Sweden is synonymous with the furniture giant IKEA, the childhood tales of Astrid Lindgren and the stately Nobel Prize ceremony. But it is also a vast country of picture-postcard views, historical cities, idyllic islands and much more – all of which can be experienced on this week-long tour. Besides the famous Swedish icons, you will also discover Läckö Castle, the island of Öland, the ‘Venice of the North’ Stockholm, and the university town of Uppsala.
Day 1: Copenhagen – Malmö – Kalmar (320 km)
Upon arrival in Copenhagen, continue onwards to the trendy city of Malmö via the “Öresund Bridge.” A local guide will show you the ‘Turning Torso’ skyscraper, St. Petri Kyrka, and the heart of the city, ‘Lilla Torg.’ Sofiero Palace in Helsingborg makes for another worthy stop en route. It is considered Sweden’s most beautiful palace, and its park combines innovative garden design with eco-friendly solutions. A visit to the fascinating IKEA museum in Älmhult is also possible before continuing on to the beautiful seaside town of Kalmar. Spend 2 nights in this modern city where you can still hear the echoes of medieval times.
Day 2: Excursion to the island of Öland
Cross the Öland bridge to the second largest island in Sweden, where a local guide will show you ‘Långe Erik’, the highest lighthouse and the prairie-like ‘Stora Alvaret.’ This giant limestone plateau has a unique biodiversity and pre-history and has been added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. In the afternoon, pay a visit to Solliden Palace, the royal family’s summer residence for generations with Italian, English and Dutch-inspired gardens.
Day 3: Kalmar – Vimmerby – Linköping (253 km)
Drive through lovely Swedish nature to Vimmerby where you can take a safari ride through Virum Moose Park. Vimmerby is also the hometown of Astrid Lindgren, and you can visit the house of this famous children’s book author’s parents. Overnight stay in Linköping.
Day 4: Linköping – Mariefred – Stockholm (323 km)
Start off the morning with a boat trip on the Göta Canal. Then, drive to Mariefred for a visit of Gripsholm Castle, one of the 11 royal castles in Sweden situated on the shores of Lake Mälaren. Gripsholm Castle is home to the Swedish State’s collection of portraits and is filled with over 400 years of history. Arrive in Stockholm for 2 nights’ stay.
Day 5: Stockholm
A local guide will showcase the Swedish capital, covering the Royal Palace, ‘Gamla Stan’ (one of the largest and best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe) and City Hall, where every year the Nobel Prize banquet is held. In the afternoon, visit the Vasa Museum, where you will find the 1628 warship ‘Vasa’ that sank on her maiden voyage. A boat trip through Stockholm’s stunning archipelago is also a must-do.
Day 6: Stockholm – Uppsala – Skara (402 km)
Uppsala is Sweden’s oldest university city, and here a local guide will lead you through its magnificent 13th century cathedral and the old town. The Treasury in the cathedral’s North Tower is home to Europe’s finest collection of medieval church fabrics. Overnight stay in Skara.
Day 7: Skara – Kållandsö – Gothenburg (227 km)
Before making way to the west coast, there is time for a final stop at Läckö Castle, Sweden’s most beautiful mansion. Its 700 years of history, uniquely preserved baroque salons and wonderful surroundings make the mansion an experience not to be missed. Continue on to Gothenburg, from where you will make your return journey home.
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