Warnings and Dangers in Sweden: Is Sweden Safe?
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Why Does Sweden Have an Elevated Travel Warning?
- Remaining aware of your surroundings in crowded public venues and popular tourist locations
- Following the instructions of local authorities
- Staying informed with local media
- Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before your trip
- Preparing an emergency plan
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Pickpockets
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Taxi Scams
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Health & Safety
Planning a trip to Sweden this year? You’re in good company. In 2024, the country welcomed a record number of visitors from the U.S., totaling over 1.3 million overnight stays. Travelers flock to this Scandinavian country for its hip cities and stunning scenery.
Although the country is relatively safe, the U.S. State Department currently has a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution warning level for Sweden. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
The State Department recommends exercising increased caution in Sweden due to terrorism, stating, “Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Sweden. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.”
When traveling to Sweden, the State Department advises following basic safety precautions, such as:
As with most major cities, pickpocketing can be an issue in Sweden’s urban areas. Popular spots like Gothenburg’s Östra Nordstan shopping center, Stockholm’s Old Town, and crowded public transit are frequent targets. To stay safe, keep a close eye on your belongings and secure them at all times.
Sweden is a notoriously expensive country, and unfortunately, taxis are a very pricey way to get around. You could wind up paying even more than you expected, however, if you fall victim to a taxi scam. Some taxi drivers will take a longer route than necessary or tell tourists that the meter is in euros (rather than Swedish krona).
Taxis must have a sticker on the passenger side window that clearly shows an average price. Check this before agreeing to a ride to make sure you’re getting a fare rate. It’s best to stick to the major taxi companies in Sweden, which are less likely to overcharge you.
If you want to take the guesswork out of your fare, Uber is available in Sweden. However, it can often be more expensive than a taxi. Sweden has an extensive public transit network that’s usually the fastest and most affordable way to travel.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all travelers to Sweden be up-to-date on all routine vaccinations. Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) is also a danger in Sweden. TBE is “highly endemic” in regions around Stockholm, including the Stockholm Archipelago, Malaren Lake, Uppsala, and Sodermanland. If you’re planning outdoor activities in warm weather in these regions, wear protective clothing and use insect repellent. Check yourself thoroughly for ticks at the end of each day.