Unveiling Sweden’s Silver Screen: Exploring the Best Films Set in this Enchanting Destination

Sweden, renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, has served as an enchanting setting for numerous films, books, and TV shows. From the bustling streets of Stockholm to the serene landscapes of Gotland, the country’s diverse locations have provided filmmakers and authors with a captivating canvas for their narratives.

10 Famous Films Shot in Sweden

Sweden’s picturesque locations have been the backdrop for many memorable films. Here are ten films that have used the beauty of Sweden to tell their compelling tales:

1. “The Seventh Seal” (1957) – This existential masterpiece by Ingmar Bergman, set in medieval Sweden, explores themes of life, death, and faith.
2. “My Life as a Dog” (1985) – Lasse Hallstrí¶m’s acclaimed film tells a heartwarming story set in the Swedish countryside.
3. “Let the Right One In” (2008) – This chilling vampire film uses the snowy suburbs of Stockholm to create an atmospheric setting.
4. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (2009) – Based on Stieg Larsson’s best-selling novel, this thriller is set in various locations across Sweden.
5. “A Man Called Ove” (2015) – This touching drama, set in a quintessential Swedish neighborhood, explores themes of love, loss, and friendship.
6. “Midsommar” (2019) – This horror film, set in a remote Swedish village during the midsummer festival, offers a gripping exploration of grief and trauma.
7. “The Unthinkable” (2018) – This action-thriller, set against the backdrop of a mysterious attack on Sweden, showcases the country’s urban and rural landscapes.
8. “Border” (2018) – This fantasy film, set in the Swedish countryside, weaves a tale of love and self-discovery.
9. “The Square” (2017) – Set in Stockholm, this satirical drama explores the art world and social norms.
10. “A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Reflecting on Existence” (2014) – This absurdist comedy uses various Swedish settings to tell a series of interconnected stories.

These films highlight the diverse beauty of Sweden and its contribution to global cinema.

5 TV Shows Set in Sweden

Sweden has also been the setting for several popular TV shows, offering viewers a glimpse of its unique culture and landscapes:

1. “Wallander” (2005-2013) – This crime drama series, set in the picturesque town of Ystad, follows detective Kurt Wallander as he solves various murder cases.
2. “The Bridge” (2011-2018) – This Nordic noir series starts with a murder on the í˜resund Bridge, connecting Sweden and Denmark.
3. “Real Humans” (2012-2014) – This sci-fi series, set in a parallel-present Sweden, explores the implications of humanoid robots in society.
4. “Welcome to Sweden” (2014-2015) – This comedy series, set in Stockholm, follows a New York accountant who moves to Sweden for love.
5. “Quicksand” (2019-present) – This crime drama series, set in a wealthy suburb of Stockholm, explores the aftermath of a school shooting.

These series offer different perspectives of Swedish society, from its serene towns to its bustling cities.

5 Animated Films Set in Sweden

Sweden’s charm is not just limited to adult-oriented films and TV shows. The country has also been a scenic inspiration for various animated adventures:

1. “Bamse and the City of Thieves” (2014) – Set in an idyllic Swedish village, this film tells the tale of Bamse, the world’s strongest bear.
2. “Pettson and Findus” series (1999-2014) – This series of films, based on the popular Swedish books, are set in the countryside and follow the adventures of Pettson and his cat, Findus.
3. “Astrid” (2012) – This animated short film is set in Stockholm and tells the story of Astrid, a young girl with a vivid imagination.
4. “Beyond Beyond” (2014) – This film tells the story of a young rabbit embarking on an adventure to find his lost mother, with scenes set in Sweden.
5. “Gordon and Paddy” (2017) – This film, set in a Swedish forest, tells the story of a toad police chief and his new assistant, a mouse.

These animated features exhibit Sweden’s unique blend of urban sophistication and rustic beauty, providing audiences, especially children, with engaging stories and stunning visuals that highlight the country’s allure.

Famous Books Set in Sweden: Classic and Contemporary

Sweden’s rich history, culture, and landscapes have been a source of inspiration for many authors. From classic novels to contemporary works, here are some famous books set in Sweden:

Classic:

1. “Pippi Longstocking” by Astrid Lindgren – Set in a small Swedish village, this beloved children’s book follows the adventures of Pippi, the strongest girl in the world.
2. “The Emigrants” by Vilhelm Moberg – This historical novel series, set in the 19th century Smí¥land, Sweden, follows a group of people who emigrate to America.
3. “Doctor Glas” by Hjalmar Sí¶derberg – This psychological novel, set in Stockholm, explores themes of morality and society.

