Is Sweden Safe to Travel to in 2026?
Risk level: Moderate risk
Last updated
Overview
Highly developed Nordic country with excellent infrastructure, strong social services, and historically low crime. Sweden has seen noticeable changes in recent decades, particularly in its major cities, where gang violence, shootings, and integration challenges have become more prominent. While many rural and smaller towns remain very safe and orderly, the country now has visible problems with crime in certain urban areas. Sweden still offers high quality of life in many regions, beautiful nature, and efficient public services, but visitors should be aware of the differences between urban and rural areas.
Best time to visit
June to August for mild weather and long days; winter for northern lights and snow activities in the north.
Safety
Violent crime has increased in some urban areas in recent years, particularly gang-related incidents in certain suburbs. Petty theft is common in tourist zones of major cities. Rural and northern Sweden remain very safe. Police response can be slower in high-crime neighborhoods. Overall, Sweden is still safer than most countries but has lost its previous reputation for being one of the safest in Europe. This was a blue zone a mere 15 years ago and it is unclear how much further it will decline.
Recommendations
Stick to well-lit tourist areas in Stockholm, Malmö, and Gothenburg during the day. Use common sense at night and avoid certain suburbs if you are unsure. Northern and rural Sweden are much calmer and safer. Public transport is excellent in cities. Monitor local news for any disturbances.
Health and tap water
Tap water: Excellent — generally safe to drink from the tap.
World-class healthcare system. Tap water is excellent quality and safe to drink nationwide. Pharmacies are well-stocked and easy to access. Emergency services are professional but can be delayed in high-crime suburbs.
Entry and exit
Visa-free for most up to 90 days in Schengen. ETIAS expected later in 2026. Stockholm Arlanda Airport is modern and efficient with good connections across Europe.
Laws
Strict on drugs. Hate speech laws are broad. Police response can be slow in problem areas. The country has progressive social laws in many areas and has faced challenges with integration and enforcement.
Other notes
Sweden offers stunning nature, efficient public transport in cities, and high quality of life in many areas. Stockholm is beautiful but has rougher parts now. Southern Sweden is more densely populated and has seen the most significant changes in safety. The country is expensive but quality is generally high. Winters are cold and dark, while summers are pleasant. English is widely spoken. The society feels orderly and well-functioning in most areas, but the visible social changes in major cities are noticeable to many visitors. Food is good with strong emphasis on fresh ingredients and modern Nordic cuisine.
Emergency numbers: Police 112, Ambulance 112, Fire 112.
Regional risk notes for Sweden
- Stockholm — Moderate risk: Capital. Beautiful but has rougher suburbs, gang issues, and higher crime in some districts. Tourist areas are generally manageable with normal precautions.
- Västra Götaland — Moderate risk: Gothenburg area. Increased disorder in some districts but many safe and pleasant areas. Good for coastal travel.
- Skåne — Moderate risk: Malmö and south. Has seen notable increases in crime and gang activity in certain areas. Still has attractive countryside and coastal spots.
- Östergötland — Low-Moderate risk: Linköping area. Calmer and more orderly than the big cities.
- Jönköping — Low-Moderate risk: Southern inland. Generally safe with good infrastructure.
- Dalarna — Low risk: Rural and tourist-friendly with beautiful nature and low crime.
- Värmland — Low risk: Forests and lakes. Very safe and peaceful.
- Västerbotten — Low risk: Northern wilderness. Extremely low crime and excellent nature.
- Norrbotten — Low risk: Far north. Remote and safe for visitors who respect the environment.
- Uppsala — Low-Moderate risk: University town. Decent safety and good atmosphere.
- Södermanland — Low-Moderate risk: Near Stockholm but calmer and more rural in character.
- Orebro — Low-Moderate risk: Central. Average safety with some attractive areas.
- Västmanland — Low-Moderate risk: Industrial but generally safe outside problem spots.
- Gävleborg — Low-Moderate risk: Northern central. Safer than the big southern cities.
- Halland — Low-Moderate risk: Coastal. Good for travel and relatively calm.
- Blekinge — Low-Moderate risk: Southern but calmer than Skåne.
- Kalmar — Low-Moderate risk: Coastal southeast. Decent safety and attractive scenery.
- Gotland — Low risk: Island. Very safe and tourist-oriented with beautiful nature.
- Jämtland — Low risk: Mountain region. Excellent for nature and low crime.
- Västernorrland — Low-Moderate risk: Central north. Generally safe.
- Kronoberg — Low-Moderate risk: Southern inland. Calm and orderly.
Independent assessment — not a government advisory. Feedback: [email protected]