One month ago, I took a trip to Sweden for a holiday and was mesmerised by what the Nordic country has to offer. While the mention of Sweden might have most Singaporeans thinking of Ikea or H&M, it is so much more than that – breathtaking architecture, idyllic gardens and spectacular scenery (not to mention steeped in culture) that are just as picture-worthy as other more popular destinations like London or Italy.
I only visited the cities of Stockholm and Uppsala on my trip but there are tons of other magical places in Sweden for that Scandinavian backdrop you’ve always dreamed of. Here, some of my favourites.
Uppsala might be the fourth biggest city in Sweden but it oozes the charisma and idyllic charm of a small town. The Stora torget or Main Square is flanked by both centuries-old buildings and new ones.
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Architecture lovers will fall hard for this 13th-century cathedral that makes for a dramatic wedding portrait backdrop. Its majestic facade references French Gothic architecture (it was designed by French architects), and features high spires and ornate windows.
Image: @junosaurus/Instagram
Along the Fyrisån or Fyris river, there are plenty of scenic places. One of my favourites? This mesmerising spot right opposite the Restaurang Hamnpaviljongen (Restaurant Port Pavilion).
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Honestly, there are way too many photogenic spots around Uppsala. This random street flooded with the warm glowing light of a setting sun couldn’t get any more Instagram-worthy. Plus, you’ll definitely appreciate the long summer days – more time to nail that perfect shot! This was taken around 10pm at night.
Those lilacs, tulips and clematises you’ve been dreaming of for your perfect garden wedding? They grow in abundance everywhere – in boxes along the street, in the parks and most definitely in the Uppsala City Garden. I heard that some time in summer, the arches are decorated with floral garlands, so if you’re lucky, you might be able to catch them while you’re there for your shoot!
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Get lost amidst the winding cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways and beautiful medieval buildings of Gamla Stan or Old Town that instantly transport you to the romance of a bygone era. Here, you’ll find quaint cafes, handicraft and souvenir stores, beautiful churches and museums including the national cathedral (the Stockholm Cathedral) as well as the Royal Palace.
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Google Stockholm and these iconic brightly hued buildings are probably most common in your feed. They’re located at the town square of the preserved medieval city. The downside? There are lots of tourists, especially in summer. My tip: Incorporate them into your shot for that lost-in-the-moment vibe.
Image: @visitstockholm/Instagram
Don’t forget to drop by Skansen if you’re headed to Stockholm. This open air museum and zoo is home to plenty of Scandinavian and farm animals (including the reindeer, moose and lynx as well as geese) and oozes rustic countryside charm. There’s also a replica of an average 19th-century town.
I came across this picturesque greenhouse in Skansen that’s lovely for fairy tale wedding portraits.
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