent settings, where travelers
used to eat, drink, rest and change their horses. The
characteristic red wooden houses in Tällberg, with
stunning views of the famous blue Lake Siljan, are
well worth a trip. Midsummer festivities by Lake
Siljan are an enchanting custom, with fiddle music,
folk costumes, dancing around the Midsummer pole
and not least, a sumptuous smörgåsbord, or buffet.
Dalarna is often called the most Swedish of all the
provinces, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy all the
traditional Swedish delicacies.
Dalarna produces many varieties of the Swedish
unpasteurized cheese called fäbodsost. This was
originally a means of preserving milk during winter,
as the cattle grazed far from the farms.
Norrland and Lapland
— wild country and unique flavors
Norrland’s remarkable cuisine is rich
in delicacies from the forests, bogs, rivers and lakes.
Here the almond potatoes acquire their exceptionally
rich flavor as they slowly ripen in the summer sun that
never sets. The cloudberry is called the gold of the
mountains; the vitamin-packed buckthorn berry
grows best by the coast. Each season the local villagers
hotly debate the prospects for these two golden
berries. With a dollop of fresh cream, cloudberries are
a genuine delicacy.
The world-renowned restaurant Fäviken is located
in Åre, Scandinavia’s largest alpine center. Headed
by chef Magnus Nilsson, Fäviken serves traditional
regional cuisine in a new, highly innovative way. The
venture has proven to many local chefs and food
producers that a small restaurant in the mountains
can use culinary skills and innovation to build a global
reputation that attracts food lovers from around the
world. The menu follows the seasons, taking advantage
of every ingredient the region provides. If three
ptarmigan are caught that day, the trio will appear on
the menu that evening.
The forests of Norrland are home to moose, reindeer
and black grouse. Streams abound with salmon,
brown trout, arctic char, lavaret and grayling. Such
delicacies are best enjoyed on location; they’re rarely
found in big-city restaurants. The spectacularly orangecolored
vendace roe, with its mild, salty flavor, comes
from vendace caught in the fall in northern watercourses.
It is best enjoyed au naturel with sour cream
and finely chopped raw onion. The famous Västerbotten
cheese from Bjurträsk in the Västerbotten region,
with its strong, nutty aroma, is the queen of Swedish
cheeses. The delicious reindeer meat takes on exciting
flavors when smoked according to local traditions.
And when served on Norrland flatbread it’s simply
sublime. Like many other Norrland delicacies, it tastes
best beside a campfire in the mountains or the forest.
Dining room in the beautiful,
award-winning restaurant
Dala Floda in Dalarna.
Cloudberries — the gold
of the mountains.
Vendace roe — the gold
of the streams.
Globally renowned Fäviken,
in the mountains of Jämtland,
has its own garden.

We love to share.
During the Viking era, Old Uppsala was Sweden’s center for pagan rites.
And in the 1700s, the Father of Biology, Carl Linnaeus, spread his knowledge
of nature from his home in the Linnaeus Garden. Today, Uppsala offers exciting
ancient monuments and world-leading research, but also shops, restaurants
and events for all tastes.
Hostel in Sweden,
book online
www.svif.se
New M/S Viking Grace
Cruises from Stockholm
SVERIGES VANDRARHEM I FÖRENING
Family Hostels/Familienherbergen
vikingline.com
12-728_55x58_Sverige magasinet 2013.indd 1 2012-10-25 09.48
We’d love to share our history, culture and everyday life.
Uppsala is waiting for you, a mere 40 minutes from Stockholm.
Visit www.destinationuppsala.se/welcome
Uppsala. Sharing experiences. Daily since 1286.
Exhibitions • Movies • Shop
Audio Guide • Bistro Nobel
Activities for children
Old Town, Stockholm, Sweden
Nobelmuseum.se
www.visitostergotland.se
© 2012 United Air Lines, Inc. All rights reserved.
Near, far, and just about
everywhere else in between.
More than 370 destinations worldwide.
The Heart of Sweden logotype PANTONE 382
www.theheartofsweden.com
There’s no limit to how far you can go. Especially when there’s no limit to where you can fly.
With the most comprehensive route network, we can take you just about anywhere.
For more information, go to united.com.
Join us on our
digital embassies!
Become “fans” of our Sweden Page on Facebook.
Click to visit our Page:
http://www.facebook.com/swedentravel
www.facebook.com/OutdoorInSweden
Follow our updates on Twitter in real time.
Click to see our tweets:
http://twitter.com/visitswedenus
Join Sweden’s official online community. Share and
enjoy photos, travel stories, tips and more from friends
in Sweden and all over the world. Click to be inspired
and to join our community:
www.CommunityOfSweden.com
Subscribe to Sweden’s official channel
on Youtube.
Click to view our videos:
www.youtube.com/sweden
Discover VisitSweden’s virtual pinboard
and get inspiration for your next trip
to Sweden at:
www.pinterest.com/pinsofsweden
Includes destinations served by United Air Lines, Inc.,
and United Express.

Swedish Stories
Swedish Stories
24 25
Once upon
a time in
Sweden…
A country is very much its history, stories,
myths and images. For many people, their
first encounter with a country is through
different types of stories. They create their
own relationship to the country long before
they actually visit it in real life.
Over the centuries, Sweden has had many
different storytellers, whose works have
traveled far beyond its borders. August
Strindberg, Astrid Lindgren and Ingmar
Bergman, as well as artists like Anders
Zorn and Carl Larsson, are some of the
individuals who have created the images
and stories that help people overseas
interpret and understand Sweden.
In recent years we have seen an astonishing
increase in the international demand for
Swedish stories. Contemporary Swedish
literature (in particular crime stories)
and film have enjoyed huge success on
the global stage. In many instances the
imagery and mythology of Sweden abroad
has been updated as a result.
Against the backdrop of the worldwide
success of these Swedish stories, we have
had the pleasure to welcome growing
numbers of visitors from around the globe.
They discover Sweden through books and
films, and come here to experience the
districts where their heroes and heroines
live and love. They want to take in the
same views, smell the same smells, and
check if the lavender-flavored biscuits at
their favorite cake shop are unusually spicy.
Here are a few of the locations that have
gained global fame through the stories
and images of our Swedish storytellers.
Camilla Läckberg’s
Fjällbacka, Bohuslän
and the West Coast
For Camilla Läckberg, currently Sweden’s best-selling
author, it was natural to set her crime stories in the
town where she grew up, Fjällbacka, an austere yet
idyllic fishing village on the West Coast. In Läckberg’s
books, police officer Patrik Hedström and author Erika
Falck — his girlfriend and often identified as Läckberg’s
alter ego — solve barbaric murder mysteries.
Readers worldwide can’t get enough. To date, four
of the books have been made into films, and a series
of ten new Swedish TV and cinema films are in production.
There are also plans for international screen
adaptations of her books. As has happened with the
locations in the books of Läckberg’s Swedish crime
writer colleagues, increasing numbers of visitors are
coming to Fjällbacka to experience the locations from
Läckberg’s books and films in real life — on guided
tours or independently.
Camilla Läckberg is currently
Sweden’s best-selling author.
She grew up in Fjällbacka, the
picturesque West Coast fishing
village that figures prominently
in her crime stories and the
films adapted from them. Like
several of her Swedish colleagues,
she welcomes visitors
to experience the locations
from her stories.
“It’s fantastic that my books have helped Fjällbacka
that way”, she explains. “I’m a real Fjällbacka girl —
I really love everything about the place. Fjällbacka
and environs are extremely important to the books,
and even more important to the films, which really
showcase the village, the countryside and the sea.”
Fjällbacka is a classic fishing village of the Bohuslän
region. Its culture, including the built environment,
has been lovingly maintained, one example being the
iconic red fishing sheds. Life has always been centered
around the sea — a tradition that is very much alive.
“Fjällbacka is stunningly beautiful, but in an austere
way”, explains Läckberg. “You’re very exposed to the
forces of nature, and life here has been difficult.
Everyone made a living from fishing and seafaring,
and you never knew if the fish would come back or not.
The mentality here is shaped by the strict Lutheranism
of Schartau. You don’t put yourself forward or say
that everything’s great. First you talk about your
problems.”
According to Camilla Läckberg you can see Fjällbacka
as a miniature reflection of Sweden, at least as
this reflection is perceived on the international stage.
“When I travel around the world doing publicity
for my books, I’m struck by the fantastically glorified
image many people have of Sweden. The Swedish
model, beautiful countryside and tall, blonde, beautiful
people. I get huge numbers of questions about that.
Many readers find it exciting the way the murders and
other negative elements like alcoholism, physical
abuse and neo-Naziism contrast with the idyllic image
of the good society.”
Of all the international guests Camilla Läckberg
has hosted in Fjällbacka, not a single one has been
disappointed, despite high expectations.
“People go crazy when they get here! They’re enchanted
by the countryside and the environment, it’s
like nothing they’ve ever experienced. And the food
makes a huge impression. Eating freshly caught fish
and shellfish here is really something very special.”
“If you come to Fjällbacka you mustn’t miss the
archipelago. It’s one of the most stunning things you
can see, with its smooth, rounded, grey and pink granite
bedrock. Fjällbacka is the perfect starting point for
excursions to other beautiful fishing villages and scenic
spots around here, like Hamburgsund, Grebbestad,
Lysekil and Tanum with its famous rock engravings.
And you just have to sit at the Guest House
restaurant on the island of Valön, eating freshly caught
lobster. Simply unbeatable!”
Left: Restaurant Vatten
Gourmet & Café in Skärhamn,
at the famous Nordic Watercolour
Museum.
www.restaurangvatten.com
Right: Freshly caught lobster
at restaurant Norra Hamnen
in Lysekil.
norrahamnen5.se
Other dining suggestions:
In Fjällbacka you can enjoy
superb seafood at Bryggan
Fjällbacka.
www.brygganfjallbacka.com
The fishing village of Fjällbacka
and the unique archipelago
just offshore play a key role in
Camilla Läckberg’s best-selling
crime stories.
