Is Sweden Safe to Visit? A Safety Guide for Tourists

Sweden sits at the top of many travel wish lists for good reasons. With its clean cities, striking natural beauty, and rich Nordic culture, this Scandinavian nation draws visitors from around the world.

But if you’re an Indian tourist planning a trip, you might be wondering: Is Sweden safe to visit?

The short answer is yes, Sweden remains a generally safe destination for tourists. However, recent changes in the safety landscape mean visitors should stay informed and take sensible precautions.

Understanding the Current Safety Situation

Sweden has long been recognized as one of Europe’s safest countries. The Swedish legal system is robust, emergency services work efficiently, and social order is strong. Most tourists experience Sweden without any safety issues.

Compared to global cities, Sweden still ranks favourably on safety indexes. According to the Crime Index by Numbeo, Sweden scored moderately well relative to other cities on safety indexes:

Crime Index Score	Safety Scale Rating
48.04	51.96

In comparison, the USA has a crime index score of 49.2! These numbers show that whether Sweden is safe to visit remains a valid question with a generally positive answer. The country’s overall safety level compares well with other popular tourist destinations.

Suggested Read: Sweden Visa for Indians

Essential Safety Guidelines for Travelers in Sweden

To ensure your Swedish adventure goes smoothly, here are key safety tips for travelers in Sweden:

Respect Local Customs and Norms

Swedes generally value personal space, privacy, and politeness. Following these cultural norms will help you avoid uncomfortable situations:

• Keep your voice down in public places. Swedes appreciate quiet environments

• Respecting queues and waiting your turn is taken seriously

• Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home

• Arrive on time for appointments, punctuality matters in Swedish culture

• Ask permission before photographing people, especially children

• Dress appropriately for the weather and setting (smart casual works for most situations)

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Navigate Traffic and Transport Safely

Sweden has excellent public transportation that’s safe and reliable. Here are some safety tips for travelers in Sweden regarding transportation:

1. Choose licensed taxis like Taxi Stockholm or Sverigetaxi; trains, trams, and buses are safe and efficient.

2. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed only if your license is not in Latin script; otherwise, your local license is usually valid.

3. Drive on the right, always use seatbelts, and keep headlights on at all times.

4. Use providers like Hertz, Europcar, SIXT, or local favorite Mabi for reliable service.

5. Watch for cyclists; bike lanes are common, and cyclists have the right of way

6. If renting a car, be aware that winter driving requires special skills and winter tires

7. Public transport runs on time; check schedules in advance

For Indian tourists, it’s worth noting that an International Driving Permit is required if you plan to drive in Sweden.

The standards of road safety are high, with strict enforcement of speed limits and zero tolerance for drunk driving.

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Climate and Weather Precautions

Sweden’s climate varies dramatically by season and region. Proper preparation is essential:

• Weather can be unpredictable; layers are often the best choice, even in summer.

• Bring thermal wear, waterproof boots, and a heavy coat from November to March.

• Expect rain, especially in spring and fall; pack a light rain jacket or umbrella.

• In northern Sweden, the sun doesn’t set; bring a sleep mask if you’re sensitive to light.

• Coastal areas and open landscapes can feel colder than expected, so be sure to wear windproof clothing.

• Bring sunscreen and sunglasses, especially in open, snowy, or coastal areas.

• Conditions can change quickly; use local apps like SMHI for up-to-date weather info.

• Walk carefully and wear anti-slip shoe grips or boots with good traction.

Suggested Read: Winter in Sweden: Your Guide to Snowy Enchantment

Women’s Safety in Sweden

Women’s safety in Sweden is generally good. The country ranks highly on gender equality indices and has strong legal protections for women.

Most female travelers report feeling safe while exploring Sweden, even when alone.

• Stick to reputable taxi services or apps like Uber, Bolt, or Taxi Stockholm. Avoid unregistered vehicles.

• Walk in well-populated, well-lit streets at night; avoid parks or isolated paths after dark.

• Women’s shelters and support hotlines are available; Kvinnofridslinjen (020-50 50 50) is a 24/7 national helpline

• Cities like Stockholm, Malmö, and Gothenburg have active police patrols and public surveillance in key areas.

• Keep your phone charged, share your location with a trusted contact, and save your hotel’s details.

• Report any harassment or suspicious behavior to hotel staff or local authorities immediately.

Common Scams in Sweden

While Sweden isn’t known for widespread tourist scams, being aware of potential issues can save you trouble. Here are some common scams in Sweden to watch for:

1. Overpriced Taxis: Some unofficial taxis charge excessive rates. Always use licensed taxis with yellow number plates or ride-hailing apps.

2. Pickpocketing: This occurs mainly in crowded tourist areas, train stations, and public transport. Keep valuables secure and be alert in busy places.

3. ATM Skimming: Criminals may install devices on ATMs to steal card information. Use ATMs inside banks when possible and cover your PIN when entering it.

