Umeå
The north's best-kept cultural secret
Umeå is Sweden's cultural capital of the north - a young, energetic university city on the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia, known for its birch-lined streets, vibrant arts scene, and outsized creative energy relative to its size.
With a population of around 134,000 and nearly 44,000 students across two universities, the city has an average age of 38 - and a pace of life to match. Its 262km of walking and cycling paths and 160km of exercise trails reflect a city that takes its relationship with the outdoors seriously.
Umeå has several genuine claims to distinction: it was named European Capital of Culture in 2014, is home to Bildmuseet - one of Sweden's foremost contemporary art museums - and houses Europe's largest guitar museum. Its position around 350km south of the Arctic Circle also makes it a serious destination for northern lights seekers in winter.
The city was founded in 1622 and has deep connections to the indigenous Sámi people, whose history and culture are documented at a couple of excellent local museums.
Umeå is part of a remarkable group of Nordic and Baltic cities to have held the European Capital of Culture title. Read the full story: European Capitals of Culture in the Nordic and Baltic region
Looking to explore Swedish Lapland? Our trips departing from Luleå, around three hours north, take you into the heart of the Arctic.