Summer bucket list ideas - 21 Swedish things to try this summer

2. Homemade elderflower cordial

Swede’s love to forage for summer treats in the wild and elderflower grows in abundance across the Swedish countryside in the early summer months. Delicately floral and refreshingly sweet, homemade elderflower cordial pairs perfectly with sparkling water or a splash of prosecco for a light, elegant summer drink.

Ingredients:

• 30–40 fresh elderflower heads (fully open, no brown bits)
• 1.5 litres water
• 1kg granulated sugar
• 2 lemons (preferably unwaxed)
• 1 tsp citric acid (available at pharmacies or baking shops)

Instructions

1. Clean the elderflower by shaking off any insects and remove thick stalks. Do not rinse as this washes away the delicate pollen that gives the cordial its flavour.
2. Slice the lemons thinly, removing any seeds. Bring the water to a boil, then pour it over the sugar in a large, heatproof bowl or pan.
3. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
4. Stir in the citric acid, then add the elderflower heads and lemon slices.
5. Mix gently.
6. Cover with a clean towel and leave to infuse at room temperature for 3–4 days. Stir once daily.
7. Strain the cordial through a fine sieve or muslin cloth into sterilised bottles.
8. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 weeks or freeze in small containers for longer shelf life.

Discover more summer drink recipes to add to your summer bucket list here: Refreshing summer drinks

3. Build a fort in the garden ✔

Swedes cherish every moment spent outdoors in summer—especially under the evening sky. As part of your Swedish summer bucket list, recreate that magic at home by transforming your garden into a cosy outdoor fort. Layer seat cushions, blankets, and soft lighting, and spend the night under the stars, close to nature, and surrounded by simple comforts.

4. Take an evening swim ✔

5. Embrace friluftsliv ✔

The cherished Swedish art of open-air living— a must on your Swedish summer bucket list. It’s all about immersing yourself in nature every day, whether it’s a peaceful walk in the woods, a picnic by the lake, or simply sitting outside with a book. This mindful connection to the outdoors captures the true spirit of Swedish summer: slow, intentional, and deeply refreshing.

6. Make your own ice cream ✔

Treat yourself to a truly exceptional ice cream cone—one of the sweetest summer bucket list ideas. For a personal twist, try making your own homemade ice cream at home. For a lighter, healthier option, blend frozen fruit with creamy yoghurt to create a refreshing treat that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

7. Celebrate midsummer ✔

Midsummer marks the start of the Swedish summer for real. Celebrate with flowers, pickled herring and plenty of strawberries. Find out how to throw your own Midsummer celebration here.: How to throw a Swedish midsummer party

8. Read a book ✔

9. Bake a strawberry cake ✔

15. Bake a rhubarb pie

'A true taste of Swedish summer, this rhubarb pie is simple, nostalgic, and best served with a generous spoonful of vanilla sauce or ice cream. Add it to your summer bucket list ideas—it’s the kind of dessert that brings everyone to the table.

Ingredients:

• 400g fresh rhubarb
• 120g butter
• 180g rolled oats (approx. 5 dl)
• 180g sugar (approx. 2 dl)
• 50ml whipping cream
• 50ml light syrup
• 110g wheat flour (approx. 1¾ dl)
• 0.5tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt
• 0.5tbsp baking powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 150 °C.
2. Grease a pie dish, approx. 26 cm in diameter.
3. In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients.
4. In a saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the cream and syrup, then add the dry ingredients and mix to form a loose batter.
5. Rinse and peel the rhubarb, then cut into 2 cm pieces. Spread evenly in the pie dish.
6. Spoon the batter over the rhubarb and smooth gently.
7. Bake in the centre of the oven for 40–50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling at the edges.