What a Trip to Sweden Costs in 2024 | Average Prices

When hot local temperatures have you climbing the wall, a getaway to a cool, mountainous, Nordic country takes on special appeal. Sweden is a great option for people who are looking for some time away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

But, that time out in that glorious wilderness is likely to set you back a bit. Sweden is considered an expensive destination compared to other European countries. However, everyone’s tastes and needs are a little different.

There are accommodations, food, and activities available at all sorts of price points.

We have gone over a wide range of options to help you figure out how much a trip to Sweden will cost. Dig in to see what you are likely to spend on the type of trip that appeals to you most.

Prices are approximate and based on the current exchange rate between krona and dollars at the time this was written.

Average Trip to Sweden Cost in 2024

A week in Sweden costs around $5,500 for two people:

• Average Accommodation Cost: $150 per night
• Average Flight Cost: $600 per person
• Food, Drink & Activities: $150 per person, per day
• Transportation: $75 per person, per day
• Total Cost: $5,400

These costs, of course, are averages and may be different than yours. If you like fine dining meals, you are likely to spend more than someone scooping up some ham, cheese and bread from the supermarket for a picnic.

Similarly, if you stick with simple, low-end hotels, you’ll spend less than someone who wants four-star accommodations. We break down options in every category to help you decide how much you are likely to spend.

Scrimp in the areas that aren’t important to you so you can splurge on the things you really want.

Sweden Trip Cost: Average by Item

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While Sweden is not typically considered a bargain destination, there are many deals to be had. Lovers of the outdoors will be thrilled to learn that all 30 of the country’s national parks have free admission.

You can spend quite a bit of time on low-cost activities like hiking and exploring the museum displays at all the parks.

Those who are seeking high-class meals and the best hotels will spend a bit more to indulge. We break down how much different options cost and ways to save a bit along the way.

Accommodation Costs

Hotels are one area where different travelers’ budgets will vary wildly. In Stockholm, you can find a wealth of places to stay for rates that run from $100 to $300 a night. There are a few outliers on both the high and the low end.

One of the cheaper options is the Castle House Inn. This independently owned inn is located in a central area with great access to nightlife, food, and attractions like the Royal Palace. The average cost for a stay here is $100 a night.

The nearby Hôtel Reisen is located on the water and is considered a five-star hotel. Amenities include a spa, fitness center, and a restaurant serving breakfast on the premises. Rooms go for around $300 a night.

Outside the cities, you can often find inexpensive cottages and hostels. These often run from $30 to $50 a night. However, check into the amenities offered before you go. Many hostels do not provide linens, so you’ll need to bring your own.

The location will play a big part in determining cost. A bed in the door at Tivedstorp STF Hostel near Tividen National Forest will cost about $20. Lodgings at Slottsskogens Hostel in the coastal city of Göteborg, however, will run about $50.

Flight Cost

There are a number of cheap flights from the US to Sweden. A trip from JFK to Stockholm Arlanda Airport costs anywhere from $425 to $3,000 per person. Check multiple airlines or an aggregator site like Skyscanner to find the cheapest rate on the days you want to travel.

You will also want to check out multiple airports. There are half a dozen that go to Stockholm alone. These include Stockholm Skavsta Airport, Bromma Stockholm Airport, and Gothenburg-vetter.

Many travelers say that Stockholm Arlanda is the best choice if you are visiting Stockholm, but it is better to use Malmö Airport or Gothenburg if your trip will take you to the southern parts of the country.

Because of the size of the country, you may opt to fly domestically when going from one city to another. Scandanavian Airlines offers a number of domestic flights. Most are under $100 round trip.

Food, Drink & Activity Costs

Stockholm, Sweden – May 26, 2015: Saluhall östermalms. Indoor marketplace. Famous lunch hours spot. The place where locals buy fresh produce for dinner parties. Find all the classic Swedish food./Erika Cristina Manno/Shutterstock

Food prices, especially in metropolises like Stockholm, tend to be pricey. Expect to see entrees around $20 per person during lunch.

The Östermalm food hall brings together a range of food sellers in a single market. You can shop for exotic meats that include bear, elk, and reindeer, or pick up some cheese or a sandwich for a meal. Prices vary depending on what you order.

There are a couple of Mediterranean sellers who offer veggie wraps for around $6 to $10. Fish sandwiches, such as the popular open-faced salmon sandwich, will cost around $15.

Swedish meatballs are a popular menu offering. They will typically be served with sides that include lingonberries, mashed potatoes, and pickles. Expect to pay about $20 a plate.