Top: kayaking among the barren
islets of Fjällbacka’s archipelago.

Swedish Stories
26
Astrid Lindgren’s
Småland
Above right: Ingmar Bergman
with his long-standing collaborator
Sven Nykvist, the worldfamous
cinematographer.
Above left: The building
in Stockholm’s Södermalm,
where Stieg Larsson’s Mikael
Blomkvist lived.
Above: Rooney Mara as
Lisbeth Salander.
Below right: The classic restaurant
Kvarnen in Södermalm,
where Lisbeth Salander went
on Tuesdays to meet the girls
in the rock band Evil Fingers,
and where Mikael Blomkvist
and his colleagues from Millennium
used to get together.
Other Millennium tips:
Mellqvist kaffebar in Södermalm,
where Mikael Blomkvist
used to spend time, and where
Lisbeth Salander asked to
borrow money for an important
“investment” — which she
used to finance the coup that
makes her three million Crowns
richer. This is also where the
author Stieg Larsson used to go
in the 1990s, since his magazine
Expo had its office in the
same building.
Stockholm
crime stories
Stockholm, the Swedish capital, is known as a beautiful
city dominated by light and water, at least during the
warmer half of the year when most overseas visitors
come. However, in recent years a darker image of
Stockholm has gained a huge global audience, as
a result of our world-famous crime stories. The
standout example is the extraordinarily popular
Millennium trilogy by the deceased Stieg Larsson,
with the heroes Mikael Blomkvist and especially
Lisbeth Salander. Another author who has depicted
what we now call “Stockholm Noir” is Jens Lapidus.
The guided tours in the footsteps of Blomkvist and
Salander, mainly in the Södermalm district, attract
Millennium fans from around the world. They come
to see the film and book locations in real life.
Connoisseurs know that the Swedish crime story
boom originated with the author couple Maj Sjöwall
and Per Wahlöö. From the mid-60s to the mid-70s
they wrote ten novels, collectively called “The Story
of a Crime”. Not surprisingly, the Stockholm depicted
in this series is vastly different from today’s, but fans
of the books love experiencing what the locations
look like today.
Ingmar Bergman’s Fårö
and Gotland
The barren, romantic countryside and the stony
beaches on the little Baltic Sea island of Fårö, north
of Gotland, is an important part of the special magic
that made Ingmar Bergman one of the greatest, most
influential filmmakers of all time. Bergman’s first visit
to Fårö was in 1960, on the recommendation of the
producer of Through a Mirror Darkly, which Bergman
had initially planned to set on the Orkney Islands in
Scotland. He fell in love with the landscape — so much
so that he later bought a house there. He spent more
and more time on Fårö, and toward the end of his life
he settled there permanently. He made and edited
a number of films on the island, including classics
like Persona and the television series Scenes from
a Marriage. Bergman’s films from Fårö also attracted
other filmmakers like Andrei Tarkovsky, who made
The Sacrifice there in 1986. While Bergman lived, but
especially after his death, Fårö has become a mecca
for directors and film lovers from all over the world.
They travel there to experience Bergman’s world and
the unparalleled magic of Fårö. Every August the
Bergman Festival on Fårö attracts distinguished
international visitors.
Fårö and the “mother island” of Gotland are like a
world in miniature, with its own unique natural beauty
and a cultural history going back to the Middle Ages.
The town of Visby, with its medieval center and
surrounding town wall, is included on UNESCO’s
World Heritage List. From Visby it’s less than an hour
by car to an array of idyllic, scenic destinations.
The countryside of Gotland is home to a number
of lovely hotels, inns and guest houses. Gotland also has
much to offer in terms of food, with first-class local
ingredients such as the famous Gotland truffle. A couple
of innovative restaurants, inspired by Gotland cuisine
and featuring ingredients from local producers,
are Krakas in Katthammarsvik, www.krakas.se and
50 kvadrat in Visby, www.50kvadrat.se
For over a half century, millions and millions of children
worldwide have created their own mental pictures of
Sweden, consciously or not, while reading Astrid
Lindgren’s stories of Pippi Longstocking, Emil of
Lönneberga, Karlsson-on-the-Roof, Madicken, Ronia
the Robber’s Daughter and all the other characters.
Astrid Lindgren was born and grew up in the small
town of Vimmerby in Småland. In the imaginary village
of Katthult outside Vimmerby live Emil, his sister Ida,
the farmhand Alfred, the maid Lina and all the other
characters in Emil of Lönneberga. The Småland
countryside, with its stony pastures and red cabins,
is an important part of the story.
Vimmerby is also home to the constantly expanding
Astrid Lindgren’s World, where children and adults
can come face-to-face with all of Lindgren’s storybook
characters in real life. In the summer of 2013, the 50th
anniversary of the first Emil book, a completely new
Emil Land will open here.
For many international visitors, Småland is the
quintessential Sweden, with its dense green forests,
dozens of blue lakes and the characteristic red cabins
with white trim. And many guests from far and wide
come to Småland to realize their dream of experiencing
a storybook summer, by renting a cabin by a lake or
a forest in the countryside.
Ingmar Bergman described his first encounter with
them as follows:
“We stood leaning against the wind, staring with watering
eyes at those secretive idols raising their heavy foreheads
against the waves and the darkening horizon. I don’t really
know what happened. If one wished to be solemn, it could
be said that I had found my landscape, my real home; if one
wished to be funny, one could talk about love at first sight.”
Ingmar Bergman
Top: Typical scene from Småland
— classic red buildings with white
trim. For many people they’re
the essence of Sweden.
Left: Much-loved author Astrid
Lindgren with Ingrid Nilsson as
Pippi Långstrump during the
1970 production of the movie
in Småland.
Above: Restaurang Linnea at
Astrid Lindgrens World, specializing
in traditional Småland cuisine,
made from local ingredients.
www.alv.se
Other dining suggestions in
Småland: PM & Vänner. Ranked
among the top ten in the country.
A leader among restaurants, with
its playful cuisine based on the
finest local ingredients.
www.pmrestauranger.se
Hotell Borgholm. Well worth
the trip across the bridge to the
island of Öland. Karin Fransson’s
sublime cooking is known for
its influential use of locally
grown herbs.
www.hotellborgholm.com
Left: A symbol of Gotland is the
“rauk”, an unusual rock formation
found along several stretches of
coastline. The most famous are
in northwestern Fårö.

executive producerS franciS hopKinSon and andy harrieS (left BanK pictureS) ole SøndBerg and anni faurBye (yelloW Bird)
BBC logo is copyright and trademark of the British Broadcasting Corporation and is used under licence. BBC logo © BBC 1996.
Sidetracked
Thriller
Speltid: 1 tim 29 min Rek. från 15 år Inspelad: 2008 Engelskt tal
Texter: Svenska, norska, danska, finska
© Yellow BIrd rIghTS AB And lefT BAnk PIcTureS (TelevISIon) lImITed 2008
marknadsförs av AB SvenSk fIlmInduSTrI, 169 86 Stockholm.
KÖPFILM - denna dvd-video är avsedd för privat bruk och får endast försäljas till konsument. för uthyrning krävs att tillstånd inhämtas från
rättighetsägaren. Programinnehållet skyddas enligt upphovsrättslagen. All annan visning och vidarespridning är förbjuden. filmen får ej heller kopieras.
16:9 1.78:1
distribution: AB SvenSk fIlmInduSTrI.
Ansvarig utgivare: rasmus ramstad.
www.sf.se
532354
Swedish Stories
Cruising
28 29
Wallander’s Ystad, Österlen and Skåne
See Sweden from the sun deck
The writer Henning Mankell and his often downhearted
police inspector Kurt Wallander were
probably the start of what is known globally as
“Swede-crime”. In his crime stories, Wallander solves
one barbaric crime after another, while also struggling
with his own personal broodings and problems. But
alongside the books’ literary characters, a key player
is the pleasant small town of Ystad, with a history going
back to the 13th century, and surrounding regions.
For more than ten years Mankell fans from around the
world have made their pilgrimage to Ystad to follow
in Wallander’s footsteps and to enjoy the beautiful,
romantic countryside, with its long white sandy
beaches, undulating fields, gently rolling hills and
fascinating cultural history. As well as the light, so
renowned among artists. In Ystad you can visit
Wallander’s regular haunts, such as Fridolf’s Café
and Hotel Continental. There are guided tours of the
Den flerfaldigt Oscar ® nominerade och Emmybelönade irländska skådespelaren Kenneth
town itself, and of the crime scenes and other nearby
Branagh spelar Kurt Wallander. Filmatiseringen för BBC, av Henning Mankells bästsäljare
Villospår, är inspelad i det vackra sydsvenska landskapet. Rollgestalterna tolkas av mestadels
brittiska skådespelare på ett spännande och nytt sätt. Denna nyinspelning gjorde succé i
engelsk TV under hösten 2008.
locations from the ten novels.
Skåne is Sweden’s most southerly and most densely
populated province, and one of the most historically
Det är höst och människorna i den annars så lugna småstaden Ystad
slår sig till ro. Men för kommissarie Kurt Wallander bryts idyllen av att en
important. Within an hour’s drive from Ystad you
ung kvinna bränner sig till döds i en rapsåker.
Kort därefter slår en seriemördare till med en rad allt mer bestialiska
mord. Varför en justitieminister, en framgångsrik konsthandlare och en
can reach a number of attractive vanlig småtjuv destinations. Samma vapen, skalperade offer, är det Long,
hämnd Det
verkar finnas ett samband. Mardrömmen för Wallander och hans stab
har bara börjat.
