Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Swedish Vacation

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re discussing common mistakes we see from first-time tourists in Sweden. We’ve traveled to Sweden many times and learned many lessons throughout the years. If you are about to embark on your first Sweden vacation, take care to avoid these travel mistakes…and please, don’t be an ugly tourist in Sweden!

Missing Fika

Fika is one of the best parts of Swedish culture, and it would be a huge mistake not to experience it when you visit Sweden. Fika is not easy to define, but it’s akin to taking some time to chat with friends. It might involve coffee or a snack, but it’s more than just a quick coffee break. It’s about conversing with your friends and escaping life for a brief bit.

Not Chatting Up the Locals

Granted, Swedes are not the chattiest people, so getting them to engage in conversation can be difficult. They aren’t big on small talk. But if you can get them to open up, they are actually super friendly and helpful. They are reserved, but it’s just part of their culture; don’t take it personally! Don’t try to engage on public transportation, but if you’re in a social group, that’s the time to try and strike up a conversation.

Here’s a tip from @EEmB, one of our Swedish followers:

“If you want to talk to a local, just ask something specific. Don’t just say “Hi, how are you?”. Ask us something specific like “hi, I just arrived here from x, could you recommend a place to eat/something I have to see or do while I am here/what is something I need to know about Sweden/this town?” Some might be shy to speak English, or be reluctant to talk for whatever reason, but most will give you good answers and even will continue a conversation a bit.

But not on public transport. We are very mindful of our spaces and not making anyone feel uncomfortable, and being in a bus/metro/train is a place we most likely want to have that space, also we are “trapped” in a box with you. Swedes might be reluctant to talk in places we are trapped in. If you are in Stockholm, it’s a big city like any big city, some people are just busy, but for most, Swedes LOVE to tell you about Sweden or give you tips, so just ask!”

Missing Midsummer

The best time to visit Sweden is at the summer solstice when they throw the Midsummer Festival. The festival marks the arrival of long-awaited summer, and there is dancing, folk costumes, flowers, and all kinds of fun activities. It would be a mistake to miss it!

Best & Worst of Visiting Sweden

Expecting to Buy Spirits at the Supermarket

In Sweden, liquor is only sold at the Systembolaget liquor stores. Anything over 3.5% ABV can only be sold in government-owned liquor stores. Like the government, the stores are closed on public holidays and Sundays, so you have to plan ahead. If you go on Friday or Saturday, expect long lines and don’t even try to cut in line; the Swedes are very strict about line etiquette.

Shocks of Visiting Sweden

Respect the Rules

It’s not just line etiquette; Swedes are very strict about rules in general. They like rule followers and are not going to bend the rules for tourists. This applies to being on time as well. Swedes are very different from people in Spain or Portugal where 30 minutes late is still early. In Sweden, you should always be on time. Don’t be early, but especially don’t be late or you will insult your hosts.

Trying to Impress Locals

Swedish culture is also very humble; they don’t like bragging. So while you might be eager to make friends in Sweden, they won’t respond to bragging. Be humble and you’ll have better luck making new friends!

Expecting Amazing Service

The Swedish disdain for small talk carries over to service as well. You will not find over-the-top friendly service in Sweden, and the customer is not “king” here. There’s no tipping in Sweden, so they’re not going to go out of their way to ensure an amazing experience. It’s punctual, efficient service.

Assuming all of Sweden is Priced Like Stockholm

Stockholm is very expensive to visit, especially the taxis. But not all of Sweden is super expensive. Nearly every other part of the country is much more affordable than the capital city. So, if you want to stretch the budget of your Sweden vacation, spend a few days in the capital and then go to the smaller cities and towns where your money goes a lot farther. Exploring beyond Stockholm is more than just a way to save money, it’s the only way to experience the amazing nature of Sweden. If you don’t have much time, you can take a day trip to Uppsala on the train.

Getting Cash in Sweden

You really don’t need any cash when you visit Sweden. It’s a very modern country, so you can pay for everything with a credit card or tap-to-pay. We’ve even come across places that won’t accept cash, so don’t bother exchanging money when you get to Sweden.

