ISO: SE
Sweden, where the midnight sun illuminates northern skies and dense forests merge with pristine lakes, captivates travelers with its blend of modernity, tradition, and natural wonders. As you contemplate strolling through Stockholm’s historic Gamla Stan or experiencing the ethereal Northern Lights, you might wonder, “How does safety vary across Sweden’s vast expanse and vibrant cities?”
Stockholm, the waterfront capital, marries medieval charm with cutting-edge design. While its central areas like Södermalm and Östermalm are generally safe, it’s always advisable to remain cautious of your belongings, especially in busy tourist spots and on public transit.
Gothenburg, on the west coast, offers a maritime feel with its archipelago and fish markets. Like Stockholm, its central areas are safe, but tourists should remain vigilant during evening hours and in less frequented areas.
Malmö, bridging Sweden with Denmark, presents a cosmopolitan vibe. The city is mostly safe; however, staying informed about specific neighborhoods and avoiding them if necessary can be beneficial.
Lapland, the northernmost region, is a realm of Sami culture, reindeer, and mesmerizing natural phenomena. Here, safety is more about being prepared for extreme weather conditions and respecting wildlife than urban concerns.
The Swedish Archipelago, a scattering of thousands of islands, offers idyllic retreats, especially during summer. Travelers here should be aware of water safety protocols and local customs.
Sweden beautifully interweaves progress with tradition and nature with urbanity. While Sweden is notably safe and welcoming to tourists, understanding regional differences and taking standard precautions can enhance one’s experience. Beyond these safety considerations, this guide invites you to delve into Sweden’s festive Midsummer celebrations, its culinary delicacies, and its serene landscapes that embody the spirit of “lagom” – finding balance in everything.
Travel Risk Levels Sweden
Overall Risk Sweden:
Low
Sweden is known for its high quality of life and safety standards. Most visitors find their stay in the country to be peaceful and free from significant concerns.
Transport and Taxi Risk Sweden:
Low
Transport options, including taxis, in Sweden are known for their efficiency, reliability, and safety. It's common for taxis to use meters, ensuring transparency in fares.
Pickpocket Risk Sweden:
Medium
While Sweden is generally safe, areas with high tourist footfall like Stockholm's central station might witness occasional pickpocketing. Always be vigilant and secure your belongings.
Physical Crime Risk Sweden:
Low
Violent crimes are relatively rare in Sweden. However, as with any destination, staying cautious, especially during the night and in unfamiliar areas, is advised.
Natural Disaster Risk Sweden:
Low
Sweden faces minimal risk from natural disasters. The primary concerns might be severe winter conditions in the north, so travelers should be prepared when visiting during colder months.
Terrorism Risk Sweden:
Low
Terrorist threats are low in Sweden. However, it's always a good practice to stay updated on global events and any travel advisories.
Scams Risk Sweden:
Low
Common scams in Sweden are not very prevalent. However, always be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, especially from street vendors or unsolicited sources.
Women Travelers Risk Sweden:
Low
Sweden is a progressive country where women travelers can feel relatively safe. Standard precautions apply, like avoiding deserted areas at night.
Tap Water Risk Sweden:
Low
The tap water in Sweden is among the cleanest in the world and is perfectly safe to drink straight from the tap.
Public Behavior Risk Sweden:
Low
Swedes value privacy and personal space. While they're friendly, it's essential to respect local customs and avoid overly loud or disruptive behavior.
LGBTQ Acceptance Risk Sweden:
Low
Sweden is progressive and accepting when it comes to LGBTQ rights. The country has a long history of supporting LGBTQ communities and their rights.
Police and Officials Corruption Risk Sweden:
Low
Corruption is quite low in Sweden, and the trust in police and officials is high. Nevertheless, always keep your documents handy while traveling.
Business Risk Sweden:
Low
Sweden boasts a transparent and robust business environment. Familiarity with local business etiquette and punctuality is crucial for successful dealings.
An example of something bad that can happen travelling to Sweden
The Perils of the Midnight Sun
The Midnight Sun, where parts of Sweden, is an experience of continuous daylight for several weeks during summer. For travelers, this can be both a mesmerizing attraction and an unexpected challenge.
Nina decided to embark on a solo hiking expedition in the northern region of Lapland. Having researched extensively about the trails and equipped with a map, she felt confident about her week-long adventure.
As her journey progressed, the surreal experience of the sun not setting began to play tricks on her internal clock. One evening, or what she perceived as evening based on her fatigue, Nina decided to set up camp. Little did she realize, it was just late afternoon. The deceptive daylight hours led her to miscalculate her hiking schedule and ration consumption.
