The biggest and arguably the most significant of the Nordic countries, Sweden is located on the northern side of Europe, next to Denmark and Norway. Sweden is also situated close to Finland, which lies to the east, although it is largely separated by the Gulf of Bothnia.There is much more to Sweden than simply its rich Viking past, pickled herrings, Volvo cars and tasty meatballs. This appealing country has plenty to offer tourists keen to explore, with beautiful countryside, endless cycle routes, snowy winters and many buzzing cities. Sweden was also the birthplace of the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize, along with the famous pop group ABBA and the furniture chain IKEA, which was founded in the Swedish municipality of Almhult in 1943.
Sweden is full of truly outstanding highlights, many of which are to be found within its historic towns and villages, such as Eksjo, Lappstaden, Lund, Oland and Sigtuna, the country's oldest town. However, for many it is the allure of Stockholm, the capital city, that is the main draw card in Sweden. Stockholm has grown up around a series of islands, with the Norrmalm area marking its modern heart.
Other much-visited cities in Sweden include Malmo, Uppsala, Västeras and the port city of Gothenburg (Göteborg), where the second-largest university in the whole of Scandinavia is based.
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World Guide to Gothenburg, Sweden Situated within a country famed for its expensive tastes, Gothenburg is a rather pleasant surprise, since accommodation here is quite inexpensive. The alluring city of Gothenburg boasts an enormous harbour and popular theme park. |
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World Guide to Malmo, Sweden Well-known in Sweden for its continental character, Malmo is a city that has been undeniably influenced by its proximity to the Danish capital of Copenhagen. The heart of Malmo is defined by its Old Town district - the Gamla Staden. |
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World Guide to Stockholm, Sweden Comprising a number of islands and situated on the eastern coast of Sweden, Stockholm is the capital city and is known for being one of the world's most appealing cities, with countless picture-postcard scenes around Lake Malaren. |
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World Guide to Uppsala, Sweden The fourth-biggest city in Sweden, Uppsala is a particularly pleasant and attractive city, featuring many scenic waterways, meandering streams, cycle lanes, a 15th-century cathedral and a notable youthful population of students. |
Sweden Information / Sweden Fast Facts
- Country: Sweden / Kingdom of Sweden (Konungariket Sverige)
- Location: Scandinavian Peninsula (Northern Europe)
- Area: 173,750 square miles / 450,300 square km
- Population: 9,200,000
- Capital city: Stockholm
- Language: Swedish (many people speak English)
- Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)
- Country dialling code: +46
- Religion: largely Catholics, Lutherans and Muslims
Map of Sweden