Missing Swedish Cuisine

Sweden has a lot of international cuisines, especially in Stockholm, so sometimes it can be difficult to find traditional Swedish cuisine. (it’s not just meatballs!) Some of the traditional foods to try in Sweden include:

Meatballs are the first thing most people think of when picturing Swedish food. (they’re not called Swedish meatballs here, just meatballs) They are served with Lingonberries and pickled cucumbers that are meant to be eaten with meatballs for a sweet/savory/sour flavor combination.
Seafood is a staple in Sweden. You’ll see a lot of herring, including pickled herring. Salmon is another popular fish to eat in Sweden. Gravlax is smoked salmon, usually served on a sandwich. Open-faced shrimp sandwiches are also common.
Crawfish parties are common in late summer. If you get invited to one, go!
Sandwiches are easy to find in Sweden, and the best choice for eating on the go.
Lingonberries are plentiful, and they are not only served with meatballs. You’ll see lingonberry jam, beverages, and desserts like ice cream. They really love their forest berries in Sweden.
Potatoes are common in Sweden, and you can have them in many forms. You’ll have mashed potatoes, fried potatoes, bulb potatoes, and they are all delicious.
Hot dogs and kebabs are everywhere and make an easy late-night snack. You can get them on the street and in convenience stores.
Pastries in Sweden are amazing! This includes, but is not limited to, cinnamon rolls.
Sweden has a coffee culture. They drink coffee frequently, and it’s not hard to find a good cup of coffee in Sweden.
Chocolate Balls are another sweet treat in Sweden.
Princess Cake is popular; it’s basically a sponge cake with fruit filling and a marzipan outer layer.
Breakfast is usually a simple meal; maybe a Wasa cracker with butter or cheese, or some yogurt. Wasa crackers are a thick cracker, often made with rye bread.
Pancakes in Sweden are super tasty, too. They are thinner than American pancakes, but thicker than a crepe. Served with some fresh berry jam and cream, they are delicious!
Candy stores in Sweden are so fun! Swedes definitely have a sweet tooth! They love their salted black licorice, too, although that’s more of an acquired taste.

When it comes to beverages in Sweden, besides the fresh berry juices, you can find a lot of local beer, schnapps, and of course, vodka.

Many of the museums in Sweden have a small cafe, and that’s usually a good place to try traditional Swedish food.

Picking McDonald’s Over Max

If you’re getting food on the go, there are all the usual international fast food chains, but give Max a try instead. It’s the local fast food chain, and their Max sauce is so good!

Wherever you grab a bite, make sure you bus your own table! This is pretty standard at cafes or cafeterias, and there will be spots to return your tray and dishes. This doesn’t apply to sit-down restaurants, but pay attention to those around you and take a cue from the locals.

Missing the Lunch Buffet

A great way to save money while traveling in Sweden is to eat at lunch buffets. They are widely advertised and you can get a lot of food for a great price. So if you’re traveling Sweden on a budget, fill up at the lunch buffets and have a light dinner. It’s also a great opportunity to try lots of local Swedish food at one time.

Upsetting the Locals

Swedes are pretty chill, in general. But their culture is very different from other countries, especially America. So, it could be easy to accidentally upset a local if you’re not familiar with the culture. Here are a few tips for not upsetting the locals on your Sweden vacation:

Respect their personal space. Whether you’re in line at the liquor store or on the bus or train, take the open seats with nobody around. Don’t stand or sit right next to someone.
Don’t wear your shoes indoors. If you’re lucky enough to be invited to a Swedish home, make sure you remove your shoes upon entry.
Cutting in line is a cardinal sin in rule-abiding Sweden.
Being loud anywhere, especially on public transportation. Swedes are so reserved and quiet, that they really don’t like loud talking or shouting. When filming our travel videos, we try to find spots away from people so we don’t disturb them.
Confusing Switzerland with Sweden. It happens more often than you think. Swiss are in Switzerland, and Swedes are in Sweden. They are two very different countries.
Don’t even think about doing your impression of the Muppets Swedish Chef!

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Don’t think Sweden is too expensive to visit! Although it’s pricier than Southern Europe, it’s still way more affordable than destinations like New York or London. Especially if you get out and explore the country beyond the capital city, Stockholm.

Want more tips for visiting Sweden? Check out some of our other blog posts: