In Sweden, you can take the metro primarily in Stockholm. The Stockholm Metro, or "Tunnelbana," is the main metro system in the country. It has three main lines—Green, Red, and Blue—that cover extensive parts of the city and surrounding areas. Key stations include T-Centralen (Central Station), Slussen, and Gamla Stan, among others. The metro is known for its art, with many stations featuring unique and beautiful designs.
Yes, you can drink alcohol in Sweden, but there are specific regulations to be aware of:
1. Age Restrictions: The legal drinking age is 18 in bars and restaurants. However, to purchase
alcohol in Systembolaget (the government-owned liquor store), you must be 20 years old.
2. Systembolaget: Alcohol with an alcohol content higher than 3.5% can only be purchased from
Systembolaget, which has limited opening hours and is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
3. Bars and Restaurants: You can purchase and consume alcohol in licensed bars, pubs, and
restaurants.
4. Public Consumption: Drinking alcohol in public places is generally discouraged and may be
regulated by local laws, especially in city centers and parks.
5. Driving: Sweden has strict laws regarding drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol limit is
0.02%, which is lower than in many other countries.
Yes, public displays of affection (PDA) are generally allowed and accepted in Sweden. Swedish society tends to be open-minded and tolerant regarding expressions of affection in public, such as holding hands, hugging, and kissing. However, as with anywhere, it's important to be mindful of the context and setting. Moderate displays of affection are usually fine, but overly intimate behaviors may be considered inappropriate, especially in more formal or family-oriented environments.
In Sweden, the coldest period typically spans from late November to early March, which encompasses
the winter season. Here's a breakdown of the general weather conditions during these months:
1. November: Temperatures start to drop significantly, especially in the northern parts of the
country. Southern regions, including Stockholm and Gothenburg, may still experience milder weather.
2. December: Winter is in full swing by December, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to
-7°C (30°F to 19°F) in southern and central Sweden. Northern Sweden, including cities like Kiruna,
can experience much colder temperatures, often dropping below -20°C (-4°F).
3. January: This is typically the coldest month of the year, with temperatures often staying below
freezing throughout the country. Northern regions can see extreme cold, sometimes below -30°C
(-22°F).
4.February: The cold continues, though days gradually start getting longer. Temperatures in the
south may begin to rise slightly, but the north remains very cold.
5. March: Early March can still be quite cold, especially in the north. However, by the end of the
month, signs of spring start to appear in southern and central Sweden, with temperatures slowly
beginning to climb.
It's important to note that weather can vary significantly depending on the specific region and
year.
Yes, there are several activities and items that are prohibited or strictly regulated in Sweden. Some
of these include:
1. Drugs: The use, possession, and distribution of narcotics are illegal. This includes cannabis,
even for medical use.
2. Alcohol: There are strict regulations on the sale and consumption of alcohol. Alcohol with an
alcohol content higher than 3.5% can only be purchased at Systembolaget, the state-owned liquor
store. Drinking in public places can also be regulated by local laws.
3. Smoking: Smoking is banned in many public places, including restaurants, bars, playgrounds, and
public transport areas. This ban also extends to e-cigarettes.
4. Weapons: The possession of firearms and other weapons is heavily regulated. You need a license to
own a firearm, and carrying knives or other weapons in public places is generally prohibited.
5. Prostitution: It is illegal to buy sexual services in Sweden, but selling sexual services is not
criminalized. This approach aims to reduce the demand for prostitution and protect individuals
involved in the sex trade.
6. Discrimination: Discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation,
disability, and other protected characteristics is illegal. Hate speech and hate crimes are also
prohibited.
7. Animal Welfare: Sweden has strict animal welfare laws. For example, it's illegal to keep certain
pets, such as ferrets, without a permit, and there are regulations concerning the treatment and care
of all animals.
8. Public Nudity: While nudity is generally accepted in designated areas such as beaches and saunas,
public nudity in other areas can lead to legal consequences.
These regulations help maintain public order and safety and reflect Sweden's values regarding
health, equality, and animal welfare.
The official language of Sweden is Swedish. It is spoken by the vast majority of the population and
is used in all official government and legal matters. Additionally, Swedish is the primary language
of instruction in schools and is widely used in media and business.
