The Ultimate 8-Day Sweden Winter Travel Guide

One of the most mesmerizing trips I took was my trip to Sweden in the winter. I had the opportunity to see the northern lights, celebrate New Year’s, conquer driving a snowmobile, walking on a frozen lake, and so much more. Get ready for some Sweden winter weather that is nothing like you have ever been in before. But, the winter activities will be worth it. This Sweden winter travel guide will outline everything that I did. In this post, I will my share my Sweden winter travel guide, giving you the must do things and the itinerary I used to have the most incredible experiences.

Top 5 Attractions from the Entire Trip

See the Metro Tunnels Full of Artwork:

The Stockholm Metro, also known as the Stockholm Tunnelbana, is renowned for its extensive collection of artwork. It’s often referred to as the “world’s longest art gallery” due to the abundance of artistic installations found throughout its stations. Here are some of the notable stations to explore:

• T-Centralen: Serving as the central hub for the Stockholm Metro, T-Centralen features unique artwork throughout its platforms. The station showcases a mix of sculptures, murals, and installations. One standout feature is the blue and white organic patterns on the walls, designed by artist Per Olof Ultvedt.

• Solna Centrum: Solna Centrum station is known for its impressive artwork. The walls of the station are adorned with red and blue artwork, designed by Anders Åberg. The vibrant colors and abstract shapes create a visually striking environment.

• Stadion: Stadion station is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts. The station’s theme revolves around sports, particularly athletics and the Olympic Games. The walls depict athletes in motion, and the station’s design elements pay homage to the nearby Stockholm Olympic Stadium.

• Kungsträdgården: Kungsträdgården station is a favorite among art enthusiasts and history buffs. The station’s theme reflects different periods of Stockholm’s history, with archaeological findings incorporated into the design. The artwork includes preserved ruins, ancient columns, and statues, providing a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.

• Rådhuset: Rådhuset station boasts impressive blue artwork by Swedish artist Siri Derkert. The abstract murals and sculptures showcase a variety of themes, including feminism, peace, and democracy. The station’s artistic elements make for a thought-provoking and visually captivating experience.

Spend Time in Gamla Stan and Fika:

Spending time in Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s charming old town, offers a delightful experience that seamlessly blends history, culture, and culinary delights. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the ambiance of centuries past. As you explore, make sure to indulge in the Swedish tradition of fika, a cherished ritual of taking a break and enjoying coffee with a pastry. Gamla Stan is home to numerous cozy cafes and bakeries where you can savor delectable treats. Take your time, engage in conversation, and soak up the historical surroundings while treating your taste buds to the delightful flavors of Swedish fika.

Take the Train to Abisko, Sweden:

Taking the train from Kiruna to Abisko during the winter months was a part of the journey I will never forget. You’ll get the chance to see the captivating beauty of the Arctic landscape. As the train winds its way through snow-covered forests and icy plains, you’ll witness a winter wonderland like no other. The trees stand tall, adorned with a glistening coat of frost, and the pristine white blanket of snow stretches as far as the eye can see. Inside the warm and cozy train cabin, you can sit back, relax, and marvel at the breathtaking scenery passing by.

The anticipation grows, knowing that Abisko awaits—a place renowned for its clear skies and remarkable Northern Lights displays. As the train arrives in Abisko, you’ll step out into the crisp Arctic air, surrounded by a landscape that seems untouched by time. Taking the time to experience the train journey from Kiruna to Abisko in winter is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Arctic, where the stillness of the surroundings and the majesty of the snow-covered scenery leave an indelible mark on your soul.

See the Northern Lights from a Frozen Lake:

Imagine the sheer magic of witnessing the Northern Lights while standing on a completely frozen lake. Better yet, imagine a cozy house right on the lake for when it gets too cold to wait for the Northern lights. As night falls and the sky comes alive with vibrant hues, you’ll find yourself in awe of nature’s captivating light show. The reflection of the ethereal lights on the icy surface creates a surreal ambiance, amplifying the enchantment of the moment. From the warmth and comfort of your lakeside retreat, you’ll have a front-row seat to this celestial spectacle.

Visit the Ice Hotel:

Visiting the Ice Hotel is an unforgettable experience that transports you to a world of frozen enchantment. It is located in the picturesque village of Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, just 20 minutes outside of Kiruna. The architectural marvel is entirely crafted from ice and snow. As you step inside, you’re greeted by a breathtaking display of meticulously carved ice sculptures, glistening ice chandeliers, and crystalline ice walls. It is mind-boggling how the entire thing has been built with such architectural integrity.

