Top 10 Weekend Breaks in Sweden

Gotland is home to a medieval town centre, gorgeous beaches, impressive rauks, nature reserves and museums – all the components for a weekend break in Sweden unlike any other. Be sure to spend at least one of your days strolling around Visby. Check out the medieval ruins, go shopping for local handicrafts and sit back in one of the town's cosy cafés. There are beaches in all directions on Gotland, but Sudersand on the nearby island of Fårö is particularly popular and a great place to see the regions famous column-like rock formations.

The Gotland Museum is a great place to learn more about the history and prehistory of the region while the nearby island of Stora Karlsö is a great place to explore gorgeous nature and soak up some magnificent sea views. Or if you'd rather explore the nature on Gotland itself, head instead to the gorgeous Furilden Peninsula.

Lake Siljan and the surroundings are replete with majestic waterfalls, great day-trip destinations for the whole family, cultural experiences and much, much more. In the summer, you can swim in the lake from popular spots such as Tingsnäsbadet in the charming city of Mora or stroll along the Långbryggan Jetty in the tourist city of Rättvik. Step on board an elegant steam boat such as the S/S Engelbrekt or the M/S Gustaf Wasa for a truly splendid way to experience the lake.

There is plenty to see and do in the surrounding area as well, so why not rent a car and set off on a mini-road-trip to explore the local area. And be sure to set your sights on one of the local handicraft shops such as Nils Olsson Dalahästar where you can pick up one of those iconic wooden horses that have become a symbol for Sweden and a classic souvenir to take home.

Grinda in the Stockholm Archipelago is a popular destination in the summertime which is simply brimming with sun, sea, walking trails and great spots to enjoy the views. For a romantic weekend, combine a delicious meal at Grinda Wärdshus with a spot of swimming and relaxation on the island's floating sauna, or get active together on a couple of Stand Up Paddle Boards before taking a romantic stroll to a secluded spot where you can watch the sunset.

For a more family-focused weekend getaway, hire some mountain bikes and head out to explore the island together, or stay close to the guest house for a game of volleyball.

The southern Swedish region of Österlen is famous within the country for its picturesque villages, expansive landscapes, gorgeous beaches, charming farm shops and its many sights. If you visit the region in the springtime, you'll have the chance to experience the popular Konstrundan which is when local artists swing open their workshops to the public. Or come in the autumn to visit the apple orchards around the Kivik cider Factory (Kiviks Musteri).

In the summer, you'll find plenty of nice places to go for a swim along both the eastern and southern coastlines, or you can visit the cute little town of Simrishamn for a leisurely stroll. No matter where you look in the region, you'll see expansive views of beautiful fields. And why not check out some of the area's popular farm shops or vineyards?

A weekend break to Stockholm will mean a sprawling smorgasbord of nightlife and restaurants to explore, plus heaps of activities and sights all within handy reach of one another. Stroll through the medieval streets of Gamla Stan or discover the hidden corners of trendy Södermalm. Shop till you drop in the city's varied array of department stores. Visit popular museums such as the Vasa Museum and the Royal Armoury (Livrustkammaren) for some history or ABBA The Museum and the Spritmuseum for pure entertainment.

Spend the evenings sipping cocktails on a rooftop terrace, enjoying a romantic meal or putting your senses to the test at Svartklubben, where meals are served in pitch darkness.

Gothenburg is Sweden's second city and a popular destination for a weekend getaway thanks to its great location and not least its wide array of events and entertainment. Come to Gothenburg for a concert, event or a day at the Liseberg Amusement Park and spend the rest of the evening on the gorgeous shopping boulevard of Avenyn or exploring one of the trendy and down-to-earth pubs on the so-called Long Streets (Långgatorna) where you'll often find exotic beer varieties being served up alongside hearty and authentic pub grub.

Spend your second day out on the archipelago relaxing by the sea, or visit the sauna at Jubileumsparken Park right in the heart of the city. Stroll through the flowerbeds at the 19th-century Garden Society of Gothenburg (Trädgårdsföreningen) and snap a selfie outside the magnificent Palm House (Palmhuset).

The small Arctic town of Abisko is best known for its national park and for the popular King's Trail (Kungsleden) hiking route which ends here. Abisko's environs offer excellent hiking in the summertime with incredible views of towering peaks, flower heaths and shimmering waters. In the winter, the whole area is transformed into a winter wonderland where you can enjoy exciting activities such as dog sledding and skiing.

Many come to Abisko to chase the northern lights and there are plenty of companies offering northern lights tours to help you maximise your chances. If you're a keen photographer, you can even sign up for a northern lights photography course to capture that perfect shot of the Aurora Borealis in all their glory.

Åre is best known for being a popular ski resort and has plenty to offer winter sports fans of all varieties, making it a top destination for a weekend break in Sweden. Take the cable car or gondola up to the top of Mount Åreskutan where you can enjoy both breathtaking views and incredible skiing. Savour a coffee with your sweetheart at Toppstugan, which is one of the highest-located cafés in Sweden, or enjoy the après-ski culture which often offers a live performance or two.

If you're travelling with the family in tow then you may want to check out Åre Björnen which is a quieter and more family-centric area located just outside of Åre itself. Åre is also a great destination to visit in the summer for some outdoor recreation. Go hiking in the mountains or take on the fearsome downhill bike trails at Åre Bike Park.

Halmstad is a west coast city between Gothenburg and Malmö where you can take long walks on the beach, golf your way across eight courses and hike through gorgeous nature. Choose between a number of gorgeous hiking and cycle paths that will take you along the picturesque coastline, or head to the beaches of Tylösand or Frösakull and dip your toes in the sea.

Big and little kids alike will love Halmstad Adventure Land (Halmstad Äventyrsland), the digital treasure hunt on the hill of Virsehatt and the many pulse-raising activities on offer, from swimming to football golf. Culture vultures will appreciate Mjellby Art Museum (Mjellby Konstmuseum), Halmstad Art Gallery (Halmstads Konsthall) and all the public art on display around the city, including a sculpture by Pablo Picasso.

Jönköping is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience all that the Swedish region of Småland has to offer in just one weekend. Here you'll find glorious nature, historic sights and innovative restaurants all within close reach. Start with a hearty dose of culture at the Jönköping County Museum (Jönköpings Läns Museum) where you can check out artwork from Swedish painter John Bauer, known for his alluring depictions of folkloric creatures. Or learn all about matches at the Matchstick Museum (Tändsticksmuseet). If you have the time, head out of town to the Husqvarna Museum where you'll find everything from antique weapons to vintage motorcycles.

Be sure to check out the views from the City Park (Stadsparken), go for a dip in the river or take a boat trip. Round off the day with a hearty meal at fish and seafood restaurant Pescadores or at the distinguished and popular Restaurang Hemma. If you've got time for a daytip, head up the eastern shores of Lake Vättern to Gränna where the local delicacy is a type of candy cane that you can even try making for yourself.