Southern Sweden Countryside Drive, 13 days

Self Drive tour
Visit the town of "Wallander"
Visit Stockholm
see "The bridge" in Malmö
This self-drive tour takes you through southern and central Sweden, combining quiet countryside, small towns, and a short city stay. You travel independently, staying in small and characterful hotels that fit the local surroundings.

The route starts in southern Sweden, passing coastal areas, forests, and rural landscapes. Along the way there is plenty of time for local food, short walks, and discovering lesser-known places at a relaxed pace.

Midway through the journey, you spend 3 days in Stockholm. This gives you time to explore the Swedish capital on your own, from historic districts and waterfront areas to cafés, museums, and neighbourhoods outside the main tourist routes.
After Stockholm, the journey continues south again. You travel towards Gränna, known for its lakeside setting and traditional wooden houses, before continuing to Helsingborg on the coast. These final stops add a small-town and seaside contrast before the tour comes to an end.
Day1 Welcome in Sweden, Malmö
  • Drive
  • Check-in
  • Malmö - standard double room
Day2 Malmö
  • Breakfast
  • Malmö - standard double room
  • City of Malmö
Day3 Smygehamn
  • Breakfast
  • Check-out
  • Drive
  • Check-in
  • Smygehus Havsbad in Smygehamn
Day4 Ystad - The city of "Wallander"
  • Breakfast
  • Check-out
  • Drive
  • Check-in
  • Gårdshotellet Ystad
Day5 Ystad
  • Breakfast
  • Gårdshotellet Ystad
Day6 Ystad
  • Breakfast
  • Gårdshotellet Ystad
Day7 Vaxjö
  • Breakfast
  • Check-out
  • Drive to Vaxjö
  • Check-in
  • Toftastrand Hotel
Day8 Vaxjö
  • Breakfast
  • Toftastrand Hotel
Day9 Stockholm
  • Breakfast
  • Check-out
  • Drive
  • Check-in
  • Stockholm - Standard double room
Day10 Stockholm
  • Breakfast
  • Swedish Capital - Stockholm
  • Stockholm - Standard double room
Day11 Gränna
  • Breakfast
  • Check-out
  • Drive
  • Check-in
  • Grännagården Hotell & Restaurang
Day12 Gränna
  • Breakfast
  • Drive
  • Options
    • Skullaryd Moose park - in the heart of Småland
  • Drive
  • Grännagården Hotell & Restaurang
Day13 Drive to Helsingborg
  • Breakfast
  • Check-out
  • Drive to Helsingborg and take ferry to Helsingør

Day1 Welcome in Sweden, Malmö

Drive

Check-in

Malmö - standard double room

8,4
1
double bed

In Malmö’s charming city center, by the lively square of Lilla Torg, you will find this elegant hotel. Here you stay right next to Stortorget and within walking distance of Malmö Central Station, as well as the city’s best shopping, restaurants, cultural attractions and nightlife. The central location on a vibrant square allows you to experience the energy and atmosphere of the city. If you arrive by car, parking is available in the hotel’s private garage.

All rooms are well equipped and feature beautiful details. Several rooms include exposed brick walls dating back to when the building was originally constructed and served as Malmö’s historic market hall.

Restaurant Quan is one of Malmö’s most popular dining spots, known for its lively atmosphere and outstanding Asian cuisine. The hotel is an excellent choice for a weekend stay or holiday. Guests can visit the hotel gym for a workout or enjoy a run in the nearby Kungsparken.

Day2 Malmö

Breakfast

Malmö - standard double room

8,4
1
double bed

In Malmö’s charming city center, by the lively square of Lilla Torg, you will find this elegant hotel. Here you stay right next to Stortorget and within walking distance of Malmö Central Station, as well as the city’s best shopping, restaurants, cultural attractions and nightlife. The central location on a vibrant square allows you to experience the energy and atmosphere of the city. If you arrive by car, parking is available in the hotel’s private garage.

All rooms are well equipped and feature beautiful details. Several rooms include exposed brick walls dating back to when the building was originally constructed and served as Malmö’s historic market hall.

Restaurant Quan is one of Malmö’s most popular dining spots, known for its lively atmosphere and outstanding Asian cuisine. The hotel is an excellent choice for a weekend stay or holiday. Guests can visit the hotel gym for a workout or enjoy a run in the nearby Kungsparken.

City of Malmö

Visit Malmö
Explore a destination where everything you desire is just 10 minutes away. Move seamlessly from shopping to vibrant nightlife or from serene parks to immersive cultural venues.

Shopping? Food? Experiences?
You'll find plenty of inspiration on TripAdvisor. Both visitors and Malmö residents share their best tips and reviews - perfect for discovering the city's many gems. Or why not take the opportunity to ask a Malmö local for personalized tips?