”Gripande”
WEEKEND
inviting beaches line the Skåne coast in three directions.
Visitors love the idyllic, culturally and ”allt histori-
är väldigt snyggt,
”mycket underhållande”
TIME OUT
och Branagh är, som alltid,
Starring Kenneth Branagh Sarah Smart Sadie Shimmin
imponerande”
tom Beard tom hiddleSton richard mccaBe david Warner and Jeany SparK
DAILY MAIL WEEKEND MAGAZINE
directed By philip martin director of photography anthony dod mantle Written By richard cottan
cally interesting villages and towns, magnificent
Kenneth Branagh (tKBc) anne menSah (BBc Scotland) reBecca eaton (WgBh BoSton) hanS-Wolfgang Jurgan (ard degeto)
co producer ralf ivarSSon produced By Simon moSeley and daniel ahlqviSt
palaces and manor houses, ancient monuments and
of course the West-Skåne cities of Malmö, Lund and
Helsingborg. Every corner of the Skåne countryside
offers charming hotels and inns, as well as top-notch
restaurants where an impressive selection of local,
seasonal ingredients is prepared with great sophistication.
Skåne is an attractive destination for an
enjoyable car or bicycle vacation.
WALLANDER SIDETRACKED
Kenneth Branagh
WALLANDER
SIDETRACKED
Filmatisering för BBC av Henning Mankells bästsäljare
Kenneth Branagh as Inspector
Kurt Wallander in the film’s
international adaptation.
The 17th-century Marsvinsholm
Palace in Ystad Municipality
— one of many superb palaces
and manor houses in the
cultural landscape of Skåne.
Typical undulating farmland
near Ystad.
Cutting edge cuisine at new
Sandskogen, one of many firstclass,
modern restaurants
in the region.
www.sandskogen.vendelrestauranger.se
Also: Daniel Berlin, innovative
restaurant in Skåne Tranås,
Österlen, with a creative menu
that follows what the land
is offering.
www.danielberlin.se
Fridolf’s in Ystad — Wallander’s
favorite café, where he has
his herring sandwich and
light beer.
Driving through Wallander’s
quaint hometown of Ystad, with
origins in the 13th century.
With its beautiful, long and richly varied coastline, it’s
no surprise that Sweden is becoming increasingly
popular as a destination for cruise ships from all over
the world. The country’s extensive coast offers a huge
number of destinations well worth going ashore for.
At several points, the coast is peppered with fantastic
archipelagos that ensure superb scenery and constantly
changing vistas. Most famous are of course
the Stockholm and the West Coast Archipelagos;
each has its own character, but both are unparalleled
maritime worlds.
In summer, Stockholm is a world-class cruise
ship destination. Many vessels dock at the beautiful
Old Town, dating back to the 13th century — one of
fourteen islands positioned where Lake Mälaren
meets the Baltic Sea and the waters of the Stockholm
Archipelago. Being the national capital, Stockholm
is awash with sightseeing, culture, museums, restaurants,
entertainment and shopping opportunities.
Cruise ship traffic breaks records year after year.
Increasingly, cruise companies are choosing Stockholm
as a turnaround point, i.e., a starting or finishing
port for the cruise, thanks to the city’s huge appeal,
high hotel standard and convenient direct flights
to Europe and the United States.
Sweden’s second city, Gothenburg, is another
popular destination for cruise ships. It enjoys an impressive
cultural and entertainment scene and is the
obvious point of departure for trips through the
magical, pink-tinged West Coast Archipelago. The
country’s third city, Malmö, is another attractive stop.
The other Swedish ports of call for international
cruise ships are the unique medieval town of Visby on
the scenic Baltic island of Gotland, historical Kalmar
with a bridge link to Öland, the second Swedish Baltic
island with stunning natural beauty, and finally
Helsingborg, a charming town on the West Coast
of Skåne.
Swedish ports offer good service and organization,
and a professional, safe welcome.
For more information, see Visitsweden.com/cruise
Cruising in the Stockholm
Archipelago, a unique marine
landscape. Many cruise ships
anchor in the center of the
national capital, Stockholm.

Nature
Nature
30 31
bigger than the people. Priceless, free luxuries such
as fresh air, clean water, open spaces and breathtaking
Nature — Sweden’s
views are easy to reach and available in abundance
for everyone to enjoy, even in the main cities.
Sweden’s size and long north-south orientation —
national religion
measuring slightly more than the distance from
Chicago to Dallas — make for remarkable variations
in climate and landscape. The scenery changes
constantly, from rolling hills, undulating fields and
long white beaches in the south to endless mountain
expanses in the north, often referred to as Europe’s
last wilderness. The variation of of meadows, plains,
lakes and especially forests is extraordinary. On
three sides, Sweden is bordered by a 1,678 mile long,
hugely varied and mostly uninhabited coastline.
Of course, most spectacular are the celebrated
displays in the mountain regions of Lapland. There’s
the midnight sun and its opposite, the polar night —
when the supernatural northern lights dance and
flash across the midwinter skies. Lapland and the rest
of the alpine region, which covers more than half of
the country, offers an endless variety of easily accessible
adventures, from the relaxing to the extreme.
There are also the magical archipelagos near
Stockholm and off the West Coast, the forest- and
lake-rich cultural landscapes of Värmland and Dalarna,
and the extraordinary Baltic islands of Gotland and
Öland.
Throughout the country there’s a huge and varied
selection of offers for visitors who seek those simple
pleasures where body and soul can find harmony,
away from the stress, demands and high-tech of
today’s society — a sort of authentic tranquility that has
unfortunately been lost in most parts of the densely
populated world. This priceless feeling can be achieved
almost effortlessly, whether you’re rafting down a river
The Swedes’ love of nature is perhaps the strongest of our national traits. Foreign visitors
who experience the Swedish outdoors are often “infected by the same disease”.
Breathtaking scenery — Stuor
Räitavagge, a wide valley near
in the magical forests of Värmland, fishing for perch
in a calm lake at sunset, watching for moose in a hut
Kebnekaise mountain and the
made of spruce branches, cycling with your family
characteristic summit, Nallo.
Lapland is often called Europe’s
along gravel roads through the friendly summer
last wilderness.
scenery of Sörmland, or just lying on the grass outside
A magical experience of nature
a cabin in Småland, watching the clouds drift by.
and freedom: sea kayaking in
An outstanding feature of our Swedish cities is
the Stockholm Archipelago.
that you can combine contemporary cosmopolitan
Opposite page, top:
attractions with the natural pleasures of the outdoors.
Priceless luxuries, for free.
From all of our three main centers you’re less than
Sweden’s thousands of lakes
offer wonderful swimming.
30 minutes from genuine wilderness. Being able to
enjoy both of these worlds on one trip is a luxury
we like to call typically Swedish.
Our Swedish countryside is vast, friendly and
lavishly generous. It looks forward to welcoming you!
If there’s one thing that unites Swedes across age, class
and cultural boundaries, it’s a firm desire to return to
nature. When Swedes are asked what they want most
in life, the answer is remarkably often “just to get out
into the countryside”. It doesn’t matter if the person
is an elderly industrialist, a young pop star or a middleaged
breadwinner.
In today’s modern, secular society, this deep affection
must be the closest we get to a national religion
that unites us across all boundaries. Is there an explanation
Possibly that urbanization took place so late
in Sweden; just a century ago most Swedes still lived
in the countryside, making their living from the land.
However there’s no doubt that the main reason for
our love of nature is the rare beauty and majesty of the
Swedish countryside. Sweden is a vast and sparsely
populated country where the natural world is still
The ancient Right of Public
Access gives everyone the
right to move freely and to
overnight anywhere in the
countryside, as long as they
act responsibly and don’t
go within sight or earshot of
a dwelling. Here, an alpine
tenting vacation in the wilds
of Lapland.

Nature
32
Free, priceless luxury
in our Swedish countryside
Freedom
The Right of Public Access is an ancient
Swedish custom that allows everyone to roam
freely in the countryside, even on private
property, as long as you behave responsibly
and remain out of view and earshot of residential
buildings. It gives people a unique
sense of freedom and an opportunity to
enjoy the outdoors — respectfully and on
nature’s terms, of course.
The light
Our Nordic summer light is world famous,
and justifiably so. Its magic can hardly be
described in words; it must be experienced.
It’s delicate and fresh, with an almost
otherworldly morning light that makes the
greenery glow and the flowers sing in a blaze
of color. And a long, sweet twilight that
slowly, slowly drifts into the mythical white
night, that never truly gets dark, but retains
a secretive, romantic shimmer.
The water
Sweden is a land of seas and lakes. Wherever
you rent a cabin you are almost certainly
within walking or cycling distance of a beach
or lake’s edge, offering its clear waters for
a refreshing swim or a fishing trip or gently
reflecting the soft sunset. Our Swedish waterways
are clean and inviting, for everyone to
enjoy all summer long. In winter, the waters
are transformed into glistening expanses
of ice, ideal for skating, walking and fishing.
Imagination
In a way, not doing anything in particular
has become the ultimate luxury in our overloaded
information society, especially for
children, who are so accustomed to digital
entertainment and other stimuli. Many
visitors have experienced how a vacation
in a cabin in the Swedish countryside has
taken them and their children back to a
timeless existence beyond all the high-tech
and gadgets. The days seem never-ending
and our thoughts and imaginations are
nourished by simple, natural luxuries. You
will notice how you and your children will
soon settle into a slower pace and see things
a little differently.
Big little experiences
For many big-city children, the natural,
small delights of the countryside are exclusive
experiences. Indeed, most children — and
adults — appreciate simple, sweet pleasures
such as picking berries or flowers, patting
a cow, splashing at the water’s edge or just
lying in a hammock, watching the clouds
drift across a clear blue sky.
