Sweden is a beautiful country located in Northern Europe. With its long coastline, majestic mountains and picturesque lakes, it’s no wonder that Sweden is a popular tourist destination. But there’s more to Sweden than just its stunning scenery. Sweden is also known for its progressive social policies, including its generous parental leave laws and its commitment to gender equality. If you’re thinking of visiting Sweden, or if you’re just curious about this fascinating country, read on to learn more about what makes Sweden unique.

If you’re planning a trip to Sweden, there are a few things you should know before you go.

Listed below are ten amazing Sweden facts you should know before visiting.

Number 10. The first country in the world to ban smacking

Since 1979, it is illegal to smack your children, making us the first country in the world to prohibit flogging. A total of 35 countries around the world followed suit after this.

Number 9. Sweden has more than 50 percent forest cover

It is estimated that 57% of Sweden is forested. It is approximately 23 million hectares, which is the size of the United Kingdom. Swedish Forestry Act regulates both the production and environmental aspects of forest management. Replanting forest after felling is one of the obligations under the Act.

Number 8. Sweden had a pirate King!

Scandinavia‘s political history is fascinating to read, especially the machinations of the Kalmar Union, but one King stands out as more bizarre than most. On the death of his grandaunt, Margaret I, Eric of Pomerania became Eric XIII of Sweden. It was not the best of times for Eric as king. A war Margaret had been winning was inherited by him, and he lost it spectacularly, losing large parts of his kingdom.

Number 7. Sweden is very good at recycling

Scandinavian countries recycle 99% of their locally produced waste. The country imports garbage from other countries as well, such as Norway. Sweden has one of the highest standards for waste recycling in the world.

Number 6. Sweden is the 6th oldest country in Europe

The Swedish nation has a 1,000-year history, making it one of the oldest sovereign nations in the world. Founded by Eric the Victorious in 970 AD, this Scandinavian country is also the eighth-oldest kingdom on earth. Constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy have existed in the country since 1917.

Number 5. Home to the world’s largest scale model of the Solar System

The world’s largest scale model of the solar system is located in Sweden, a global pioneer in astronomy. At 950km away in Kiruna, where the concept of Termination Shock – the end of the solar system – is marked, the Ericsson Dome represents the sun and the model represents the world’s largest hemispherical building.

Number 4. The Swedish passport is one of the best passports in the world

Another interesting fact about Sweden is that our passport allows us to enter 124 countries without a visa. In addition, visa for another 33 countries can be obtained upon arrival.

Number 3. The famous midnight sun

The Midnight Sun occurs during the summer months. It means you can see the sun even at midnight. Experiencing the Midnight Sun in Sweden could be a wonderful experience for a few days. However, people living in the Arctic Circle who experience it every year may also find it irksome.

Number 2. The highest number of McDonald’s restaurants in Europe

There are more McDonald’s restaurants per capita in Sweden than anywhere else in Europe, despite the fact that Swedes are not known for being obese or unhealthy

Number 1. One of the cleanest countries on the planet

Swedish culture and Nordic countries in general are renowned for their environmental consciousness, which is why Scandinavia is among the world’s most progressive and clean countries. Public transportation and recycling are heavily used by the citizens, and organic (ecological) foods are readily available. 

 To sum it up, Sweden is among the most progressive countries in the world. Their egalitarian and liberal policies mean that Sweden is among the highest in world rankings for gender equality and education. They have a long tradition of supporting the arts, including cinema, which is celebrated and funded in many ways. Their capital, Stockholm, has a thriving theatre and cultural scene, as well as vibrant nightlife. The Swedish people are very friendly and open, and Stockholm’s ubiquitous coffee shops, urban parks, and cafes make it the perfect place for afternoon coffee.