Day3 Smygehamn

Breakfast

Check-out

Drive

Check-in

Smygehus Havsbad in Smygehamn

8
1
double
Beachfront Location: Smygehus Havsbad in Smygehamn offers direct beachfront access with stunning sea views. Guests can relax on the sun terrace or enjoy the seasonal outdoor swimming pool. Wellness and Leisure: The hotel features a spa and wellness centre, sauna, fitness centre, tennis court, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include a kids' pool, outdoor seating area, and bike hire. Dining Experience: A family-friendly restaurant serves local and international cuisines with vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Breakfast includes juice, pancakes, cheese, and fruits. Nearby Attractions: Located 25 km from Malmo Airport, the hotel is close to Ystad Zoo (31 km) and Malmö Central Station (48 km). Guests can enjoy cycling and visit nearby attractions.

Day4 Ystad - The city of "Wallander"

Breakfast

Check-out

Drive

Check-in

Gårdshotellet Ystad

Comfortable Accommodation:
Gårdshotellet in Ystad offers family rooms with private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and terraces. Each room includes a seating area, dining table, and modern amenities.
Outdoor Spaces:
Guests can relax on the sun terrace or in the garden, enjoying the outdoor seating and picnic areas. The property features a lounge, barbecue facilities, and free on-site private parking.
Convenient Services:
Private check-in and check-out, express services, and luggage storage ensure a smooth stay. Additional amenities include an electric vehicle charging station, outdoor dining area, and free WiFi throughout the property.
Local Attractions:
ocated 37 km from Malmo Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as Ystad Zoo (9 km) and Kåseberga (23 km). Guests appreciate the breakfast provided by the property and the attentive staff.

Day5 Ystad

Breakfast

Gårdshotellet Ystad

Comfortable Accommodation:
Gårdshotellet in Ystad offers family rooms with private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and terraces. Each room includes a seating area, dining table, and modern amenities.
Outdoor Spaces:
Guests can relax on the sun terrace or in the garden, enjoying the outdoor seating and picnic areas. The property features a lounge, barbecue facilities, and free on-site private parking.
Convenient Services:
Private check-in and check-out, express services, and luggage storage ensure a smooth stay. Additional amenities include an electric vehicle charging station, outdoor dining area, and free WiFi throughout the property.
Local Attractions:
ocated 37 km from Malmo Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as Ystad Zoo (9 km) and Kåseberga (23 km). Guests appreciate the breakfast provided by the property and the attentive staff.

Day6 Ystad

Breakfast

Gårdshotellet Ystad

Comfortable Accommodation:
Gårdshotellet in Ystad offers family rooms with private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and terraces. Each room includes a seating area, dining table, and modern amenities.
Outdoor Spaces:
Guests can relax on the sun terrace or in the garden, enjoying the outdoor seating and picnic areas. The property features a lounge, barbecue facilities, and free on-site private parking.
Convenient Services:
Private check-in and check-out, express services, and luggage storage ensure a smooth stay. Additional amenities include an electric vehicle charging station, outdoor dining area, and free WiFi throughout the property.
Local Attractions:
ocated 37 km from Malmo Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as Ystad Zoo (9 km) and Kåseberga (23 km). Guests appreciate the breakfast provided by the property and the attentive staff.

Day7 Vaxjö

Breakfast

Check-out

Drive to Vaxjö

Check-in

Toftastrand Hotel

With a peaceful location on the shores of Lake Tofta, this hotel features its own bakery, a garden terrace and free Wi-Fi. The city of Växjö is 4 km away. Toftastrand Hotell’s individually designed rooms include a tea/coffee maker, TV and seating area. Some also have a balcony with lake views. Staff can help arrange outdoor activities such as canoeing and fishing excursions on the lake. The famous Swedish Glassworks, Kosta Boda and Orrefors, are both about 45 minutes’ drive from Hotell Toftastrand. In addition, the Småland Museum and its glass collection are only 6 km away.

Day8 Vaxjö

Breakfast

Toftastrand Hotel

With a peaceful location on the shores of Lake Tofta, this hotel features its own bakery, a garden terrace and free Wi-Fi. The city of Växjö is 4 km away. Toftastrand Hotell’s individually designed rooms include a tea/coffee maker, TV and seating area. Some also have a balcony with lake views. Staff can help arrange outdoor activities such as canoeing and fishing excursions on the lake. The famous Swedish Glassworks, Kosta Boda and Orrefors, are both about 45 minutes’ drive from Hotell Toftastrand. In addition, the Småland Museum and its glass collection are only 6 km away.

Day9 Stockholm

Breakfast

Check-out

Drive

Check-in

Stockholm - Standard double room

8-8
1

Feel at home every time you arrive. Inspired by Nordic coastal living, this waterfront hotel has been redesigned to create a modern and relaxed atmosphere, with all rooms fully renovated in 2024. The interior reflects the calm character of the surrounding sea and nature.

Rooms feature light wooden floors and natural tones, creating a bright and peaceful space. Bathrooms include either a shower or a bathtub. Many rooms also offer a balcony or terrace with views of the sea or the quiet garden.

Guests can take part in regular wellness activities such as breathwork, yoga and sound healing. A nearby gym is also available free of charge. The beautiful Nyckelviken nature reserve is just a 15-minute walk away.

