It’s not easy holding your own in Europe, culturally or otherwise. But historic & hip Sweden does it with aplomb. Like its signature pick-what-you-want Smörgåsbord, the country abounds with historic sites (dating back to the Vikings), unspoilt outdoors (Lapland & midnight sun), indigenous culture and contemporary cool in design, literature, leisure and arts. Like one of its famed Nordic noir creations, it’s unputdownable as a holiday destination.