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Places to visit near Sweden invite travelers to experience the Nordic region’s rich blend of culture, nature, and history. From the serene archipelagos of Sweden to the vibrant urban hubs of neighboring countries, each destination offers unique charm and memorable experiences. Discover historic palaces, medieval towns, and scenic coastal retreats that capture the essence of Scandinavia. Whether you prefer exploring bustling cities, tranquil islands, or charming countryside, this curated list of the top places near Sweden promises a journey full of artistic, cultural, and natural wonders.
Top 10 Places To Visit Near Sweden
Discover the best places to visit near Sweden for unforgettable adventures, scenic views, and rich cultural experiences.
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Photo: Jebulon / Wikimedia Commons
Copenhagen combines modern Scandinavian design with centuries‑old traditions. Wander through the iconic Nyhavn harbor framed by pastel townhouses, then visit Amalienborg Palace to witness the changing of the guard. Explore Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, and sample Danish smørrebrød in a cozy café. Bike along flat, pedestrian‑friendly streets or relax by the waterfront at the Opera House. Copenhagen’s blend of historic charm, innovative gastronomy, and hygge spirit makes it an essential stop just a short journey from Sweden.
Major Attractions: Nyhavn harbor, Amalienborg Palace, Tivoli Gardens
Location: Capital of Denmark, on Zealand Island
How To Reach: Frequent trains from Malmö via the Øresund Bridge or regional flights to CPH
2. Oslo, Norway
Photo: Geir Hval / Wikimedia Commons
Oslo sits at the head of a scenic fjord and offers a compelling mix of contemporary architecture and historic sites. Stroll along the revitalized Aker Brygge waterfront, then explore the striking Oslo Opera House. Dive into Viking heritage at the Viking Ship Museum and the Historical Museum’s collections. Hike or bike in the lush forests of Nordmarka just outside town. With its balanced urban planning, world‑class museums, and stunning natural surroundings, Oslo provides a refreshing Nordic city experience within easy reach of Sweden.
Major Attractions: Aker Brygge, Viking Ship Museum, Oslo Opera House
Location: Capital of Norway, on the Oslofjord
How To Reach: Direct flights from Stockholm or train service from Gothenburg
3. Helsinki, Finland
Photo: Ximonic / Wikimedia Commons
Helsinki is a compact, stylish capital set on a peninsula in the Gulf of Finland. Visit the UNESCO‑listed Suomenlinna sea fortress, then explore the modern art exhibits at the Helsinki Art Museum. Stroll through the Design District’s boutiques and trendy cafés. Enjoy green spaces like Esplanadi Park or take a ferry to the nearby cliffs of Vallisaari Island for nature walks. Helsinki’s seamless blend of maritime charm, innovative design, and Finnish sauna culture makes it a refreshing getaway from Sweden’s west coast.
Major Attractions: Suomenlinna Fortress, Design District, seaside islands
Location: Capital of Finland, on the southern coast
How To Reach: High‑speed ferries from Stockholm or flights from Gothenburg
4. Turku, Finland
Photo: Ninara / Wikimedia Commons
Turku, Finland’s oldest city, lies at the confluence of the Aura River and the Baltic Sea. Visitors can tour the medieval Turku Castle and admire the 13th‑century Turku Cathedral. Riverside terraces and scenic waterfront promenades invite leisurely strolls or cycling along tranquil waters. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Wäinö Aaltonen Museum’s collections, while food lovers can sample traditional Finnish specialties at the vibrant Market Square. With its cultural festivals, centuries‑old architecture, and boat excursions, Turku makes an enchanting port‑city escape just a short cruise or drive from Sweden’s southwest coast.
Major Attractions: Turku Castle, Turku Cathedral, riverside cafés
Location: Southwest Finland, on the Aura River
How To Reach: Ferry from Stockholm to Åbo (Turku) or drive via ferry from Stockholm to Naantali
5. Mariehamn, Åland Islands
Photo: Bahnfrend / Wikimedia Commons
Mariehamn, capital of the autonomous Åland Islands, sits at the heart of an archipelago midway between Sweden and Finland. Begin at the Åland Maritime Museum to admire historic sailing ships and the Pommern, a four‑masted windjammer preserved as a museum vessel. Then bike or kayak through tranquil skerries and past red‑timbered cottages, exploring hidden coves and pine‑lined islets. In town, wander among charming wooden houses, bustling waterfront parks, and seaside cafés that celebrate Åland’s Swedish‑speaking heritage.
