9 Most Laid-Back Towns in Sweden

For travelers yearning for a destination that is not too busy but not too isolated, Sweden has a handful of small towns radiating with the art of simple living. Sweden even has a concept for their own way of living called lagom. Lagom means “not too much, not too little” and is the Swedish ideal that happiness in life is all about having balance across all aspects of our lives. Not only will the beautiful landscapes be a breath of fresh air, but the locals' blissful energy will keep visitors at ease.

Sweden is the largest Nordic country and the fifth largest country in all of Europe. It is located on the Scandinavian peninsula and divided into 21 counties that scream outdoor beauty. There are nearly 100,000 fresh-flowing lakes, and two-thirds of the country is flourishing in lush forests. For those looking for a relaxing yet still exciting escape, look no further than the beautiful country of Sweden.

Sigtuna

It seems only right to kick off the list with Sigtuna, the oldest town in Sweden. Sigtuna was founded in the 10th century between Uppsala, and Sweden’s capital Stockholm. The town might be quaint, but the history is rich. The first coin in Sweden was made in Sigatuna, and it is also the birthplace of the Sigtuna Princess Ingegerd. Throughout the town, visitors will pass by old charming churches and houses, but the most fascinating thing is the abundance of runestones. Sigtuna is known for being populated with so many runestones that it is like a treasure hunt.

The town is also in the perfect location for outdoor scenery, as it neighbors Lake Mälaren. Embark on a peaceful lakeside stroll while sipping on a cup of coffee or practice yoga in the park. Another option is to check out Klockbacken, a park with mapped-out paths and a barbeque area which is great for taking in the good outdoors.

Visby

The adorable medieval town of Visby can be discovered on the northwest coast of Gotland, which is known to be the largest island in the Baltic Sea. Visby is a very well preserved town that dates back to the 12th century. Frolicking through the streets of angelic buildings and homes designed between the 12th and 14th centuries will have visitors amazed. There are also many historic church ruins to explore such as St Clemens, St Nicolai, and Drotten’s ruins. In the summer months, Visby is truly a place to stop and smell the roses, as it is a garden hotspot blossoming with roses.

Visby also has numerous sandy beaches to feed that beach craving. Visitors can relax on the bathing jetty by the beach walk in central Visby, or a popular spot 20 kilometers south of Visby is Tofta beach. For an elevated view of Visby, there is a lovely hike only seven kilometers south of town where visitors can get immersed in unreal caves, cliffs, and forests.

Kiruna

Kiruna will leave a little dose of magic in every person that passes through. This little town is located 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle and is where travelers can see Sweden’s highest mountain, Kebnekaise. During the summertime, Kiruna experiences approximately two months of midnight sun, which makes this town paradise for viewing the northern lights throughout the dark months of September to March. The diverse range of natural landscapes makes it a hotspot for outdoors enthusiasts to feel one with the earth and away from crowds of people. From rivers, to birch forests, wetlands, and mountains, travelers can jump into hiking, fishing, skiing, and snowshoeing. Visitors will also need to check out Abisko National Park and Vadvetjåkka National Park, which are both located in Kiruna.

Ystad

Sitting on the south coast of Sweden, is the adorable town of Ystad. This town is famous for being the location for the popular crime series, Mankells Wallander. Ystad is a very walkable town for visitors to easily bounce between restaurants, boutiques, and coffee shops. The charming town centre is laid with cobble stone and shines with vibrant colors and elegant architecture. The perfect spot to aimlessly roam and people watch. Visitors will also see the Ystad Town Hall and St. Mary’s Church in the heart of the town centre. A fascinating attraction to visit is Ales Stenar, also known as the Stones of Ale, or the Swedish Stonehenge. About a ten minute drive from Ystad, visitors can admire the best preserved ship monument in Scandinavia. Ales Stenar is made up of 59 stones, measuring 67 meters long and 19 meters wide. This unique site in the outline of a boat has a stunning coastal view and is a spot that visitors never knew they needed to add to the bucket list.

