Sweden
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Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Swedish landscapes, architecture and culture, which offer a rich diversity and unparalleled beauty. From the idyllic archipelago and lakes to historic cities such as Stockholm and Gothenburg, Sweden offers a wealth of photo opportunities that will delight any photography enthusiast.

Stockholm

Capital city

10.551.707

Population

Swedish

Language

450.295 km²

Surface area

From endless forests to Köttbullar - that's Sweden.

Photo spots in Sweden

Welcome to the land of the midnight sun and endless forests – Sweden, where photo spots invite you on a journey through the many facets of culture, history and breathtaking landscapes. From the idyllic archipelago and lakes to the vibrant city life of Stockholm and Gothenburg and historic cities such as Uppsala and Malmö, Sweden’s architecture and nature reflect a fascinating diversity that will inspire any photographer.

Explore the impressive natural landscapes in Lapland, the charming villages along the coast and the idyllic islands in the Stockholm archipelago. Sweden is a country full of contrasts, characterized by its rich history and cultural diversity, which enchants its visitors with every photo spot. From the small hidden gems to the vibrant cities, Sweden offers an almost endless range of photo opportunities waiting to be discovered. Get ready to be captured by the beauty of this country and start your photo journey through Sweden.

Good to know

Here you will find important information for your visit to Sweden or for your trip through this fascinating country in Scandinavia. We’ll give you everything you need to get the most out of your stay in Sweden. Let’s go on a journey of discovery together and experience the best photo spots with Fotogoals.

Regions

Sweden is divided into 21 provinces, including Stockholm, Västra Götaland, Skåne, Uppsala and Norrbotten. These regions each offer their own unique sights and cultural highlights. From the idyllic archipelago and lakes to historic cities such as Stockholm and Gothenburg and the impressive natural landscapes in Lapland - Sweden offers a rich variety to explore.

Currency

The official currency in Sweden is the Swedish krona (SEK), which is accepted as a means of payment throughout the country. The country’s largest banks include Swedbank, SEB, Handelsbanken and Nordea. ATMs can be found in banks as well as in many public places such as shopping centers, train stations and airports, making access to cash convenient and easy.

Mobile radio

Sweden has the country code +46 and the leading mobile providers are Telia, Tele2 and Telenor. Other providers (e.g. Comviq) use one of the networks of the three major providers. The mobile network is generally well developed and offers extensive network coverage, even in rural areas. In general, 4G LTE is readily available. 5G is largely available in urban areas.

Grocery

In Sweden, most supermarkets and discount stores are open from Monday to Sunday from around 7 or 8 am until 9 or 10 pm. The most popular retailers include ICA, Coop, Lidl, Willys and Hemköp. They offer a wide selection of food and other products at affordable prices.

Transportation

There are a variety of transportation options in Sweden. SJ offers an extensive train network for national and international travel. Cities have public transportation such as subways, streetcars and buses. Flixbus offers inexpensive long-distance bus connections. There are also ride-sharing services such as Uber, traditional cabs and car rental companies such as Europcar and Sixt for flexible transportation options.

Restaurant

Sweden has a diverse restaurant landscape that offers something for every taste and budget. In addition to traditional restaurants serving Swedish cuisine, you will also find a large number of international chains and snack stands offering a wide range of dishes, from Köttbullar to fresh seafood. Prices for main meals average between 15 and 30 euros. It is customary to tip about 10%.

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Sweden - FAQ: Travel

Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Sweden

If you want to visit Sweden, the best time to go depends on your personal preferences and the activities you are planning. Summer (June to August) offers warm weather and is ideal for outdoor activities and visits to the archipelago and lakes. Autumn (September to November) offers mild weather and colorful autumn landscapes, perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Winter (December to February) is ideal for winter sports and experiencing the Northern Lights in Lapland. In spring (March to May), nature awakens and the cities blossom, which is perfect for walks and sightseeing tours. When planning your trip, consider your personal preferences and interests to find the best time to visit Sweden.

If you want to enter Sweden, the need for a visa depends on your nationality, the purpose of your stay and the intended duration. Nationals of many countries do not require a visa for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. However, a visa may be required for longer stays or other purposes. It is important to check the current entry requirements and apply for a visa in good time if necessary.

If you are planning a vacation trip to Sweden, the choice of airport depends on your destination and personal preferences. Most international flights land at major airports such as Stockholm-Arlanda (ARN), Gothenburg-Landvetter (GOT) or Malmö (MMX). Stockholm-Arlanda is the largest and busiest airport and offers a wide range of connections. All airports are well connected to the public transport network. If you have a specific destination in Sweden in mind, it may make sense to choose the nearest regional airport. Find out about the various options in advance and choose the airport that best suits your travel plans.