On nature’s terms
We Swedes are proud and protective of our
clean, healthy and pristine countryside. In
recent years the shift toward ecological
responsibility has been strong in the tourism
industry, as in all other spheres. There
is an impressive selection of eco-friendly
options. Visitors who want to experience
nature on its own terms should look out for
Nature’s Best — a quality accreditation system
for tour operators of low-key and more
adventurous experiences all over the country.
www.naturesbestsweden.com
The Big Five
Our Swedish forests and alpine
regions are home to vigorous populations
of big game. If you’re lucky
you might meet some of them in the
wild. But they can also be admired
in zoos and wildlife parks around
the country. Here is our Nordic
version of Africa’s Big Five:
Moose
Sweden’s national animal, nicknamed “The King of
the Forest”, is so common that you will probably see
one in the wild. For many visitors, road signs warning
of moose are exotic symbols of Sweden. Moose are
found throughout the country, and in the far north,
you’ll find the famous, extra-large Sarek moose.
Wolf
Our most mythical and feared predatory animal — a fear
stemming largely from popular misconceptions. After
being threatened with extinction in the 1970s, the
wolf population has recovered well. They live mainly
in the forests of western Sweden, with a population
of only 230 individuals.
Brown bear
The bear has a strong position in Swedish folk culture
and has never been feared or hated in the same way
as the wolf, although it is potentially more dangerous
to humans. It’s telling that Björn, which is Swedish for
bear, has always been one of the most popular men’s
names in Sweden. The bear is Sweden’s most common
predatory animal and its population is estimated at
around 3,200. It lives throughout northern Sweden,
as far south as Värmland and northern Uppland.
Lynx
Scandinavia’s only wild cat, with the characteristic
fluffy ears, is our second most common predator, after
the bear. However, the lynx lives deep in the forest, is
very shy and extremely difficult to spot. Despite this,
a television show recently named it the Swedes’ most
popular animal. Its main habitat is the forests of northern
Sweden, but it occurs in every region of the country
apart from the islands of Gotland and Öland.
Wolverine
The wolverine has a reputation as an aggressive hunter,
but in reality it’s primarily a scavenger — a master at
locating animals that are already dead, tearing them
to bits and saving the pieces for the future, in various
locations. It lives chiefly in the barren mountain regions
of northern Sweden and to some extent also in forests.
Timid and difficult to see.

Ecotourism
Ecotourism
34 35
Nature’s Best — experiences
on nature’s terms
All of Sweden is a fantastic playground for visitors who
love nature and outdoor life. Adventure and enjoyment
in the outdoors are always easy to access, and the
selection is unlimited. Here we list a few attractive
natural experiences.
8.
Gothenburg
Malmö
7.
4.
3.
2.
5.
• 6.
•
1.
•
Stockholm
8
1
3
6
2
4 5
7
1
Landskapet JO — birdwatching
and cultural history
In the unusual wetlands around the town
of Kristianstad in the very south of Sweden,
guide Jan Olsson offers a range of excursions
and guided tours in a rubber boat, on
foot or by bicycle. Bird watching and fishing
are the main attractions, combined with
Jan’s stories about the cultural history of
the region.
www.landskapet.se
2
The Silent Way — dogsledding
and the northern lights in
mountain terrain
For sixteen years, Catrine and Kenneth
Gjamme stad, with their sixty Alaskan huskies,
have taken guests from all over the
world on dogsledding tours in the magnificent
mountain world of south Lapland. The
longest tour is sixteen days or more. Each
guest drives their own dog sled. Everyone
who has tried it describes the experience of
silence, the natural beauty and the relationship
with the dogs as extraordinary. The
northern lights are a bonus. Accommodation
is in comfortable cabins, and the food is
based on what the wilds have to offer.
www.dogsledding-adventures.com
3
Vargas Wilderness Lodge — bear
watching in the silence of the forest
The perfect place if you want to see wild
bears — just hours from Stockholm, in
the depths of the Hälsingland forests. Join
nature photographer Håkan Vargas at the
blind in the bear forest, where moose and
wolf also have their routes, and the golden
eagle circles overhead. The facility where
you stay is beautifully located by the clear
waters of Lake Stora Öjungen. Electricity
is generated by wind and sun. Stillness and
silence are the luxuries at this lodge, and
you’re soon transported to another reality.
You’re also treated to a wide range of outdoor
experiences, a sauna by the lake and good
food made from local ingredients, served in
the cozy wooden lodge.
www.swedenwildlife.se
4
Nordic Footprints — fly fishing and
forest bird hunting in the mountains
These exclusive hunting and fishing tours
in Fulufjället National Park in northern
Dalarna have quickly become popular
among hunting and fishing enthusiasts
worldwide. They can fish for brown trout,
arctic char and grayling, or hunt black
grouse, capercaillie, woodcock and beaver
in untouched mountain terrain. Packages
include full board with meals made from
local ingredients, and accommodation in
the wilderness camp or in a Sami tent on
the mountain. www.nordicfootprints.com
5
Kajak & Uteliv
— Kayaking in the archipelago
Kayaking in the Roslagen Archipelago north
of Stockholm, in the borderlands between
the verdant inner archipelago and the magnificent,
barren outer archipelago, is pure
magic. Beginners can venture out among the
islands, with the supervision and instruction
of an experienced guide. You can take day
trips or longer tours, staying the night in a
tent out on an island, where the guide cooks
a tasty meal using local ingredients and
perhaps a freshly caught fish.
www.kajak-uteliv.com
6
Stockholm Adventures — experience
nature just outside the city
One of the Swedish capital’s most unique
qualities is its location, embedded in magnificent
green spaces. Stockholm Adventures
offers nature-related experiences on
foot, by bicycle, kayak and sailing boat. A tour
by sailboat through the Stockholm Archipelago
is also a memory for life, as is kayaking
in the outer reaches of the archipelago,
amidst unrivalled natural beauty.
www.stockholmadventures.se
7
JoPe Fors & Fjäll — Whitewater
adventures in every form
Scandinavia’s largest winter sports resort,
Åre in the province of Jämtland, offers just as
much in summer. Your guide is experienced
whitewater rafter and climber Jonas Persson.
Whether a beginner or an experienced
paddler, you can choose from an array of
foaming adventures in the Åre mountains.
Also offered are climbing and caving, and
in winter, ice climbing.
www.jope.se
8
Everts — lobster safari and marine
adventures in the unique West
Coast waters
In lovingly restored wooden boats, two
brothers from the local area take you out for
a lobster safari, oyster tasting, fishing and
excursions in the stunningly beautiful
Bohuslän Archipelago on the West Coast.
The starting point is the picturesque fishing
village of Grebbestad, a mecca for seafood
lovers.
www.evertssjobod.se
Nature’s Best
Nature’s Best is the northern hemisphere’s
first quality accreditation system for eco-tourism.
The brand encompasses Sweden’s foremost environmental
tour operators and their best products.
Keep an eye out for the Nature’s Best logo!
www.naturesbestsweden.com

Children
Children
36 37
Become
a child again
Sweden is renowned as a child-friendly destination, with a vast selection
of children’s culture and attractive places to visit for the whole family,
spread throughout the country. Here are a few of the most popular ones.
www.visitsweden.com
1 Junibacken
A world of fantasy on the island of
Djurgården in Stockholm, Junibacken has
become one of Sweden’s most popular attractions
and is located within easy walking
distance of several other of the country’s
foremost destinations. Junibacken is a center
for children’s culture, with characters and
attractions from many different Swedish
children’s books, starting with Astrid Lindgren’s
storybook world.
www.junibacken.se
2 Liseberg
Scandinavia’s largest and prettiest
amusement park, located in central Gothenburg,
with a great selection of rides, restaurants,
events and entertainment. Open
during the warmer months and at Christmas,
for the country’s largest Christmas market.
For Liseberg’s 90th birthday in 2013, the
children’s area has been upgraded with
seven new attractions.
www.liseberg.se
5 Universeum
Exciting science center in the heart of
Gothenburg. Experience the depths of the
oceans, the moist heat and exotic sounds of
the rainforests and the infiniteness of space.
Universeum offers a wide range of captivating
activities and events for children and the
whole family.
www.universeum.se
6
Kolmården Animal Park
This large animal park in the region of
Östergötland offers a safari where visitors
ride in a cable car, coming close to the animals
without disturbing them. There’s also
a safari tent for overnight stays. You can watch
lions, tigers, elephants, rhinoceros and
many other animals roaming freely. The
most popular of Kolmården’s attractions is
the spectacular dolphin show. The hotel,
Vildmarkshotellet, calls itself Sweden’s most
child-friendly. The animal park has enough
attractions for a visit of several days.
www.kolmarden.com
4
1
3
2
3
Astrid Lindgren’s World
In this storybook world in Astrid Lindgren’s
birthplace, Vimmerby, you’ll meet
all the famous characters in their natural
settings: Pippi Longstocking, Emil of Lönneberga,
Karlsson-on-the-Roof, Ronia the
Robber’s Daughter, the Brothers Lionheart
and all the others. Good selection of theater,
entertainment and events. Open in summer
and some weekends in fall. For the summer
of 2013, 50 years after Astrid Lindgren
wrote the first Emil book, the park will get
its new Emil Land.
www.alv.se
4
Moose Garden
A large wilderness enclosure where you
can see the “King of the Forest”, Sweden’s
national animal, the moose. In a pretty
location, with views across Lake Storsjön
in Jämtland. There’s also a viewing tour,
where you can look for the sea monster that
is said to live in the lake. Or see how they
make paper from moose droppings.
www.moosegarden.com
7
Vildmark i Värmland
Here’s your chance to build your own
log raft using traditional methods, before
slowly floating down the beautiful Klarälven
River, through the deep, mystical forests of
Värmland. You can catch your own fish for
dinner as you go! A relaxing and memorable
adventure for the entire family.
www.vildmark.se
8
Orsa Grönklitt
Easily accessible ski resort for the
whole family in the beautiful region of
Dalarna. As well as all types of skiing, it
offers numerous other activities such as
skating, dogsledding, ice fishing, snowmobiling
and wood-fired outdoor hot tubs.
