Road Trips in Sweden

Sweden’s greatest gem is surely Stockholm referred to by many as the Venice of the North. It is located on a number of charming islands that create a landscape dotted with small archipelagos, channels, and intricate waterways. The urban charm of the Swedish capital stands in a beautiful opposition to its urban flair and will captivate even the most fastidious visitors. 

At a stone’s throw from the capital, depending on whether you want to head south or north, you will find such urban jewels as Uppsala or Nynäshamn. In the region, it is also worth visiting Mariefred with the nearby Gripsholm Castle located on the shores of Lake Mälaren. The stunning fortification dates back to the first half of the 16th century. Yet another notable tourist attraction that you just can’t miss near Stockholm is the Rök Runestone – the most popular Swedish runestone with an inscription that is a first written example of Swedish literature. 

Visby and Gotland are both well-known for being summer vacation spots for tourists and the Swedes alike. Pristine landscapes, stunning strands, and fancy art festivals are what you can expect from the so-called Long Island of the Baltic Sea. Be sure to visit the fortified city walls dating back to the 13th century in Visby.

Öland, Sweden’s second largest island, is a perfect destination for the lovers of active holidays. Plenty of outdoor activity options, such as biking or hiking, and numerous archaeological sites will become a top-notch combination for the most demanding tourists.

In a nutshell, the southern part of the country is all about endless sandy beaches, rolling farmland, and great stark examples of Swedish architecture. It is enough to pay a visit in Norrköping, Jönköping, Varberg, or Oskarshamn, which are perfect spots to experience the natural beauty of Sweden combined with the exploration of regional treats.

The western shore doesn’t give way to the rest of the country in terms of its charm. In Falkenberg and Varberg, you’ll have a unique opportunity to admire a number of stunning churches and a 13th-century fortress, whereas in Gothenburg, travellers will delve into modern architecture, featuring the awe-inspiring Poseidon Statue, experience the peace and quiet of several municipal parks, and learn more on the Swedish culture in one of the museums.

Malmö is Sweden’s most famous gateway to the rest of Europe. The iconic Øresund Bridge is at a stone’s throw from multiple Danish treasures. The urban landscape is characterised by great cultural diversity which is most visible around Möllevångstorget, the main square and the heart of the city. 

If you are seeking places that won’t overwhelm you with an excess of cultural stimuli, you should definitely head for such spots as Habo, Karlskrona, or Kristianstad. In order to explore the hidden attractions of the province of Scania, Lund will become a perfect starting point for an adventure around the region. Holidaymakers who enjoy long strolls along beaches and enthralling war fortifications should definitely consider Kalmar as their holiday destination.

If you decide to travel around Sweden with a rental car, you can definitely hire a vehicle at one of the international airports or simply in one of the major Swedish cities. All of car hire companies offer a wide selection of interesting vehicles together with supplementary insurance options.

Traffic rules prevailing on Swedish roads are very similar to all European countries. Sweden can boast a top-notch road infrastructure and a great motorway system. The Swedes drive on the right-hand side of the road so it’s only natural to overtake other vehicles on the left.

Sweden applies severe penalties on motorists who drink and drive, and the alcohol limit itself is very low. The legal amount of alcohol is 20 mg per 100 ml of blood. Thus, it is recommended to pass on any kind of alcoholic beverages before hopping in the vehicle. The most severe penalty is that of two years in prison.

While driving in Sweden, you should always have your driver’s licence, liability insurance, ID or passport, registration document, and vehicle technical inspection certificate. The minimum driving age in Sweden is 18 just like in any other European country; however, the car hire company may require you to be at least 21 or even 25 to drive a rental car. 

Remember, that the use of any kind of safety camera detection device is illegal in Sweden. You may get an on the spot fine, regardless of whether the device is on or off. All motorways and expressways are free of charge – that’s why driving around Sweden is such a pleasure for all motorists. The only place where you have to pay a toll is on bridges that connect Sweden with Denmark and Norway.

It is obligatory to always carry a warning triangle. It is also advisable to have a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a set of spare bulbs in your vehicle. All of those items will increase the safety of your journey and save you from any on the spot fines for lack of car equipment.

Motorists can drive as fast as 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on dual carriageways, and 110 km/h on motorways. When it comes to urban areas, the restriction is frequently lower and you’ll be required to drive below 30 km/h.

In the majority of Swedish cities parking is generally considered a real drag. This is due to many restrictions connected with the length of stay as well as the high parking fees that the motorists need to pay. Even most roadside parking spaces are paid and you’ll be required to use designated ticket machines. However, in a number of cities, you’ll be allowed to park for free on Sundays.

