14 Day Rail Journey in Sweden Itinerary

Begin your second day with an adventure in the stunning Stockholm Archipelago. Take a ferry from central Stockholm to Vaxholm, often referred to as the gateway to the archipelago. Once there, rent a kayak for a half-day tour Sebago Lake: Half-Day Kayak Rental. Paddle through serene waters surrounded by lush islands and enjoy breathtaking views.

After your kayaking adventure, explore Vaxholm town with its charming wooden houses and quaint shops. Visit Vaxholm Fortress Museum to learn about the island's military history. For lunch, stop by Vaxholms Hembygdsgårds Café, known for its delightful pastries and scenic views of the harbor.

Return to Stockholm in the evening and unwind at Operakällaren, an elegant restaurant offering gourmet Swedish dishes in a historic setting overlooking Kungsträdgården park. After dinner, enjoy a drink at Tweed, a cozy bar located in Gamla Stan with an extensive selection of cocktails.

On your third day, take an early morning train from Stockholm to Uppsala (approximately 40 minutes). Start your exploration with Uppsala Cathedral, Scandinavia's largest church dating back to the 13th century. Stroll through Uppsala University grounds and visit Gustavianum Museum which houses historical artifacts including Viking treasures.

For lunch, head over to Café Linné Hörnan, popular for its sandwiches and coffee. Post-lunch explore Uppsala Castle which offers panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location. Don't miss The Botanical Gardens nearby which are perfect for leisurely walks amidst diverse plant species.

In the evening return back to Stockholm by train (approximately 40 minutes). Dine at Pelikan, one of Stockholm’s oldest restaurants serving classic Swedish dishes like meatballs or herring platters in an authentic setting.

Begin your day with a visit to the Gothenburg Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of Nordic art. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Trädgårdsföreningen park, known for its rose garden and historic greenhouse. Enjoy breakfast at Kafé Magasinet, a cozy café offering delicious pastries and coffee.

In the afternoon, head to the Gothenburg Maritime Museum and Aquarium to explore the city's rich maritime history. Don't miss the opportunity to board some of the historic ships docked outside. For lunch, dine at Fiskekrogen, a highly-rated seafood restaurant known for its fresh catches and elegant atmosphere.

Spend your evening in Haga, one of Gothenburg's oldest neighborhoods, famous for its well-preserved wooden houses and charming cobblestone streets. Enjoy dinner at Hagabions Café, which offers organic and vegetarian dishes in a relaxed setting. End your day with a drink at Pustervik, a popular bar and live music venue.

Take an early morning train from Gothenburg to Malmö (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes). Start your exploration with a visit to Malmö Castle, which houses several museums including the Natural History Museum and the Art Museum. Enjoy breakfast at Lilla Kafferosteriet, known for its artisanal coffee and pastries.

Sebago Lake: Half-Day Kayak Rental - Spend your afternoon kayaking along Malmö's scenic canals. This tour offers a unique perspective of the city as you paddle through its waterways surrounded by beautiful architecture and lush greenery. For lunch, stop by Bastard, a trendy restaurant offering modern European cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.

In the evening, take a stroll through Västra Hamnen (Western Harbour), an eco-friendly district known for its modern architecture and stunning waterfront views. Dine at Saltimporten Canteen, an industrial-chic restaurant offering innovative dishes made from seasonal ingredients. After dinner, enjoy a drink at Kulturbolaget (KB), one of Malmö's most popular bars featuring live music performances.

Start your day with a visit to the Västerbottens Museum, which offers a deep dive into the history and culture of northern Sweden. The museum features exhibits on Sami culture, local history, and art. Enjoy breakfast at Nya Konditoriet, a beloved local café known for its pastries and coffee.

After exploring the museum, take a leisurely walk along the Ume River and visit Bildmuseet, Umeå's contemporary art museum. The museum showcases cutting-edge art from around the world in a stunning modern building. For lunch, dine at Köksbaren, a highly-rated restaurant offering modern Swedish cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.

In the evening, explore Umeå's vibrant cultural scene by attending a performance at NorrlandsOperan, which hosts opera, dance, and music performances. Enjoy dinner at Rex Bar & Grill, known for its delicious food and lively atmosphere. End your day with a drink at Guitars - The Museum, a unique bar that doubles as a guitar museum.

Take an early morning train from Umeå to Abisko (approximately 6 hours). Upon arrival, start your adventure with a visit to Abisko National Park, known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Begin with an easy hike along one of the park's many trails to enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and forests. Enjoy breakfast at Abisko Mountain Lodge Restaurant, which offers hearty meals perfect for fueling your outdoor activities.

Sebago Lake: Half-Day Kayak Rental - Spend your afternoon kayaking on Lake Torneträsk within Abisko National Park. This tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the park's pristine waters while surrounded by majestic landscapes. For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake or dine at Abisko Turiststation Restaurant, which offers traditional Swedish dishes made from local ingredients.

In the evening, take advantage of Abisko's reputation as one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Even during summer months when nights are shorter, you might still catch glimpses of this natural phenomenon if conditions are right. Dine at Brasserie Fjällköket located within STF Abisko Turiststation for delicious Nordic cuisine before heading out for some stargazing.

