Places
SWEDEN
Sweden’s car roots run deep, but unlike some of its European neighbors, its never really feels the need to shout about it. In true Scandinavian fashion, it makes it’s impression on car culture through considered details, both big and small.
The Swedish word lagom gets at the idea nicely: not too much, not too little, just the right amount. Apply the same thinking to car culture in Sweden and it all starts to makes sense. Sure, there are exceptions. Koenigsegg has never exactly been accused of restraint. But more often, the real object of affection is something like a fastidiously maintained, stock 2004 Volvo V70. And honestly, that might be more Swedish anyway. A 22-year-old wagon quietly soldiering past a sea of grayscale appliances is its own subdued celebration of good design, thoughtful engineering and making things that last.
That same spirit runs through Sweden’s car culture. So we’ve put together a guide to experiencing it in all its restrained Scandinavian glory, from a century of innovation at World of Volvo to laps around a racetrack carved into a remote Baltic island. Consider it a starting point for knowing where to go when the automotive urge strikes in Sweden.
Located in Gothenburg, the World of Volvo puts a century of automotive innovation on display through immersive exhibits. Paired with Volvo’s deep catalog of passenger, commercial and motorsports icons, it’s a highlight for anyone who finds themselves on Sweden’s west coast.
Tucked into a limestone quarry on an island in the Baltic Sea sits the world’s longest modern race and test circuits. Built and operated with sustainability in mind, the Gotland Ring delivers an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Although defunct, Saab still looms large amongst automotive nerds. That obsessive spirit is on full display at the Saab Museum outside Malmö, Sweden. Come for the cars, stay for the pedantic and passionate interactions with fellow museumgoers.
WHEN SWEDEN DOES EXCESS
While pit stops like The World of Volvo are polished and clean version of what cars mean to Sweden, Vallåkraträffen is when Scandinavian restraint slams four pints of Mariestads and takes an angle grinder to an assuming 240 wagon.
VISIT OUR PIT STOPS
Plus a few extra spots to check out while your there.