Southern Sweden Map

Explore Skåne, Småland, Gotland, and the sunny south

About Southern Sweden (Götaland)

Geography

Southern Sweden, encompassing the traditional region of Götaland, features rolling farmland, forests, lakes, and extensive coastline. The region includes Skåne, Småland, Blekinge, Halland, Bohuslän, and the islands of Gotland and Öland.

Climate

Southern Sweden has a milder climate than the rest of the country, with warmer summers and less severe winters. Skåne is known as Sweden's breadbasket due to its fertile agricultural land.

Major Cities

Key cities include Malmö, Helsingborg, Lund, Växjö, Kalmar, and Visby on Gotland. The region is well-connected to Copenhagen via the Öresund Bridge.

Islands

Gotland and Öland are Sweden's largest islands. Gotland is known for its medieval heritage, while Öland features unique limestone landscapes and is connected to the mainland by bridge.

Top Attractions in Southern Sweden

Visby (Gotland)

UNESCO World Heritage Site with remarkably preserved medieval city walls and 13th-century ruins. One of the best-preserved medieval cities in Scandinavia.

Öland

Sweden's second-largest island connected by bridge to Kalmar. Known for the Borgholm Castle ruins, windmills, and unique alvaret limestone plateau.

Kingdom of Crystal (Glasriket)

Småland's famous glassworks region, home to prestigious brands like Kosta Boda and Orrefors. Visit workshops and see master craftsmen at work.

Kalmar Castle

Stunning Renaissance castle where the Kalmar Union was signed in 1397, uniting Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. One of Sweden's best-preserved castles.

Ales Stenar

Sweden's answer to Stonehenge - a 67-meter ship-shaped stone formation overlooking the sea near Ystad. Dating back to around 600 AD.

Österlen

Picturesque coastal region in southeast Skåne known for apple orchards, art galleries, sandy beaches, and the charming town of Simrishamn.

Southern Sweden Guide

Sweden's Sunny South

Southern Sweden offers a different experience from the wilderness of the north. Here you'll find fertile farmland, sandy beaches, half-timbered houses, and a landscape that has more in common with Denmark than with Swedish Lapland. The region enjoys the most sunshine in Sweden and the mildest climate.

Skåne (Scania)

Sweden's southernmost province was part of Denmark until 1658. This Danish heritage is visible in the architecture, food culture, and even the dialect. Skåne is known for excellent food, castle tours, and easy access to Copenhagen via the Öresund Bridge.

Småland

The heartland of Sweden, Småland is famous for its forests, lakes, and as the birthplace of IKEA. The region is known for the "Kingdom of Crystal" glassworks, Astrid Lindgren's World in Vimmerby, and outdoor activities.

Getting to Southern Sweden

Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is the most convenient international gateway, with direct train service to Malmö. Domestic flights connect Stockholm to regional airports. Ferries from Germany and Poland arrive in Trelleborg and Ystad, while Gotland is accessible by ferry from Nynäshamn or Oskarshamn.

Related Maps

Northern Sweden Sweden Provinces Malmö Map Tourist Map Sweden Map