Sweden is generally considered an expensive, high-cost destination compared to many other European countries, but it is more affordable than its Nordic neighbors like Norway. While accommodation, dining out, and alcohol are pricey, visitors can manage costs by self-catering, using public transport, and visiting in the shoulder season.
Overall, visiting Sweden can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. With a bit of planning and research, it's possible to visit Sweden without breaking the bank and still enjoy all the amazing things the country has to offer.
A one week trip to Sweden usually costs around $1,303 (kr12,075) for one person and $2,605 (kr24,150) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
But here's the flip side—living in Sweden cost can be high if you don't plan. As of 2025, Sweden's cost-of-living index stands at 54.2 (according to Numbeo), which means it's cheaper than cities like New York but still pricier than many parts of Europe.
Unsurprisingly, coffee is something the Swedes excel at, and is always freshly brewed, strong and delicious – head for the local konditori, a coffee and cake shop of the first order. A coffee costs around 25kr and the price will often buy you more than one cup.
Is Sweden Expensive To Visit? - Europe Travel Pros
What is the biggest issue in Sweden?
Sweden's biggest issue is widely considered to be rising gang violence and crime, leading to significant public concern, especially in urban areas, alongside challenges in healthcare access, integration of immigrants, and the welfare system, with environmental concerns also prominent. The surge in lethal shootings and bombings linked to criminal networks has prompted tough government responses, while debates continue over migration policies and social cohesion.
Spring is one of the cheapest times to visit Sweden, with fewer tourists and mild, fresh weather. As the country wakes from winter, you'll see blooming flowers, lively cities, and a return of outdoor festivals.
Sweden has officially become the first country in the world to go completely cashless. Almost every shop, café, and public transport system in Sweden now accepts only digital payments like cards or mobile apps. The popular app “Swish,” launched in 2012, is used by millions of Swedes to send and receive money instantly.
For the rule to apply, the income must be taxed in the country of work and the employee must be able to show how much tax has been paid, for example by means of a receipt or certificate. The six-month rule means that income from working abroad is tax-free in Sweden.
Between late May and mid-July, the northerly reaches above the Arctic Circle experience the midnight sun, while more southerly cities enjoy long twilights. The weather is warm, around 70°F, and the ample sun attracts visitors through until the end of August.
Choosing between Norway and Sweden's attractions is very subjective. Older families or adults will likely enjoy the diversity of Norway's attractions more while families who want their children to indulge in curiosity at a calmer pace will gravitate toward Sweden.
Many countries around the world provide school lunches, but Sweden is unique in offering them for free. In Sweden hot school lunches are provided to all pupils aged 6 to 16 and most students aged 16 to 19, five days a week.
Lunch (Lunch): Served from noon to 2:30 PM, lunch is generally a simpler meal compared to dinner. It typically includes a single course, such as a salad, soup, or a sandwich. Dinner (Middag): Dinner is the main meal of the day, eaten as early as 5:30 PM but more commonly around 6 to 8 PM.
Sweden does not have statutory minimum wages, but instead negotiates wage levels in collective bargaining agreements. The model is called the Ghent system, often referred to in Sweden as the Swedish model or the Nordic model. The labour market is largely regulated by the social partners, including the wage levels.
No, you generally cannot use euros in Sweden; the official currency is the Swedish krona (SEK), and while some tourist-heavy spots might accept euros with poor exchange rates, Sweden is largely cashless, making credit/debit cards the primary payment method, even for small purchases. You should exchange euros for Swedish kronor or use a bank card for your trip.
When travelling to Sweden, it's a good idea to have both cash and a card on hand. Credit or debit cards are accepted virtually everywhere — from restaurants and shops to public transport. Many Swedes use contactless payments or mobile payment systems like Swish.
How long should I spend in Sweden? One week to 10 days is a good length of time to enjoy Sweden's highlights. Spend time in historic Stockholm visiting castles and museums, then step back a little with a visit to one of the coastline's quaint villages.
Norway is the most expensive Scandinavian country to live in, but don't worry! There are still plenty of ways to eat delicious food cheaply. The NCNW2 batch is ready to help you navigate life in Norway. Stay tuned for our tips from our Norway survival guide coming soon!
In Sweden, bad words mostly have a religious origin and in the past it was common to amplify them with numbers, such as 'sjutton' (17), 'attans' (an old word for 18), and 'tusan' (meaning 1,000).
Immigration from Muslim countries to Sweden began just after World War II, when Turkish-speaking Tartars came from Finland and Estonia. The Tartars established the first Islamic congregation in 1948. In the beginning of the 1960s, the first wave of Muslim labor immigrants entered Sweden.
The guarantee is based on the “0–7–90–90” rule, meaning instant contact (0 delay) with the health care system, seeing a general practitioner within 7 days, consulting a specialist within 90 days, and waiting no more than 90 days between diagnosis and treatment.
