Forget crowded capitals and overbooked restaurants. One of the biggest travel trends of 2026 is "townsizing"—choosing smaller destinations over big cities in search of authentic experiences, local flavours and a slower pace of travel. Sweden is perfectly suited to the trend. From medieval streets and seaside saunas to artisan bakeries and contemporary art, its smaller cities offer plenty of character without the crowds. Here are five destinations worth adding to your itinerary.
Historic yet youthful, Lund combines cobbled streets, one of Scandinavia's oldest universities and a thriving café culture. Spend the day exploring the impressive cathedral before settling into one of the city's celebrated bakeries—Broder Jakobs, Mannz Bageri or Ostabengtson—for what many locals consider Sweden's finest cinnamon buns.
On Sweden's west coast, Varberg is famous for its historic seaside bathhouse, where a sauna session is traditionally followed by a refreshing plunge into the Kattegat Sea. Add a medieval fortress, excellent seafood and one of Sweden's best surfing beaches, and you have an ideal coastal escape.
History feels wonderfully alive in Gamla Linköping, a charming district of colourful wooden houses, artisan workshops and cobbled lanes. Just outside the city, the Göta Canal's famous Berg Locks provide one of Sweden's most picturesque summer scenes, as boats slowly navigate the historic waterway.
Home to Scandinavia's oldest university, Uppsala effortlessly blends history with contemporary culture. Visit the ancient royal burial mounds of Gamla Uppsala, stroll through the botanical gardens created by Carl Linnaeus and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere along the Fyris River.
Just south of the Arctic Circle, Umeå has become one of Sweden's most exciting cultural destinations. The city's acclaimed Bildmuseet showcases contemporary art with free admission, while its lively food and design scene proves that creativity flourishes far beyond the country's biggest cities.
Whether you're looking for exceptional bakeries, Nordic wellness, Viking history or contemporary art, Sweden's smaller cities prove that sometimes the most memorable journeys begin away from the crowds. Townsizing isn't simply about choosing a smaller destination—it's about travelling at a slower, more rewarding pace.