Apart from Swedish, there are also five recognized minority languages in Sweden:
1.Finnish
2.Meänkieli (Tornedalian Finnish)
3.Sami (various dialects)
4.Romani
5.Yiddish
These languages are protected under the Swedish Minority Language Act, which aims to preserve and
promote them.
Booking cabs in Sweden is straightforward and can be done through several methods:
1.Taxi Apps: Several popular taxi apps operate in Sweden, allowing you to book a ride quickly and
easily. These include:
Uber: Available in major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö.
Bolt: Another popular ride-hailing app.
TaxiKurir: A well-known Swedish taxi company with its own app.
Sverigetaxi: Another major taxi service with an app.
2. Phone Call: You can call a taxi company directly to book a ride. Major companies include:
Taxi Stockholm: +46 8 15 00 00
Taxi Göteborg: +46 31 65 00 00
Taxi Malmö: +46 40 97 97 97
3. Online Booking: Many taxi companies offer online booking through their websites. You can
visit the websites of major taxi companies and fill in the details to book a ride.
4. Taxi Stands: In larger cities, you can find taxi stands at major locations such as train
stations, airports, and busy city centers where you can get a taxi without prior booking.
5.Hotel Concierge: If you are staying at a hotel, the concierge can help you book a taxi.
When booking a taxi in Sweden, it's a good idea to use licensed taxi services to ensure safety and
reliability. Licensed taxis will display yellow number plates and have meters that show the fare.
There is no formal dress code for men and women in Sweden, and the dress style is generally casual
and practical, reflecting the country's emphasis on comfort and functionality. However, there are
some general guidelines and cultural norms regarding dress:
1. Casual and Practical: Swedes typically dress in casual, comfortable, and practical clothing.
Jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, and jackets are common.
2. Weather-Appropriate: Given Sweden's climate, layering is common. Warm clothing such as coats,
scarves, gloves, and boots are essential in winter, while lighter, breathable fabrics are worn in
summer.
3. Business Casual: Many workplaces adopt a business casual dress code. Men might wear chinos or
dress pants with a shirt or sweater, while women might wear dresses, skirts, or trousers with
blouses or sweaters.
4. Formal Business: In more formal business settings, suits and ties for men and professional
dresses or suits for women are standard.
5. Smart Casual: For social gatherings or dining out, smart casual attire is appropriate. This can
include a nice shirt and trousers for men and a dress or stylish top and pants for women.
6. Formal Events: For formal events such as weddings, galas, or theatre outings, more formal attire
like suits, ties, and evening dresses are expected.
7.Religious or Cultural Sites: When visiting religious or cultural sites, dressing modestly and
respectfully is recommended.
Overall, the key is to dress appropriately for the occasion and weather while maintaining comfort
and practicality.
If you find yourself in trouble in Sweden, here are the steps you should take:
1. Call 112: This is the emergency number in Sweden for immediate assistance from police, fire
department, or medical services. Operators can speak English.
2. Police Stations: For non-emergency situations, you can visit a local police station. The Swedish
Police website provides information on locations and contact details.
3. Healthcare: If you need medical help, you can go to the nearest hospital or clinic. For
non-urgent medical advice, you can call 1177, a healthcare advice line available 24/7. Operators
speak English and can guide you to the nearest medical facility.
4. Contact Your Embassy or Consulate: If you are a foreign national, your embassy or consulate can
provide assistance. They can help with lost passports, legal issues, or connecting you with local
services.
5. Legal Aid: If you need legal assistance, you can contact a lawyer. The Swedish Bar Association's
website can help you find a lawyer. For advice on your rights, you can also contact legal aid
organizations.
6. Report Lost or Stolen Items: If your belongings are lost or stolen, report it to the local
police. This is important for insurance claims and can help in recovering your items.
7. Social Services: For issues such as homelessness or needing support, you can contact social
services. The local municipality's website will have contact information for social services.
8. Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider: If you have travel insurance, contact your provider for
assistance with medical emergencies, theft, or other issues covered by your policy.
9.Stay Calm and Safe: In any situation, try to stay calm and assess your surroundings. If you feel
unsafe, move to a public place or seek help from locals or authorities.
