Safest Cities in Sweden for Women to Live
1, Stockholm
Stockholm, the charming capital city of Sweden, is nestled along the vast archipelago where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. Globally recognized for its alluring contrast of ancient and modern, it fuses its medieval structures, like the Royal Palace and Gamla Stan (the historic old town), with contemporary marvels such as its excelling tech startups, earning it the moniker 'Silicon Valleys of Europe'. Internationally synonymous with the iconic Nobel Prize, Stockholm also houses the prestigious Nobel Museum. It's renowned for both its rich maritime history, evidenced by the stellar Vasa Museum, and egalitarian philosophy, mirrored in its low-key designs and fashion. Offering the flairs of jazz in Fasching, an astounding gastronomy scene powered by local produce, and tranquil green spaces like Djurgården, Stockholm truly provides an enriching and diversified experience for all.
2, Jonkoping
Jonkoping is a charming, tranquil city nestled in the heart of southern Sweden, perched beautifully at the southern end of the country's second-largest lake, Vättern. Renowned as 'The Pearl of the Lake,' the city is popular for its captivating architecture, rich historical sites, and unbeatable natural beauty, with verdant green parks and stunning waterfront views around every corner. It is home to notable landmarks like the Jonkoping County Museum, boasting a diverse collection of artifacts that offer a glimpse into the city's past, and the famous Matchstick Museum, a tribute to the city's long history as a leading matchstick production center in the 19th-century. The city also caters to shopping enthusiasts with the A6 Shopping Center which hosts a vast array of stores and eateries.
3, Luleå
Luleå, situated along the northeastern coastline of Sweden in the Norrbotten County, offers an intoxicating blend of cultural richness and natural beauty that makes it a fantastic travel destination. Known as a winter wonderland, it is well-famed for its dazzling Northern Lights and the captivating Icehotel. Luleå is also monopolized by the spellbinding Luleå Archipelago with over 1,300 islands, perfect for trekking and cross-country skiing during snowy months. Besides, the city is rich in history, featuring the UNESCO Heritage site of Gammelstad Church Town - a genuine slice of medieval history that sends you back in time with its well-preserved church and stone cottages despite being the modern tech city of northern Sweden.
Travel and Meet new People
Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies and stay with local women for free through hospitality exchange.
4, Vaxjo
Vaxjo, located in the heart of the southern Swedish province of Smaland, is a burgeoning tourist destination renowned for its quintessential Swedish charm and unspoiled natural landscapes. It's often referred to as "The Greenest City in Europe" because of its dedication to environmental sustainability and a high concentration of green spaces. Vaxjo is home to a number of historical and cultural landmarks such as the medieval Vaxjo Cathedral, Smaland Museum showcasing Sweden's glass-making heritage, and the emotive House of Emigrants that pays homage to the millions of Swedes who migrated to America. Surrounded by pristine lakes and vast forests, Vaxjo also offers a plethora of outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and luggage-toting culture buffs alike.
5, Gothenburg
Gothenburg, located on Sweden's stunning west coast, is a vibrant city known for its Dutch-style canals and lush green boulevards. As the country's second-largest city, Gothenburg impresses visitors with its cultural treasures, including the awe-inspiring Gothenburg Museum of Art, the fascinating Universeum Science Centre, and the magical Liseberg amusement park. The city is renowned for its fantastic seafood, offering Michelin-starred dining experiences that are a tribute to its rich fishing culture. The lively Haga district, with its picturesque wooden houses, enthralls with its unique shopping opportunities and cozy coffee shops, making Gothenburg a Nordic gem worth exploring.
6, Karlstad
Situated on the delightful Klarälven River in the heart of Sweden's Värmland region, Karlstad is a vibrant city with a rich blend of history, culture, beauty, and warmth. It is renowned as the 'City of Sunshine' for its pleasant weather, but there's much more to this picturesque locale, from the eye-catching architecture of the Karlstad Cathedral to the impressive array of art galleries, museums, and eateries. Outdoor enthusiasts will luxuriate in the adventures presented by Lake Vänern, Europe's third-largest lake, and charming nature parks. A visit to the cultural hub of Varmlands Opera and the historic Broich Fortress adds an engaging touch of sophistication and learning to your trip. Karlstad effortlessly integrates the tranquility of the Swedish countryside with the excitement of city life.
7, Arvika
Arvika, nestled in the beautiful region of Värmland in western Sweden, is a charming town renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by glittering lakes and dense ancient forests, Arvika offers spectacular landscapes and an abundance of outdoor activities including swimming, hiking, and canoeing. Known as the region's hub of art and culture, it is home to the distinguished Rackstad Museum, celebrating an artists’ colony that thrived in the early 20th century. Arvika's thriving music scene, epitomized by the annual Arvika Festival, draws visitors from all over, while the local artisans and inviting shops provide an enchanting glimpse into the Swedish way of life.
