7 Best Small Towns in Sweden for a Weekend Retreat
Considering a weekend getaway in Sweden? You’re in for a treat! Whether you’re a Swedish resident seeking the perfect mini-vacation or a tourist in the country searching for one (or several!) off-the-beaten-track spots to add to your travel list, this list has you covered. The following small towns are ideal for quiet retreats with ample relaxation as well as exploration opportunities. Each has its unique charm and offers plenty of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, well worth a visit. From Visby to Sigtuna, check out these best small towns in Sweden for a weekend retreat.
Visby
Visby is a town of just under 24,000. Small as it is, it's the largest town on the island of Gotland, and it is sure to be worth a visit, especially for history buffs. Visby is proud of its well-preserved rich history, from the medieval walls surrounding it to the 15 Gothic and Romanesque churches. If possible, plan your visit around Medieval Week (held in August). The town turns into a living history museum celebrating its golden age!
If you miss Medieval Week, you can still meander through the town's charming cobblestone streets and enjoy the historic architecture and local cuisine. Make sure to pop into the Gotland Museum, where you'll find artifacts and exhibits that tell the island's story, from its formation through the Viking Age to modern times.
We highly suggest booking your stay at Hotel Helgeand Wisby, housed in a 13th-century medieval building that will take you back in time. Hungry? Grab a bite at the iconic Munkällaren, an old monk cellar turned restaurant/nightclub.
Ystad
Art lovers of all kinds will fall in love with the coastal town of Ystad. Wander through the picturesque half-timbered houses and pop into the various art museums and exhibits in town. Ystad Art Museum is home to a wide array of contemporary works from local and national artists, but plenty of smaller mom-and-pop galleries are worth a visit as well.
Cineteket Ystad Film & Experience Center is also a neat attraction. Take a guided tour through this celebration of motion pictures and explore film scripts, costumes, and more at the nearby Ystad Studios. For music lovers, plan your visit in late July to attend the Ystad Sweden Jazz Festival; the event is a vibrant celebration of music, art, and local culture.
When you've had your fill of museums and music, pop into Söderberg & Sara Stenugnsbageri for a traditional pastry. Then, walk it off with a beach stroll or forest hike at the town's natural reserve, Ystads Sandskog, before retiring to a room at Ystads Gamla Vattentorn, a water tower-turned-hotel, for a truly unique stay.
Nora
Seeking a home away from home? Take a weekend trip to Nora, a charming little town bustling with friendly locals eager to share their home's rich history. The streets of this once-mining town are lined with well-preserved historic wooden houses that now house cute eateries, galleries, inns, and shops.
Book a room at Lilla Hotellet i Nora in the center of town. From there, you can explore local attractions such as Nora Church and the Nora Museum just next door. The church is a gorgeous example of 18th-century Baroque architecture, and the museum expertly shows off the town's local crafts and mining history. Craving some fresh air? Grab a cinnamon roll at Café Värmlandsmo and hitch a ride to Lake Stora Borken, where you'll enjoy picturesque shores, perfect for relaxing with a book and a picnic. You can even take a swim in warmer months!
Falkenberg
For a taste of Swedish beach culture, head to Falkenberg on the country's west coast. This gem of a town offers ample opportunities to kitesurf, sunbathe, and enjoy stunning coastal views as you fully unwind on your weekend getaway. Skrea Strand is a hot spot for all of the above.
Aside from its wide, sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere, this close-knit community has done a great job preserving and showcasing its cultural history. Check out the Ekomuseum Nedre Ätradalen if you have a chance. It's a collection of 80 historical sites that will take you back through time. You'll also want to visit Falkenberg Castle and the connected museum.
Done exploring? Stop for a bite at Restaurang Gustaf Bratt for delicious food and views of the Ätran River before you settle in for a cozy stay at the historic Hotell Hamngatan 27.
Mariefred
The small town of Mariefred is renowned for its idyllic architecture and serene lake setting. You can admire the well-preserved town on foot, from the historic railway, or by boat.
History buffs will appreciate a trip to Gripsholm Castle, a historic castle-turned-museum. Here, you'll find a number of exhibits showcasing Swedish art and royal history, and the views of the lake are incredible. Museum Eastern Södermanland Railway is another noteworthy attraction. Book a seat on the famous "Cake Tour," which will take you to Taxinge Castle via steam train to try 60+ different kinds of cake!
If you're coming to Mariefred from Stockholm (which many do), consider taking the S/S Mariefred, a historic steamboat that has been running for over 100 years. You can return to Stockholm that evening or enjoy a stay at the charming Svedängs Rum & Frukost.
Fjällbacka
Fjällbacka is a picturesque fishing village in southwestern Sweden, perfect for nature enthusiasts and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Book a room at Villa Evalotta and wander through the idyllic harbor, popping into shops and quaint eateries as you go (make sure to try a shrimp sandwich at Snar Bar).
Looking for an adventure? Explore the hiking trails around Kungsklyftan, a dramatic fissure in the granite cliffs. Several routes are tailored to various skill levels, all with remarkable views of the area's natural beauty. We also highly recommend you hop on a sunset boat tour around the harbor and the archipelago beyond. You can even go lobster fishing in the fall!
It's fun to note that this little town of less than 1000 has served as inspiration for several famous authors, including Camilla Läckberg, some of whose crime novels are set in Fjällbacka!
Sigtuna
We would be remiss if we omitted Sigtuna from our list! Situated on Lake Mälaren, this little gem is considered Sweden's oldest town. You can feel the history as you meander through the pedestrian-friendly streets lined with old wooden buildings.
While you're in town, be sure to visit to Sigtuna Museum. Here, you'll find artifacts from the Viking era and get a sneak peek into the town's significance during Sweden's medieval period. Continue your deep dive into history with a visit to the ruins of the 11th-century Sigtuna Church and maybe even on a runestone walk. There are 15 runestones scattered throughout town and just outside, all unique artifacts of the town's multi-layered past. Before you cozy into a romantic room at Sigtunastiftelsen, you can't miss a trip to Augusta Janssons Karamellfabrik, a historic sweets factory that's still up and running!
Well, there you have it: our favorite small towns in Sweden that are perfect for a weekend getaway. So, pack your duffle, grab your walking shoes, and book a plane ticket if necessary. It’s time to relax, unwind, and experience some seriously charming nooks and crannies of det avlånga landet (the elongated country).
