Brunch, Hotels, TravelAlison StormFebruary 06, 2025Västerås, Linköping, Vadstena, Hok, Kosta, Göteborg

Valentine's Day Suggestions in Sweden 2025

Brunch, Hotels, TravelAlison StormFebruary 06, 2025Västerås, Linköping, Vadstena, Hok, Kosta, Göteborg

Like many countries around the world, Sweden celebrates Valentine’s Day on February 14th. In Sweden, it’s called Alla hjärtans day (All hearts’ day). The holiday was initially met with a mix of skepticism and curiosity in Sweden, but gradually gained acceptance influenced by global trends and the country's increasingly international outlook.

A wooden cabinet set up as a self-serve beverage station at Vadstena Klosterhotell. The shelves are neatly stocked with white and floral-patterned teacups, saucers, and mugs. — Vadstena Klosterhotell in Vadstena

In Sweden, Valentine's Day is about sharing meaningful moments. Swedes have a penchant for simplicity and authenticity, which translates into celebrations that are intimate and heartfelt. Keep reading for some ideas for how to celebrate!

A cup of black coffee in a white ceramic cup on a dark green table. To the left of the cup is a small glass candle holder with a lit tealight, creating a warm and cozy ambiance. — Pom & Flora in Stockholm

Go on a fika date

A fika is a basically just a coffee break, sometimes with pastries, but also a Swedish ritual of slowing down and savoring the moment. So you could celebrate in a charming local café to enjoy a leisurely conversation over a cup of coffee or tea paired with freshly baked treats. Our brunch directory includes many cafés that we recommend for fika!

A plate with a selection of baked goods from a breakfast spread. — Hobo Hotel in Stockholm

You could also create your own cozy setting at home by preparing Swedish pastries like kanelbullar (cinnamon buns) or chokladbollar (chocolate balls) together. Learn more about Swedish pastries here!

A modern and cozy living room in Scandic Victoria Tower, Kista. — Scandic Victoria Tower in Kista

The relaxed pace of a fika date is perfect for taking a break from the hustle of daily life to connect and appreciate the simple pleasure of each other’s company.

A romantic setup featuring a bouquet of vibrant red roses in a clear glass vase filled with water, placed on a white surface.

Spend time outdoors

Sweden’s natural beauty provides an idyllic backdrop for romance, especially in the crisp, clear days of winter. This could be a forest hike, enjoying an outdoor fika in a park with a hot beverage, or ice skating at an outdoor rink. You could also book a cabin and enjoy a quiet retreat with a crackling fireplace. Find some tips on renting a stuga (cabin) here!

A beautifully crafted cake with a pink glaze dripping over the edges, topped with fresh raspberries, decorative chocolate pieces with floral patterns, and a line of chocolate and white candy pearls.

Enjoy a romantic dinner

Many restaurants in Sweden have a fixed-price menu for Valentine’s Day, or you could prepare a special meal together at home. Either way, you could also indulge in a Swedish dessert such as princess cake or a semla to end the meal on a sweet note.

A black-and-white cat on a textured gray blanket holding a small red heart-shaped cushion that says 'I Love You' in white text. The background features a decorative wall with a leaf pattern, adding a cozy and affectionate atmosphere to the scene.

Visit a museum

Sometimes galleries and museums host special exhibits on February 14th. For example, Västmanlands Läns museum in Västerås has a special exhibit at lunchtime and Östergötlands Museum in Linköping has a special exhibit that includes a glass of sparkling wine (or a non-alcoholic alternative) in the evening. These types of activities can set a sophisticated, inspiring mood for the day.

A humorous card featuring two images of black-and-white cats. On the left, a cat is sitting on a cat bed, looking off to the side with a curious expression.

Take a yoga class

Sign up for a yoga class at your gym or search for a studio near you to focus on mindfulness and togetherness for Valentine’s Day. This can help you connect on a deeper level while promoting overall well-being.

A relaxing spa scene featuring two pairs of feet in flip-flops resting on striped loungers, with a view through large glass doors. Outside, there is a stone patio with wooden chairs, greenery, and colorful apartment buildings in the background. — Ad Astra Vana Spa in Södertälje

Have a spa day

Indulge in a a spa day locally or as part of a weekend getaway. For example, Vadstena Klosterhotell has packages that include a spa visit, and you can also add on things like afternoon tea, dinner, and massage treatments. The traditional ritual of a sauna followed by a cold plunge can be both relaxing and invigorating.

For more suggestions on things to do in Vadstena, click here!

A luxurious spa lounge at Ad Astra Vana Spa in Södertälje, featuring striped lounge chairs with white cushions arranged neatly along a stone floor. — Ad Astra Vana Spa in Södertälje

Book a hotel

Many Swedish hotels have Valentine’s Day packages that include things like chocolates, flowers, champagne, and dinner, including Hööks Herrgård in Hok, Kosta Boda Art Hotel in Kosta, Hotel Eggers in Göteborg, and a variety of different Countryside Hotels properties.

If you have time for a longer vacation, Göteborg is a great destination for a road trip. It’s the home of many of Sweden’s top craft breweries, many of which have taprooms and breweries that are open to visitors, and the park Slottsskogen is also fun to visit.

An elegant afternoon tea setup at Vadstena Klosterhotell, featuring a tiered stand with freshly baked scones, a selection of cheeses on a marble countertop, and plates of sliced cucumbers, radishes, and melon. — Vadstena Klosterhotell in Vadstena

Tips for planning the perfect Swedish Valentine’s Day

Include Swedish traditions, like a cozy fika or a scenic winter walk, and also tailor your plans to include elements that reflect your interests as a couple.

A serene indoor pool at Ad Astra Vana Spa in Södertälje, surrounded by warm brick walls and a ceiling with wooden slats. The pool's crystal-clear water reflects the soft ambient lighting and modern black pendant lamps hanging above. — Ad Astra Vana Spa in Södertälje

February in Sweden can be chilly and dark, so choose activities that suit the weather. If you’re planning an outdoor adventure, dress warmly and consider the daylight hours when scheduling your day.

An elegant dessert buffet at Vadstena Klosterhotell, featuring a variety of beautifully presented treats on tiered silver stands. The centerpiece is a raspberry mousse cheesecake garnished with fresh raspberries. — Vadstena Klosterhotell in Vadstena

Popular restaurants, hotels, and events venues can fill up quickly around Valentine’s Day. Booking in advance ensures you secure your preferred spots and can often save you from last-minute stress.