New data shows a third of Brits visiting Sweden travel solo – so why are lone wanderers finding solace in this Scandinavian nation? Olivia Palamountain reports
As solo travel booms, Sweden is emerging as a top destination for independent adventurers.
Recent data from American Express shows a massive 761 per cent increase in searches for “solo travel”, with 69 per cent of travellers planning solo trips this year.
These figures chime with survey results from Visit Sweden, which indicate almost a third of Britons who travelled to the Scandinavian nation in recent years travelled solo. 
So, why Sweden? The country’s high safety standards, progressive values and inclusivity contribute to its reputation as one of the world’s happiest countries – all key factors in attracting solo travellers, particularly women and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Elsewhere, Sweden’s appeal lies in its diverse range of experiences, from urban exploration in Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö to peaceful retreats in its vast archipelagos and forests.
For the 66 per cent of solo travellers who view their trips as opportunities for self-care, Sweden provides an ideal setting.
The country’s natural beauty is a major draw, with 267,570 islands and extensive hiking and biking trails.
Sweden’s “allemansrätten” (right of public access) allows travellers to freely explore its stunning landscapes, while the country’s efficient transportation system and widespread use of English make it easily navigable for international visitors.
Visitors can craft their own itineraries without compromise, whether that means spending a day in a museum or cafe-hopping for a traditional “fika” or Swedish coffee break.
With 74 per cent of Europeans adapting their travel behaviour due to the climate crisis, Sweden’s cooler weather also positions it as an attractive “coolcation” destination – something Dutch and German tourists are particularly keen on.
Travellers who prefer to leave the organisation of their trip to professionals can turn to travel companies such as ONE Traveller, who offer specific packages to Stockholm for solo travellers.