1. Forest Time for the Body and Mind
“The forests are vast, calm and full of life - a place where you can slow down and truly connect with Swedish nature” Andreas Hermansson, Nordic Connect Travel
Sweden's forests are where locals go to recharge, and you can tap into that same feeling with guided hikes, wildlife‑spotting walks and foraging trips. Some experiences add gentle meditation or breathing exercises among the trees, inspired by forest bathing practices that emphasise noticing scent, sound and texture as much as the view.
It's a beautiful complement to the bigger cities like Stockholm, giving you time to process big experiences and return home feeling mentally lighter, not just with a full camera memory card. And as 70% of Sweden is forest, there’s no shortage of places to go!
2. Year-round Husky Adventures
“It’s about the joy of motion, the bond with the dogs, and the unforgettable scenery.” Annika Jansson, Måseks Husky Adventures.
Huskies aren't just for Christmas. In winter, dog‑sledding takes you across frozen rivers and snow‑dusted forests with only the patter of paws and the hiss of the sled for company. When the snow disappears, many outfitters switch to husky hikes and kennel visits, so you can still meet the team, walk with them through the woods and even join in their autumn training sessions.
For animal‑friendly adventures, look for small‑group tours that focus on the dogs' welfare and give you plenty of time to learn the basics from an experienced musher.
3. Budget‑friendlier Auroras
“Find a high spot or an open area, look to the north and wait for the Northern Lights to paint the sky in shades of green and purple” Tatjana Summermatter, Visit Dalarna
When it comes to northern lights holidays, many people think of Lapland - but prices and crowds can be high in peak season. Sweden's Dalarna region, with its lakes, red cottages and dark winter skies, offers a less crowded and often cheaper alternative to more remote parts of Lapland, while still giving you a good chance of spotting the aurora when conditions are right.
Learn more about how to get the best chances of viewing the aurora with our Northern Lights Tips blog.
4. Swedish Food Rituals: Fika to Crispbread
Ask locals “What is fika in Sweden?” and they’ll tell you it’s not just a coffee break - it's a daily pause with coffee, cake or a savoury bite and time to talk, whether you're at work or on holiday.
On the food side, crispbread is a star: a crunchy rye or wholemeal bread that Swedes have been baking and hanging on poles in their kitchens for generations. One beloved brand, Skedvi Bröd, almost disappeared until fans rallied to save it; ABBA’s Benny Andersson supported the effort and even baked the first crispbread when the new bakery opened, helping turn it into a modern icon of Swedish food. Add a slice topped with local cheese or salmon to your daily fika and you'll understand why Swedes are so devoted to these simple rituals.
5. An IKEA Moodboard with the Larssons
If you've ever wandered through IKEA and loved the light, colourful, family‑friendly rooms, you've already met the legacy of Carl and Karin Larsson without realising it. The couple blended traditional folk motifs with practical layouts and playful textiles in their home in Sundborn, and IKEA openly cites them as part of the inspiration behind its people‑focused, functional style.
Visiting their house lets you see the originals behind that look - from Karin's woven textiles to clever storage ideas and Carl’s warm watercolours of everyday family life.
Ready to visit Sweden?
Simple pleasures, big skies and the world's best coffee break – Sweden's charm is all in the details. Discover the landscapes, flavours and traditions waiting to make your holiday to Sweden unforgettable.
About the author
Edd Myerscough has explored more than 15 destinations solo, from discovering top European cities to hiking in the Carpathian Mountains, and admiring the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies. If you're after top tips on planning a seamless city break or an adventurous escape, Edd's got you covered with stories and practical advice to inspire your next journey.