Best Shopping Malls in Sweden: The Ultimate Retail Guide

Sweden’s retail scene has evolved far beyond the classic department store. Today, it is a sophisticated mix of massive entertainment complexes, hyper niche sustainable hubs, and bustling border centers that rival the biggest in Europe. Whether you are looking for high-end luxury in Stockholm or hunting for bargains near the Norwegian border, the Swedish shopping landscape is diverse and efficient.

We have curated the definitive list of shopping centers you actually need to visit, filtering out the noise to focus on the ones that offer the best value, variety, and experience.

The Heavyweights: Sweden’s Largest Malls

If you want volume, international brands, and entertainment under one roof, these are the titans of Swedish retail.

Westfield Mall of Scandinavia (Solna)

Located just minutes from Stockholm City, this is arguably the crown jewel of Nordic shopping. As of late 2025, it ranks as the largest shopping center in Sweden and the Nordic countries by gross leasable area (105,500 m²). It isn’t just a place to buy clothes; it is a full day destination.

The Stats:

• Retail Power: 224 shops and approximately 44 restaurants.
• New Arrivals: In 2025 alone, the center welcomed 25 new openings, including Bershka, Swarovski, and New Balance.
• Entertainment: Home to Filmstaden Scandinavia, featuring 15 screens including Sweden’s largest IMAX screen and luxurious VIP lounges.

Practitioner Tip: This mall is massive. Download their app to navigate the parkingit saves massive headaches. If you are visiting during the holidays, note that while regular hours are 10:00-21:00, they extend to 22:00 just before Christmas. However, most stores close on Christmas Day (Dec 25), though the Hemköp grocery store remains open.

Nordstan (Gothenburg)

While Westfield dominates in square footage, Nordstan is a powerhouse of commerce in Gothenburg. It attracts roughly 25 million visitors annually and generates a staggering 4.4 billion SEK in revenue. It effectively functions as an indoor extension of the city center, connecting directly to the central train station.

What to Expect:

• Over 170 stores and restaurants covering 70,000 sqm.
• 2025 Hours: Standard hours are MonFri 10:00-20:00 and SatSun 10:00-18:00. Note that on New Year’s Eve (Dec 31), shops close early at 16:00.

The Bargain Hunters: High Volume, Low Prices

These centers are famous not for their architecture, but for their incredible turnover and competitive pricing, often driven by cross border trade.

Nordby Shoppingcenter (Strömstad)

Situated right on the Norwegian border, Nordby is a phenomenon. It caters heavily to Norwegians crossing the border for cheaper prices (the famous “Harryhandel”). The numbers speak for themselves: revenue hit 4.739 billion SEK in 2024, a 10.3% jump from the previous year.

With roughly 100-110 stores and 3,750 free parking spaces, it is built for bulk buying. If you are interested in how this compares to shopping across the border, check out our guide to online shopping in Norway.

Gekås Ullared

Gekås is not just a store; it is a pilgrimage site. Founded in 1963, it has grown into Sweden’s most famous discount destination. It is less of a “mall” and more of a colossal department store where people camp overnight just to shop.

Know Before You Go:

• Timing is Key: Regular hours are generally 07:00-20:00. During the holidays, they have specific closures (Closed Dec 24-26 and Dec 31).
• Inventory: You can buy everything from camping gear to cosmetics. The prices are logically set to move volume, making it unbeatable for stocking up on household essentials.

The Innovator: Sustainable Shopping

ReTuna Återbruksgalleria (Eskilstuna)

Forget fast fashion. ReTuna is the world’s first recycling mall, and it has revolutionized how we think about retail since 2015. Everything sold here is recycled, reused, or organically produced.

Why Visit? It is the perfect antidote to generic malls. You will find upcycled furniture, vintage fashion, and sustainable home goods. If you love the thrill of finding unique second-hand treasures, you might also enjoy exploring flea markets in the Netherlands.

2025 Hours: Mon Fri 10:00-18:00, Sat Sun 10:00-16:00. Note that it is closed on all major holidays (Christmas Eve through Boxing Day, and New Year’s Eve).

Regional Gems: North and City Center

Mood Stockholm

For a more boutique vibe, head to Mood in central Stockholm. It focuses on “lifestyle” rather than just volume, offering a curated selection of fashion brands and high-quality dining. It is the place to go if you want to avoid the chaos of larger malls.

• Vibe: Chic, modern, and social. Great for a lunch break between shops.
• Hours: Stores are open Mon Fri 10:00-19:00. Entrance hours are wider, allowing access to restaurants late into the evening.
• Fashion Inspiration: If you appreciate the unique styles found at Mood, you should also check out our guide to best Ukrainian fashion brands for more distinctive looks.

Birsta City (Sundsvall)

As Norrland’s premier shopping destination, Birsta City holds its own with over 90 stores. In 2025, it continued to expand with new additions like Espresso House and OnGo.

• Convenience: Free parking and excellent bus connections.
• Hours: Mon Fri 10:00-20:00. Holiday hours vary, with closures on Dec 24, 25, and Jan 1.

Solbacken Handelsområde (Skellefteå)

Solbacken is a practical powerhouse in the north. It is designed for efficiency, with large format stores perfect for weekly errands. Major retailers like ICA Maxi have extended hours (07:00-22:00 daily), making it one of the most accessible shopping areas for locals.

Digital Alternatives: Shopping From Home

Sometimes the best mall is the one on your phone. If you prefer to skip the crowds entirely, Sweden has a robust e-commerce ecosystem.

• Fashion: Platforms like Zalando offer vast collections with easy returns.
• Full Guide: For a deep dive into the digital landscape, read our comprehensive guide to online shopping in Sweden.