4. Fake Charity Collectors: People claiming to collect for charities may target tourists. Legitimate charity collectors have proper identification and never pressure for donations.

5. Ticket Scams: Be cautious when buying tickets for attractions or events from unofficial sources. Purchase from official websites or authorized vendors.

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Areas to Avoid in Sweden

While most of Sweden is safe for tourists, some areas warrant extra caution. Areas to avoid in Sweden or approach with increased awareness include:

Stockholm

• Rinkeby, Tensta, Husby (Northwest suburbs): Known for occasional gang-related violence and unrest.

• Fittja, Alby (South suburbs): Similar reputation; usually safe during the day, but avoid wandering alone at night.

Gothenburg

• Biskopsgården, Angered, Bergsjön: Higher rates of petty crime and occasional violent incidents.

• Frölunda Torg: Busy shopping area; generally fine, but be cautious of pickpockets.

Malmö

• Rosengård, Sorgenfri, Hermodsdal: Areas with a reputation for gang activity and social unrest.

• Möllevången: Trendy but can be rowdy late at night due to nightlife.

It’s important to note that tourist areas and city centers remain generally safe. The Swedish government has increased police presence in areas experiencing higher crime rates.

General Safety Tips

• These areas are not tourist hotspots, so there’s little reason to visit unless you have a specific reason.

• During the day, most are safe for passing through or public transport use, but avoid lingering after dark, especially alone.

• Pickpocketing is more common in crowded tourist areas like central train stations, Gamla Stan (Old Town) in Stockholm, and major festivals.

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Health and Hygiene in Sweden

Health and hygiene standards in Sweden are excellent. The country has world-class healthcare facilities and very high standards of public cleanliness.

Some key health information for visitors:

• Tap water is safe to drink throughout Sweden

• Food safety standards are stringent

• Pharmacies (Apotek) are widely available for minor health needs

• Public toilets are generally clean and accessible

For Indian tourists, it’s good to know that:

• No special vaccinations are required for visiting Sweden

• Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or travel insurance is essential for healthcare access

• Many Swedish healthcare professionals speak excellent English

• Some medications that are over-the-counter in India may require prescriptions in Sweden

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Emergency Numbers in Sweden

Knowing the emergency numbers in Sweden is crucial for any visitor. Keep these contacts handy throughout your trip:

• 112: Universal emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance

• 114 14: Non-emergency police number

• 1177: Healthcare advice line

• +46 8 762 3000: Indian Embassy in Stockholm

When calling emergency numbers in Sweden, be prepared to:

1. State your name

2. Explain the emergency clearly

3. Provide your location as precisely as possible

4. Answer any questions the operator asks

5. Follow their instructions

Indian tourists should note that emergency services in Sweden respond quickly, and operators typically speak excellent English.

How to Stay Safe in Sweden as a Tourist

How to stay safe in Sweden as a tourist comes down to staying informed and taking reasonable precautions:

• Register with the Indian Embassy upon arrival

• Keep copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance)

• Stay updated on local news and any travel advisories

• Secure your belongings, especially in crowded areas

• Use hotel safes for valuables

• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics

• Learn basic Swedish phrases for emergencies

For Indian tourists specifically, understanding cultural differences can help avoid misunderstandings.

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FAQs

1. Is Sweden safe to visit right now?

Yes, Sweden remains safe for tourists who take standard precautions. While gang violence has increased in certain areas, it rarely affects tourists or popular destinations.

2. What is the crime rate in Sweden?

The crime rate in Sweden is moderate by global standards, with a 2025 Numbeo Crime Index score of 48.0. Violent crime has increased in recent years, primarily due to gang-related activities in specific areas.

3. What are the health and hygiene standards in Sweden?

Health and hygiene standards in Sweden are excellent, with safe drinking water, high food safety, clean public facilities, and world-class healthcare services.

4. Is Sweden safe for solo travelers?

Yes, solo travel safety in Sweden is generally excellent. The country offers reliable transportation, good digital connectivity, and a helpful local population, making it suitable for independent travelers.

5. How safe is Sweden for women tourists?

Women’s safety in Sweden is generally good, with the country ranking highly on gender equality. Women can typically move about freely, though standard precautions should still be observed, especially at night.

6. What are the emergency numbers in Sweden?

The main emergency numbers in Sweden are 112 for police, fire, and ambulance emergencies, and 11414 for non-emergency police matters.

7. How can I stay safe while traveling in Sweden?

Is Sweden safe to visit? Staying safe in Sweden as a tourist means being aware of your surroundings, securing your belongings, avoiding isolated areas at night, using official transportation, and keeping emergency contacts accessible.

8. Which areas should I avoid in Sweden?

Areas to avoid in Sweden include certain suburbs of major cities with higher gang activity, isolated parks or poorly lit areas after dark, and transportation hubs late at night.