A must-see: a guide to Sweden and its islands

Being born in the south and loving the north so much, is that even legal?

Scandinavia is love

My love for Scandinavia began a long time ago, and it started with music. Then their minimalistic and practical design, architecture and, finally, nature - incredible and ascetic - finally "got me".

I have been traveling to Iceland for several years in a row, and the most convenient route was the option with a small stop in Stockholm for a couple days. This city immediately appealed to me, although the old center is the least interesting part of it.

In the end, the decision was made to explore Sweden and in June I gathered a small group of like-minded people. The itinerary was simple: first 3 days in Stockholm, then 3 days on the resort island of Gotland, 1 day in Malmö and the last 3 days in Copenhagen.

Stockholm will be interesting for both adults and children. But I have noted for myself a few places where I would really like to return.

What to see in Stockholm?

First of all, the Fotografiska photography museum in a former customs house dating back to 1906. The museum opened in 2010 with an exhibition of Annie Leibovitz's works. In addition to exhibitions, there are photography courses, workshops and lectures, and the building has a store, café and restaurant with a great view.

The second most favorite place in the city is the modern Hammarby Sjöstad district, built on the site of a former industrial zone. The idea of creating a green eco-district came up during the 2004 Olympics competition. The main purpose of the building was to reduce water and electricity consumption by half compared to other residential areas in Stockholm. Initially, the construction site was almost the most polluted in the city, and it took a lot of effort and money to clean up the land and the water area of the lake. But now you can swim in it. In my opinion, this is the most successful place where you can relax from the hustle and bustle of the capital city and the rush of sightseeing.

Another favorite neighborhood in the city is Södermalm (translated as "south island"). Since the 15th century, livestock traders have gathered here, as it was inappropriate in the city center. Now it's a neighborhood where locals especially enjoy spending their evenings: there's a great selection of restaurants with a variety of cuisine, bars and, of course, vintage stores.

What else is a must-do in Stockholm? Taste seafood at Östermalms Saluhall market, take a boat ride (you can buy an excursion or just take public water transportation), have a cup of coffee at Cafe Foam or a glass of wine at Primewinebar. In the evening, hit up Stampen, the best live music club in town. And on Sunday, be sure to visit the flea market on Hötorget Square.

Gotland

The best way to understand a country is to go on vacation where the locals usually do. That's why we went to the island of Gotland. It's worth saying that the most interesting thing starts back in Stockholm, when you board a ferry for 1500 passengers and 112 cars. And this huge vessel slowly sails to the shores of the island. During the trip you can enjoy the beauty of the Baltic Sea, the clear horizon or a great meal in a restaurant. Try to rent yourself a car for your stay on the island, it will make it much easier to get around. I recommend using website where you can not only buy ferry tickets, but also book accommodation and cars.

Cozy Visby

The capital of Gotland is Visby, Sweden's best-preserved medieval town. It is very cozy, although it was not the gem of the trip for me. The first thing that catches your eye on the island is the abundance of old cars in perfect condition. Many of them have never even left the island, standing in garages all winter so that their owners can drive around Gotland in the summer with the open top.

Two days will be enough to catch your breath in the pleasant atmosphere here. On the first day you can drive around the old fishing villages, of which there are quite a few on the island. Wooden houses painted in different colors give them a special charm. For lunch, be sure to visit the hotel and restaurant Magazin 1, but pay attention to the opening hours - almost all establishments on the island are open from 11:00 to 17:00. After lunch, head to the small town of Nair, home to the lighthouse and the filming locations of Andrei Tarkovsky's The Sacrifice.

The second day should be spent entirely on the neighboring island of Fore, which can be reached by free ferry. The island is interesting for its natural attractions raucaras - huge stone giants. One of the best places on Fore is the Creperie Tati cafe, which serves pancakes with different fillings. The owners there are so friendly! After 20:00 the local bar Kutens Bensin starts operating on the island - if you decide to stay longer.

Malmö sights

From Gotland we went to another beautiful city - Malmö. It is located only 30 minutes drive from Copenhagen, it and the capital of Denmark are connected by the famous Eresund Bridge - the crown of engineering thought of the late twentieth century. Perhaps in this city is already more Denmark than Sweden, and the locals consider themselves rather Danish. Malmö has a museum of modern art, an old fortress, a stunning promenade overlooking the Eresund Bridge and typical modern architectural forms, such as the famous Turning Torso tower designed by architect Santiago Calatrava.

Sweden will not leave anyone indifferent. Not only because it is one of the most accessible Scandinavian countries; and not only because Swedes are officially recognized as the most handsome men in Europe. And not at all because COS and H&M are Swedish clothing brands that are world famous. It makes me want to come back here again, and I will definitely take a road trip around the country someday.