If you want to imbibe adult beverages, be aware you’ll pay a bit more than you do in the states. A pint of local beer starts around $7.

You can often save money on vacation by visiting a supermarket and buying a few meals there instead of restaurants. Popular supermarket chains in Sweden include Hemkop, Lidl, and IGA. You can find jars of yogurt for about $1 a piece.

A small packet of ham will cost about $3. If you have a kitchen and want to pick up some fish to cook while you are there, expect to pay around $15 to $20 for a kilogram of salmon.

A number of redditors say the Vasa Museum is a must-see attraction. Tickets cost under 20 USD. If you want to book a tour guide, you can find walking tours that include Vasa and Stockholm’s Old Town for a little under $100 per person for a three-hour tour.

One of the prime attractions in Sweden is the natural landscape. Sweden was the first country in Europe to establish a national park system. The country now has 30 national parks, all of which are open to the public and free to enter.

Once inside, you may find activities that require an upcharge. If you wish to rent a kayak, you can get a half-day rental, with guide, for a little over $100 per person.

Often, having a trusted local to show you around can be the best way to experience a new country. Day-trip tours to places like Uppsala typically include transportation, a meal, and a talk about Swedish history. Expect to pay between $200 and $250 per person.

Gröna Lund is an amusement park that was first established over 100 years ago. The park features around 30 rides and hosts concerts throughout the summer months. Tickets cost about $40 for the day.

But, savvy visitors who just want to play a couple of games drop in during the last hour of the day. Admission is free starting 30 minutes before closing.

If you are considering traveling during the summer, see if you can be in the country June 25. This is when Swedes celebrate the summer solstice with Midsommar festivities. Participants sing songs, decorate the May pole, and feast on pickled herring, new potatoes, and flavored schnapps.

There are often free to attend celebrations held at public parks. Swedish locals say that tourists often do not think to attend, so you will get an inside view few travelers get to enjoy.

Transportation Costs

UMEA, SWEDEN ON MAY 21. Morning traffic in bright sunshine at the Ostra Station on May 21, 2014 in Umea, Sweden. Norrtag make a stop at the Ostra Station. Unidentified people on the platform./Scandphoto/Shutterstock

Travelers have a few options for getting around Sweden. There are several rail operators who offer train service throughout the country. Fares range from around $35 to about $100, depending on where you want to go. Rail operators include Tågkompaniet, Snalltåget, SJ and Inlandsbanan.

Because many people visiting Sweden opt to spend their time in rural areas, car rentals are a popular option for getting around. You can typically find a midsize car for around $400 a week. SUVs will run about $650.

There are also bus routes that run between all the major cities. The largest operator in the country is Swebus. Fares vary depending on where you are going. For example, a trip from Stockholm to Oslo will cost about $35 per person, per way.

The ferry is one option when traveling from the mainland to the many Swedish islands. It is the quickest way, for instance, to get from Stockholm to Gotland. The trip takes a little under five hours and costs about $65.

Taxis are an option for getting around once you’ve reached your destination city. Most accept credit cards. The prices can vary greatly depending on the time of day and whether you are traveling on a weekday or weekend.

Many travelers say you should confirm your fare before your ride so you know what to expect.

Things to Consider

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN – APRIL 22, 2017: People enjoying and photographing the pink japanese cherry blossom during springtime in Kungstradgarden./Stefan Holm/Shutterstock

Here are a few other things to consider when planning your trip to Sweden:

• Many businesses and attractions in Sweden are cashless. Make sure your bank knows you are traveling internationally so you can use your debit or credit card.
• If you want to blend in, stick with casual clothes. Just be sure to have a few layers to keep warm during the chillier times of year.
• If you want to have some wine or beers back at your hotel, pick them up early in the day. Regulations cut off sales around 6 pm on weekdays and 3 pm on weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Here are some frequently asked questions about budgeting your trip to Sweden:

So, What Is the Average Trip Cost for Sweden?

Sweden has a lot to offer, from bright, late, nights in summer, to days spent hiking in national forests. But, the fun comes at a higher than normal vacation cost.

A week in the Sweden costs around $5,500 for two people.

That said, you can pick and choose the activities that are most important to you to create a trip that fits your budget and your needs. Figure out what’s important, then focus on that for a Scandanavian adventure you will not forget.

So, with so much to see and do, what are you waiting for — book your trip today and experience for yourself all that Sweden has to offer. Happy travels!