The Bear Park has brown bears, the world’s
largest polar bear park, huge Kamchatka
bears, lynx, wolverines, wolves, Persian
leopards and snow leopards. A new attraction
is the two Kodiak bear cubs, who have got
their own Kodiak Island. (Kodiak bears are
the world’s largest terrestrial carnivore —
along with the polar bear.) Forty-five minutes
away is the storybook world, Tomteland.
www.orsagronklitt.se
5
6
7 8

Culture
Culture
38 39
Swedish gems
Presenting a small sample of some of Sweden’s best-loved,
classic attractions.
www.visitsweden.com
1
Läckö Castle
A magnificent castle with origins in the
late 13th century, Läckö’s current form is
from the 17th century, when Sweden was a
great power. Superbly located on a point
of land in Sweden’s largest lake. Summers
offer a wide range of exhibitions and events,
including very popular opera performances
in the main courtyard. Also renowned for its
exhibition garden, featuring new surprises
and installations every season.
www.lackoslott.se
1
4 5
2
3
2
The Kingdom of Crystal
The home of Swedish glass and crystal,
in the forests of Småland. Within a radius of
about twelve miles you can visit eleven large
glassworks; most are open to the public.
There are guided tours, interesting events
and, of course, handmade glass at discounted
prices. www.glasriket.se
3
Sápmi — the Sami homeland
The homeland of the Sami, the Scandinavian
indigenous people, is called Sápmi.
It’s a vast area stretching across northern
Norway, Sweden, Finland, and into Russia.
On this land the Sami keep their reindeer, as
they have done for centuries — although
these days using modern equipment. In
Sweden the main center for Sami culture
and crafts is Jokkmokk, where the Sami
market has been held in February for over
400 years. Jokkmokk is also the location of
the Sami University College and Ájtte, the
Sami museum. Part of Sápmi is Laponia:
five national parks and nature reserves
combined and protected as UNESCO World
Heritage Sites. www.samer.se
4 Österlen
Situated along the east coast of Skåne,
Österlen is celebrated for its gently undulating
hills, lush deciduous forests and exquisite
light. Everywhere you’ll find charming restaurants,
inns and cafés, palaces and manor
houses, markets, sights, idyllic locations and
lovely white beaches. Stenshuvud National
Park is a gem. It’s no coincidence that so
many artists and authors have made Österlen
their home, and many of the artists’ studios
are open to the public in summer.
www.skane.com
6 7
5 Dalarna
Dalarna is often called the most Swedish
of all the provinces. Swedish crafts and
many of our favorite customs are stronger
here than anywhere else. Especially around
the beautiful, magically blue Lake Siljan
you’ll find a series of picturesque villages
with interesting sights and lovely hotels,
located in traditional red log cabins. The
Midsummer celebration in Dalarna, which
runs from June 20 to the beginning of July,
is a huge event, where people dress up in
colorful traditional folk costumes and dance
around the elaborately decorated Midsummer
pole, while the fiddles and accordions play.
The residences of the iconic Swedish artists
Anders Zorn and Carl Larsson, located in
Mora and Sundborn respectively, are today
fascinating museums and well worth a visit.
www.dalarna.se
6
The ICE HOTEL in Jukkasjärvi
Who would have known back when it
was first built in 1992 that a hotel built
of arctic ice in northern Lapland would
become an icon that attracts visitors from
around the world Some come in chartered
planes, and many are bridal couples. The
ICE HOTEL reappears every winter, each time
in a new, more spectacular form, complete
with wedding chapel, bars, sculpture park
and more. The ICE HOTEL is located in the
village of Jukkasjärvi, a center for experience
tourism in Lapland, with attractions like
dogsledding, reindeer rides, snowmobile
safaris, hunting, fishing, guided northern
light tours and much more.
www.icehotel.com
7
Visby and Gotland
The medieval town of Visby, with its
Hanseatic history and town walls, is a unique
historical environment that is included on
UNESCO’s World Heritage List. In summer
Visby, on the lovely island of Gotland, is
a popular destination for party-hungry
vacationers. At other times of year it’s a
peaceful, restful idyll, with a sophisticated
selection of culture, restaurants and hotels.
Within an hour of Visby you can be anywhere
on this spectacular island. To the
north is the island of Fårö, of special interest
to Ingmar Bergman fans: many scenes from
his films were shot here, and he lived here
as well. And in summer there’s a festival
in his honor.
www.gotland.info

Photo credits:
(FRONT COVER) © Elisabeth Toll/LundLund.
(PAGE 3) © Tomas Utsi/Naturfoto, © Elisabeth Toll/
LundLund.
(PAGE 4−5) © Björn Olin/Folio, © SvenskTenn, © Dick
Clevestam/Naturbild, © Dick Clevestam/NordicPhotos,
© Boqueria.
(PAGE 6) © Nicho Södling/imagebank.sweden.se,
© Marie Andersson/Skansen, © Björn Svensson/Bildarkivet,
© iStock, © Ola Eriksson/image bank.sweden.se,
© Fotografiska, © Vasamuseet, © Jean-Baptiste
Beranger/Artipelag.
(PAGE 9) © Johan Willner/imagebank.sweden.se
(PAGE 10−11) © Nicho Södling/imagebank.sweden.se,
© Erik Olsson, © Göran Assner/imagebank.sweden.se,
© Emilie Lager.
(PAGE 12−13) © Leif Johansson/Bildarkivet, © Miriam
Preis/imagebank.sweden.se, © Leif Johansson/Bildarkivet,
© Christian Andersson, © Andreas Offesson/
Bildarkivet.
(PAGE 14) © Stockholm Pride, © Mats Lindfors/
Webbkusten, © Stefan Berg/Folio.
(PAGE 15) © Kristian Löveborg, © Orrefors, © Frantzen
Lindeberg.
(PAGE 16−17) © Jonas Linell, © Acne, © Peo Olsson/
Gärsnäs, © Jakob Dahlström, © Jakob Dahlström,
© Fredrik Broman/Humanspectra, © Thomas Harrysson/
svensk Slöjd.
(PAGE 18−19) © Tina Axelsson, © Felix Odell/Linkimage,
© Bruno Ehrs/Stafva Gårdsmejeri, © Miriam Preis/imagebank.sweden.se,
© Hotel Borgholm. Illustrations
© Lars Esselius.
(PAGE 20−21) © Jonas Overödder/imagebank.sweden.se,
© Cecilia Larsson/imagebank.sweden.se, © Mikael Almse/
Västsvenska Turist rådet, © vdKG Design, © DalaFloda
Värdshus, © Martin Svalander/ imagebank sweden.se,
© Gösta Fries, © Erik Olsson. Illustrations © Lars Esselius.
(PAGE 22−23) © Ola Eriksson/image bank.sweden,
© Tony Töreklint/image bank.sweden.
(PAGE 24−25) © Elisabeth Toll/LundLund, © Bingo
Rimér, © Henrik Trygg/imagebank.sweden.se, © Lisa
Nestorson/Västsvenska Turistrådet, © Matilda svensk,
© Gabriel Berndtsson.
(PAGE 26−27) © Erik G Svensson/Stockholm Visitors
Board, © Jacob Forsell/Scanpix, © Sonypictures, © Rest
AB Kvarnen/Thomas Steinwender, © Sven Halling/
Naturbild, © DN/Scanpix, © Nils Magnus Angantyr/Astrid
Lindgrens Värld, © Bruno Ehrs/Linkimage, © Kentaroo
Tryman/Naturbild.
(PAGE 28) © Staffan Andersson/Sydpol.com, © Fredrik
Ekblad, ystad.se, © Fredrik Ekblad, ystad.se, © Sandskogen.vendelrestauranger.se
(PAGE 29) © Per-Erik Adamsson/Stockholms Hamnar,
© Per-Erik Adamsson/Stockholms Hamnar.
(PAGE 30−31) © Tomas Utsi/Naturfoto, © Tomas
Bergenfeldt/Stockholm Adventures, © Johan Willner/
imagebank.sweden.se, © Per Dahl/Johner.
(PAGE 32−33) © Johan Willner/imagebank.sweden.se,
© Anders Ekholm/Folio, © Staffan Widstrand, © Staffan
Widstrand, © Håkan Vargas S/ imagebank.sweden.se,
© Håkan Vargas S/imagebank.sweden.se, © Antti
Leinonen/Naturbild.
(PAGE 34−35) © Johan Hammar/Landskapet JO,
© The Silent Way, © Vargas Vildmarkslodge, © Nordic
Footprints, © Kajak & Uteliv, © Stockholm Adventures,
© Åre Äventyrsbild/JoPe Fors & Fjäll, © batbilden.se
(PAGE 36−37) © Tommy Pedersen/Junibacken,
© Henning Ström/Liseberg, © Örjan Karlsson/Astrid
Lindgrens Värld, © Moose Garden, © Universeum,
© Roine Magnusson, © Frida Edlund/Vildmark i Värmland,
© Orsa Grönklitt.
(PAGE 38−39) © Simon Irvine/Läckö Slott, © Orrefors,
© Jennie Pettersson/Folio, © Thomas Adolfsén/
Bildarkivet, © Trons/Scanpix, © Bigben/ICEHOTEL,
© Katarina Grip Höök/Linkimage.
(PAGE 41) © Ola Ericson/stockholmsfoto.se
PUBLISHED BY: VisitSweden, P.O. Box 4649, Grand
Central Station, New York NY 10163-4649, USA.
