Ice Hotels and Reindeer Races: Things to Do in Sweden

Like a cup of coffee enjoyed during fika—the revered break in every Swedish day—Sweden is strong, warm, and chock-full of pick-me-up activities only Scandinavian countries can offer. Nestled high in northern Europe between Finland and Norway, the country shows no signs of “middle child syndrome.” Travelers won't want to just visit Sweden. They’ll want it to seep into their skin, leaving them with an aura as bold and bright as the northern lights.

Start in Stockholm, a city as effortlessly cool as Avicii. Beyond the city limits, the music comes to life in a beautiful melody of landscapes so magnificent you'll feel like you're wide-awake and dreaming, trapped in a glossy-eyed, wonderstruck state as you move from one Swedish adventure to the next.

Sleep in a Tree House

The latest addition to the Treehotel’s collection of high-design rooms in the forest of Harads is appropriately named the 7th Room. Opened in 2016, the light-filled accommodation sleeps up to five.

Run the Bohuslän Coast

The annual Icebug Xperience is a three-day, 50-mile race that you can run or walk along the photogenic western Swedish coast. Race tickets include three lunches.

Dogsled to the Icehotel

Nat Geo Expeditions lets you drive your own team of Alaskan huskies through the Lapland wilderness for a night at the Icehotel.

Watch a Reindeer Race

Cheer on a reindeer race and buy a wool blanket at the Jokkmokk Winter Market, a 412-year-old gathering of Sami people.

Have a Drink

Stockholm’s Bar Hommage creates seasonal “cocktails by location,” drinks inspired by street names in Stockholm, Uppsala, and other global cities. The menu is printed on a souvenir postcard.