6 Best Places to Visit in Sweden During Winter: A Nature Lover’s Guide

One can simply not think of winter when talking about Sweden. From snow covered trees to festive villages, the country turns into a real-life snow globe between December and March. Experience the magic, we will talk about the 6 best places to visit in Sweden during winter, so you get to enjoy snowscapes, cozy traditions, and thrilling activities. An authentic farm stay is the perfect way to experience it all.

1. Småland: Classic Red Cottages

Småland’s deep pine forests and classic red cottages look like a storybook come to life in winter. Småland is also home to Glasriket, the “Kingdom of Crystal,” where Swedish glassmaking has thrived since the 18th century.

Kosta Boda, Orrefors, Målerås: Watch master glassblowers shape glowing molten glass into elegant vases and ornaments. In December, studios often host special exhibitions and glassblowing demonstration. Many workshops even allow you to try glassblowing yourself.

Try Hyttsil: An old Swedish tradition tied to the glass factories, where glassworkers, families, hunters, travelers and others would gather in the factories after the day’s work was done, to eat, socialize, share stories, enjoy music, etc. The main food is salted herring (sill), often cooked in the cooling oven or exhaust pipes of the factory.

2. Dalarna: The Soul of Swedish Traditions

For those seeking classic Swedish culture, Dalarna is a must visit. Known for its painted wooden red Dala horses and rich folklore, the region turns into a wonderland in winter.

Lake Siljan: Once frozen and safe, Lake Siljan offers beautiful opportunities for long-distance skating in natural settings. As well as there are plenty of trails surround Siljan for cross country skiing.

Falun: Explore historic copper mines, experience ice fishing, or shop for traditional crafts at the Christmas market. Visit Lugnet, a massive sports complex with unique facilities. Here you can take part in more than 60 different sports.

Dalarna’s farm stays often feature wood-fired saunas and snowy forest trails right outside your door, which is ideal for spotting wildlife or even glimpsing the Northern Lights on clear nights.

3. Värmland: Wildlife in Winter

Värmland in winter turns into a peaceful and snow covered land, perfect for those who crave both tranquility and outdoor adventure. The land is flat, which provides the opportunity to see many wild animals roaming around.

Try snowshoeing: Värmland’s vast forests and rolling hills are ideal for snowshoeing or winter hiking. The lake areas offer quiet paths where you can immerse yourself in the scenery. Maybe you could even spot wild moose!

Cold swim: This is a truly endearing Scandinavian Hop into the freezing water, come up and sprint to the sauna to warm up. Repeat for a couple of times and your body and mind will feel completely refreshed.

4. Lapland: Northern Lights

For those seeking the ultimate Scandinavian winter adventure, Swedish Lapland delivers. Stretching across the far north, Lapland offers deep snow, pure wilderness, and frequent displays of the Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights.

Kiruna & Abisko: The region is considered one of the best spots to seethe Northern Lights. You might not see it on your first day, but stay for a few night. Go dog sledding, tour the famous Icehotel nearby in Jukkasjärvi, try to climb the mountain for a breath-taking view, or take a snowmobile safari in the meanwhile. Wait till the sky is dark and clear to go chasing the Northern Lights, as the phenomenon doesn’t last long and could appear anywhere.

5. Jämtland & Härjedalen: Snowy Peaks and Alpine Fun

If you love skiing but prefer quieter alternatives to busy resorts, then Jämtland and Härjedalen are ideal. Härjedalen is a true winter wonderland for skiing enthusiasts, whether you love alpine slopes, ski touring, or simple cross-country trails.

Åre: Sweden’s top ski destination with downhill and cross-country trails. Often topping lists for the best Nordic slopes. Its reputation comes from a winning combination of scale, variety, accessibility, and atmosphere.

Vemdalen: Vemdalen isn’t just one resort, but a group of several, each has its own character, atmosphere, and offerings. Vemdalen benefits from a high elevation and a northern latitude, giving it one of the most consistent and long-lasting snow seasons in Sweden, often spanning from late November to early May.

6. Skåne: Mild Coastal Winters

The southern province of Skåne is a top pick for travelers who want a mild yet magical winter. Famous for coastal views, rolling farmland, and colorful towns, Skåne offers plenty to explore even when temperatures drop.

Malmö & Lund: Wander through cobblestoned streets lined with Christmas lights, drink someglögg (Swedish mulled wine), and browse artisanal gifts at Christmas

Österlen Coast: See the sea like you have never seen it before, take a walk on snow covered beaches, visit different traditional towns, or book a farm stay and wake up to frosted fields, as well as relax in a wood-fired sauna.