PROJECT TEAM: Per Nordström, Emilia Björk, Lotta
Thiringer, Jenny Jonevret.
PRODUCTION: Stendahls Advertising Agency, Göteborg.
PICTURE EDITORS, COPY AND GRAPHIC DESIGN:
BrittonBritton.
REPRO: Rolf Tryckeri Skövde and Stendahls, Göteborg.
PRINTED BY: Grafica Editoriale Printing, Bologna, Italy/
Blueprint AB, Stockholm.
This brochure consists of paid-for advertising and is
not a complete listing. While every care has been taken
to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication,
VisitSweden can accept no responsibility for any
errors or omissions, nor for subsequent changes. Prices
and other details were correct at September 2012.
Contest!
First prize
Weekend trip for two to Stockholm, including airfares and accommodation
in double room at one of the Elite Hotels.
2nd−10th prizes
A gorgeous book on Sweden’s outdoors: “Wild Sweden” by the renowned
nature photographer Staffan Widstrand.
Win a weekend in Stockholm
for two!
Now is your chance to win one of the
prizes by responding to the internet
survey below. (Survey takes about 5
minutes to complete.) For more details
on the competition, see competition
page.
www.visitsweden.com/survey

Travel facts, A — Z
Travel facts, A — Z
42 43
Travel facts A — Z
Note: All fares and rates quoted are approximate as of October
2012 (exchange rate $1 = almost SEK 7) and may change without
notice. While every precaution has been taken to ensure the
accuracy of the information in this publication, VisitSweden
accepts no responsibility for any errors, omissions, or
subsequent changes.
Business hours
Business hours
Monday — Friday 10am — 3pm
Thursday 10am — 4/5:30pm
In some cities banks may stay open until 6pm and may be open
on Saturdays. All banks are closed on public holidays. Banks
at airports, ports and main railway stations are generally
open longer.
Shopping hours
Monday — Friday 9:30am — 8pm
Saturday 9:30am — 2/4pm
In larger towns, department stores remain open until 7pm or later.
Some are also open on Sundays between approx. 12 noon and 4pm.
Shops generally close early the day before a public holiday.
Cellular phones
Cell phones are widely used in Sweden. You can link up to GSM
networks after having changed your band from 1900 to 900 or
1800 MHz. This requires a GSM International phone. Cell phones
may also be rented prior to your trip at the addresses below.
The country code to Sweden is +46 followed by the area code
(omitting the initial zero) and the number required.
Cellhire USA LLC
Ph. +1 877-244-7242
www.cellhire.com
Mobal Communications Inc
Ph. +1 888-888-9162
www.mobal.com
City cards
The Stockholm Card (“Stockholmskortet”) offers free public
transportation in Stockholm and the surrounding area, free
admission to 80 museums and attractions, free sightseeing
by boat and several other benefits. Price example: SEK 450
(approx. $64) for 24 hours; Children age 7 — 17: SEK 215 (approx.
$31) for 24 hours. The Stockholm Card is available at tourist
information offices in Stockholm and the surrounding area,
SL (Stockholm Transit Authority) information centers, most
campsites, and youth hostels, or online at
www.stockholmtown.com/stockholmcard
The SL Tourist Card gives free public transportation through out
the Greater Stockholm area. Price example: SEK 115 (approx.
$16) for 24 hours (SEK 70, approx. $10 for children under
20 and senior citizens over 65).
sl.se/en/visitor
The Gothenburg City Card (Göteborg City Card) gives you free
admission to attractions and museums, several sightseeing tours
by bus or boat, parking and free travel on public transport. It
also entitles you to some great shopping discounts in selected
stores. The card may be purchased at Gothenburg tourist offices
or online at www.goteborg.com,several hotels, camping sites,
hostels and Pressbyrån stores. Price example: SEK 285 (approx
$41) for 24 hours. SEK 175 (approx $ 25) and for children under
the age of 17.
The Malmö Card (“Malmökortet”), including the Malmö City
Card, entitles you to free rides on local buses and free parking.
It also includes such things as free entrance to Malmöhus Castle
and Malmö Museums, discount on sightseeing by bus, shopping
card with discounts in many shops and restaurants and much
more. The card is available at the Malmö Tourist Offices, several
hotels and hostels.
Price example: approx. SEK 170 (approx. $24) for 24 hours.
It is valid for one adult and two children up to age 16.
For more information www.malmo.se/malmocard
Climate/Temperature
Sweden enjoys a generally temperate climate, thanks to the Gulf
Stream, but temperatures can vary in different parts of the country.
Average day temperatures (Celsius/Fahrenheit):
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun
— 1.5/29 0.5/31 3/37 9/48 16/60 21/69
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
22/72 21/70 15/59 11/52 5/41 1/34
Clothing
During the summer the weather in Sweden is mild and pleasant.
Pack casual summer clothes, and a few medium-weight sweaters,
a light jacket or raincoat. An overcoat is necessary in the autumn,
winter and spring. Comfortable, low-heeled shoes are important,
not only for the countryside, but also for sightseeing along cobblestoned
streets. Swedes like fashion; however, they avoid standing
out in glitzy attire and will never abandon their jeans for too long.
In restaurants and for business, a jacket and tie are expected for
gentlemen. Slacks are acceptable for women on any occasion,
including business.
Credit cards
Major credit cards (some restrictions apply to American Express)
are widely accepted throughout Sweden at banks, hotels, stores,
restaurants, taxis, car rental companies, and for air, ship and rail
tickets. You can access cash with your Visa, MasterCard, Maestro
or Cirrus card at any “Bankomat” or “Uttagsautomat” ATM.
Remember that when paying with credit card, you might be
requested to enter the PIN code for validation of your credit card.
Currency
The monetary unit in Sweden is the krona (plural “kronor”)
and equals 100 öre. Bank notes are printed in values of 20, 50,
100, 500 and 1,000 kronor; coins 1, 5 and 10 kronor. There is no
limit on the amount of Swedish and foreign currency that may
be taken into Sweden.
The approximate exchange rate as per October 25, 2012 was
$1= almost SEK 7.
Drinking water
The tap water in Sweden is of great quality and perfectly
safe to drink.
Duty-free allowances
For details, contact diplomatic representatives or visit
Tullverket at www.tullverket.se/en
Electrical current
The normal electrical current in Sweden is 220 volts AC in 50 Hz.
Plugs and sockets differ from those in North America, so travelers
should bring adapters or transformers for electrical appliances
such as hairdryers and shavers. Some hotels and shops in larger
cities can supply adapters.
Laptop computers that are made to work on both 110 and
220 volts can be used in Sweden with an adapter. For laptop
computers working on 110 volts only, transformers are also
necessary.
Emergency numbers
For any emergency, dial 112. Emergency calls from pay phones
are free of charge.
Food and Restaurants
Sweden has attained an international reputation for culinary
excellence in recent years and standards are high at all levels.
Emphasis is placed on high-quality natural ingredients — notably
fresh, pickled and smoked seafood (particularly herring, crayfish,
salmon and eel) and game meats such as elk and reindeer. And
don’t forget to sample the Swedish smorgasbord. There is a
great variety of restaurants — from local eateries to Michelin
starred dining, as well as plenty of cafés and cafeterias for
lighter snacks.
Foreign exchange
FOREX exchange offices are usually centrally located in the larger
cities. Branches may also be found at major airports, major ferry
terminals and railway stations.
www.forex.se/en
X-Change Exchange Shops are centrally located at various cities
in Sweden and may also be found at major airports.
www.x-change.se/en
Heritage
Approximately 12 million Americans and Canadians have Swedish
roots. The Swedish Emigrant Institute, a national research center,
helps clients find living relatives and establish contact with them.
The Institute also arranges courses in genealogy and assists in the
reading of old hand-written documents. It has Europe’s largest
collection of emigration history and the collections cover the
1846 — 1930 period of Swedish overseas migration. During that
time 1.2 million people left Sweden. Researchers are requested
to get in touch well in advance, and give as many details as
they can about their ancestors, to help the staff prepare for
a researcher’s visit.
Tracing can be done online at www.genline.com or through
Family History Library, www.familysearch.org.
Language
Travelers can leave their phrase books at home when they
go to Sweden. Most Swedes speak English.
Medical care
Most hotels and other accommodations in Sweden maintain
contact with a nearby doctor who can be summoned quickly in
case of illness. Municipal authorities supply emergency medical
care and hotel staff can direct guests to local emergency centers
or hospitals. Citizens from North America and other countries
from outside the EEA countries must pay for the medical treatment.
Make sure that you are covered by your health insurance
and bring necessary documents on your trip.
If you need medical services during your stay in Sweden, visit
the nearest clinic (Vårdcentral) or hospital emergency room
(Akutmottagning). Bring your passport, documents and health
insurance.
Information on healthcare is available from Stockholm Care,
Ph. +46-8-672 24 00, E-mail info@stockholmcare.se,
www.stockholmcare.se
Midnight Sun
In northern Sweden, above the Arctic Circle, the Midnight Sun
is visible 24 hours a day. In Abisko, one of the most northern
towns in Sweden, the Midnight Sun can be seen May 27—July 18.
Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are the fluttering,
bright lights that can be observed in the sky over the northernmost
parts of the world. The best viewing areas in Sweden are
above the Arctic Circle between September and March. Since
the phenomenon is caused by energy from the sun carried toward
Earth on solar winds, there is no guarantee that it will appear.
Passports and Visas
A valid passport entitles North American citizens to a threemonth
stay in Sweden.
Citizens of other countries should check with a Swedish
diplomatic representative in their home country.
Pharmacies
Prescriptions are dispensed at pharmacies (“Apotek”), which
are generally open during normal shopping hours. In major cities,
24-hour service is available. If you are already on medication,
make sure you have an adequate supply before leaving for
Sweden.