8, Linkoping
Located in the charming heart of southern Sweden, Linkoping is a captivating fusion of rich history and modern innovation. This vibrant city, the seventh largest in Sweden, nestles on the ostrogothia plain, and became a thriving hub due to the Gota Canal, linking the North Sea and the Baltic. Known primarily for its prestigious Linkoping University, the city is also famous for its enchanting open-air museum, Gamla Linkoping, which offers a mesmerizing peek into the Sweden of yesteryears. Historical landmarks such as the magnificent Linkoping Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, foreground the city's long-standing cultural heritage. Meanwhile, the modern side of Linkoping is embodied by its flourishing tech industry, contemporary shopping precincts, and the innovative Linkoping Science Park, making this city an exciting blend of the past and the future.
9, Lund
Located in the southern part of Sweden, Lund is a charming and cozy city renowned for its prestigious university, Lund University, which is one of the oldest in Scandinavia. The city, known for its historical buildings and cobbled streets, showcases a mix of old and new architecture, enveloping you in its rich history dating back to the Viking Age. Visitors are enticed with the enchanting beauty of Lund Cathedral, outdoor museum Kulturen showcasing the traditional Swedish way of life, the beautiful botanical garden, high-energy student activities, and standout cafes which make it a must-visit destination. From its intellectual vibrance to its immense cultural offerings, Lund promises an experience that combines academia, history, culture, and natural beauty, sure to leave visitors captivated.
10, Umea
Tucked away in the northeast of Sweden, Umea is a picturesque city that lies on the Ume River, serving as a captivating mix of natural charm and cultural richness. Known as the "Town of Birch Trees", it embodies a stunning blend of contemporary architecture and natural beauty that includes the beautiful, iconic Birch trees planted after a devasting fire in the 18th century. Umea's cultural scene is vibrant and dynamic, reflected in the fact that it was European Capital of Culture in 2014. The city is reputed for its renowned progressive art scene, fascinating museums, including Västerbottens Museum and the unique Guitar Museum with the world’s largest collection of guitars. Umea also offers delicious local cuisine, and the remarkable Northern Lights that can occasionally be spotted in the city skies. Whether you’re in the city to enjoy high-end dining, explore nature, or immerse yourself in art and culture, Umea will captivate and inspire you.
11, Västerås
Nestled on the shores of Lake Mälaren in east-central Sweden, Västerås is a destination of historic intrigue and modern marvels. Known for being one of the oldest cities in Sweden and Northern Europe, it's rich in enchanting medieval architecture, including the magnificent 13th century Västerås Cathedral. The city is also recognized for its embodiment of Swedish industrial heritage with the ASEA, now ABB, power station and large corporations such as H&M and ICA having their origin here. Visitors can enjoy diverse attractions ranging from the verdant oasis of Vallby Open Air Museum, a wonderful display of Swedish rural life pre-industrialization, to Djäkneberget, a charming city park offering stunning views of the cityscape. Nature enthusiasts will love the archipelago cruises available, and for steam train aficionados, there’s the Engelsberg-Norberg Railway, a World Heritage site. Västerås truly merges ancient grandeur with contemporary allure, promising an unforgettable Swedish experience.
12, Uppsala
Uppsala, nestled in the heart of Sweden slightly north of the capital, Stockholm, is a blend of historic grandeur and contemporary Swedish culture. Known for its awe-inspiring medieval Uppsala Cathedral, Gustavianum museum which houses an array of ancient artifacts, Uppsala is steeped in rich history and academic tradition, being home to Scandinavia's oldest university, Uppsala University. The city is complete with quaint cobblestone streets leading to hip cafes and eateries, offering a vibrant local life. Endowed with a beautiful network of lush gardens and the sparkling Fyris river, Uppsala welcomes with an irresistible charm for nature-lovers and history buffs alike.
13, Malmo
Malmo, located in southern Sweden, is a vibrant city known for its alluring blend of modern architecture and rich history. Being Sweden's third-largest city, it exudes a unique charm with its remarkable Turning Torso skyscraper, the predominant symbol of the city's innovative spirit. This cultural hub is famous for The Malmo Castle, a 15th-century fortress adding historical depth to the city's landscape. The city boasts numerous scenic parks, including the notable Kungsparken whose winding canals and extensive rose gardens reflect the beauty of nature against the city's backdrop. The trendy Western Harbor, teeming with trendy cafes, restaurants, and design shops; and the adventurous Ribersborg beach are also must-visit spots for travelers. A real emblem of cultural diversity, Malmo is famous for its rich culinary scene, including the Möllevångstorget market, ideal for sampling world cuisine.
