Sweden holidays

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

For Sweden, pack layers to adapt to variable temperatures. Summers are mild, so bring light clothing with a jacket for cooler evenings and occasional rain. Winter visits require warm clothing, including thermal layers, a waterproof coat, gloves, a hat and sturdy waterproof boots for snow and ice.

Sweden has a lively nightlife scene with Stockholm featuring clubs, cocktail bars and live music venues around Stureplan and Södermalm. Gothenburg offers waterfront bars and music clubs, while smaller cities have relaxed pubs and late-night cafes.

Traditional Swedish cuisine can be found in many restaurants across the country. We recommend trying local dishes at markets like Östermalms Saluhall in Stockholm or Saluhallen in Gothenburg. For a more upscale experience, look for restaurants specializing in 'husmanskost', which refers to traditional Swedish home cooking.

Tipping isn't customary or expected in Sweden, as service charges are typically included in your bill. If you're particularly pleased with the service, you can round up the bill or leave a small additional amount, but it's not necessary.

When shopping in Sweden, explore trendy boutiques in Södermalm, Stockholm and luxury brands on Biblioteksgatan. We recommend visiting concept stores in Gothenburg or traditional markets in smaller towns for local crafts and Swedish design products.

Sweden features Tylösand beach near Halmstad with long sandy shores and summer beach clubs, Ribersborg beach in Malmö with piers and open-air baths, and Visby beach on Gotland island offering calm waters and a historic coastal setting.

When entering someone's home in Sweden, it's polite to remove your shoes. Locals generally appreciate personal space, so avoid standing too close during conversations. In restaurants, it's common to wait to be seated rather than seating yourself.

When visiting Sweden, you'll need a two-pin European Type C or Type F style plug. We recommend bringing a European adapter if your devices have UK plugs. Most hotels provide these plugs, but it's best to pack your own to ensure you can charge your devices.