Remember, Sweden is generally a safe country with efficient and responsive emergency services, so
don’t hesitate to seek help if needed.
If you need immediate medical assistance in Sweden, follow these steps:
1. Call 112: This is the emergency number in Sweden for police, fire, and medical emergencies.
Operators can speak English, so clearly describe the situation and your location.
2. Provide Details: When calling 112, provide the following information:
Your location (street address, landmarks if possible).
Nature of the medical emergency (e.g., injury, illness).
Number of people needing assistance and their condition.
Any specific details that can help responders (allergies, existing medical conditions).
3. Follow Instructions: Stay on the line and follow any instructions given by the emergency
operator. They may provide first aid advice while help is on the way .
4. Wait for Help: Emergency services in Sweden are generally prompt and efficient. Help will arrive
as quickly as possible.
5. Contact Your Accommodation: If you're staying at a hotel or accommodation, notify the staff about
the situation. They may be able to assist with communication or provide additional support.
6. Stay Calm and Comfortable: If you're with someone who needs medical assistance, reassure them and
keep them comfortable until help arrives.
7. Hospital Care: Once emergency services arrive, they will transport you to the nearest hospital or
appropriate medical facility for further treatment.
Remember, Sweden has a high standard of medical care, and emergency services are well-equipped to
handle various situations. If you have travel insurance, contact your provider as soon as possible
to inform them of the situation and seek guidance on coverage and assistance.
If you get cheated or robbed in Sweden, here are the steps you should take:
1. Ensure Your Safety: If you feel threatened or unsafe, move to a public place or seek help from
bystanders.
2. Contact Police: Report the incident to the police as soon as possible. You can do this by calling
the emergency number 112 for immediate assistance or visiting the nearest police station for
non-emergencies.
3. Provide Details: When reporting to the police, provide as much detail as possible about the
incident:
Describe what happened, including the time and location of the incident.
Describe the perpetrator(s) if possible (appearance, clothing, any distinguishing features).
Provide information about any stolen items or valuables.
4. Get a Police Report: The police will document the incident and provide you with a police report
(anmälan). This report is important for insurance claims or any legal proceedings.
5. Cancel Stolen Cards: If your credit cards, debit cards, or other important documents (like your
passport) were stolen, contact your bank and relevant authorities to report and cancel them
immediately.
6. Notify Your Embassy or Consulate: If you're a foreign national, contact your embassy or
consulate. They can provide assistance, including issuing emergency travel documents if necessary
and offering guidance on legal matters.
7. Document Everything: Keep a record of all communication with authorities, banks, and your
embassy. This includes names of officers, case numbers, and any receipts or documentation related to
the incident.
8.Seek Support: If you need emotional support or further assistance, consider contacting local
support services or organizations that can provide guidance and help.
9. Follow Up: Stay in touch with the police and other relevant authorities regarding the progress of
your case. This may involve providing additional information or attending interviews.
Sweden generally has low crime rates, but incidents can happen. Authorities are generally responsive
and helpful, so don't hesitate to seek their assistance. It's also advisable to have travel
insurance that covers theft and other emergencies when traveling abroad.
To connect with the Indian embassy or consulate in Sweden, you can use the following contact
information:
1. Embassy of India in Stockholm, Sweden
2. Consulate General of India in Gothenburg, Sweden:
3.Emergency Contact: For emergencies involving Indian nationals (such as accidents, arrests, or other
urgent matters outside office hours), you can contact the Embassy's emergency helpline at +46 707
499 866.
4.Working Hours: Embassy and Consulate working hours are typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30
PM. It's advisable to check their websites or call ahead to confirm opening hours and appointment
requirements, especially for specific services like visa applications.
The term "Sweden Pass" typically refers to a rail pass that allows travelers to explore Sweden by
train. There are different types of rail passes available for tourists visiting Sweden, each
offering various benefits and options for travel:
1.Eurail Pass: This is a popular option for non-European residents who want to travel extensively by
train across multiple European countries, including Sweden. The Eurail Pass allows for flexible
travel within a set number of days within a certain period.
