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Sweden is a land of cultural contrast, from the Danish influence of the southwest to the nomadic Laplanders in the wild Arctic north. And while urban Sweden is
stylish, modern and sophisticated, the countryside offers many simpler pleasures for those in search of tranquillity.
Sweden’s scenery has a gentler charm than that of neighbouring Norway’s rugged coast. Much of Sweden is swathed in forest, and there are thousands of lakes, notably large stretches of water between Gothenburg and the capital, Stockholm. The lakeside resort of Östersund, in the centre of Sweden, is popular with Scandinavians, but most visitors opt first for the cities and the Baltic islands: the largest island, Gotland, with its array of ruined medieval churches, is a particular highlight. Another major attraction
is the so-called ‘Kingdom of Crystal’, a forested area between Malmö and Stockholm boasting many fine glassworks.
Historically, Sweden has an interesting story. Its contacts with the outside world began in earnest during Viking times, when in addition to the well-documented raiding, there was extensive trading around the Baltic, primarily dealing
in furs and weaponry.
Swedish connections with the other Scandinavian countries, Norway and Denmark, have been strong since late medieval times.
The monarchies of all three are closely linked, and at various times, one king or queen has ruled over more than one of the
countries. Indeed, Norway only fully shed Swedish control for the last time in the early years of the 20th century.
Although it did not gain a parliament until the 19th century, modern Sweden is known worldwide as a model of social democracy
and tolerance. But there is a strong streak of independence, too; it has so far opted out of the common European Union currency
system.
The land and its people have an air of reserved calm, and while best known for its automotive and musical exports – Volvo and Abba are pretty much household names – a strong historical undertone bubbles close beneath the surface. Nowhere is this more apparent than in Stockholm, where dozens of museums deal with all imaginable aspects of the past, and medieval and baroque edifices housing boutiques and cafes overlook the
attractive harbour.
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Overview 