Public holidays
There are several public holidays in Sweden. The major ones
are New Year’s Eve, Christmas Day and Midsummer’s Day.
Public phones
When calling Sweden from North America, please dial 011 46
followed by the area code (omitting the initial zero) and the
number required. When calling abroad from Sweden, dial 00
plus the country code, followed by the area code and phone
number.
Right of Public Access
The Swedish countryside is open to everyone. You are allowed
to walk, jog, cycle, ride or ski through the forests and countryside
and across other people’s land, provided you don’t cause
any damage to crops, tree plantations or other sensitive land.
Don’t disturb and don’t destroy — that’s the main rule when
it comes to understanding the Swedish Right of Public Access
(“Allemansrätten”). Visitors to the countryside are requested
to observe a few common-sense guidelines:
For further information, visit www.naturvardsverket.se/en
Shopping/VAT
Sweden has set the pace for modern design the world over.
High-quality cutlery, china, sports equipment, textiles, handicrafts,
crystal, jewelry, silver, fine glassware, pottery, furniture,
quality cars and cellular phones abound in Sweden.
Bargain hunting
Look for signs indicating sales. “REA” indicates a sale;
“Extrapris”, used along with red price labels, indicates
discounts of at least 10 percent; and “Fynd” indicates
special offers.
Best buys
High-quality glass and crystal are widely available throughout
Sweden. For bargains on low-cost “seconds” visit the major
glassworks shops, such as Orrefors, Kosta Boda, etc., in Småland.
For ceramics, Nya Höganäs-Keramik, at Höganäs in southern
Sweden, offers bargains way below normal retail prices. Everywhere
in Sweden, even in small villages, you will find “hemslöjd”
shops where you can buy traditional handicrafts like knitwear,
needlework and wood carvings. Many traditional markets and
country fairs are held in Sweden throughout the year. Some
are big events attracting thousands of visitors. Inquire at local
tourist offices about markets in the area you are visiting.
Tax-free shopping
In Sweden, value-added tax (VAT) is included in the purchase
price of nearly everything you buy. Tax Free Shopping, offered
by Global Refund, is a simple system for non-EU residents that
refunds the VAT portion of your purchases. More than 7,000
retail outlets offer the service. You can receive refunds of up
to 17.5 percent of the purchase price of your goods. When
purchasing goods, ask for a Refund Check to be issued and
your items to be sealed. A Global Refund Check can be cashed
upon departure from the EU at over 200 international cash
refund offices.
For more information, visit www.global-blue.com.
Time difference
Sweden observes Central European Time, which is 1 hour ahead
of Greenwich Mean Time, 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard
Time, 7 hours ahead of Central Standard Time and 9 hours ahead
of Pacific Time. Clocks are put forward 1 hour for Daylight Savings
Time during the summer months (late March to late October).
Tipping
An outstretched hand in Sweden more often welcomes a handshake
than a tip. A service charge is automatically included in
most hotel bills. Tipping for special services provided by hotel
staff is fine, but is not expected and is simply a matter of personal
taste. At restaurants, a service charge is included in the bill,
but a small gratuity is expected for evening meals. Taxi drivers
can be given a tip. Porters and cloakroom attendants often
charge fixed fees. Doormen at hotels and restaurants are
tipped modestly.
Tourist offices
Sweden has more than 300 authorized tourist information offices,
all offer ing excellent service by multi-lingual staff. For general
tourism information about Sweden in English when you are in
Sweden please call +46 (0)8-617 39 20.
www.turism.se/en
Travel for the physically challenged
Sweden is a welcoming destination for physically challenged
people. Many hotels provide specially adapted rooms and public
transportation is generally available for disabled travelers.
For more information, visit VisitSweden’s travel guide on the
web: www.visitsweden.com/sweden/Sweden-Facts/How-youdo-things-in-Sweden/Disabled-travellers
Travelers’ checks
Travelers’ checks are generally accepted as payment throughout
Sweden. Change will be given in Swedish kronor. Please note that
a nominal fee is charged when using the checks as payment.
Accommodations
For accommodations in Sweden please visit
www.visitsweden.com/sweden/Accommodation/Book-online
Cabins and holiday homes
Cabins and holiday homes are very popular in Sweden, often in
idyllic locations by a lake or near the sea. Cottages and cabins
are available for rent in most areas. A typical price for a week’s
rental starts at $350. Contact the local tourist information offices
for more info.
www.turism.se/en, www.sverigeturism.se/stugor,
www.stuga.nu/en
Camping
Sweden has some of the finest campsites in Europe, usually
located in picturesque surroundings. Camping chalets and
cottages, caravans and motor homes can also be rented.
Visit a Swede Experience an authentic side of Sweden by
staying with a Swede that has signed up to host visitors.
Visit www.visitaswede.com for more information.
Further information can be obtained from:
Swedish Camping Site Owners Association (SCR)
www.camping.se
Hotels
Sweden has a wide choice of high-standard hotels in all price
categories. Most Swedish hotels include a lavish breakfast buffet
and offer specials for families. Reduced prices are available
on weekends throughout the year and also on weekdays from
mid-June to mid-August.
www.stayinsweden.com. Many hotels offer Wifi.
Youth and family hostels
Sweden’s youth and family hostels, known as “vandrarhem”,
offer facilities for an inexpensive vacation and are located all
over the country, including the mountain regions. All ages are
welcome. Almost 400 are operated by STF, The Swedish Tourist
Association. Ph. +46-8-463 21 00, E-mail. info@stfturist.se,
www.svenskaturistforeningen.se/en
Transportation
Air travel
To Sweden from North America
Direct services from Newark and Chicago to Stockholm, are operated
by SAS Scandinavian Airlines. Continental Airlines
and Delta offer non-stop service from New York to Stockholm.
For vacation in Skåne, flying to Copenhagen is an option. SAS
has direct flights to Copenhagen from New York, Washington,
Chicago and San Fransisco (from April 2013). Delta has non-stop
flights to Copenhagen from New York and Atlanta. Most European
airlines fly to Stockholm and Gothenburg from North America
via connection in Europe.
Visit www.swedavia.se for more info.
To Sweden from Europe
SAS Scandinavian Airlines joins with all major European air
carriers in linking major Swedish cities to the rest of the continent
on a daily basis. Several low-cost airlines, such as Ryanair
and Norwegian, offer services from Sweden to many cities in
Europe. For more information,
visit www.swedavia.se
Airport transfers
LFV informs about most airport transfers on their website;
www.lfv.se/en
Stockholm (Arlanda) Airport
Express train: The Arlanda Express Journey takes 20 minutes
into Stockholm Central Station.
More information, www.arlandaexpress.com
Bus: The journey takes 45 minutes.
For more information, visit www.flygbussarna.se
Regional buses operate between Uppsala Central Station
and Arlanda for most of the day. Travel time is 45 minutes.
More information on www.swebus.se
Taxi: Most companies have fixed rates on transfers to and from
the Airport ranging from SEK 395 — 500 ($55 — 70). Make sure to
confirm the rate before you leave the airport. Flygtaxi (Airport
taxi) offers a car service that can be pre-booked online:
www.flygtaxi.se/en, or by calling +46-8-120 92 000.
Gothenburg Landvetter Airport
Bus: The journey takes 25 minutes to central Gothenburg.
For more information, visit www.flygbussarna.se.
Taxi: Most companies have fixed rates between the Landvetter
Airport to the center of Gothenburg in the price range of
SEK 325 (Approx $45). Always ask for the price before the trip.
Flygtaxi (Airport taxi) offers a car service that can be prebooked
online: www.flygtaxi.se/en, or by calling +46-8-120 92 000.
Copenhagen Kastrup Airport, Denmark
Train: Direct trains operate every 20 minutes between
Copenhagen Airport and Malmö Central Station and to other
destinations in Sweden via the Öresund Bridge. The trip takes
approximately 20 minutes.
Rail travel
The Swedish Rail Network
Sweden has a highly efficient rail network spanning the entire
country. Visitors travel smoothly and comfortably across the
countryside on some of Europe’s most modern trains, in first or
second class cars. On longer trips, couchettes and sleeping car
facilities are provided and long distance trains generally have
a buffet car.
The Swedish high-speed train X2000, travels at up to 200 km/
hour (125 mph) on all major routes and offers the highest standards
of comfort, with radio and music channel outlets by all
seats. In full-fare business class you will be served a meal at
your seat, and in second class you have access to a Bistro car,
where hot or cold meals are available.
More information: www.sj.se
Veolia Transport offers competitve train prices,
visit www.veolia-transport.se for more information.
European Rail Passes
The Eurail Group is a cooperation of 30 European Railway companies
and shipping lines, which offers a number of different
rail passes to non-European residents. The Eurail Passes entitle
you to hop on and off trains in Europe, just choose the number
of countries and travel days you prefer.
