With beautiful scenery, endless activities and few language barriers, Sweden can be a dream destination for many. However, you never know what you may encounter during an international trip, so be sure to purchase travel medical insurance before you go.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers in Sweden – FAQs
Sweden has a well-regarded public healthcare system. However, if you need to receive treatment without delay, you may need to seek out the private healthcare facilities that complement it. Of course, treatment at private facilities may be at your own expense, making it extremely important to protect your finances with travel medical insurance. Health insurance in Sweden for visitors is recommended for all travelers.
Why buy travel medical insurance before traveling to Sweden?
Depending on where you are from, you may be required to get health insurance to visit Sweden. Residents of certain countries will need to apply for a Schengen visa before being allowed to travel to Sweden. If you are from one of these countries, compliant health insurance will be required.
If you're a resident of Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Canada, Brazil, or many other countries, you can travel to Sweden for up to 90 days without a visa, exempting you from this insurance requirement. However, due to the cost of private healthcare and the potential for large medical bills, it is highly recommended that you still get insurance. Remember, health insurance in Sweden for visitors is not free, so you'll have to purchase coverage to be protected.
What should I look for in my Sweden travel medical insurance?
Schengen visa applicants will need to carry insurance providing a minimum of €30,000 in medical coverage, as well as coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains.
If you're allowed visa-free travel to Sweden, you should choose travel medical insurance that provides benefits that fit your needs and budget. Also, take into account specific coverage for adventure sports and other activities. If you plan to participate in them, be sure to get insurance that will cover you.
Sweden's Most Popular Cities for Travel
Sweden is a beautiful country offering rolling fields, rocky cliff faces, lush valleys, and the glorious Northern Lights. Sweden also has the Midnight sun. Usually this can be seen between the months of May through much of July, and the farther north you travel, the longer the sun will last. In addition, nearly 90% of Swedes can speak English, making this a very tourist-friendly place to visit.
Stockholm
There is plenty to do in Stockholm. Start at the ABBA museum. Dedicated to the musical group that rocked the 70s, it is an enjoyable trip down memory lane. The Royal Palace is an exceptional place to spend an afternoon. The majestic residence of the King also houses the Royal Museum of Antiquities. After your palace trip, walk down to Gamla Stan or Old City. The buildings here are painted bright red and yellow, lending a festive look to the place. The cobbled streets are immaculate, with tiny shops selling souvenirs.
Gothenburg
The second largest city in Sweden is home to the world-famous Volvo car and truck brand. The old quarters of the town are known as Haga Nygata. No vehicles are allowed in Haga Nygata, so you have to explore on foot. The wooden houses are charming, and the place abounds with small cafes ideal for a traditional Swedish fika (coffee and cake) break.
After coffee, drop in at Skansen Kronan, a hilltop fort constructed in 1697. Gothenburg is beside the sea, and a short boat ride can take you to the Southern Archipelago - 20 tiny islands known for charming scenery.
Visby
Located in the Gotland Islands, Visby is a truly remarkable place. Travel here by plane or ferry from mainland Sweden. Start your exploration at Burmeister House, one of the oldest existing structures here. Constructed in 1650, this old house is in pristine condition. There is a lovely horticultural garden close by that has many species of Scandinavian flora. After strolling through the park, drop in at Gamla Apoteket, a medieval home built in the 13th century. It is partly renovated and houses a tiny museum that traces the Viking history of the region.
Uppsala
Uppsala is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. Uppsala University was formed in 1477. It is famed for its vast library with a collection of five million books, and the Uppsala Cathedral dominates the landscape. Many members of the royal family are interred here. The church has two enormous pipe organs that are not to be missed.
If all the walking makes you tired, relax at the Linnaeus Garden, a lush botanical garden with over 1,000 species of plants.
Malmo
Malmo was declared a few years back as the happiest city in Sweden. The happiness shows in the cheerful demeanor of the residents. Swedes can be reserved, but the citizens of Malmo love a good time. The location is known for the rugged outdoors. Several hiking trails in the Skåneleden area are accessed through Malmo.
Cycling is popular, and you can rent a bicycle here to explore. In the Möllebångsgatan district, you can find shops selling memorabilia and curiosities. Friisgatan is the local shopping street selling fashion and collectibles.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Sweden
Learn some common words or phrases before travel. This will help you as you explore the city, and you will be able to offer local greetings.
Be sure to enjoy the Fika
The Swedes love their strong coffee. If someone offers you Fika, this is a way of welcoming someone, and almost equivalent to a greeting.
Take off your shoes
Roads and paths in Sweden can be wet and muddy. Take off your shoes when in someone's house. Be careful to wipe your shoes clean on mats before entering a museum or cathedral as well.
Before You Travel to Sweden - Do This
- Learn a little Swedish. Though most people speak English, it's usually appreciated when you make an effort to speak the local language.
- Be careful with your travel documents. It's recommended to make digital copies of your passport, visa and drivers license in case the originals go missing.
- Be a prepared traveler. Purchase travel medical insurance so you can enjoy your trip with less financial stress.