Kalmar

Kalmar can be found on the southeast coast of Sweden, more specifically in the country of Småland. This town calls all outdoor adventure enthusiasts to explore the beaming beaches, forest, wide open landscapes, and water of the Baltic Sea. Kalmarsundsleden, a popular trail in Kalmar, invites all hikers and bikers along 200 kilometers of open country roads and a delightful coastline. Travelers can also catch a direct ferry over to the nearby island of Öland Island, making for a bonus adventure. Wandering through the cobblestone streets will grab everyone's attention with the many preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. History shines bright here, with Kalmar Castle being a prominent symbol of the town. Kalmar is also proud to be known for producing sustainable cuisines that are both delicious and sourced locally. Visitors should not leave without trying a Swedish cinnamon bun, a true mouthwatering delight.

Vadstena

The town of Vadstena is one of the world's pilgrimage destinations, which makes it a great spot to step right into earth's natural beauty. There are many connecting hiking trails to and from Vadstena that pass through different medieval church villages, country fields and along the coastline of Lake Vättern. Visitors can stay in town and walk the Vadstena promenade, bike around town, or hike further distances by traveling down east along the coast on the Borghamn - Vadstena trail. While in the heart of Vadestena, travelers will find themselves bouncing amongst historical castles, authentic courtyards, and medieval abbeys. Some historical buildings include the Vadstena castle from 1545, and Vadstena’s Abbey, which is one of the largest medieval church buildings in Sweden. The clicking of shoes on the cobblestone streets and surroundings of old wooden preserved buildings fills the air with energy of simple living and allows visitors to travel with tranquility.

Trosa

Just a 50-minute drive south of Stockholm is the colorful town of Troso, formerly a key fishing hamlet. Gästhamnen, the guest harbor, is a spot full of life. Visitors can watch sailboats coast on the clear blue waters, rent a bicycle, stroll through shops, or sit down and enjoy a cozy meal. Renting a kayak and paddling right in the canals of Troso is a great way to admire the town's architecture and vibrant spirit. For a bigger water excursion, paddle out into the archipelago for an experience of a lifetime. On this navigation channel from Troso is where travelers will be welcomed by beautiful islands and rock formations to lay on and take a snack break. For exploration on foot, Troso includes stages 53-56 of the 94 total hiking trails of Sörmlandsleden. Some other scenic trails in Troso include, Åda Wild Boar Trail, Ekhagen’s nature trail, and the Heritage Trail city walk right in town.

Lysekil

Nuzzled in the middle of the West Sweden archipelago on the Bohuslän coast is the little seaside gem of Lysekil. This town is booming with preserved architecture and outdoor adventures. Visitors can take in the charming essence walking on Gamla Strandgatan, the oldest street in Lysekil that leads through Gamlestan, Lysekil’s oldest district. This district is flourishing with old cozy homes, narrow alleys and cobblestoned streets from the 16th century. To breathe in the fresh ocean air, visitors can make their way to the tip of Lysekil and discover Stångehuvud. Stångehuvud has been a nature reserve since 1982 and is made up of Bohus granite that formed over 920 million years ago. Today it remains as a miraculous granite landscape molded into soft shapes from the crashing waves and gusting winds overtime. After an afternoon picnic on the granite rocks, pack up and head to the 1100 meter long Västerhavspromenade. This Western Sea boardwalk gracefully winds through granite cliffs and offers a front row view to the neverending ocean views.

Mariefred

Built around the whimsical Gripsholm Castle, is where the sweet and blissful town of Mariefred can be happily discovered. Get lost in the high ceiling corridors, detailed wood detailing and hidden passages in the Gripsholm Castle that date back over 400 years. After enjoying the charming atmosphere of the city center and strolling the shops and cafes, visitors can hop aboard the historic railway and get a scenic drive of the surrounding landscapes. Cruising by water is also an option by hopping on a boat trip on Lake Mälaren, which offers numerous routes for day trips. Travelers can sit back, relax, and get unreal views at the same time. To soothe the sweet tooth cravings, visitors can take the Steamer Mariefred boat and experience a cake tour of 60 different cake flavors at the famous cake table at Taxinge Castle.

Sweden has so many sweet little towns that make for a mindful and easygoing getaway. In Sweden, one can roam cobblestone streets with a freshly made cinnamon bun in hand. One can also observe historical castles and churches at sunset. Lastly, you can even kayak through an archipelago and watch birds soar above you. Sweden has just the right combination of charm and adventure that makes traveling feel easy and happily addictive.