Contemporary:

1. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson – This thriller, set in various Swedish locations, is the first book in the Millennium trilogy.
2. “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman – This heartwarming novel, set in a Swedish town, tells the story of a grumpy old man with a heart of gold.
3. “The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared” by Jonas Jonasson – This humorous novel, set in various locations in Sweden, follows the adventures of a centenarian who escapes from his nursing home.

These books offer a literary journey through Sweden’s multifaceted persona, from its historic landmarks to its modern cities.

Exploring Sweden’s Filming Locations: Where to Go

Sweden, with its iconic landmarks and breathtaking landscapes, has long been a favored canvas for filmmakers. If you’re eager to tread the paths of movie stars and soak up the cinematic history of this vibrant country, here are some essential filming locations in Sweden:

1. Stockholm City Hall – An architectural masterpiece featured in various films, including “The Unthinkable.”
2. Ystad – This picturesque town is the primary setting for the “Wallander” series.
3. Sandhamn – This island in the Stockholm archipelago serves as the backdrop for the TV series “The Sandhamn Murders.”
4. í˜resund Bridge – This impressive bridge, connecting Sweden and Denmark, is prominently featured in “The Bridge” series.
5. Gotland – This beautiful island has been a filming location for various movies, including “The Unthinkable” and “A Man Called Ove.”

Exploring these filming locations offers a unique blend of entertainment and sightseeing, allowing you to engage with Sweden’s film heritage while enjoying its many cultural and natural attractions.

Where to Sleep in Sweden: From Budget to Luxury

Sweden, known for its refined culture and quality of life, offers a diverse array of accommodations, from the ultra-luxurious to the charmingly economical.

Luxury:

1. Grand Hí´tel, Stockholm – Overlooking the Royal Palace, Grand Hí´tel offers a taste of royal living.
2. ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjí¤rvi – For a unique luxury experience, this hotel made of ice and snow offers a truly unique stay.
3. Treehotel, Harads – This hotel offers unique, contemporary treehouses in the heart of the Swedish forest.

Budget:

1. City Backpackers Hostel, Stockholm – This budget-friendly hostel offers comfortable accommodation with great facilities.
2. STF Gí¶teborg City Hotel – Located in the heart of Gothenburg, this hotel offers budget-friendly rooms with modern amenities.
3. Kvibergs Vandrarhem & Stugby, Gothenburg – This budget-friendly hostel offers both rooms and cottages for a comfortable stay.

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation or a budget-friendly option, Sweden offers a wide range of options to suit every travel style.

A Taste of Sweden: Where to Eat From Budget to Luxury

Sweden offers a myriad of dining options, from budget-friendly food trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here are some places to enjoy Swedish cuisine at both ends of the budget spectrum.

Budget:

1. Nystekt Strí¶mming, Stockholm – Famous for its affordable herring dishes, this food truck is a favorite among locals.
2. Max Burgers, Nationwide – Sweden’s own fast-food chain offers tasty burgers at reasonable prices.
3. í–lrepubliken, Gothenburg – This pub offers a wide range of Swedish and international beers, along with affordable traditional dishes.

Luxury:

1. Frantzén, Stockholm – Sweden’s first three-Michelin-starred restaurant offers a gourmet dining experience in the heart of Stockholm.
2. Oaxen Slip, Stockholm – This Nordic bistro focuses on sustainability and local produce, offering a unique fine dining experience.
3. Upper House Dining, Gothenburg – Located in the Gothia Towers, this restaurant offers exquisite dishes with a stunning view of the city.

Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a gourmet connoisseur looking for the finest culinary experiences, Sweden offers a dazzling array of gastronomic delights.

Explore Sweden’s Filming Locations: A Detailed Itinerary

Experience the cinematic charm of Sweden with this five-day itinerary, discovering famous filming locations and immersing yourself in the country’s rich culture and history.

Day 1: Stockholm – Iconic Landmarks

Start your tour at the Royal Palace, a location for numerous films. Visit the historic Gamla Stan, where scenes from “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” were shot. End your day at the Vasa Museum, featured in various TV shows.

