Fun Facts About Sweden | Things You Didn't Know!

Discover unique facts about Sweden that you probably didn’t know. From traditional customs to fun tidbits, you’ll find cool insights about this special Scandinavian country.

Vast Open Spaces: Sweden is one of the largest countries in the European Union by area, yet it has a cozy population density of just 23.5 people per square kilometer. Plenty of space to breathe!
Lakes: With a whopping 97,500 lakes, water covers about 9% of Sweden. It’s a paradise for water lovers, from kayakers to anglers.
Nobel Prize: The prestigious Nobel Committee in Stockholm awards the coveted Nobel Prizes each year.
Midsummer: Midsummer is a festive celebration with traditional dances around the maypole, embracing the long summer days. A Swedish celebration of light and life.
Outlets: Sweden uses type C and F outlets, just like most countries in Europe. Make sure to pack your plug adapter for Sweden!
Red Houses: The iconic red cottages in Sweden get their color from paint made from by-products of the Falun copper mines. A charming piece of rural Swedish culture.
Systembolaget: In Sweden, alcohol over 3.5% ABV can only be purchased at state-owned stores like Systembolaget.
Fika: Fika is a beloved Swedish custom, where taking a break for coffee and cake is all about socializing. It’s a moment of connection.
Swedish Sauna: The Swedes love their saunas, often followed by a refreshing dip in a lake. It’s a cool tradition, literally!
Wolverine: This unique animal, which looks a bit like a raccoon, is one of the fascinating residents of Sweden’s forests.
Kebnekaise: Kebnekaise, standing at 2,111 meters, is the highest mountain in Sweden.
Forests: Over half of Sweden is covered with forests, offering natural beauty and an important resource for wood.
Swedish Chit-Chat: Swedes may seem reserved in public, but once you get to know them, they’re warm and friendly.
Outhouses: In some rural parts of Sweden, you’ll still find ‘utedass’, outdoor toilets that are a charming piece of history.

Saffron: In December, Sweden glows with a golden hue thanks to saffron, a spice that enriches traditional dishes like saffron buns.
No Separate Words for Grandparents: In Swedish, there are no distinct terms for grandparents.
Loppis: Swedish flea markets, known as ‘loppis’, are treasure troves for hidden gems, giving second-hand items a new life.
Moose: Sweden is home to one of the largest populations of moose in the world, a majestic symbol of Swedish nature.
Long Summer Evenings: With nearly 24 hours of daylight in summer, especially in the north, Sweden is a land where the sun barely sets.
Diverse Landscapes: Sweden has three main regions: Norrland, Svealand, and Götaland, each offering unique landscapes, from mountains to lakes.
Environmental and Sustainability Leader: Sweden is a pioneer in eco-friendly initiatives, dedicated to a sustainable future.
Geographic Diversity: Sweden is the third-largest country in the EU, with landscapes ranging from icy tundras in the north to rolling hills in the south.
Øresund Bridge: This impressive bridge connects Sweden with Denmark, from Malmö to Copenhagen.
Viking Heritage: Stockholm was founded around the year 1000 and has deep Viking roots, once a major trading hub during the Viking Age.
Language: Swedish is the official language, but minority languages like Finnish and Sami are also recognized. Additionally, about 90% of Swedes speak fluent English.
Inventor of Celsius: The temperature scale we use today was developed by the Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius. A name synonymous with science.
Home of the Icehotel: Sweden is famous for the original Icehotel in Kiruna, where everything, from walls to furniture, is made of ice and snow. A melting artwork.
Alfred Nobel: The founder of the Nobel Prizes, Alfred Nobel, was Swedish. His legacy continues to honor achievements worldwide.
World’s First Pacemaker: The first pacemaker operation took place in Stockholm in 1958, a milestone in medical technology that saves lives.
Environmental Leader: Sweden recycles about 99% of its waste and is known for its high standards in waste management.
Swedish Music Export: Sweden is one of the largest music exporters in the world, with famous artists like ABBA and Robyn.
Gävle Goat: Every year in Gävle, a giant straw goat is built, which has become infamous for attempts to burn it down. A unique tradition.
Longest Art Gallery: Stockholm’s metro network is known as the longest art gallery in the world, with art installations throughout the stations. A journey through art.
Currency: Even though Sweden is a member of the European Union, they use their own currency, the Swedish krona, instead of the euro. A piece of national identity.