Discover the Charm: 10 Beautiful Towns to Visit in Sweden

Sweden is often associated with stunning nature, innovative design, and stylish urban life—but beyond the cities lie smaller towns rich with charm, history, and unforgettable landscapes. From fishing villages nestled along the coast to medieval towns that feel frozen in time, Sweden’s towns offer a diverse mix of culture, tradition, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a history lover, nature seeker, or foodie, these Swedish towns promise memorable experiences.

A guide to ten of the best towns to visit across Sweden—each with its own personality, unique attractions, and tranquil charm.

1. Visby – A Step Back in Time

Location: Gotland Island, Baltic Sea

Visby is one of Sweden’s most enchanting towns, famous for its remarkably preserved medieval architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this walled town was once a bustling Hanseatic trading hub.

Highlights:

• City Wall and Ruins: Walk along the 13th-century walls and explore church ruins scattered around the town.
• Botanical Gardens: A peaceful space filled with lush greenery and historical monuments.
• Medieval Week (August): Locals and visitors dress in period costumes, with markets, tournaments, and performances.

Travel Tip: Visit in summer for a lively yet relaxed island experience, but shoulder seasons offer quiet charm and fewer crowds.

2. Ystad – Coastal Beauty and Crime Fiction

Location: Southern Sweden, Skane County

Ystad is a delightful town with cobblestone streets, pastel-hued houses, and a strong connection to Scandinavian noir thanks to the Wallander detective series.

Highlights:

• Ystad Abbey: One of Sweden’s oldest monasteries with beautiful architecture.
• Ales Stenar: A mysterious megalithic monument near the coast, often called Sweden’s Stonehenge.
• Wallander Tours: Discover filming locations from the famous TV series and books.

Travel Tip: Try the local seafood, particularly the smoked herring.

3. Are – Sweden’s Mountain Town

Location: Jamtland County, central Sweden

Known as Sweden’s top ski destination, ARE is a charming mountain town offering adventure year-round.

Highlights:

• Ski Slopes & Snowboarding: Excellent winter sports facilities.
• Areskutan Mountain: Take the cable car up for panoramic views or hike in summer.
• Local Cuisine: Taste traditional fare like reindeer stew and cloudberry desserts.

Travel Tip: Visit in summer for hiking and downhill biking or in winter for world-class skiing.

4. Sigtuna – Sweden’s First Town

Location: Near Stockholm, Uppsala County

Founded in the 10th century, Sigtuna is considered Sweden’s oldest town and offers a perfect blend of Viking history and lakeside charm.

Highlights:

• Runestones: Scattered around the town, these ancient stones are a glimpse into early Swedish history.
• Mary’s Church: One of the oldest brick churches in the country.
• Main Street (Stora Gatan): Lined with cafes, shops, and historic wooden buildings.

Travel Tip: It’s an easy day trip from Stockholm, just 45 minutes by car or train.

5. Mariefred – Lakeside Serenity

Location: Sodermanland County, by Lake Malaren

Mariefred is a picturesque lakeside town with a royal connection and peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxing getaway close to nature.

Highlights:

• Gripsholm Castle: A stunning Renaissance castle with a rich history and portrait gallery.
• Old Town: Quaint streets with local shops and traditional Swedish houses.
• Steam Train Ride: Ride a heritage railway that adds to the vintage feel of the area.

Travel Tip: Take a steamboat from Stockholm to Mariefred in summer for a scenic arrival.

6. Fjaras – Peaceful Nature and Viking Legacy

Location: Halland County, southwest Sweden

Though small, Fjaras offers a mix of natural beauty and fascinating history, particularly for those interested in Viking culture.

Highlights:

• Li Grave Field: A massive burial site with over 100 standing stones dating back to the Viking Age.
• Fjaras Bracka: A stunning ridge offering views over lakes and sea.
• Nature Trails: Ideal for walking, bird-watching, and reflection.

Travel Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy one of the many outdoor areas in the summer.

7. Hjo – The Wooden Town by the Lake

Location: Vastergotland, by Lake Vattern

Hjo (pronounced “you”) is a charming lakeside town known for its well-preserved wooden architecture and peaceful surroundings.

Highlights:

• Old Town District: Stroll among 19th-century wooden houses and flower-lined streets.
• Lake Vattern: Enjoy swimming, fishing, or a ferry trip across the crystal-clear waters.
• Hjo Steamship: Take a nostalgic boat ride on the lake during summer.

Travel Tip: Try local ice cream while relaxing along the lakeshore promenade.

8. Eksjo – A Living Open-Air Museum

Location: Smaland County

Eksjo is one of the best-preserved wooden towns in Sweden, offering a glimpse into centuries of craftsmanship and Swedish rural life.

Highlights:

• Old Town (Gamla Stan): Wander through alleys filled with hand-crafted houses from the 1600s and 1700s.
• Eksjo Museum: Learn about the town’s woodworking history and traditional way of life.
• Nearby Nature Reserves: Hike through deep forests and tranquil streams nearby.

Travel Tip: Guided walking tours are available in summer and give deeper insights into the town’s architecture and past.

9. Vadstena – Medieval Wonders and Pilgrimages

Location: Ostergotland, by Lake Vattern

Vadstena feels like a historical fairytale town with its monasteries, castles, and cobbled streets. It played a significant role in Sweden’s religious and royal history.

Highlights:

• Vadstena Castle: A 16th-century fortress once home to royalty.
• Abbey and Pilgrimage Center: Founded by Saint Bridget of Sweden; still a spiritual retreat for many.
• Charming Streets: Local shops sell handmade crafts, books, and traditional baked goods.

Travel Tip: If you’re a fan of spiritual history or religious architecture, this is a must-see.

10. Trosa – The East Coast Gem

Location: Sodermanland County, east coast

Often called “The World’s End” by locals, Trosa is a coastal treasure where the river meets the sea. It’s especially popular as a summer holiday destination.

Highlights:

• Trosa River Promenade: Stroll by the river, watch boats drift by, and admire brightly painted houses.
• Archipelago Tours: Take a boat to nearby islands or go kayaking.
• Old Town Charm: Boutiques, seafood restaurants, and charming courtyards await.

Travel Tip: Try the local crayfish during summer—Trosa has excellent shellfish cuisine.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours, lively towns, and warm weather.
• Autumn (September–October): Colorful foliage and fewer tourists.
• Winter (December–March): Magical snow-covered towns and winter activities like ice fishing, skiing, and Christmas markets.

Transportation Tips

• By Train: Sweden’s railway network connects many of these towns. SJ and regional trains are reliable and scenic.
• By Car: Renting a car allows you to explore smaller towns and enjoy the countryside at your own pace.
• By Ferry: Some towns like Visby and Mariefred are accessible by boat in the warmer months.

Cultural Insights

• Language: Swedish is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
• Currency: Swedish krona (SEK).
• Local Etiquette: Swedes are generally polite and value personal space. A friendly “hej” (hello) goes a long way.

Final Thoughts

While cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo often dominate guidebooks, Sweden’s small towns offer a quieter, often more authentic experience. From medieval streets in Visby to the tranquil shores of Hjo, every town has a story to tell. Whether you’re planning a summer road trip or looking for a peaceful winter escape, these ten towns offer culture, beauty, and a deep connection to Sweden’s past and present.