Buzz
If you're planning to visit Sweden for its breathtaking nature and rich ancient culture, these 6 destinations are absolute must-visit spots.
1. Kalmar Castle
Kalmar Castle was constructed from a watchtower in 1180 to protect the mainland from pirates. Later, it evolved into a fortress under King Magnus Ladulas and was considered the most modern in Sweden at the time. It also witnessed the signing of a common treaty and foreign policy agreements between Sweden, Denmark, and Norway in 1937.
Now, this charming and majestic castle stands as an icon in the picturesque seaside city of Kalmar. Visiting here, you'll feel like you're turning back time as you sit on the royal throne and experience life in a Western royal style.
2. Visby Old Town
Recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage, Visby features a typical medieval urban structure with a grand cathedral at its center, a trading system, residential houses, grain warehouses, and a robust 3.4 km long limestone city wall.
The Northern, Eastern, and Southern gates all lead from the cliff down to the harbor, giving Visby's landscape its distinctive character. It's the cobblestone and pebble-paved streets, unexpectedly wide or narrow, that truly define the beauty of Visby. The best way to explore Visby's charm is to indulge in excellent cuisine at the historic restaurants, wine bars, and cafes scattered along the cobblestone streets, square-shaped stones, or by riding horseback and horse-drawn carriage for a few miles.
3. Drottningholm Royal Palace
Built in the 17th century following the design by architect Nicodemus Tessin, Drottningholm Palace has been the residence of the Swedish royalty since 1981 and is one of the three World Heritage Sites in Stockholm. The palace includes the royal reception halls, a church, a theater, and an extensive garden. Drottningholm Palace is truly a monumental architectural ensemble, blending various architectural styles and luxurious interiors from different eras, making it a remarkable historical landmark of Sweden.
4. Gamla Stan Old Town
Gamla Stan is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval districts in Europe, simultaneously being one of Stockholm's most attractive landmarks. This is where Stockholm was officially founded in 1252.
Gamla Stan and Riddarholmen Island are likened to a living museum for pedestrians, offering countless captivating attractions, restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Gamla Stan is especially appealing to those passionate about craftsmanship, antiques, and souvenirs.
The winding narrow streets and the ancient houses painted in various shades of yellow are the distinct features of Gamla Stan's old town. Medieval frescoes can be seen on the main facades of these houses, and on snowy winter days, the entire district looks like a picturesque painting.
5. Stockholm Archipelago
Stockholm, the second-largest archipelago in the Baltic Sea, consists of 14 islands connected by 50 bridges on Lake Malaren, with nearly 30,000 large and small islands. Visiting Stockholm, you'll undoubtedly enjoy wandering through the maze of narrow alleys in Gamla Stan.
Nestled amid the cobblestone streets are stone buildings from the 17th-18th centuries. These brightly painted pastel houses are almost perfectly preserved. The blue sea views amidst narrow apartment blocks make visitors frequently pause to capture a photo while strolling through Gamla Stan.
6. Lund Cathedral
In the heart of the city, a grand cathedral, erected since 1103, stands as an emblem of Lund's enduring legacy and serves as a gathering point for the city's residents. The timeless beauty and subtle elegance of this over a millennium-old church have bestowed a distinctive charm upon the local architecture. Lund exudes a mysterious, majestic atmosphere with its ancient architectural marvels and the serene tranquility of lush greenery. The combination paints Lund as a city filled with dazzling colors reminiscent of a fairy-tale world.
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Source: Mytour Travel Guide – As reported by Vnexpress
MytourNovember 11, 2013