2.InterRail Pass: This pass is available for European residents and offers similar benefits to the
Eurail Pass but is specifically for travel within European countries. It provides flexible travel
options for a set number of days within a month.
3.Swedish Rail Passes: These are specific passes designed for travel within Sweden. They may offer
unlimited travel on specific days or within a set period on Sweden's national railway network, SJ
(Statens Järnvägar).
4.Purchasing a Rail Pass:Rail passes can typically be purchased online through official websites
like Eurail, InterRail, or directly from the Swedish railway company SJ. It's important to check the
terms and conditions, coverage, and validity of the pass before purchasing to ensure it meets your
travel needs.
Overall, a Sweden Pass, whether part of a Eurail, InterRail, or specific
Swedish rail pass, provides a convenient and efficient way to explore the country's diverse
landscapes and cities by train.
To stay safe on the roads and understand driving rules in Sweden, follow these guidelines:
1. Drive on the Right: In Sweden, as in most of Europe, you drive on the right-hand side of the
road.
2. Speed Limits: Standard speed limits are:
50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas.
70-90 km/h (43-56 mph) on rural roads.
110-120 km/h (68-75 mph) on highways (motorways)
3. Seat Belts: Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants of a vehicle.
4. Alcohol Limits: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02%, which is stricter than in many other
countries. It's safest to avoid alcohol entirely if driving.
5. Mobile Phones: Using handheld mobile phones while driving is prohibited. Use of hands-free
devices is allowed.
6. Winter Tires: Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 31 if road conditions require
them (i.e., when there is ice, snow, or slush).
7. Headlights: Headlights must be used at all times, even during daylight hours.
8.Traffic Signs: Pay attention to traffic signs and signals, which are used extensively in Sweden to
regulate traffic.
9. Adapt to Weather Conditions: Sweden experiences varying weather conditions, including snow and
ice in winter. Adjust your driving style and speed accordingly.
10.Emergency Vehicles: When emergency vehicles (police, fire, ambulance) approach with lights and
sirens, move to the side and give them right of way.
11. Emergency Services: In case of accidents or breakdowns, call 112 for emergency assistance.
By adhering to these rules and safety tips, you can enjoy a safe and pleasant driving experience in
Sweden while exploring its beautiful landscapes and cities.
To stay safe in the seas around Sweden, whether you're boating, swimming, or participating in water
activities, here are some essential tips:
1. Know Your Limits: Only swim or engage in water activities if you are a confident swimmer and know
your limitations. Avoid going too far from shore if you're not a strong swimmer.
2. Swim in Designated Areas: Use beaches and swimming areas that are designated for swimming and
supervised by lifeguards. These areas typically have safety measures in place and are regularly
monitored.
3. Obey Warning Signs: Pay attention to warning signs, flags, and announcements indicating water
conditions, currents, and any hazards. Follow lifeguard instructions and warnings to ensure your
safety.
4. Buddy System: Whenever possible, swim or participate in water activities with a buddy. Having
someone with you can provide assistance in case of an emergency.
5. Wear Life Jackets: If you're participating in water sports such as jet skiing, kayaking, or
paddleboarding, wear a properly fitted life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) at all times,
especially if you're not a strong swimmer.
6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially when spending time in the sun
and engaging in physical activities in the water.
7. Protect Yourself from the Sun: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF rating and reapply it regularly,
especially if you're spending extended periods in the water. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and protective
clothing to shield yourself from the sun's harmful rays.
8. Stay Informed: Be aware of weather conditions and forecasts before heading out to the sea. Avoid
going into the water during inclement weather, rough seas, or high winds.
9. Boating Safety: If you're boating, ensure that the vessel is equipped with necessary safety
equipment such as life jackets, a first aid kit, navigation lights, and a radio or communication
device. Follow boating regulations and guidelines, and designate a responsible person to operate the
boat.
10. Learn Basic Water Safety Skills: Familiarize yourself with basic water safety skills such as
treading water, floating, and performing simple rescues. Knowing these skills can be invaluable in
an emergency situation.
11. Emergency Preparedness: In case of an emergency, know how to call for help and be prepared to
provide your location and details of the situation to emergency responders.
By following these safety tips and being aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy a safe and
enjoyable experience in the waters around Sweden.