From the unique ice rooms, where you’ll sleep atop a bed of ice and reindeer skins, to the ice bar, where drinks are served in ice glasses, every corner of the Ice Hotel exudes artistic ingenuity and creativity. Whether you’re marveling at the stunning ice artistry, trying your hand at ice sculpting, or simply sipping a drink, a visit to the Ice Hotel promises an immersive and unforgettable Arctic experience.

Sweden Winter Travel Itinerary

Travel Thoughts

Day 1: Arrival in Stockholm and City Exploration

The day started with a convenient bus ride from the airport to my hotel, followed by a delicious lunch at an amazing Thai restaurant just around the corner. The Vasa Museum was an interesting place to learn about the ancient Vasa ship and its fascinating history. The day ended with a visit to the majestic City Hall, catching one of the enchanting showings and enjoying the panoramic views of Stockholm.

Day 2: Exploring Gamla Stan and Celebrating Parents’ Anniversary

Joined by a guided walking tour, wandering through Gamla Stan’s narrow cobblestone streets was rich with colorful buildings and the area’s history. Afterwards, I explored the Nobel Prize Museum, immersing myself in the inspiring stories of Nobel laureates. The day ended on a delicious note at Lebanon Meza Lounge, celebrating my parents’ anniversary with delectable Lebanese cuisine.

Day 3: SkyView and New Year’s Eve Festivities

After lunch at Herman’s Buffet, I visited the majestic Royal Palace to explore the halls and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. In the evening, the SkyView, located at the Avicii Arena, offered breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. The anticipation for New Year’s Eve built up, and I witnessed all of Stockholm’s fireworks by going to the rooftop of a building.

Day 4: Journey to Kiruna and Arctic Exploration

Traveling to Kiruna via the tiny airplane makes you wonder what you have gotten yourself into. Dinner at Stejk Street Food, savoring the flavors of local cuisine, makes you feel like you’re in the movie Frozen.

Day 5: Abisko Adventure – Northern Lights and Snowmobiles

The day began with a thrilling train to Abisko, a winter wonderland known for its breathtaking landscapes and thrilling activities. I embarked on a snowmobile ride through the pristine wilderness, feeling the adrenaline rush as I explored the snowy trails. As darkness fell, I found myself in awe of the dancing northern lights illuminating the sky, a truly magical experience that left me breathless.

Day 6: More Northern Lights and Dogsledding

The thrill of the northern lights continued on the sixth day. This time I also went dogsledding, gliding through the snowy landscapes with a team of spirited huskies. It was an exhilarating and unforgettable experience, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 7: Farewell to Kiruna and Return to Stockholm

As my time in Kiruna came to a close, I bid farewell to the mesmerizing town. The day was spent at the Ice Hotel, taking in the architectural marvel, before heading back to Stockholm and then back home.

Sweden Winter Travel Packing

I packed all my things in just a carry on for this trip. The key here is to pack thermal layers that are thin and provide warmth without taking up a ton of space in the suitcase.

Costco wool socks were a must-have item, along with the 32-degrees thermal tops and bottoms that trap in heat. Wearing thick clothes such as the Patagonia quarter zip and joggers also helped keep my body warm without too many layers.

Because you may be re-wearing some of the outer layers, I brought a travel size of Febreeze fabric spray to spritz on my clothes throughout the trip.

Lastly, invest in compression packing cubes for your sweaters and thicker items that take up space.

Conclusion

The trip to Sweden, from the vibrant streets of Stockholm to the beauty of Kiruna and Abisko, was nothing short of magical. As a do-over, I would definitely spend another night or two to see the Northern Lights since it is such a variable phenomenon. The captivating sights, delectable cuisine, and thrilling adventures made this winter escape an experience of a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion or natural wonders, Sweden is a truly extraordinary travel experience. So pack your bags, embark on your own winter adventure, and discover the wonders that await in this Scandinavian gem.

With love,
Aditi <3
Aditi Rani – Figuring Out Life in Your Twenties

*Disclaimer: This is not professional advice. Some links are affiliate. By clicking and/or purchasing, I may receive a commission. It does not alter the price or change your buyer experience.