Sweden beckons winter lovers with a captivating mix of breathtaking landscapes, exhilarating outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage. For centuries, Swedish winters have been a source of both survival and celebration, deeply embedded in the country’s Sámi traditions and the nation’s storied history of winter tourism.
In Sweden, winter isn’t just a season—it’s a way of life. Did you know the Sámi people, native to the northern regions, have over 200 words for snow and ice? From muohta (snow) and biera (light snow cover) to tjijdas (snowball), these terms reflect the deep connection between Sámi culture and the winter landscape. This profound relationship with winter extends across Sweden, where the cold months shape the natural environment and cultural traditions.
Sweden’s winter tourism has deep roots. In 1909, the funicular railway in Åre was built to support skiing and tobogganing, marking the start of organised winter sports in the country. The iconic Vasaloppet cross-country ski race between Sälen and Mora, first held in 1922, traces its origins even further back — following the path of Gustav Vasa’s legendary escape from the Danish king’s soldiers over 400 years earlier.
Sami culture
About 20,000 Sami live in Sweden – with their own cultural heritage, language, flag and parliament. Eco-tourism is a relatively new way for Sweden’s native population to make a living. Guided tours of northern lights and rides in reindeer sleds are examples of popular activities provided by Nutti Sámi Siida, which is one of the tourism companies in Swedish Lapland.
Photo: Anna Öhlund/imagebank.sweden.se
Sami culture
Photo: Anna Öhlund/imagebank.sweden.se
Off-piste skiing in Åre
Photo: Karl Hägglund
Vasaloppet Sälen Mora
Photo: Vasaloppet
Vasaloppet, Sälen Mora
Photo: Vasaloppet
Today, more and more winter tourists are choosing to visit Sweden, especially as snow conditions in other parts of Europe become less predictable. Sweden's well-maintained resorts, reliable snow coverage, and longer seasons, thanks to advanced snow-making technology, provide great value for winter travellers. It's no surprise that sales of lift passes have spiked to record highs in recent years, reflecting the appeal of Sweden's winter offer.
Complementing these outdoor adventures is Sweden's welcoming hospitality industry. According to hotel reviews, February is the most highly rated month for an overnight stay, making it an ideal time to visit. Meanwhile, those looking to maximize their budget may find January particularly appealing, as it often offers the most affordable accommodation rates.
Whether you crave adrenaline-fueled winter adventures that release dopamine or seek a more serene yet equally exhilarating experience, here’s a closer look at the activities that make Sweden a top choice for any winter enthusiast.
Sweden, particularly in the northern region of Swedish Lapland, is one of the world’s best places to witness the mesmerising Northern Lights. Abisko National Park is a prime location for this enchanting phenomenon. Also, winter is the best time to see the Northern Lights due to the long, dark nights, though it’s possible to spot them year-round. For winter travellers, watching the display of colourful lights dance across the sky is often at the top of their wish list. On clear nights, the northern skies are not only lit by the aurora but also by countless stars, offering a grand view of the cosmos enhancing the winter magic.
Sweden features over 200 ski resorts, many of them providing world-class skiing and snowboarding for all skill levels, including great freeride options. Deeply rooted in Swedish culture, cross-country skiing features countless trails, from wilderness routes to well-groomed paths, while the iconic Vasaloppet attracts skiers from around the globe every first Sunday in March. Plus, ski touring in Sweden unveils spectacular routes that blend adventure with the country’s natural beauty.
Dog sledding is an iconic Swedish winter activity. Travelling through snow-covered forests and across frozen lakes, visitors can experience the thrill of mushing a team of huskies. Alternatively, guided electric snowmobile tours offer an eco-friendly way to explore Sweden’s winter wilderness, combining adventure with sustainability.
Sweden is home to the world-famous Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, the first hotel entirely constructed from ice and snow. Every winter, artists create and carve detailed ice sculptures, turning the rooms into stunning works of art. Staying in this frozen wonderland is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Other unique winter accommodation options include the Arctic Bath, where guests can stay in a floating cabin in an equally spectacular setting.
The indigenous Sámi people have lived in Sweden’s northern regions for centuries, and winter is an ideal time to explore their rich cultural heritage. Visitors can learn about Sámi traditions, enjoy authentic cuisine, and even meet and interact with reindeer, a vital part of Sámi life. Immersing in this unique culture offers a deeper understanding of the connection between the Sámi and their snowy environment.
Sweden offers a broad range of winter sports beyond skiing. Ice skating on natural frozen lakes, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and even winter kayaking provide plenty of options for the adventurous. The diversity of activities ensures that every type of winter enthusiast can find something to enjoy, whether it’s an adrenaline-pumping sport or a quiet afternoon of fishing.
A Swedish winter is not fully experienced without a traditional sauna session followed by a plunge into icy waters. This invigorating hot-cold therapy, deeply embedded in Swedish culture, is the perfect way to warm up after a day spent exploring the winter landscape. It's both a revitalising ritual and a soothing way to end a cold winter’s day.
The polar night in the far north of Sweden creates a surreal winter experience. For weeks, the sun never rises above the horizon, casting a soft, ethereal glow over the landscape. Combined with snowy surroundings and the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights, the polar night offers an atmosphere that feels otherworldly.
Winter in Sweden wouldn’t be complete without the charming Christmas markets, where twinkling lights, local crafts, and festive treats such as glögg (mulled wine) and pepparkakor (gingerbread) fill the air. Swedish Christmas traditions, like Lucia and the traditional Julbord (Christmas feast), immerse visitors in a cosy, festive atmosphere.
Snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and wide-open landscapes offer peaceful solitude for those who want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Sweden’s winter nature's serene beauty creates an ideal environment for reflection, relaxation, and reconnecting with nature.