For more information about the passes, visit: www.eurail.com

Regional and local tourist offices
Tour operators
44 45
Regional and local tourist offices
Stockholm and
surrounding area
Stockholm Tourist Center
Vasagatan 14
SE-111 20 Stockholm
Ph: +46 (0)8 508 285 08
touristinfo@stockholm.se
www.visitstockholm.com/en
Uppsala Tourism
Fyristorg 8
SE-753 10 Uppsala
Ph: +46 (0)18 727 48 00
Fax: +46 (0)18 12 43 20
info@destinationuppsala.se
www.uppsala.to/en
Sörmlands Tourism
Västra Kvarngatan 62
SE-611 32 Nyköping
Ph: +46 (0)155 22 27 70
Fax +46 (0)155 28 83 69
stua@stua.se
www.stua.se
Västmanlands Kommuner
& Landsting — Visit Västmanland
(Association of Local
Authorities and County Council)
Norra Källgatan 22
SE-722 11 Västerås
Ph: +46 (0)21 39 79 40
Fax: +46 (0)21 41 66 84
info@vkl.se
www.vastmanland.se/en
North Sweden
Swedish Lapland
Kyrkogatan 13
SE-972 32 Luleå
Ph: +46 (0)920 25 79 90
info@swedishlapland.com
www.swedishlapland.com/en
Kiruna Lappland Tourist Office
Lars Janssons gatan 17
(Folkets Hus)
SE-981 31 Kiruna
Ph: +46 (0)980 188 80
Fax: +46 (0)980 182 86
info@kirunalapland.se
www.kirunalapland.se/en/home
Västerbottens Tourism
Västra Norrlandsgatan 13
Box 443
SE-901 09 Umeå
Ph: +46 (0)90-16 57 00
Fax: +46 (0)90-77 05 91
www.vasterbotten.net
Jämtland Härjedalen Tourism
Rådhusgatan 44
SE-831 82 Östersund
Ph: +46 (0)63 14 40 22
Fax: +46 (0)63 10 93 35
info@jamtland.se
www.jamtland.se
Mid Sweden Tourism Board
Gånsviksvägen 4
SE-871 60 Härnösand
Ph: +46 (0)611 55 77 50
Fax: +46 (0)611 55 77 57
info@mittsverigeturism.se
www.mittsverigeturism.se
Central Sweden
Tourist Information Dalarna
Trotzgatan 10−12
SE-791 83 Falun
Ph: +46 (0)23 640 04
Fax: +46 (0)23 833 14
dalarna.tourist@visitfalun.se
www.dalarna.se/en
Visit Dalarna
Visit Dalarna AB
SE-791 83 Falun
Ph: +46 (0)23-640 04
info@visitdalarna.se
Hälsingland Tourism
Collinigatan 12
SE-821 43 Bollnäs
Ph: +46 (0)278 62 40 08
Fax:+46 (0)278 62 40 09
info@halsingland.se
www.halsingland.com
Gävle Turistbyrå
Drottninggatan 22
SE-801 84 Gävle
Ph: +46 (0)26 17 71 17
Fax: +46 (0)26 17 71 20
turist@gavle.se
www.gavle.se
Värmland Tourism Board
Visit Värmland
Box 1022
Lagergrens gata 2
SE-651 15 Karlstad
Ph: +46 (0)54-701 10 00
Fax: +46 (0)54-701 10 01
visit@varmland.se
www.varmland.se/en/start
West Sweden
West Sweden Tourist Board
Kungsportsavenyn 31−35
SE-411 36 Göteborg
Ph: +46 (0)31 81 83 00
Fax +46 (0)31 81 83 01
info@vastsverige.com
www.westsweden.com
Göteborg & Co
Kungsportsplatsen 2
SE-411 10 Göteborg
Ph: +46 (0)31 368 42 00
Fax +46 (0)31 368 42 18
turistinfo@goteborg.com
chatservice online on
www.goteborg.com
Region Halland
Trade Center, floor 8
Kristian IV:s väg 3
Box 538
SE-301 80 Halmstad
Ph: +46 (0)35 13 48 00
Fax: +46 (0)35 12 12 37
info@halland.se
www.halland.se
East Sweden
East Sweden Tourist Board
Drottninggatan 24
SE-601 81 Norrköping
Ph: +46 (0)11 19 65 00
Fax: +46 (0)11 19 44 61
info@ostsvenskaturistradet.se
www.ostergotland.info
South-East Sweden
Gotlands Tourist Association
Skeppsbron 4−6
SE-621 57 Visby
Ph: +46 (0)498 20 17 00
Fax: +46 (0)498 20 17 17
info@gotland.info
www.gotland.info
Eastern Småland & Öland
(Regionförbundet Kalmar län)
Box 762
Nygatan 34
SE-391 27 Kalmar
Ph: +46 (0)480 44 83 30
Fax: +46 (0)480 546 54
www.smaland-oland.se
Smålands Tourism
Västra Storgatan 18 A
SE-551 11 Jönköping
Ph: +46 (0)36 35 12 70
info@visitsmaland.se
www.visitsmaland.se
Southern Småland Tourist Board
Kungsgatan 10
SE-352 33 Växjö
Ph: +46 (0)470 74 25 70
Fax: +46 (0)470 74 25 39
kerstin.hallberg@visit-smaland.com
www.visitsmaland.se
Öland Tourism AB
Box 74, Turistvägen, Brofästet
SE-386 21 Färjestaden
Ph: +46 (0)485 56 06 00
Fax: +46 (0)485 56 06 05
info@olandsturist.se
www.olandsturist.se/en
Region Blekinge
Ronnebygatan 2
SE-371 32 Karlskrona
Ph: +46 (0)455 30 50 20
Fax: +46 (0)455 30 50 10
info@regionblekinge.se
www.blekinge.se
South Sweden
Tourism in Skåne AB
Stortorget 9
SE-211 22 Malmö
Ph: +46 (0)40 623 98 00
Fax: +46 (0)40 623 98 06
tourism@skane.com
www.skane.com
Malmö Tourism
Börshuset, Skeppsbron 2
SE-211 20 Malmö
Ph: +46 (0)40 34 12 00
Fax: +46 (0)40 34 12 09
malmo.turism@malmo.se
www.malmotown.com/en
Malmö Turism Skånegården
Skånegårdsvägen 5
SE-218 37 Bunkeflostrand
Ph: +46 (0)40 34 12 00
malmo.turism@malmo.se
North American travel companies offering products
and packages to Sweden 2013
Escorted Tours
Independent Travel
City Packages
Altour • • • • • • • • • • • •
1270 Avenue of the Americas, 15th floor, New York, NY 10020
Ph: (212)4977630, 800#8008477466, Fax: (212)4977631
www.altour.com, rigmor.newman@altour.com; mai.pelaez@altour.com
Aviation & Tourism Internaional • • • • • • • • • • • • •
111 9th Street, Wilmette, IL 60091
Ph: (847)2565596, 800#8772561999, Fax: (847)2565563
www.atiworld.com, tor@atiworld.com
Borton Overseas • • • • • • • • • • • •
5412 Lyndale Avenue S, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Ph: (612)8224640, 800#8008430602, Fax: (612)8224755
www.bortonoverseas.com, info@bortonoverseas.com
Brekke Tours and Travel • • • • • • • • • • •
802 N. 43rd Street, Grand Forks, ND 58203
Ph: (701)7728999, 800#8004375302, Fax: (701)7809352
www.brekketours.com, tours@brekketours.com
Cruise Scandinavia
•
11 Broadway, #404, New York, NY 10004
Ph: (212)4804521, 800#8003346544, Fax: (212)4804524
www.cruisescandinavia.com, info@cruisescandinavia.com
David Travel • • • • • • • • • • • • •
310 Dahlia Pl., Suite A, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
Ph:(949)7230699
www.davidtravel.com, request@davidtravel.com
Eurobound • • • • • • • • • • •
9841 Airport Blvd, Suite 830, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Ph: (310)3420660, 800#8886727476, Fax: (310)3420666
www.eurobound.com, reservations@eurobound.com
Incantato Tours & Concerts • • • • • • •
12101 Baywoods Drive, Suite 101, Tega Cay, SC 29708
Ph: (646)3791293, Fax: (646)4789732
www.incantatotours.com, info@incantatotours.com
Jensen World Travel • • • • • • • • • • • • •
111 9th Street, Wilmette, IL 60091
Ph: (847)2565550, 800#8008536736, Fax: (847)2565563
www.jensenworldtravel.com, tor@jensenworldtravel.com
Kon Tiki Travel Inc • • • • • • • • • • • •
7906 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11209
Ph: (718)7487400, 800#8008225838, Fax: (718)2383604
www.kontiki-travel.net, gerd@kontiki-travel.com
Nelson’s Scandinavia • • •
P.O. Box 64806, Chicago, IL 60664-0806
Ph: (800)5421689
www.nelsonsscandinavia.com, info@nelsonsscandinavia.com
Scanam World Tours Inc • • • • • • • • • • • • •
108 N. Main Street, Cranbury, NJ 08512
Ph: (609)6551600, 800#8005452204, Fax: (609)6551622
www.scandinaviantravel.com, info@scanamtours.com
Scandia World Travel • • • • • • • • • • • •
12444 Ventura Blvd., Suite 104 , Studio City, CA 91604
Ph: (818)766 4241, 800#8007224322, Fax: (818)766 3495
www.scandiaworldtravel.com, book@scandiaworldtravel.com
Travel by Siv • • • • • • • • •
119 West 40th Street, New York, NY 10022
Ph: (212)9442121x2417, 800#8003044699x2417, Fax: (212)9444776
www.travelbysiv.com, sivw@tzell.com
Heritage/Ethnic Tours
Special Interest Tours
Family Travel
GLBT Travel
Outdoors − Summer
Outdoors − Winter
Culinary Tours
Car Rental
Rail Passes
Cruises

Gävle
Göteborg
Halmstad
Helsingborg
Karlstad
Kiruna
Luleå
Malmö
Örebro
Östersund
Stockholm
Sundsvall
Umeå
Gävle
Göteborg
Halmstad
Helsingborg
Karlstad
Kiruna
Luleå
Malmö
Örebro
Östersund
Stockholm
Sundsvall
Umeå
0
545
637
717
325
1092
761
768
262
400
172
214
490
145
229
249
1636
1306
280
282
270
471
759
1034
87
405
1729
1399
138
377
961
492
852
1128
485
1809
1479
66
453
1040
572
932
1208
1417
1087
536
108
638
300
540
815
344
1860
1354
998
1263
877
602
1529
1023
667
933
547
271
514
1091
622
982
1258
587
191
477
752
572
188
396
386
661 275 0
Distance [km]
Sweden