A holiday in both Italy and Sweden present amazing experiences. Italy is about re-living the grandeur of the Renaissance. The country centers on the arts and history, culture and cuisine. It’s perfect for those looking for an enriching and intellectual holiday experience.

Sweden essentially offers the ultimate Nordic experience. Depending on the season, cities in Sweden transform themselves in to nature’s playground, especially in summers. Though there isn’t  much to see and do historically as there is in Italy, a holiday in Sweden is about celebrating the outdoors. Strolling down riverside walkways, island hopping in a paddan and idling in a garden is just some of what you can expect while on holiday.

Italy or Sweden…see what each one has in store.

Italy

 

Rome
Rome was once caput mundi or the capital of the world for a reason. Discover why as you explore the charming streets and majestic sights in this Eternal City. Centuries old basilicas and historic monuments are found in abundance here. The historical Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine is Rome’s most prominent structure.  The Pantheon is an architectural marvel that was built to honour the Gods. It’s the largest unsupported and reinforced dome in the world. Locally known as Scalina Spagna, the Spanish Steps are always bustling with locals and tourists. The Trevi Fountain is undoubtedly one of the most iconic fountains in the world. Representative of Baroque style architecture, toss a coin in to the fountain and make a wish.

Venice
Venice is built on an archipelago of 118 islands formed by about 150 canals in a shallow lagoon. These islands are connected by about 400 bridges and the resulting waterways and walkways define beautiful Venice. The most notable sites include St. Mark's Square with St. Mark's Basilica reflects Venetian wealth and power from the 11th century, the Rialto Bridge spanning the Grand Canal and the grand Gothic palace, Palazzo Ducale, the  residence of the Doge of Venice, the supreme authority of the former Republic of Venice.

Milan
Milan is where history and art come together. While here, visit the Duomo, the world's largest Gothic cathedral and the third largest church in Europe and the Piazza del Duomo, a colossal spire cathedral built in the shape of a cross.  Art lovers will enjoy the Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery with its collection of art from masters such as Botticelli, Raphael and Da Vinci and Santa Maria delle Grazie where Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Last Supper painting is housed.  Don’t leave Milan without taking an excursion to the Italian Renaissance church in the Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica, which is the centre of Christianity and home to the Pope. This is also where you can view the grand Sistine Chapel, the ornate frescoed ceiling by Michelangelo.

How To Get There
Major international airlines including Alitalia, Air France, Air India, Jet Airways and Etihad Airways operate flights from India to Rome. Check for available flights from your city here.

 

Sweden
 

Stockholm
The capital city of Sweden, Stockholm spans 14 islands of the vast Stockholm archipelago on the Baltic Sea. There are several treasures to discover starting with the Vasa Museum, which houses the only preserved 17th century ship in the world. Don’t miss out on visiting Gamla Stan with its old churches, museums and the Royal Palace and Drottningholm Palace, the royal castle built in the 1600s where the royal family still resides. Music lovers will be thrilled to visit the ABBA The Museum & Swedish Music Hall of Fame dedicated to the band’s contribution to the music world.

Gothenburg
Gothenburg is best explored on foot or in a paddan boat that takes you beneath low bridges and through scenic shipping and fishing harbor. Be a child again at Liseberg, an amusement park with over 40 thrilling rides. Visit the old City Hall and Universeum where you can go on safari in the rainforest, head out into space, dive into the depths of the world’s oceans and walk through the Swedish wilderness all in one day! Adventure seekers can go canoeing or kayaking in the Sweden’s longest river, Swedish Lapland or ride a bike along the riverside. 

How To Get There
Major international airlines including Lufthansa, Air France, Air India, Jet Airways and KLM operate flights from India to Stockholm. Check for available flights from your city here.

 

Destination	Rome, Italy	Stockholm, Sweden
Hotels (centrally located)	Rs. 6,528 per night (Standard room at Verona Hotel) Rs. 8,815 per night (Standard room at Hotel Colosseum) Rs. 14,251 (Classic room at Hotel Majestic Roma)	Rs. 6,907 per night (Standard room at Park Inn Stockholm Hammarby Sjostad) Rs. 11,671 per night (Single room at Radisson Blu Royal Viking Hotel) Rs. 14,862 (Classic room at Sheraton Stockholm Hotel)
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 3,000 per day	Rs. 2,800 per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	Rs. 100 per ticket	Rs. 295 per ticket
Miscellaneous	Rs. 3,500 per day	Rs. 2,800 per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.

Italy is more of a ‘tried and tested’ destination as far as tourism goes. However, if you’re looking to chart your own course while on holiday, Sweden is a welcome destination to consider for your travels. See it and feel it to love it!