Our guide on the Mistakes to Avoid in Sweden and how to avoid them for your next trip.
Sweden, with its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique cultural customs, is a dream destination for travelers seeking a mix of urban sophistication and outdoor adventures. While it’s known for its friendly locals, clean cities, and high quality of life, there are a few nuances to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Sweden is a country rich in culture, natural beauty, and modern conveniences. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you make the most of your visit and ensure that you leave with wonderful memories of this unique Scandinavian country. Trevlig resa! (Have a great trip!)
Here’s a guide to common mistakes travelers make in Sweden and how to avoid them.
Read here the best Sweden sim card and best breakfast in Sweden
Mistakes to Avoid in Sweden
1. Not Understanding the Concept of “Lagom”
Mistake: Failing to grasp the Swedish philosophy of “lagom”, which translates to “just the right amount,” and inadvertently overdoing things (talking too loudly, eating too much, or behaving too exuberantly).
How to Avoid:
Embrace Moderation: “Lagom” is a core Swedish value that encourages balance and moderation in all aspects of life. Try to avoid excessiveness in behavior, dress, or speech.
Keep Conversations Low-Key: Be mindful of speaking in a moderate tone, especially in public places.
Dress Simply and Neatly: Swedes tend to favor understated fashion — nothing too flashy or extravagant.
Tip: When in doubt, aim for simplicity and modesty, and you’ll blend in just fine.
2. Assuming Everyone Speaks Fluent English
Mistake: While most Swedes speak excellent English, assuming everyone will always switch to English can come off as impolite, especially in rural areas.
How to Avoid:
Learn a Few Basic Swedish Phrases: Knowing simple phrases like “Hej” (Hello), “Tack” (Thank you), and “Ursäkta” (Excuse me) can go a long way.
Use English Politely: If you need to switch to English, start by asking, “Talar du engelska?” (Do you speak English?) before continuing in English.
Tip: Swedes appreciate the effort, so don’t worry if your Swedish isn’t perfect — a little goes a long way!
3. Showing Up Late to Appointments or Social Gatherings
Mistake: Arriving late to appointments, meetings, or even casual social events can be considered disrespectful in Sweden, where punctuality is highly valued.
How to Avoid:
Be Punctual: Always aim to arrive on time or even a few minutes early. If you’re running late, inform the person you’re meeting as soon as possible.
Plan Your Route: Make sure you account for potential delays, especially if using public transportation or traveling during rush hour.
Tip: In Sweden, “on time” means exactly that, so aim to be at your destination at the agreed-upon hour.
4. Underestimating the Cost of Living
Mistake: Not budgeting properly and being caught off-guard by the high prices of food, transportation, and accommodations in Sweden.
How to Avoid:
Budget Wisely: Sweden is known for its high cost of living, especially in cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg. Plan your budget accordingly for accommodations, dining, and transportation.
Eat Like a Local: Instead of dining out for every meal, visit supermarkets like ICA or Coop for groceries, or eat at lunchtime buffets (dagens lunch), which offer more affordable options.
Use Public Transport Passes: If staying in a city, buy multi-day or weekly public transport passes to save money on buses, trams, and metro rides.
Tip: Consider staying in smaller towns or booking accommodations well in advance to avoid high costs.
5. Not Removing Your Shoes Indoors
Mistake: Entering someone’s home or certain accommodations without taking off your shoes, which is considered disrespectful in Swedish culture.
How to Avoid:
Always Take Off Your Shoes: As a rule of thumb, always remove your shoes when entering a Swedish home. It’s customary even in some rental apartments and boutique hotels.
Bring Indoor Slippers: If you don’t want to be barefoot, pack a pair of indoor slippers or house shoes for your trip.
Tip: Look for cues — if you see shoes lined up by the door, it’s a clear sign to take yours off.
6. Misjudging the Climate
Mistake: Not dressing appropriately for Sweden’s weather, which can be unpredictable, especially in winter and early spring.
How to Avoid:
Dress in Layers: The key to staying comfortable in Sweden is layering. The temperature can vary greatly throughout the day, so wear a base layer, sweater, and waterproof outer layer.
Pack for Rain and Cold: Even in summer, nights can get chilly, and rain showers are common. Bring a light jacket, raincoat, and sturdy shoes.