14, Kalmar
Located on Sweden's southeast coast, Kalmar is a charming city known for its remarkable history and captivating architecture. Nestled in the province of Småland, it offers visitors a glimpse into Sweden's past, predominantly through its most iconic landmark, the Kalmar Castle, which dates back to the 12th century. Also renowned for its stunning Baroque-style cathedral, the Kalmar Cathedral, the city is a treasure trove for archaeology and architecture enthusiasts. With its pedestrian-friendly streets, beautiful parks, and enchanting maritime museum, Kalmar is a blend of both old-world charm and modern Swedish culture - a must-visit location for history lovers and explorers.
15, Jukkasjärvi
Jukkasjärvi, in Sweden, is a small yet enchanting village located approximately 17 kilometers east of Kiruna, in the heart of Lapland. Despite its remote location, it is mostly known for its unique, world-renowned Icehotel that is annually rebuilt from ice and snow sourced from the nearby Torne River. This frozen marvel, which transforms into a luxury hotel every winter, offers exclusive ice rooms, ice bar, and unique ice sculptures. But it's not all about ice in Jukkasjärvi, it's also an ideal spot for witnessing the spellbinding beauty of Northern Lights and experiencing Sami culture, adding another layer to your Scandinavian travel experience.
16, Kiruna
Kiruna, located in the Lapland province of Northern Sweden, is a unique destination truly one-of-a-kind. It is famed for being home to the world's first and most significant hotel made of ice and snow, the Icehotel. This snowcapped city, lying in the Arctic Circle, is also recognized for providing some of the brightest opportunities to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Its surreal surroundings of wilderness, snow-laden terrain, and reindeer also make it a go-to place for dog-sledding and guided tours in Sami reindeer parks. Another noteworthy aspect is Kiruna's rich history of iron ore mining visible at the Kiruna Mine, the largest of its kind. The city flaunts a blend of unique lifestyle, Sami culture, thrilling winter activities, natural wonders, and fascinating mining history, making it a must-visit for travel enthusiasts.
17, Bjorkliden
Bjorkliden, nestled in the northernmost corners of Sweden above the Arctic Circle, is renowned as an untamed paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This charming village, surrounded by untamed beauty of the Lapland mountains and overlooking the glistening Lake Torneträsk, is a classic destination for those who yearow for tranquility and outdoor activities. Known for being a hub of winter sports such as skiing, it also boasts a stunning view of the Northern Lights. In the summer, activities shift towards hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and Akka golf course, making it a year-round outdoor haven. Overall, Bjorkliden offers a unique blend of rugged Arctic serenity and invigorating physical adventure.
18, Are
Are, Sweden, is a charming village nestled high in the mountains of Jamtland County in northern Sweden. It is quintessentially known as a skier's paradise, boasting an impressive alpine ski resort that is recognized as the largest of its kind in Scandinavia. The winter season paints a picturesque snow-white landscape that becomes a vibrant ski hub, accommodating both professional competitions, including the annual FIS Alpine World Ski Championships, and a wide range of winter sports activities for all levels. Not confined to winter pursuits, Are also offers breathtaking hiking trails, zipline adventures, and majestic mountaintop panoramas in the summer, living up to its reputation as an outdoorsman's haven year-round.
19, Tallberg
Tällberg is a charming village nestled within the serene, decentralised region of Dalarna County, in central Sweden. Renowned for its breath-taking views and the magnificent Lake Siljan, Tällberg offers visitors a distinctive travel experience characterized by its rich cultural heritage and unspoiled natural beauty. This traditional Swedish village is recognised for its well-preserved rustic wooden houses, some of which are centuries old. In addition, Tällberg is celebrated for its vibrant art scene, making it an attractive spot for art enthusiasts. Outdoorsy visitors will be enthralled by the picturesque hiking trails, scenic snow-capped landscapes perfect for skiing, and ample opportunities for fishing and canoeing at the lake. Concluding a day of adventure with a soothing Swedish massage and sauna at one of the many local spas encapsulates the tranquil and rejuvenating atmosphere encapsulated within Tällberg.
20, Idre
Idre, sitting in the northwestern region of Dalarna county in Sweden, is renowned as a year-round travel haven. Nestled within Sweden's pristine natural landscapes, it offers visitors an array of outdoor activities to indulge in. In winter, Idre’s towering Fjäll resort caters to skiing enthusiasts of all levels, complete with cross-country trails and downhill slopes. During the summer, the idyllic landscape transforms into an adventurer's playground with hiking and mountain biking opportunities, as well as fishing and canoeing on the calm Idre lake. Moreover, this Scandinavian gem is home to the native Sami people, enriching it with a unique cultural backdrop that travelers often explore through food tastings and folklore expeditions.
Frequently asked questions
