10 places in Sweden connected to inspiring women

Paying tribute to acclaimed author Sara Lidman, Sara Kulturhus in Skellefteå, Västerbotten, is a landmark that stands tall in more ways than one. It’s part of the Wood Hotel, one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world, and a striking example of climate-conscious architecture. The cultural centre was inspired by Lidman’s courage and spirit of innovation, and today it hosts exhibitions, concerts, performances and conferences – all in a space designed to spark creativity and bold ideas.

Nestled in the picturesque village of Sundborn in Dalarna, Lilla Hyttnäs was the family home of celebrated artist Carl Larsson and his equally creative wife, designer Karin Larsson. It was Karin who transformed the modest cottage into a style icon, with daring textiles, handcrafted furniture and a light, modern aesthetic that still influences Swedish interiors today. Given to them by Karin’s father in 1888, the house became a living canvas for their shared vision. A visit here offers a glimpse into the roots of Scandinavian design – and the woman who helped shape it.

One of Sweden’s most influential literary figures, Selma Lagerlöf was the first woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature and a passionate advocate for gender equality. She was born at Mårbacka, a stately manor in the village of Sunne in Värmland, where she spent much of her life. Today, visitors can explore the beautifully preserved estate with its original interiors, stroll through gardens brimming with fruit trees and flowers, and gain insight into Selma Lagerlöf’s remarkable achievements.

If you’ve read the bestselling Sandhamn Murders series by crime writer Viveca Sten, you’ll recognise the windswept scenery of this outer archipelago island. Sandhamn, located on Sandön, is around two and a half hours from Stockholm’s city centre by boat or public transport and offers a striking mix of tranquillity and drama, much like the stories themselves. Visit off-season for peaceful walks along pine-fringed shores, or soak up the summer buzz when the island comes alive with cafés, boats and swimmers. A must for fans of Nordic noir – or anyone craving sea air and suspense.

Fredrika Bremer was a pioneering writer, feminist and reformer whose novels and activism helped lay the groundwork for the women’s rights movement in Sweden. She spent much of her life at Årsta Castle in Haninge, just south of Stockholm. While the castle itself is currently only accessible via pre-booked guided tours for groups, the surrounding English park is open to the public all year round. Visitors can walk the Fredrika Trail – a short, signposted cultural path that traces her legacy through the landscape she once called home.

Cajsa Warg, born in Örebro in 1703, is often referred to as the mother of modern Swedish cuisine. With a deep passion for cooking, she moved to Stockholm as a young woman to work in prominent households. In 1755, she published her groundbreaking cookbook, which became a culinary cornerstone in Sweden. Today, you can visit her childhood home in Wadköping – a historical open-air museum in central Örebro – and learn more about her life and the food culture of 18th-century Sweden.

Saint Bridget (Birgitta Birgersdotter) was one of Sweden’s most influential religious figures. A wife, mother of eight and later the founder of the Bridgettine order in the 14th century, she combined political influence with deep spirituality. Today, you can follow in her footsteps along St Bridget’s Trail, a pilgrimage route that stretches between Söderköping and Vadstena. In Vadstena, visit the grand Monastery Church – founded on her initiative – and nearby Vadstena Castle, to understand her enduring impact on Sweden’s religious and cultural history.

Fjällbacka, a picturesque fishing village in Bohuslän on Sweden’s west coast, is connected to several inspiring women. Hollywood legend Ingrid Bergman spent many summers here, calling the archipelago setting her “paradise on earth.” It’s also the hometown of bestselling crime writer Camilla Läckberg, who set many of her atmospheric thrillers in the village’s cobbled streets and dramatic coastal scenery. Located in Tanum, Fjällbacka charms visitors with red boathouses, fresh seafood and views that continue to inspire stories – both real and fictional.

Astrid Lindgren is one of Sweden’s most beloved authors, with her books – including Pippi Longstocking and Emil of Lönneberga – read and loved by millions around the globe. Astrid Lindgren was born and raised in the town of Vimmerby in Småland, and at Astrid Lindgren’s World, a family-friendly theme park in Vimmerby, her stories come to life through live performances and playful settings. A chance to meet Pippi, Emil and other iconic characters in the very landscape that inspired their stories.

Birgit Nilsson – often referred to as 'La Nilsson' – remains one of Sweden’s most internationally celebrated opera singers. Known for her powerful voice and iconic interpretations of Wagner and Strauss, she grew up on a farm in the village of Svenstad between Båstad and Torekov in Skåne. That very farm is now home to the Birgit Nilsson Museum, where visitors can explore her life and career through exhibitions, photographs, film clips and – of course – music. A must-visit for anyone curious about opera or Swedish cultural history.