Useful travel information about Sweden

Nearly twice as big as the UK and with a population of just 9 million Sweden has thousands of lakes and over 50% of the country is forest. Sweden is almost completely unexplored by the British despite it being so close to our shores. The exceptional natural scenery and enormous tracts of untouched wilderness are a major attraction to those seeking escape from big cities. Can you imagine a place that has more to offer and is just a two hour flight away? Travel to Lapland to experience the magnificent natural scenery and such exotic phenomena as the midnight sun, the aurora borealis (northern lights), Arctic chill and total silence. During the summer months all parts of Sweden enjoy extended daylight hours and the luxury of peaceful solitude in splendid natural surroundings.

Climate
Sweden is a long thin country stretching around 1600km north to south. The climate varies considerably over this distance but in January you can expect temperatures to average -1C in the south and -15C in the north such as in Lapland. In July you will find beautiful long summer days lounging by a lake side or coastal retreat while temperatures average +20C in the south and +13C in the far north.
To be comfortable in these extreme environments it is important you dress correctly. We appreciate that you are only visitors to Sweden and most of our winter holidays include outer warm clothing, such as snowmobile suites. When travelling to more southern parts of Sweden during the winter you will also need a warm jacket, hat, scarf and gloves - perhaps some thermal underwear too. During the summer have clothing for all occasions! Shorts, T-shirts, long trousers, long sleeves and a light rain jacket are advisable. If in doubt please ask one of our experienced sales representatives.

Driving
Roads are wide and empty (compared to the UK!). Accidents with wildlife, such as moose, are rare but warning signs should be taken seriously. Drink driving rules are extremely strict and you may be subject to random tests. We strongly recommend you do not drink and drive. More information along with rules and regulations concerning driving in Sweden, including child seats and congestion charging can be found at Vägverket, the Swedish Roads Administration. Many petrol stations are automated and you will need an international credit / debit card with a PIN number to use them.

Mosquitoes
We are regularly asked about the mosquitoes in Sweden. Yes they exist but we do not see them as a deterrent and you are only likely to notice them in the evening, or in the north, where it is slightly cooler. We always recommend you have long trousers and jumpers available. We also suggest you have some good mosquito repellent to hand, especially when travelling with young children.

Currency
Sweden is not part of the euro zone and uses Swedish Kronor. International credit and debit cards are widely accepted. You will be either asked for a PIN or some form of idenfication when paying by card.

Eating out
Food and restaurants in Sweden are of an extremely high standard and Sweden has a rapidly growing reputation for excellent cuisine. There are many good cafes and restaurants in town and city centres. If you are in the countryside, hotels, castles and manor houses usually have a well renowned restaurant.

Alcohol
Alcohol can only be purchased at the state run off-licence 'System Bolaget' by those who are 20 and over. It is common to be asked for identification - so be prepared. You will find the staff are knowledgeable and will be able to offer their expert advice.

Public Transport
Efficient, comfortable and reliable. Bus, train and ferry timetables have been cleverly designed to integrate with each other. When you are travelling to more remote areas, where connections are necessary, in the unfortunate event your transport is delayed, you are likely to find your connecting transport will still be waiting for you when you arrive at your intermediate station.

Cottage and log cabin rentals
Popular and early booking is highly recommended. Once of the best ways to experience real Swedish culture during the summer months. As with all cottage and log cabin rentals in Sweden it is the out going guests responsibility to clean the cottage before departure. Bed linen or towels are often not provided but this can generally be arranged at an additional fee. You may be asked to provide a refundable deposit to the landlord either on or prior to arrival.

Snowmobiles
You must be in possession of a full driving licence valid in Sweden. All UK full driving licenses are valid in Sweden as part of the EU. You must be 18 years or older to drive a snowmobile and you must NOT drive whilst under the influence of alcohol. Your guide will refuse to take you if you are under the influence of alcohol due to safety and Swedish law.

Fika
Whether you be out in the country or in the city, the ritual of 'fika' occurs several times throughout the day. Many of our activity holidays feature this important social event. It is quite simply coffee with cakes and pastries or other snacks.

Rights of access - a part of Swedish life!
You may walk, cycle, horse ride, ski, and stay temporarily in country areas providing you do not damage crops, forestation areas or other sensitive areas of land. You must respect the privacy of the home by not passing through or staying on private plots of land. Do not disturb and do not destroy, is the main principle of the Swedish Right of Public Access. You are allowed to camp for one night on land not used for agriculture that is located away from the dwelling-house. Ask the landowner for permission if you want to camp as a group. You may light a fire providing it is safe to do so, however, never on bare rocks as this might cause permanent damage due to cracking. When the lighting of fires is prohibited, this applies to all open fires, and is often the case in National parks and conservation areas. You may pick flowers, berries and mushrooms in the countryside, but certain plants, such as all orchids, are protected species and special regulations prescribed by law may apply to what you are allowed to pick in the countryside. Be sure not to leave any litter. Leave no trace.

If you have any questions please call us on 0845 8900 300.