Day 2: Stockholm – Cultural Heritage

Visit the Skansen Open Air Museum, a filming location for “A Man Called Ove.” Stroll through the Djurgí¥rden island, known for its beautiful parks and historic buildings. End your day at the ABBA The Museum, a must-visit for music fans.

Day 3: Gothenburg – Urban Charm

Head to Gothenburg on the west coast. Visit the Universeum, featured in many children’s shows. Stroll along the picturesque Haga district, a favorite spot for filmmakers.

Day 4: Ystad – Picturesque Landscapes

Visit Ystad, the primary filming location for the “Wallander” series. Explore the medieval city center and the stunning beaches.

Day 5: Kiruna – Natural Wonders

Head to Kiruna in the far north. Visit the ICEHOTEL, a unique location featured in several travel shows. Explore the surrounding wilderness, a popular location for adventure films.

Experience the cinematic charm of Sweden with this itinerary, exploring the country’s famous filming locations and immersing yourself in its rich culture and history.

Mysterious Sweden: Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Beyond its cinematic charm, Sweden is also a land of mystery and legends. One of the most famous cryptids in Sweden is the Storsjí¶odjuret, a lake monster reported to live in the great lake Storsjí¶n. The tale has inspired numerous films, books, and TV shows.

Another fascinating legend is that of the Ghost of Christmas Ornaments, a ghostly figure said to haunt the Skansen Open Air Museum during Christmas. The legend has been the subject of several local films and documentaries.

These legends and cryptids add an element of the mysterious to Sweden’s cinematic locations, offering a rich vein of inspiration for storytellers.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Sweden

While Sweden’s iconic landmarks are popular filming locations, the country also boasts numerous lesser-known locales that are cinematic gold. Here are a few hidden gems:

1. Marstrand Island, Bohuslí¤n – This charming island has been a filming location for various local films.
2. Visby, Gotland – Known as the “city of roses and ruins,” this medieval city has been featured in several TV series and films.
3. Icehotel, Jukkasjí¤rvi – This unique hotel made of ice and snow has been featured in various travel and adventure shows.

Whether you’re a filmmaker seeking unique locations or a tourist looking for less-crowded spots, these hidden gems offer unique views and experiences.

What to Pack for a Trip to Sweden

Packing for a trip to Sweden requires consideration of the country’s climate and the activities you plan to do. Here are some essentials:

1. Warm Clothes – Sweden’s climate can be quite chilly, even in summer, so pack a good mix of warm clothes.
2. Comfortable Shoes – Whether you’re exploring a city or hiking in the wilderness, comfortable shoes are a must.
3. Rain Gear – Be prepared for sudden showers, especially if you’re visiting in spring or autumn.
4. Camera – To capture your own cinematic memories.
5. Travel Guide and Map – For finding those filming locations and hidden gems.

With these packing tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your cinematic journey through Sweden.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Sweden

Getting around Sweden can be relatively easy, thanks to the country’s extensive transportation network. Here are some tips:

Rail – Sweden has an extensive rail network, with high-speed trains connecting major cities. For scenic routes, consider slower regional trains.

Car – Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the countryside or smaller towns.

Public Transportation – Larger cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmí¶ have comprehensive public transportation systems, including metros, trams, and buses.

Bike – Many Swedish cities are bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs.

With these transportation options, you can explore Sweden’s cinematic locations with ease.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Sweden

When planning your trip to Sweden, it’s crucial to have the right travel documents:

1. Passport – Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
2. Visa – Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Sweden. Check the Swedish Embassy or Consulate website in your country for requirements.
3. Travel Insurance – It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
4. International Driving Permit (IDP) – If you plan to rent a car, an IDP is required along with your valid driver’s license.

Having these documents in order will help ensure a smooth journey to the heart of cinematic Sweden.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Sweden’s Cinematic Landscape

From the vibrant cityscapes of Stockholm to the serene landscapes of Gotland, Sweden offers a cinematic journey like no other. Whether you’re a film buff, a TV series enthusiast, a book lover, or simply a traveler in search of unique experiences, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Sweden’s cinematic landscape. So embark on a journey through Sweden’s famous films, TV shows, books, and discover the hidden gems that make this country a filmmaker’s dream. Trevlig resa! (Have a nice trip!)