Sweden

Nordic · Scandinavia · Northern Europe · largest

Massive Nordic nation. Sweden is the largest country in the Nordic region and the fifth-largest in all of Europe, covering about 450,000 square kilometers. It stretches so far north and south that it has really different climates, from milder weather in the south to harsh winters in the far north.

Stockholm's island city. Sweden's capital, Stockholm, is built across 14 islands connected by bridges and ferries, earning it the nickname 'Venice of the North.' About 88% of all Swedes live in cities and towns, with most people choosing to live in the southern and central parts of the country.

Forests and wilderness. Even though Sweden has 10.6 million people, it feels quite empty because cities only cover 1.5% of the land. The rest is filled with vast forests, mountains, and pristine nature that makes Sweden one of Europe's wildest places.

Long, snowy winters. Because Sweden stretches so far north, it experiences extreme seasonal changes with long, dark winters and long, bright summers. In the far north, you can see the midnight sun in summer and experience darkness for weeks in winter.

Neighbors on two sides. Sweden shares borders with Norway to the west and north, and Finland to the east, making it part of the tight-knit Nordic region. It also has a sea border with Denmark across the water to the south.