When taking a road trip in Sweden, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Firstly, it is important to note that Sweden has strict laws on drinking and driving, with a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 20 and a legal limit of 0.2 mg/ml for drivers over the age of 20. It is also mandatory to wear seat belts while driving, and using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.

Secondly, it is important to be aware of the weather conditions in Sweden, as they can change quickly and dramatically, especially during the winter months. It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast before setting out on a road trip, and to ensure that your vehicle is equipped with appropriate tires and equipment for the conditions.

Thirdly, Sweden has strict speed limits that must be observed while driving. The maximum speed limit on the highways is typically 120 km/h, while the limit on other roads ranges from 70 to 90 km/h depending on the area. It is important to pay attention to signage and to adjust your speed accordingly.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the wildlife in Sweden, especially when driving in rural or forested areas. Moose and reindeer are common in certain parts of the country, and can pose a hazard to drivers if they suddenly appear on the road. It is important to be aware of these animals and to drive carefully in areas where they are known to be present.

Overall, with proper preparation and awareness, a road trip in Sweden can be a safe and enjoyable experience.

The best time for a road trip in Sweden largely depends on what you want to experience. The summer months from June to August are the most popular for road trips due to the warm weather and long days with up to 24 hours of daylight in the far north. During this time, you can experience the stunning Swedish countryside, visit picturesque towns and cities, and explore the many national parks.

However, if you want to witness the beauty of the Northern Lights, the winter months from November to March are ideal. Keep in mind that road conditions can be challenging during this time due to snow and ice. It's important to be prepared with appropriate winter gear and to check weather and road conditions regularly.

For those interested in outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding, the winter season is the best time to visit. The ski resorts in Sweden are known for their excellent facilities, stunning landscapes, and opportunities for cross-country skiing.

In the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, the crowds are fewer, and the prices are lower. This can be a great time to take a road trip in Sweden if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere and want to avoid the peak season rush. Keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable during these months, so it's essential to pack for various conditions.

Overall, the best time for a road trip in Sweden depends on what you want to experience and your tolerance for weather conditions. Summer is the most popular time, but each season has its unique charms, making Sweden a destination you can visit year-round.

Sweden can be a bit expensive for travelers, but it's possible to do a road trip on a budget if you plan ahead. The cost of a road trip in Sweden depends on several factors, including your choice of accommodation, the time of year you're traveling, and your transportation costs.

In terms of accommodation, there are options to fit all budgets. Camping is a popular option in Sweden and campsites are plentiful throughout the country. Hostels and budget hotels are also available in most cities and towns. On the other hand, if you prefer a more luxurious option, there are plenty of high-end hotels and resorts throughout the country.

When it comes to food, dining out can be expensive, but there are also affordable options available. Many supermarkets offer prepared meals that are cheaper than eating in a restaurant. Additionally, cooking your meals at a campsite or in a hostel kitchen can save money.

Transportation costs in Sweden can be quite high, but it's possible to save money by renting a car or using public transportation. Renting a car can cost anywhere from $30 to $150 per day depending on the type of vehicle and the rental company. However, keep in mind that gas prices in Sweden are among the highest in Europe, so factor that into your budget as well. Alternatively, public transportation is widely available and relatively affordable, with options including buses, trains, and ferries.

In terms of daily expenses, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $50 to $75 per day, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around $100 to $150 per day. Of course, this can vary depending on your individual spending habits and the activities you choose to do.

Overall, Sweden can be a bit expensive, but with careful planning and budgeting, it's possible to do a road trip without breaking the bank.

There are a number of great guidebooks and road maps available for road trips in Sweden. Here are a few recommendations:

• Lonely Planet Sweden: This guidebook provides comprehensive information on all aspects of travel in Sweden, including road trips. It includes suggested itineraries, maps, and tips for driving in Sweden.

• Sweden Road Atlas: This detailed road atlas is published by the Swedish Touring Club and covers the entire country. It includes detailed maps, suggested driving routes, and information on local attractions.

• Michelin Sweden Map: Michelin produces an excellent map of Sweden, with detailed information on road networks, driving distances, and local attractions. This map is also available in a laminated, tear-proof version.

• Sweden by Car: This guidebook is specifically geared towards road trippers and includes suggested driving routes, practical tips for driving in Sweden, and recommendations for local sights and restaurants.

• Rough Guide to Sweden: This comprehensive guidebook covers all aspects of travel in Sweden, including road trips. It includes suggested itineraries, detailed maps, and information on local attractions and accommodations.

• Sweden: National Geographic Adventure Map: This detailed map from National Geographic covers all of Sweden, including detailed information on roads, topography, and points of interest.

No matter which guidebook or map you choose, be sure to do your research and plan ahead for your road trip in Sweden. With so much to see and do, it's important to make the most of your time on the road.