Visit Sweden's arctic north for mountainous wilderness or the eastern Baltic coast for rocky islands. You'll find a very different feel in the south of Sweden, where the cities of Gothenburg, Stockholm and Malmö ooze urban sophistication. Or visit the capital city, Stockholm, also known as the ‘Venice of the North' – find out why by exploring its striking architecture and delightful waterside setting.
You'll find that most Swedes enjoy a high quality of living in the urbanised south – this is where Volvo and IKEA took the design world by storm. Gothenburg is Sweden's major port and industrial centre, while the Øresund region, linked by bridge with Denmark, is among the most densely populated. Head north to Lapland and you'll find a real contrast in its vast open spaces and spectacular mountain scenery.
Explore the waterside royal palaces of Stockholm, Sweden's elegant and sophisticated capital, and the jewel in Sweden's urban crown. Test Gothenburg's fast developing gastronomic reputation in the west, or see the modern architecture that's springing up all over 13th-century Malmö. Gaze up at medieval Uppsala's twin-spired cathedral, Scandinavia's biggest.
If you like it cold then head to arctic Kiruna in the winter and stay at the original Icehotel. If you thought Lapland was all about reindeer then think again. The region is mainly covered with glaciated mountains and the vast UNESCO-protected arctic wetland, Lapponia. Head to central and southern Sweden to explore dense forest punctured by lakes. Put your winter warmers on and try out dog-sledding or skiing. In the summer you can go fishing, walking or boating.
