Top national parks to visit in Sweden

Sweden

Sweden’s landscapes are unlike any other in the world. The country boasts around 30 national parks scattered across its vast territory, drawing countless tourists every year. If you’re planning a trip to Sweden, be sure to add at least one park to your itinerary to experience the very best of the country.

To explore the national parks at your own pace and without depending on public transport, hiring a car in Sweden is by far the best option. At CarJet, we’ve created a guide to the top national parks in Sweden to help you design your ideal, personalised trip. Ready to dive in?

Does the landscape change between northern and southern Sweden?

Absolutely! Sweden offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes, thanks to its vast size and unique geographical location—part of which lies above the Arctic Circle in the north. The northern regions, Lapland and Norrland, are defined by their extreme cold, with temperatures often plunging below -20°C (-4°F). Winter here brings magical, snow-covered landscapes and the Northern Lights. In summer, visitors can experience the midnight sun, with long, sunlit days and milder temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C.

Further south, in the regions of Svealand and Götaland, the climate is much milder. Winters are more manageable, and summers are pleasantly warm. The boreal forests gradually give way to diverse landscapes of rolling green hills, sprawling fields, oak woodlands, and countless lakes. Sweden’s coastline and its many islands, is equally spectacular, offering both stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage.

To make planning easier, we recommend organising the national parks by region. Whether you’re drawn to the Arctic wilderness of the north or the lush forests and islands of the south, there’s a park waiting to take your breath away. Grab a pen and paper, and start jotting down your must-visit parks in Sweden!

Norrland (North)

If you’re eager to explore wild and majestic landscapes, the Norrland region—particularly Lapland—is a must-visit. Lapland is easily accessible by plane, with Kiruna, the capital of Swedish Lapland, serving as the gateway to this enchanting area.

Sarek National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a haven of untamed wilderness. Hikers will be awestruck by its mountains and glaciers, including Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest peak, and the Tarfala Glacier.

Located just over an hour’s drive from Kiruna, Abisko National Park lies above the Arctic Circle, making it one of the best spots in the world to see the Northern Lights. Lake Abisko offers a tranquil retreat, where time seems to stand still, far removed from the bustle of civilisation. The park also boasts several hiking trails, including the Kungsleden Trail, which winds through spectacular scenery and provides opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as reindeer and moose.

Svealand (Centre)

In Svealand, the heart of Sweden, you’ll discover extraordinary opportunities for outdoor adventure. Just a short journey from Stockholm, Tyresta National Park is the perfect escape from the city. Its forests and lakes make it ideal for hiking. Unsurprisingly, it is one of the country’s most visited national parks, drawing approximately 90,000 visitors annually.

A little further north, Skuleskogen National Park transports you to a stunning world of mountains, forests, and towering cliffs that offer magnificent views of the sea. The Slåttdalsskrevan Trail is a 2 half-mile must-do route, offering spectacular vistas of the Baltic Sea. For those seeking a harder challenge, the 6-mile Kuggörstigen Trail rewards hikers with panoramic viewpoints after an invigorating trek through lush forests.

Don’t miss Fulufjället National Park in the Dalarna region, home to Njupeskär Waterfall, Sweden’s highest at 93 metres.

Götaland (South)

The Götaland region in southern Sweden offers some of the country’s most stunning national parks, perfect for immersing yourself in nature. Located in the province of Småland, Store Mosse National Park is one of Sweden's largest wetlands, a unique landscape. Along with classic hiking routes, the park offers canoeing adventures for those seeking a more thrilling experience.

In Västergötland, Tiveden National Park is ideal for a peaceful stroll through its forests. A highlight of the park is Lake Vitsand, where you can go for a refreshing swim or enjoy a picnic by the water's edge. For those looking to extend their visit, the park features several camping areas, perfect for connecting with nature.

As Sweden’s first marine national park, Kosterhavet National Park is a must-see. Located in the county of Västra Götaland, it’s best explored by boat, allowing you to admire its unique landscapes and rich biodiversity. Keep an eye out for grey seals and seabirds in their natural habitat. If you’re visiting between May and September, you might even be lucky enough to spot whales and dolphins migrating through the warmer waters.

Hire your car with CarJet and explore Sweden the easy way!

To ensure your trip is unforgettable, hire a car with CarJet, the leading car hire comparison website. Convenient pick-up locations, including Stockholm, Kiruna, and Gothenburg, allow you to easily explore Sweden’s stunning national parks at your own pace.

With a car, you can create your own itinerary and enjoy the freedom to modify it as you go, free from the constraints of public transport schedules.At CarJet, you’ll find the best deals at competitive prices, allowing you to book a car that suits your needs and budget. Travel Sweden’s scenic roads comfortably and conveniently with CarJet. Make your trip a unique experience—book your car hire today!