Winter Means Winter: If visiting in winter, prepare for freezing temperatures and possible snow. Wear thermal clothing, insulated boots, a hat, scarf, and gloves.
Tip: Check the weather forecast daily and adjust your wardrobe accordingly.
7. Ignoring the “Allemansrätten” (Right to Roam)
Mistake: Missing out on Sweden’s unique “Allemansrätten”, or Right to Roam, which allows everyone to explore the country’s natural landscapes freely and respectfully.
How to Avoid:
Get Outside and Explore: Take advantage of this right to hike, camp, and pick berries or mushrooms on public and some private lands, as long as you respect nature and don’t disturb wildlife.
Leave No Trace: Be mindful to leave the natural environment as you found it. Avoid littering, starting fires in protected areas, or camping near someone’s home without permission.
Tip: If you’re visiting in summer, make time for a hike, swim in a lake, or a wild camping experience to fully enjoy Sweden’s great outdoors.
8. Forgetting About the Fika Tradition
Mistake: Overlooking “Fika”, Sweden’s cherished coffee break tradition, which is a significant part of the culture.
How to Avoid:
Take Time for Fika: Fika isn’t just about having a coffee; it’s a moment to slow down, relax, and connect with friends or colleagues over a coffee and pastry, like a kanelbulle (cinnamon bun).
Join In: If invited to fika, make time for it! It’s seen as an important social ritual, whether at work or with friends.
Find a Cozy Café: Try popular fika spots like Vete-Katten in Stockholm or a local konditori (café) in smaller towns.
Tip: Make fika part of your daily routine while in Sweden. It’s a perfect way to experience local culture and unwind.
9. Not Planning Ahead for Alcohol Purchases
Mistake: Assuming you can buy alcohol easily at any grocery store, only to find out that beer and spirits are restricted and sold only in government-regulated stores.
How to Avoid:
Know the Systembolaget Rules: Alcohol above 3.5% ABV is only sold at Systembolaget, the state-run liquor store. These stores have limited hours, typically closing early in the evening and closed on Sundays.
Plan Your Purchases: Buy alcohol in advance if you plan on having drinks over the weekend or need wine for dinner.
Check for Age Restrictions: You must be 20 or older to buy alcohol from Systembolaget.
Tip: If you’re dining out, be aware that alcohol in bars and restaurants can be pricey, so budget accordingly.
10. Assuming There’s a Strong Tipping Culture
Mistake: Tipping heavily out of habit or not tipping at all, since the rules around tipping in Sweden can be unclear to visitors.
How to Avoid:
Tip Modestly: Tipping is not mandatory in Sweden, but it’s appreciated for good service. Most Swedes round up the bill or leave a small tip, around 5-10% in restaurants or a few kronor for taxi drivers and hairdressers.
Check if Service Is Included: In many restaurants, a service charge is already included in the bill, so tipping is not necessary but welcomed for exceptional service.
Tip: When in doubt, simply round up to the nearest even amount.
11. Expecting Busy Tourist Crowds Everywhere
Mistake: Assuming that all tourist attractions will be crowded, leading to frustration or missed opportunities.
How to Avoid:
Visit Attractions in Shoulder Seasons: Sweden sees its peak tourist season in July and August. Visiting in May-June or September-October will allow you to see popular sites with fewer crowds.
Explore Lesser-Known Areas: While Stockholm and Gothenburg are popular, don’t miss other beautiful spots like the Swedish Lapland, Gotland, or the High Coast (Höga Kusten) for unique experiences.
Tip: Even in peak season, Sweden’s vast landscapes and well-managed tourism mean it rarely feels overly crowded.
12. Missing Out on the Archipelagos and Nature Reserves
Mistake: Staying only in the cities and missing out on Sweden’s incredible natural beauty, including its vast archipelagos and national parks.
How to Avoid:
Visit the Stockholm Archipelago: With over 30,000 islands, the Stockholm archipelago is a stunning area to explore by ferry, kayak, or sailboat. It’s an easy day trip or weekend getaway from Stockholm.
Explore the National Parks: Sweden has 30 national parks, including Sarek for hiking, Abisko for the Northern Lights, and Tiveden for dense forests and lakes.
Try Winter Activities: If visiting in winter, head to Jukkasjärvi for the Icehotel, try dog sledding, or experience a Sami reindeer farm.
Tip: Use local guides or tourism offices to find the best routes and hidden gems for outdoor adventures.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.