Sweden is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable countries I’ve visited. Although it’s an expensive destination for backpacking, I found it considerably more manageable than neighboring Norway. My travel plans changed several times before I finally settled on exploring Stockholm and heading west into central Sweden, where I visited Östersund and the mountain resort town of Åre.
Since I traveled during winter, I originally planned to spend time skiing in Åre and pursuing other Arctic adventures. Most of those adventures ultimately took place in Finland and Norway. Nevertheless, Sweden offered plenty of memorable experiences, from Stockholm’s historic neighborhoods and museums to the snowy forests and waterfalls around Åre. The country has an entirely different character during the warmer months, and I’d like to return someday to explore its hiking trails, national parks, and summer landscapes.
Explore Stockholm
Sweden’s capital and largest city, Stockholm is built across 14 main islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. The city combines centuries of history with modern Scandinavian architecture, waterfront promenades, and an impressive collection of museums. Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s historic old town, is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the Royal Palace, while neighborhoods such as Södermalm offer lively restaurants, cafés, and nightlife. On the island of Djurgården, visitors can explore the Nordic Museum and the remarkable Vasa Museum, home to a nearly intact 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. With its distinctive neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and extensive waterways, Stockholm is one of Scandinavia’s most rewarding cities to explore.
Explore Östersund & Åre
Located on the shores of Lake Storsjön in central Sweden, Östersund is a gateway to the forests, mountains, and outdoor attractions of Jämtland. One of its principal attractions is Jamtli, a cultural history museum featuring historical exhibits, traditional buildings, and an extensive open-air museum. Farther west, Åre is among Sweden’s premier mountain resorts, attracting visitors for skiing and snowboarding during winter and hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities in summer. The surrounding region also offers distinctive natural attractions, including Tännforsen, one of Sweden’s largest waterfalls, where powerful cascades and dramatic ice formations create a particularly striking winter landscape. Together, Östersund and Åre provide an excellent introduction to Sweden’s central mountain region.