Major Attractions: Pommern ship, archipelago trails, Maritime Museum
Location: Åland Islands, autonomous region of Finland
How To Reach: Ferry from Stockholm or Turku to Mariehamn
6. Tallinn, Estonia
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Tallinn’s UNESCO‑listed Old Town enchants with its medieval architecture, cobbled lanes, and ancient fortifications. Visitors can ascend Toompea Hill to admire views of rooftops before exploring spires like St. Olaf’s Church. In the heart lies the Gothic Town Hall Square, where merchants traded beneath arcades now filled with artisan boutiques and cafés. Browse local crafts, sample Estonian bread at the vibrant market, and discover courtyards along the city walls. With its blend of Hanseatic heritage and modern culture, Tallinn is a magical escape just a short ferry ride from Helsinki or Stockholm.
Major Attractions: Town Hall Square, Toompea Castle, medieval walls
Location: Northern Estonia, on the Gulf of Finland
How To Reach: Overnight ferries from Helsinki or Stockholm
7. Riga, Latvia
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Riga, Latvia’s vibrant capital, is famed for its Art Nouveau treasure trove, best seen along Alberta Street’s ornate facades. Wander the cobbled lanes of the UNESCO‑listed Old Town, where the majestic Riga Dome Cathedral and bustling Town Hall Square await. Indulge in fresh produce and smoked fish at Central Market’s historic pavilions, then ascend St. Peter’s Church tower for panoramic cityscapes. Later, relax beneath shaded trees in riverside parks along the Daugava.
Major Attractions: Art Nouveau buildings, Central Market, Old Town landmarks
Location: Latvian coast, on the Gulf of Riga
How To Reach: Overnight ferry from Stockholm to Riga or flight from Stockholm
8. Vilnius, Lithuania
Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, boasts one of Eastern Europe’s sprawling and preserved Old Towns. Wander past ornate Baroque churches, civic buildings, and winding medieval alleys that reveal centuries of history. Ascend Gediminas’ Tower atop Castle Hill for panoramas of red‑tiled rooftops and meandering rivers. Discover the bohemian neighborhood of Užupis, self‑declared Republic of artists, where eclectic galleries and street art flourish. Pause at the Gates of Dawn, a revered chapel with a miraculous icon, and explore vibrant cafés and markets that pulse with creative energy.
Major Attractions: Gediminas’ Tower, baroque cathedrals, Užupis district
Location: Eastern Lithuania, on the Neris River
How To Reach: Flights from Stockholm or ferry‑train combo via Poland
9. St. Petersburg, Russia
Photo: Florstein / Wikimedia Commons
St. Petersburg, perched on Russia’s Baltic coast, offers imperial grandeur at every turn. Begin inside the Winter Palace, home to the Hermitage Museum’s world‑class art and artifacts spanning centuries, then wander the city’s elegant canals, neoclassical bridges, and wide boulevards. Discover Peterhof’s majestic fountain gardens and Marble Palace, and marvel at the colorful mosaics of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. During summer’s famed white nights, the city comes alive with cultural events under the midnight sun. All this awaits just a scenic ferry voyage from Helsinki.
Major Attractions: Hermitage Museum, Peterhof Palace, canal cruises
Location: Northwest Russia, on the Gulf of Finland
How To Reach: High‑speed ferry from Helsinki or flights from Stockholm
10. Gdańsk, Poland
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Gdańsk, on Poland’s Baltic coast, invites visitors to explore its reconstructed Main Town, where colorful facades line the Motława River and the medieval crane stands sentinel. Step inside St. Mary’s Church, the largest brick church in Europe, and delve into history at the former shipyards where the Solidarity movement ignited. Browse artisan boutiques for amber jewelry and sample seafood at waterfront cafés. With its rich maritime heritage and lively cultural revival, Gdańsk captivates travelers seeking a blend of history, art, and coastal charm, reachable by ferry from Sweden or flight.
Major Attractions: Motława waterfront, amber markets, St. Mary’s Church
Location: Northern Poland, on the Baltic Sea
How To Reach: Ferry from Karlskrona (Sweden) or flight from Stockholm
Places to visit near Sweden open doors to diverse cultures, breathtaking natural landscapes, and deep histories just beyond its borders. From the fairy‑tale canals of Copenhagen and Oslo’s majestic fjords to Tallinn’s medieval streets and Bornholm’s seaside retreats, each nearby destination adds color and depth to a Swedish itinerary. Explore vibrant Scandinavian capitals, Baltic heritage towns, and Danish island villages for a perfect mix of urban charm and coastal tranquility. Plan your regional adventure with TripXL and discover the rich tapestry of experiences awaiting in northern Europe’s most captivating corners.
Cover Photo: Martin Falbisoner / Wikimedia Commons
