This Nordic country in far north, bordered by Norway and Finland, is Sweden. In recent decades, Sweden has risen to the forefront of world culture. It is a vibrant, modern society deeply rooted in tradition and history. From the economic center of Stockholm to the northern lights or picturesque southern towns, Sweden has much to see and do. Swedish people rank as some of the happiest in the world and it is easy to see why as the standard of living here is better than almost anywhere else on earth. The land itself is as richly varied as its people with vast glaciers, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains makes Sweden a outdoor enthusiasts delight. Here are some of the best places to explore while in the land of the Swedes.

Stockholm

Most people will enter Sweden via its capital city of Stockholm. This very large city is actually located on 14 separate islands all connected by over 50 bridges. Though there is an intensely modern and vibrant city feel here, there is a also a fantastic historic Old Town as well as numerous parks, green spaces, and waterways. There are several districts that comprise the Stockholm metropolitan area. From the economic city center to affluent neighborhoods and everything in between, Stockholm has it all.

Gamia Stan is the main old town area. Here you can find the Royal Castle built in the 17th century, and is the official residence of the royal Swedish family. You can view the royal apartment and museums. Here as well is the Stockholm Cathedral, a medieval church and the Museum of Medieval Stockholm. There are lots of small shops, pubs, and restaurants. The famous Stockholm Christmas fair is also held here making December a particularly picturesque time to visit.

A fascinating trip into the Swedish way of life in centuries past is a trip to Skansen. This open air museum was first established in 1892. There are traditional houses and shops and even The Nordic Zoo that has wildlife native to the area. There are restaurants serving some traditional and some not so traditional foods as well as one could easily spend and entire afternoon exploring this place.

Nighlife in Stockholm is one of the most vibrant in Europe. Bars, pubs, and nightclubs are packed as well as numerous concerts and festivals in summer months. It is a perfect place to grab some dinner and then just stroll the streets listening for laughter and music and head in that direction.

Gothenburg

Located on the southwest coast of Sweden is Gothenburg. Centered around the chilly North Sea waters, this second largest city in Sweden has quickly become a seafood mecca and has been attracting chefs and food critics from around the world for many years. The coastal waters here provide more than just food but also fantastic opportunities for kayaking, boating, and canoeing. There are thousands of islands and wildlife here as well. The villages up and down the coast are centered around fishing and the cold waters provide mouth watering lobster, oysters, and fish. The surrounding countryside provides rich fertile farmland and deep, dense forests. In the Dalsland region, not far from Gothenburg, dark forests give way to babbling rivers and are home to wild elk and deer and are a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy fishing, hiking and even hunting for wild berries.

The farms and fishing villages provide rich, mouthwatering food and are often served in small cafes or restaurants all over west Sweden. The delicious baked goods, cheeses, and pastries will have you understanding why this is a culinary haven.

The Lapland region

In northern Sweden the arctic dominates life. Winter here is long but the people have long since grown accustomed to its icy grip. In the summer months the misty forests are full of wildlife and give visitors a chance for world class fishing for salmon or other fish or perhaps simply hiking and camping. Here you will find the famous Sweden IceHotel, a hotel whose walls and ceiling are made entirely out of ice and guests even sleep on beds made of ice, although they are thickly lined with reindeer fur and a comfy mattress. You can snowmobile, ride a dog sled or ski in the winter and white water raft or ride a reindeer in the summer months.

At the Aurora Sky Station you can gaze up at the glorious Northern Lights or you can explore the ancient village of Gammelstad Church. This small village is characterized by the red houses and white doors and is also listed as a World Heritage Site. You can explore the Swedish High Coast, a pristine wildlife area where you can take guided tours and view wild bears, beavers and many other unique wildlife and sea life.