The property is located on the waterfront, about 35 minutes by boat from Stockholm Nybroplan. During summer you can enjoy dining by the water, a sunny terrace and wide views of the Baltic Sea. The restaurant focuses on fish and seafood, and the lounge offers a fireplace and a late-night bar for a relaxed evening.

Nacka Strand ferry terminal is 500 meters away, with boats to central Stockholm departing every 30 minutes between May and August. The Nacka Strand bus stop is also just 400 meters from the hotel.

Day10 Stockholm

Breakfast

Swedish Capital - Stockholm

Stockholm captivates with its stunning blend of history and modernity. The iconic City Hall, with its golden spire, offers breathtaking views over the city's waterways and is home to the prestigious Nobel Prize banquet. In the heart of the Old Town, Gamla Stan, visitors can wander through charming cobbled streets, discovering colorful buildings, historic churches, and the grand Royal Palace. The striking Vasa Museum showcases a perfectly preserved 17th-century warship, while the innovative ABBA Museum celebrates Sweden’s legendary pop music. Nestled across 14 islands, Stockholm's beauty is amplified by its scenic bridges and tranquil waterfront promenades.

Stockholm - Standard double room

8-8
1

Feel at home every time you arrive. Inspired by Nordic coastal living, this waterfront hotel has been redesigned to create a modern and relaxed atmosphere, with all rooms fully renovated in 2024. The interior reflects the calm character of the surrounding sea and nature.

Rooms feature light wooden floors and natural tones, creating a bright and peaceful space. Bathrooms include either a shower or a bathtub. Many rooms also offer a balcony or terrace with views of the sea or the quiet garden.

Guests can take part in regular wellness activities such as breathwork, yoga and sound healing. A nearby gym is also available free of charge. The beautiful Nyckelviken nature reserve is just a 15-minute walk away.

The property is located on the waterfront, about 35 minutes by boat from Stockholm Nybroplan. During summer you can enjoy dining by the water, a sunny terrace and wide views of the Baltic Sea. The restaurant focuses on fish and seafood, and the lounge offers a fireplace and a late-night bar for a relaxed evening.

Nacka Strand ferry terminal is 500 meters away, with boats to central Stockholm departing every 30 minutes between May and August. The Nacka Strand bus stop is also just 400 meters from the hotel.

Day11 Gränna

Breakfast

Check-out

Drive

Check-in

Grännagården Hotell & Restaurang

8,8
1
Twin
This family owned hotel is 150 metres from Gränna’s main street, Brahegatan. It offers a restaurant and rooms with a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi. There is on-site parking. All feature a seating area and a bathroom with shower. Some rooms have lake views. The in-house restaurant serves traditional Swedish cuisine. Other facilities include a garden and table tennis. Hotel and restaurant Grännagården Hotell och Restaurang is 10 minutes’ walk from a sandy beach on Lake Vättern. Buses for Jönköping stop 300 metres away. The surrounding streets have shops and restaurants.

Day12 Gränna

Breakfast

Drive

Options

Skullaryd Moose park - in the heart of Småland

Come close to a moose - the King of the forest
.
Experience an interesting and exciting safari. Get on the carriage and experience the animals in their natural environment.
The Moose Park is unique with the large number of deer that you can experience from our safari carriage.
When we feed our moose and deer, you have the opportunity to meet the wonderful animals up close.
How young or old you are - journey through the Moose kingdom you will not easily forget.

At the entrance to the Moose Park is our Café with store. We serve cakes and sandwiches.
Combine your safari through the Moose park with a good cup of coffee with cakes or sandwiches in a beautiful environment.

Practical information
In the Moose park, there are a number of signs with information about the different animals. The signs are in Swedish, English and German.

Dogs
Visitors are not allowed to bring dogs into the Moose park

Drive

Grännagården Hotell & Restaurang

8,8
1
Twin
This family owned hotel is 150 metres from Gränna’s main street, Brahegatan. It offers a restaurant and rooms with a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi. There is on-site parking. All feature a seating area and a bathroom with shower. Some rooms have lake views. The in-house restaurant serves traditional Swedish cuisine. Other facilities include a garden and table tennis. Hotel and restaurant Grännagården Hotell och Restaurang is 10 minutes’ walk from a sandy beach on Lake Vättern. Buses for Jönköping stop 300 metres away. The surrounding streets have shops and restaurants.

Day13 Drive to Helsingborg

Breakfast

Check-out

Drive to Helsingborg and take ferry to Helsingør

I Need Sweden Travel AB

I Need Sweden is a full-service Destination Management Company working with tour operators, travel designers and organizations worldwide.
We design and operate self-drive tours across Southern and Central Sweden, using carefully selected small-scale countryside hotels, local hosts and trusted regional partners. Our strength lies in personal service, local knowledge and strong relationships on the ground.
From quiet forest landscapes and lakeside villages to vibrant Stockholm, we connect regions into one coherent travel experience.

Your DMC company for self-drive tours in Sweden





Åsbro, Sweden
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