By the fourth day, Nina noticed her food supplies dwindling faster than expected. Concerned, she checked her watch and was taken aback to realize she had been hiking and resting at odd intervals, thrown off by the persistent daylight.
Fortunately, Nina encountered a group of seasoned Swedish hikers who, upon hearing her story, shared their supplies and gave her tips on adjusting to the Midnight Sun. Using cloth blinds and setting strict alarms helped Nina get back on track for the remainder of her journey.
This tale serves as a gentle reminder that while nature's wonders can be profoundly beautiful, they can also disorient even the most prepared travelers. Visitors to Sweden during the summer months are advised to be wary of the Midnight Sun's effects on their routines.
Safe Places
Be advised this list does not advise the cities/towns are safe for all tourists, safety is still relative to the country itself.
What are the safest places to visit in Sweden?
- Stockholm: The capital, built on 14 islands and known for the historic Old Town (Gamla Stan) and the Vasa Museum.
- Gothenburg: Renowned for its canals, Liseberg amusement park, and seafood restaurants.
- Malmö: A vibrant city connected to Copenhagen via the Öresund Bridge.
- Uppsala: A university city with an impressive cathedral and the Gustavianum museum.
Travel Tips
Traveling to Sweden: Tips for Tourists
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Visa and Entry Requirements:
Sweden is a member of the Schengen Area. Travelers from many countries can enter without a visa for short stays up to 90 days. However, always check visa requirements specific to your nationality before traveling.
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Local Culture and Customs:
Swedes are generally reserved and value punctuality. It's common for Swedes to greet each other with a handshake. The concept of 'fika' (coffee break) is central to Swedish culture; it's a time to socialize and have coffee with pastries.
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Language:
The official language is Swedish. However, English is widely spoken, especially among the younger generation and in urban areas.
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Currency and Tipping:
The official currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK). Sweden is moving towards becoming a cashless society, so cards are accepted almost everywhere. Tipping is not mandatory, but it's appreciated for good service in restaurants and taxis.
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Health and Vaccinations:
No specific vaccinations are required for Sweden. Tap water is safe to drink. Make sure you have health insurance that covers medical expenses in foreign countries.
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Accommodation Options:
Sweden offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to hostels and traditional wooden cabins. Consider the unique experience of staying in an ice hotel in the north during winter.
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Attractions and Activities:
Popular destinations include Stockholm's archipelago, the medieval town of Visby, the Northern Lights in Lapland, and historical sites like the Vasa Museum. Nature enthusiasts will love the hiking trails and national parks.
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Food and Dining:
Swedish cuisine includes dishes like meatballs, gravlax (cured salmon), and kanelbullar (cinnamon buns). Don't miss the traditional smörgåsbord buffet and sampling surströmming (fermented herring) if you're adventurous.
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Shopping and Souvenirs:
Sweden is known for its design and crafts. Consider buying Swedish glassware, Sami handicrafts, or iconic Dala horses as souvenirs. Stockholm's Gamla Stan (Old Town) has numerous shops and boutiques.
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Safety and Security:
Sweden is generally safe for tourists. As with any destination, stay aware in crowded places and avoid leaving belongings unattended.
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Emergency Contacts:
The general emergency number in Sweden is 112, which covers police, fire, and medical emergencies.
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Local Events and Festivals:
Midsummer is a significant celebration in Sweden, marked by dancing around a maypole and festive meals. The Nobel Prize ceremonies in December are also notable events in Stockholm.
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Time Zone and Local Time:
Sweden is in the Central European Time (CET) zone, which is UTC +1. It observes daylight saving time.
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Internet and Communication:
Free Wi-Fi is widely available in public areas, cafes, and hotels. Consider buying a local SIM card if you plan to stay for a more extended period or need regular internet access.
Weather
Annual weather in Stockholm, Sweden
Sweden has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Best to visit in summer (June to August).
| Month |
Avg Temp (°C) |
Avg Temp (°F) |
Rainy Days |
| January |
-1 |
30.2 |
18 |
| February |
-1 |
30.2 |
15 |
| March |
1 |
33.8 |
14 |
| April |
5 |
41 |
12 |
| May |
11 |
51.8 |
11 |
| June |
15 |
59 |
15 |
| July |
17 |
62.6 |
16 |
| August |
16 |
60.8 |
14 |
| September |
12 |
53.6 |
13 |
| October |
8 |
46.4 |
12 |
| November |
3 |
37.4 |
14 |
| December |
1 |
33.8 |
18 |
