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Road Trips in Sweden

Sweden is a stunningly beautiful country that is perfect for a road trip. With its vast forests, sparkling lakes, and charming cities, it offers a wealth of incredible sights and experiences for visitors to explore.

One of the best reasons to embark on a road trip in Sweden is the unparalleled access it provides to the country's natural beauty. From the rugged coastline of the west to the wild forests of the north, there is no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to discover. Along the way, road-trippers can stop at charming villages, hidden beaches, and towering waterfalls, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of Sweden.

Another great reason to explore Sweden by road is the chance to experience the country's unique culture and history. Cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö offer fascinating glimpses into Sweden's rich heritage, with historic landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant cultural scenes. Additionally, road trippers can visit smaller towns and villages throughout the country, where they can meet friendly locals, sample traditional foods, and get a sense of the unique character of each region.

Finally, a road trip in Sweden offers the freedom and flexibility to create a personalized itinerary, allowing travelers to see and do exactly what they want when they want. With excellent road networks, modern infrastructure, and a wide range of accommodation options, road trippers can tailor their journey to their preferences, whether they prefer camping in the wilderness, staying in a cozy bed and breakfasts, or indulging in luxury hotels.

Of course, there are some things to be aware of when taking a road trip in Sweden. The country's roads are generally well-maintained and safe, but drivers should be prepared for long stretches of highway with few services or amenities. Additionally, Sweden's climate can be unpredictable, with sudden storms and chilly temperatures even in the summer months. Road trippers should pack accordingly, with warm clothing and rain gear, and check weather forecasts regularly.

Overall, Sweden is a fantastic destination for a road trip, offering stunning scenery, fascinating culture, and endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, road-trippers can experience the best of Sweden, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Expect on your itinerary

Urban life Urban life
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Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Shopping Shopping
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
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Best months to drive

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Discover Road Trips in Sweden

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Scandinavia Road Trip Scandinavia Road Trip
Scandinavia Road Trip
4,682 km 61 km/h 25 days roadtrip
Sweden Road Trip Sweden Road Trip
Sweden Road Trip
3,662 km 71 km/h 21 days roadtrip
South Sweden Road Trip South Sweden Road Trip
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Central Sweden Road Trip Central Sweden Road Trip
Central Sweden Road Trip
1,266 km 79 km/h 10 days roadtrip
Into the Sweden's North Road Trip Into the Sweden's North Road Trip
Into the Sweden's North Road Trip
2,220 km 75 km/h 7 days roadtrip
North Sweden Road Trip North Sweden Road Trip
North Sweden Road Trip
1,529 km 70 km/h 7 days roadtrip

Road Trip Highlights 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.

Car Rentals in Sweden

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.

Car equipment in Sweden

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.

Sweden: speed limits and parking regulations

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

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.

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in Sweden

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.

How expensive is a Road Trip in Sweden

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.

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in Sweden

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

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.

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