Sweden’s cities offer tourists a range of activities, with outdoor pursuits and exploration of the scenic surrounds that most destinations offer being among the top activities. While the capital, Stockholm, is probably Sweden’s gem, there are a number of other picturesque city’s that are small in size and characteristically built up of low-rise colourful buildings. Water features highly at many of the country’s top destinations, with rivers, lakes and beaches complementing manmade attractions.
 Borås
This small city is traditionally the textile centre of Sweden. Situated east of Gothenburg, Borås has an orderly atmosphere, some decent shopping and a range of eateries; a good destination for a daytrip from Gothenburg.
 Gothenburg
The country’s second largest city, located on the west coast, is actually fairly small, with travelling on foot or by tram being the best way to get familiar with the city. Brunnsparken is the main district where you will find excellent shopping facilities including Nordstan shopping mall and Kungsgatan and Fredsgatan, two of Gothenburg’s most popular shopping streets.
Check out Götaplatsen square, where you will find the landmark statue of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea, and Stadsteatern, the city’s largest theatre. Art lovers should not miss the Museum of Art, which incorporates the Hasselblad photography museum. Children will love Liseberg, an amusement park that offers action-packed rides and entertainment. There are further shopping opportunities in Haga, while excellent dining is on offer in Linnestaden, which is characterised by its tall buildings. If you want to escape the urban bustle, head for Slottskogen, the city’s largest public park, which is also home to the Observatory and the Museum of Natural History.
The harbour is picturesque, with its docked ships and maritime feel, while there is a cultural side to this area, which is home to the city’s opera house. At Hisingen harbour, the other side of the river Göta älv, is the Ostindiefararen Götheborg; a docked 18th century ship and popular attraction.
 Malmö
If you are coming to Sweden from Copenhagen, this is likely to be your first stop. Situated close to the Danish border, Malmö is a small, clean city that acts as a transport hub for the south. The architecture here is typically Swedish and delightful, demonstrating the Swedish eye for design. If the weather permits, the beach here is lovely and is overlooked by the city’s most talked about building; the Turning Torso. There is a thriving café culture here and some good night time entertainment in the Big Square. Shoppers will enjoy its petite outlets that offer a range of unique good and souvenirs.
 Stockholm
The capital of Sweden is an orderly and cosmopolitan hub, set scenically over a number of islands. Visitors to the city can’t fail to appreciate its beauty, and it makes the perfect place for shopping, dining, strolling and sightseeing.
Areas that will appeal to tourists will include T-Centralen (also known as City or Norrmalm), a busy downtown area with some beautiful buildings; Djurgården, an island that is suitable for relaxing walks along the waterfront and Östermalm, an upmarket area with ornate and elegant architecture.
 Umeå
This is Norrland’s primary University City, which is surrounded by natural beauty and wilderness. The students give the city an upbeat atmosphere and they help to support the amalgamation of small shops and pubs. With much of the centre pedestrianised, Umeå is ideal for exploration on foot, while the outskirts of the city provide the perfect space for nature-based activities including bike trails and hiking areas. Nature lovers can enjoy the nearby lake, which offers camping areas and cabins for rent as well as floating saunas. Umeå can be reached by overnight train from Stockholm. For sightseeing, don’t miss the Gammlia museum and the city’s art museum.
 Uppsala
Another lively university city, Uppsala is a vibrant destination that has an upbeat entertainment scene consisting of pubs and clubs. Visitors should check out the Fyris canal, while there is also an excellent library here. The safe atmosphere allows you to explore at ease, while the centre offers a great range of cuisine for hungry travellers. Easily accessible from Stockholm, this centre of learning is divided by a river and full of friendly residents.
Top Things to Do
 Dine on sill
Try pickled herring, a traditional and hugely popular starter that is often served with bread or potatoes. While it may not smell as good as it taste, those who are not so fond of the appearance of this appetiser may be pleasantly surprised by the taste.
 Sample the world’s best vodka’s - Absolut
Famous the world over, Absolut Vodka comes in a range of delicious flavours and can be sampled country-wide at most drinking establishments, while there are also bars specialising in just vodka, spiced aquavits and schnapps.
 Spend a frosty night at the Ice Hotel
This remarkable structure is located in the village Jukkasjärvi, in northern Sweden. This establishment is re-built from snow and ice every winter after it melts in spring.
 Learn about Sweden’s indigenous Sami people
Learn about their heritage and culture with a trip to the northern regions, home to over 17,000 Sami. With their lifestyle still being very much based on tradition,
 Climb Kebnekaise,
Kebnekaise is Sweden's highest mountain, and explore the nearby Abisko National Park, which offers unspoilt wilderness and popular walking trails.
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