You arrive in Stockholm with a warm "Välkommen i Sverige!" (Welcome to Sweden!). In Sweden's capital, Scandinavia's largest city, history and breathtaking nature blend seamlessly with the cultural elegance, modern architecture, and dynamism of this vibrant metropolis. This unique mix is further enhanced by the omnipresent water, lending the city an extra touch of charm. Each district has its own distinct character. Södermalm, for example, is known for its creative flair, Östermalm for its elegance, and Norrmalm for its lively atmosphere. Nestled between them lies the Old Town, "Gamla Stan," which contributes to Stockholm's diversity. You'll travel independently to your hotel and settle in at your leisure. Depending on your arrival time, you may have some free time to explore the city on your own. 1 night in Stockholm.

Today your Sweden trip begins. Meet your tour guide and fellow travelers at 8:30 a.m. at the reception of your accommodation. After breakfast, the first item on the agenda is a two-hour guided tour of Stockholm, the "Venice of the North." Admire the charming historical architecture as you stroll through the Old Town, Gamla Stan. Wandering among narrow streets and gabled houses, you'll learn fascinating facts about Swedish culture and history. Enjoy the grand historical squares and the view of the sparkling waters of Riddarholmen. The tour concludes at the Royal Palace (Kungliga slottet), one of the residences of the Swedish king. This magnificent Baroque building is adorned with imposing columns and statues, and its symmetrical design exudes pure elegance. Next, you'll leave the metropolis of Stockholm and travel towards Linköping. On the way, you'll stop in Trosa. This small town, situated at the mouth of the Trosaån River, will charm you with its low, pastel-colored wooden houses and a lovely riverside promenade. You'll have some free time to stroll through the town at your leisure or enjoy a snack at a café. Next, you'll travel on to Linköping. Like Uppsala and Lund, Linköping is a bicycle-friendly university town. Can you imagine that the city has more bicycles than inhabitants? A multitude of charming little cafes and pubs, perfect for relaxing, are further evidence of its young population. The central market square, Stora Torget, is like one giant outdoor terrace, especially during the summer months. After checking into your hotel, you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure. A group dinner at the hotel provides an opportunity to chat with your fellow travelers about the upcoming days. Overnight in Linköping. (B/D) (Distance: approx. 225 km; Travel time: approx. 3 hours)

The morning begins with a delicious breakfast before you set off for Vimmerby. On the way, you'll stop at one of the most famous lock staircases on the Göta Canal. This lock staircase consists of seven locks connected in series, overcoming a height difference of 18.8 meters to transport boats back and forth between the harbor and Lake Roxen. Next, you'll travel to Astrid Lindgren's homeland. Nestled between shimmering lakes, fairytale forests, and winding country lanes, Vimmerby is a place brimming with stories, adventures, and experiences. Here, you'll have the opportunity to visit Astrid Lindgren's childhood home. Learn more about the author's life and how she grew up on the Näs farm. Next up is something that's a must-do in Sweden: a visit to a moose farm. Before continuing on to Karlskrona, you'll stroll along idyllic forest paths in "Grönåsens Älgpark" and observe the resident moose and fallow deer in their natural habitat. Afterwards, you'll travel to your destination for the day, Karlskrona, where you'll end the day with a group dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Karlskrona. (B/D) (Distance traveled: approx. 310 km; travel time: approx. 4.5 hours)

After breakfast, you'll have some free time to explore the naval city of Karlskrona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. Stroll to the historic Stortorget market square, framed by magnificent Baroque churches such as Fredrikskyrkan and Trefaldighetskyrkan, as well as the old town hall. Or visit the famous Nils Holgersson sculpture before heading towards the southern coast of Sweden. On your drive towards Malmö, you'll visit Laxens Hus, the renowned salmon fishing museum, in Mörrum. Laxens Hus and the adjoining restaurant building were designed by the Karlshamn architect Jonas Glock. He drew inspiration from the old building on this site – the magnificent, three-story, red-painted Mörrum Kronokvarn from the 16th century, which was demolished in 1972. Laxens Hus also houses the official weigh-in station where all caught fish must be weighed. Afterwards, you continue to the small coastal town of Kivik. A pleasant walk leads you through the beautiful coastal landscape to the natural monument "Ales Stenar." The site of this late Iron Age stone formation, shaped like a shipwreck, offers a magnificent view of Österlen and the Baltic Sea. It remains unknown who erected this mysterious ancient monument around 1,400 years ago and why. Did the stone formation serve as a burial site, a solar calendar, or an astronomical clock? It remains a mystery. Afterwards, you'll follow in the footsteps of Inspector Wallander and explore Ystad on your own. This small town, with its medieval, pastel-colored wooden houses, cobbled streets, and sunny market squares, has become world-famous thanks to the fictional character Inspector Wallander. Then you'll travel to your destination for the day, Malmö. Overnight in Malmö. (B) (Distance: approx. 275 km; Travel time: approx. 4)