Take an early morning train from Abisko to Kiruna (approximately 1 hour). Start your exploration with a visit to Kiruna Church, one of Sweden's largest wooden buildings known for its unique architecture inspired by traditional Sami structures. Enjoy breakfast at Café Safari, popular among locals for its cozy atmosphere and tasty treats.

After visiting Kiruna Church head over to LKAB’s Visitor Centre where you can learn about iron ore mining industry that has shaped this town since early 20th century through guided tours down into mine itself! For lunch stop by SPiS Mat & Dryck offering variety dishes made fresh local ingredients.

In evening explore Icehotel located nearby Jukkasjärvi village – world’s first hotel built entirely ice snow! Even though main structure melts every spring summer there permanent section open year-round featuring ice sculptures exhibitions rooms made entirely ice! Dine Icehotel’s restaurant serves gourmet meals using locally sourced ingredients then end day warming up drink their famous Icebar.

Begin your day in Luleå with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gammelstad Church Town. This well-preserved medieval church town features over 400 wooden houses surrounding the 15th-century Nederluleå Church. Enjoy breakfast at Konditori Fågelsången, a charming café known for its delicious pastries and coffee.

After exploring Gammelstad, head back to central Luleå and visit the Norrbottens Museum, which offers exhibits on the cultural history of northern Sweden. For lunch, dine at Bistro Norrland, a highly-rated restaurant offering modern Swedish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Spend your afternoon strolling along the waterfront promenade and enjoying the scenic views of the Lule River.

In the evening, take a relaxing boat tour around the Luleå Archipelago to experience its stunning natural beauty. Afterward, enjoy dinner at Tapuligården, a cozy restaurant offering traditional Swedish dishes in a historic setting. End your day with a drink at Bishops Arms, a popular pub known for its extensive selection of beers and whiskies.

Take an early morning train from Luleå to Östersund (approximately 6 hours). Upon arrival, start your exploration with a visit to Jamtli, an open-air museum showcasing the history and culture of Jämtland County through historical buildings and interactive exhibits. Enjoy breakfast at Tages Konditori, a beloved local café known for its pastries and coffee.

Sebago Lake: Half-Day Kayak Rental - Spend your afternoon kayaking on Lake Storsjön, which offers stunning views of Östersund's surrounding landscapes. This tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the lake's pristine waters while enjoying breathtaking scenery. For lunch, stop by Vezzo, a trendy restaurant offering Italian-inspired dishes made from fresh ingredients.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Badhusparken, a beautiful park located along Lake Storsjön's shoreline. Dine at Hamnmagasinet, an elegant restaurant offering gourmet Swedish cuisine with panoramic views of the lake. After dinner, enjoy a drink at Jazzköket, one of Östersund's most popular bars featuring live jazz music performances.

Take an early morning train from Östersund to Sundsvall (approximately 2 hours). Start your exploration with a visit to Norra Berget (North Mountain), which offers panoramic views of Sundsvall and features historical buildings, walking trails, and an open-air museum showcasing traditional Swedish life. Enjoy breakfast at Dolcetto Trattoria Italiana, known for its delicious Italian pastries and coffee.

After exploring Norra Berget head down into city center visit Kulturmagasinet – cultural center housed four historic warehouses containing museums libraries exhibitions spaces! For lunch dine at Udda Tapas Bar serving variety creative tapas dishes inspired flavors around world.

In evening take relaxing walk along Stenstan’s picturesque streets lined beautifully preserved stone buildings dating back late 19th century when town rebuilt after devastating fire! Dine at highly-rated restaurant Innergården 1891 offering modern twist traditional Swedish cuisine then end day drink cozy bar called Merci.

Start your day with a ferry ride from the mainland to the island of Gotland, arriving in the medieval town of Visby. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Visby City Wall, a well-preserved medieval fortification that offers stunning views of the town and the Baltic Sea. Enjoy breakfast at Skafferiet, a charming café known for its delicious pastries and coffee.

After exploring the city wall, head to Gotlands Museum to learn about the island's rich history and Viking heritage. For lunch, dine at Bolaget, a highly-rated restaurant offering modern Swedish cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoon wandering through Visby's cobblestone streets, visiting historic sites such as St. Mary's Cathedral and the Botanical Gardens.

In the evening, take a relaxing stroll along Visby's picturesque harbor and enjoy dinner at Donners Brunn, an elegant restaurant offering gourmet Swedish dishes in a historic setting. End your day with a drink at Gutekällaren, one of Visby's most popular bars known for its lively atmosphere and extensive selection of cocktails.

Take an early morning ferry back to Stockholm from Gotland (approximately 3 hours). Upon arrival, start your day with a visit to Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the private residence of the Swedish royal family. Enjoy breakfast at Lovö Magasin, a cozy café located near the palace offering delicious pastries and coffee.

Sebago Lake: Half-Day Kayak Rental - Spend your afternoon kayaking on Lake Mälaren near Drottningholm Palace. This tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore Stockholm's beautiful waterways while enjoying breathtaking views of the palace and surrounding landscapes. For lunch, stop by Kungliga Slottsboden Café, located within Drottningholm Palace grounds offering light meals and refreshments.

In the evening return central Stockholm for final night city! Dine highly-rated restaurant Djuret known serving innovative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients then end trip drink stylish bar called Tjoget featuring extensive cocktail menu vibrant atmosphere.