Car Hire Sweden - Mini guide to Sweden
Quintessentially Scandinavian, Sweden’s world reputation is well entrenched thanks to names like ABBA, Volvo and IKEA. Recent currency devaluation now makes it an almost affordable destination that boasts plenty of nature, pleasant cities and the typical Swedish liberalism.
Surprisingly laid-back and small for a capital, Stockholm is a medieval city situated on many small islands, giving the city a charming, photogenic appeal. Gamla Stan is the old town (13th C), a fantasy of lanes, arches and stairways. The 18th century Royal palace is a chief attraction, while the Vasamuseet is an incredible achievement in marine archaeology, revealing the city’s maritime past. The Djurgården offers wonderful parklands and a concentration of fine museums, especially the interesting open-air museum of Skansen. Kungsgatan is a lively suburb by night.
Set along Lake Vättern, beautiful Vadstena is one of the most pleasant towns in Sweden. The Renaissance castle Vadstena slott looks straight over the harbour and lake. Both Gothic and Rennaissance influences are seen in the beautiful klosterkyrkan (abbey), with a bountiful indetiror laden with art and sculpture from the period. Also of note is Bjälboättens palats, the old convent and once royal residence.
More industrial in character, though just as charming, Gothenburg has a magnificent harbour, a lively atmosphere, several museums and the popular Liseberg amusement park. Ostindiska huset, Konstmuseet and Sjöfartshistoriska museet are all imprssive musuems.
