Swedish currency for UK travellers: SEK, euros & top tips
Planning a trip to Sweden and wondering how the money side of things works? You’re not alone.
The currency in Sweden is the Swedish krona (SEK). Sweden does not use the euro, so for day-to-day spending you’ll normally pay in kronor, even though cards are widely accepted.
This guide covers the Sweden currency essentials UK travellers actually need, whether euros are accepted, typical notes and coins, and how to sort Swedish kronor before you go.
Quick facts: Swedish krona (SEK)
| Currency | Swedish krona |
| Code | SEK |
| Symbol | kr |
| Where used | Sweden |
| Does Sweden use the euro? | No |
| Common banknotes | 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000 kr |
| Common coins | 1, 2, 5, 10 kr |
| Card use | Very widely accepted (some places are cashless) |
Swedish currency at a glance
The currency in Sweden is straightforward once you know the basics.
Sweden has its own local currency, used nationwide for everyday spending, transport, and shopping.
While Sweden is part of Europe, it does not use the euro.
Instead, visitors use the official currency of Sweden, which has been in place for centuries and remains central to daily life across the country.
If you’re travelling from the UK, understanding the currency of Sweden in advance makes budgeting and exchanging money much easier.
What is Swedish money called?
Swedish money is called the krona, which translates to crown in Swedish.
The plural form is kronor, and you’ll see both terms used across Sweden.
You may also hear the term Swedish crown, which refers to the same thing. In everyday conversation, locals usually just say “krona”.
Swedish krona SEK: code, sign, and the basics
The Swedish krona SEK is the official name and international code for the currency.
You’ll often see prices written with kr, the common currency symbol used in shops, restaurants, and on receipts.
The Swedish krona currency code is SEK, and this is what you’ll see when checking rates online or using a currency converter.
The official currency of Sweden and why it is not the euro
Despite being a member of the European Union, Sweden has never adopted the euro.
The official currency remains the krona, and there are no current plans for adopting the euro.
Sweden chose to retain control over its own currency, monetary policy, and central bank, allowing it to manage inflation and interest rates independently of the wider European Union.
While euros are common across much of Europe, they are not the standard currency in Sweden.
A quick history: from the Scandinavian monetary union to today
Sweden’s monetary roots run deep. In the late 19th century, Sweden joined the Scandinavian Monetary Union with Denmark and Norway, sharing a currency system backed by the gold standard.
That union eventually dissolved after World War disruptions, but the krona remained.
SEK is actively traded and closely watched thanks to Sweden’s strong economy.
Banknotes and coins: what you will see in your wallet
Modern Swedish banknotes and coins are clean, colourful, and easy to recognise.
Notes come in clear denominations, including 50, 100, 200, and 500 kronor, while coins range from one krona upward.
Older or damaged notes may fall under invalid banknotes, so it’s always best to exchange money through reputable banks or a trusted currency exchange before travelling.
All cash currently in circulation is issued and regulated by Sweden’s central bank.
Cash, card payments, and how Sweden actually works day to day
Sweden is one of the most card-friendly countries in the world.
Using a card in Sweden is widely accepted, and most people rely on debit cards and credit cards for daily spending.
That said, cash still has its place, especially for small purchases, markets, or in some rural areas.
Public transport in cities like Stockholm is almost entirely cashless, so cards are essential.
Most shops accept major cards, including Mastercard, and contactless payments are standard.
Exchange rate basics for the UK: SEK, GBP, and EUR
When planning your budget, the exchange rate matters.
Travellers often search for GBP to SEK, Sweden currency to GBP, Swedish currency to pounds, or pounds to Swedish currency to understand what their money is worth.
You may also see references to EUR or euro, but remember that SEK is the primary foreign currency you’ll need in Sweden.
Rates can vary between providers, and foreign exchange margins can impact the final cost, so it’s worth comparing options before you travel.
Currency converter tips
A currency converter is useful for planning, but in Sweden, prices are usually rounded to the nearest krona when paying in cash.
Card transactions are processed digitally, so exact amounts are charged without rounding.
This is normal across Sweden and nothing to worry about.
Travel money for a trip to Sweden: what to bring and what to skip
For a typical trip to Sweden, a mix of card access and some cash works best.
Daily spend depends on your plans, but food, transport, and attractions can add up quickly.
Having some travel money in advance helps you avoid airport rates and unexpected service charge costs.
It also gives peace of mind if you arrive late or need to pay straight away.
If you’ve still got Swedish kronor after your trip, exchange Swedish currency to GBP simply with Manor FX.
Doing a Scandinavia hop?
If your trip includes other Scandinavian countries like Denmark or Norway, it’s worth knowing that the currencies change at the border.
Sweden uses SEK, while Denmark uses the Danish krone and Norway uses the Norwegian krone.
If you’re crossing into other countries on the same trip, sorting your cash in advance can save you time and hassle.
Where to buy Swedish krona in the UK
| Option | What to expect |
| Specialist bureau (online) | The simplest option for less common currencies: compare rates and order ahead. Get the best rates and swift home delivery with Manor FX. |
| High street banks | Some currencies may need ordering in advance; availability can vary by branch. |
| Post Office | Stocks a range of travel money, but less common currencies may be limited or unavailable. |
| Airport exchange | Convenient, but higher costs; stock of rarer currencies can be unpredictable. |
Buy your kronas now
How to get your currency with Manor FX
Getting your Swedish krona sorted with Manor FX is simple and flexible.
You can order online, choose whether to collect in person or arrange delivery, and lock in your rate before you go.
If you’re visiting multiple countries, you can also exchange other currencies at the same time.
Our focus is straightforward exchange, competitive pricing, and clear information, so you know exactly what you’re getting before you travel.
We’ll also help you exchange Swedish to English currency on your return at great rates.
FAQs
Are euros accepted in Sweden?
Euros may be accepted in some tourist areas, but SEK is the preferred and most reliable option.
What is Swedish money called?
It’s called the krona, with the plural form kronor.
How much is 100 Swedish in pounds?
The value depends on the current exchange rate, but it typically converts to a modest amount in GBP.
How much is 1 GBP to 1 SEK?
Rates change daily, so check a live converter before exchanging.
Does Sweden use the euro?
No. Sweden uses its own official currency and has not adopted the euro.