Europe Sweden Great Gift Ideas With a Swedish Twist By Terri Mapes Terri Mapes Facebook Twitter Terri Mapes specializes in giving first-time Scandinavia visitors practical tips for their travels. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines Updated on 06/03/19 Sweden is an egalitarian society that favors a sense of solidarity. Swedes are humble in nature, and rarely take hospitality and kindness for granted. Neither should you when visiting the country. Gifts are expected for social events, such as private dinner parties and Christmas get-togethers. Most Scandinavian countries are very enthusiastic over Christmas, and in Sweden, the celebrations begin on the Advent, on the first of December. So let's find the best Swedish gift ideas! By the way, anyone with Swedish heritage might also be interested in these gift ideas. 01 of 08 The Dala Horse Gustav.jg/Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain The Dala horse is carved from wood and brightly painted. The horse appears to be almost happy while being tailless. It has been around in its current form since the 1700s. (The original unpainted Dala horses have been around for centuries.) The modern-day version can be seen on shelves and hanging from cupboard doors in Swedish homes, is seen in clothing prints and more. 02 of 08 Swedish Crystal Glass James L. Amos/Getty Images The two most common and appreciated types of crystal are Orrefors and Kosta Boda Crystal. Both are made in Sweden. The designs include vases, bowls and candle holders. 03 of 08 Book or DVD of Pippi Longstocking Holger Leue/Getty Images Pippi is a fictional Swedish character found in books. She is a nine-year-old girl with fiery red hair in braids that stick out from her head. Pippi lives free of adult supervision and is very unconventional and emotionally strong, so her attitude appeals to the younger readers. The first books came out in 1945, but are still widely read and are a classic today. It is a delightful Swedish gift idea for both adults and children and is even available on DVD, for non-readers. 04 of 08 Swedish Food Delicacies Maria Swärd/Getty Images If there are children in the family, you may bring a small gift of candy, such as marzipan or toffees. Other great food delicacies include pickled herring, Vasterbotten cheese, Gothenborg sausage, Swedish potato sausages, caviar, honey, chocolate, Swedish Gummi fish, red beets, and vanilla sauce. Nuts, dates, and friends can also be given. Sometimes, oranges are decorated with cloves and hung from a window where the aroma can spread through the room. Liquor makes for great thank you gifts as well. Continue to 5 of 8 below. 05 of 08 Viking Collectibles and Viking Jewelry Neil Beckerman/Getty Images All Scandinavian countries are rich with the history of the Viking era, between 800 and 1050 AD. Those interested in their Viking roots will adore a carved ship or similar memorabilia to display in their homes. Ships are also forged into jewelry to be worn as earrings or pendants. 06 of 08 Swedish Clogs Tim Graham/Getty Images These are very popular local shoes, the sole is often made out of wood. They usually come in a variety of bright, vivid colors! 07 of 08 Flags and Flag Ornaments Jan Hakan Dahlstrom/Getty Images The Swedish flag is blue and yellow. As with the custom in Norway, when flown next to the American flag, the Swedish flag will always be lower. The flag of Sweden is used to decorate the outside of a house on someone’s birthday. Likewise, a Christmas tree is sometimes decorated with small Swedish flags. Beautiful handcrafted or blown glass ornaments will also decorate the tree. A traditional glass ornament with the Christmas greeting “God Jul” is warmly welcomed at this time of year. 08 of 08 A Swedish Troll Heritage Images/Getty Images Trolls are very prominent throughout Scandinavian folklore. There are even Swedish towns named after the infamous trolls! Any carving of Swedish trolls or a book about them is considered favorite gift ideas in Sweden. Tips for Gift-Giving in Sweden Even while traditional gifts are always accepted and welcomed by the Swedes, when staying over with a family you might consider bringing a gift from your home country. Do not give white flowers, as they are associated with death and funerals. Red roses and orchids can easily be interpreted as a romantic gesture. The giving of business gifts is not usually done in Sweden between associates. Since liquor is extremely expensive in Sweden, a gift of liquor or wine can also be a good gift. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Share Pin Email Tell us why! Submit Share Pin Email