After a delicious breakfast, a two-hour guided tour of Malmö awaits you. The city charmingly combines urban flair with opportunities for relaxation amidst nature. Situated directly on the sea, it is surrounded by idyllic nature reserves. Discover this compact, often underrated city on foot and experience its architectural gems, all the way to the Västra Hamne harbor district. Your journey now takes you to the vibrant university town of Lund in the southern Swedish region of Skåne. Lund combines fascinating history with a cozy atmosphere; between cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, historical charm meets innovation. Here you will also enjoy an approximately 2-hour walking tour of the city. Then you continue north and reach Halmstad, the golf capital of Sweden. Here you'll have time to stroll through the city center. Discover historic buildings and "Norre," the only remaining of Halmstad's four city gates. After this break, the next stop is Varberg, where you'll pay a short visit to the famous fortress, which sits majestically on a cliff overlooking the sea. People have lived and worked at Varberg Fortress for many centuries. Feel the presence of history and experience the surroundings of the well-preserved fortress while a fresh breeze caresses your face. Afterwards, you and your tour guide will find a sheltered spot to enjoy typical Swedish specialties. You will then travel to Gothenburg for tonight's accommodation. (B/L) (Distance: approx. 290 km; Travel time: approx. 4 hours)

Refreshed after breakfast, we'll embark on a two-hour walking tour of Gothenburg. Gothenburg is a metropolis in miniature, with many of its sights easily accessible on foot. You'll explore the charming Haga district, with its 17th-century cobblestone streets and numerous cozy cafes and restaurants. Afterwards, you'll follow the famous Avenyn boulevard to the popular Saluhallen market hall, before arriving in the city center, where you can admire the many small, navigable canals and historic buildings from bygone eras. Afterwards, take the ferry to the island of Marstrandsö, where you can visit the small island town of Marstrand. Stroll through the streets and enjoy the maritime atmosphere with a typical Swedish fika of coffee and cinnamon buns. Back on the mainland, your next stop is Läckö Castle near Lidköping. Perched majestically on a promontory in the Ekens archipelago on the shores of Lake Vänern, Läckö Castle captivates visitors with its Baroque elegance, rich history, and idyllic natural surroundings. It's a place where culture, tranquility, and Scandinavian charm blend seamlessly. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, taking in magnificent halls and historic living quarters. Afterward, you'll travel to your hotel. Overnight in Lidköping. (B/L) (Distance: approx. 225 km; Travel time: approx. 4 hours)

After breakfast, you'll depart for Örebro. A short walking tour of Örebro will include a visit to Örebro Castle (exterior view only), situated on a small island in the heart of the city. However, the highlight of the day is undoubtedly the visit to Gripsholm Royal Castle in Mariefred, where you'll enjoy a guided tour. Gripsholm Castle, the Vasa castle, boasts 500 years of history. It houses some of the most significant examples of state rooms from the time of the Vasa kings and one of the best-preserved 18th-century theaters in Europe. Among the highlights is the State Portrait Gallery, home to approximately 4,000 portraits of prominent Swedish figures. After this exciting tour, you'll continue on to Stockholm. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Visit your favorite spot in Stockholm one last time, and then bring your tour of southern Sweden to a close with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Stockholm. (B/D) (Distance traveled: approx. 360 km; travel time: approx. 4.5 hours)

Today it's time to say goodbye to Sweden. With wonderful memories in tow, you'll make your own way to the airport by public transport at the appropriate time and begin your flight home. (F)