If you are traveling to Sweden, no special vaccinations are usually required. However, it is recommended that you keep your standard vaccinations up to date according to your home country's vaccination calendar. If you are traveling from countries with yellow fever infection areas, you may need to provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination. It is advisable to find out about current health and entry regulations before you travel and to seek medical advice if necessary.

Yes, many people in Sweden speak English, especially in urban areas, tourist centers and among the younger generation. English is a widely spoken foreign language and is often learned as a second language at school. In hotels, restaurants, stores and tourist attractions, it is common for staff to speak English or at least have a basic knowledge of English in order to communicate with international visitors. If you don't speak Swedish, you can usually communicate in English to find your way around and get help.

Sweden - FAQ: Daily life

Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about daily life in Sweden

In Sweden, the voltage is 230 volts and the frequency is 50 hertz. The sockets correspond to the European type C and type F. If you come from a country that uses other plug types, you may need an adapter to connect your electronic devices. These adapters are available in most electronics stores, airports and hotels. It is recommended that you check whether you need an adapter before your trip to ensure that your electronic devices can be used without any problems.

Yes, tap water in Sweden is generally of high quality and can be drunk without hesitation. Most cities and municipalities have strict water treatment regulations to ensure that drinking water meets legal standards. It is therefore not necessary to buy bottled water unless you prefer certain flavors or carbonation. Drinking tap water is not only environmentally friendly, it also saves you money during your stay in Sweden.

Payment by card, especially by credit card, is widespread in Sweden. In larger stores, restaurants and bars in cities or tourist regions, payment by credit card is generally accepted. However, some smaller stores or rural areas may only accept cash. It is therefore advisable to find out in advance whether payment with your credit card is possible.

American Express credit cards can sometimes cause problems as they are not accepted everywhere. Visa and Mastercard, on the other hand, work almost everywhere. All cards are usually accepted in supermarkets, as are Apple Pay and Google Pay. It is always a good idea to have both cash and a credit card with you to be prepared for all eventualities.

In Sweden, you can buy alcohol in special state-run liquor stores called Systembolaget. Supermarkets only sell alcoholic drinks with an alcohol content of up to 3.5%. The sale of alcohol is limited in time and usually only possible until 7 pm, on Saturdays until 3 pm. It is advisable to check the local regulations. The minimum age for the purchase of alcohol is 20 years in Systembolaget and 18 years in restaurants and bars.

In Sweden you can buy cigarettes and tobacco in supermarkets, kiosks, petrol stations and special tobacco stores. These products are usually kept behind the counter and must be requested from the staff. It is important to note that the sale of tobacco products is regulated and the minimum age for buying tobacco is 18. A pack of cigarettes costs around 6-7 euros on average.

In Sweden, you can buy drugstore and hygiene products in supermarkets such as ICA and Coop, as well as in specialized drugstores such as Apoteket and Kronans Apotek. These stores offer a wide range of products, including body care, cosmetics, household cleaners and baby care. Drugstore items are also available in pharmacies, which are widespread in most towns and communities.

Right-hand traffic prevails in Sweden. The speed limits vary depending on the type of road: in urban areas the limit is usually 50 km/h, on country roads 70-90 km/h and on highways 110-120 km/h. Seat belts must be worn by all vehicle occupants. The blood alcohol limit is 0.02%. The use of cell phones without hands-free equipment while driving is prohibited. It is important to obey traffic signs and traffic lights and to give priority to pedestrians at crosswalks.

When visiting Sweden, there are a few important things to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay:

  • Dress: Sweden has a relaxed dress code, but it is advisable to dress appropriately in urban areas and for formal occasions. Conservative clothing should be worn in religious sites.

  • Traffic: Traffic in Sweden is well organized, but it is important to follow the traffic rules and drive carefully. Cyclists often have priority, so special care is required.

  • Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, restaurants, bars and many public places. There are designated smoking areas which should be used.

  • Alcohol: The consumption of alcohol is permitted in Sweden from the age of 18. However, the sale of alcohol is restricted to state stores (Systembolaget) and consumption in public is prohibited.

  • Emergency number: The emergency number in Sweden is 112. This number can be used for the police, fire department and ambulance.

  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Sweden, as the service is usually included in the price. However, a small tip is appreciated for good service.

Sweden - FAQ: Photo

Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about photography in Sweden

In Sweden there are some important rules and regulations regarding photography:

  • Respect privacy: Do not photograph people without their express permission, especially in private or sensitive situations.
  • Military and government buildings: Photography of military facilities and government buildings is often restricted or prohibited.
  • Religious sites: Special care should be taken when taking photographs in churches and cathedrals. Find out in advance whether photography is permitted.
  • Commercial photography: Permission is required for commercial photography. Find out about the necessary permits in advance.