These Towns in Sweden Have the Best Main Streets

Located in Northern Europe and one of three countries (along with Denmark and Norway) that together form Scandinavia, Sweden is a must-visit travel destination. In addition to exploring the capital city of Stockholm, savvy vacationers will also want to include some of the country’s most interesting small towns on their travel itinerary.

From Ystad on the south coast with its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets to Sigtuna, Sweden's oldest town, with stops at Mariefred with its attractive castle and Visby’s UNESCO World Heritage landmarks along the way, these towns are among some of the prettiest in Europe. Find out more and be inspired by this list of towns in Sweden that have the best main streets.

Sigtuna

Sigtuna, Sweden's oldest town, was founded in AD 980 on the shores of Lake Mälaren and is handily located just 30 minutes away from Stockholm Arlanda Airport, making it a great first stop for travelers from the USA. Adventures start in the town's main street, Stora Gatan, with its charming shops, cozy cafés, and well-preserved wooden buildings that date back centuries. It’s also where you’ll find Sigtuna Radhus dating from the 1700s and one of the smallest town halls in Sweden, along with several beautiful churches including the 13th century St. Mary's Church (Mariakyrkan).

Sigtuna is also famous for its ancient runestones. Scattered throughout the town and its surroundings, these engraved stones served as memorials to the dead and date back as far as the Viking Age and early Christian period. More can be learned about them and other facets of the town’s fascinating history at the Sigtuna Museum with its rare archaeological finds, medieval art, and interactive displays.

Ystad

One of the most southerly small towns in Sweden, Ystad is much closer to the Danish capital city of Copenhagen, a scenic 90-minute train ride away than it is to Stockholm six hours to the north. Its south coast setting has served Ystad well down the centuries, especially during the medieval period when it served as an important European trading place. Today, its remarkably well-preserved Old Town and cobblestone main street, Stora Östergatan, is a delight to wander on foot with its boutique shops, cozy cafés, and quaint old half-timbered houses.

Must-visits include Ystad Abbey, an example of Brick Gothic architecture dating from 1267 that’s now home to a major art museum; and the Ystad Theatre, an exquisite 19th-century building that continues to host performances. Interested in literature? Ystad is the setting for Henning Mankell's Kurt Wallander detective series, with guided tours available that include locations featured in the books and films.

Falköping

Falköping is located a scenic hour’s train ride from Gothenburg, Sweden's second biggest city. Founded in 1200, it’s surrounded by some of the country's most significant prehistoric sites that date back to the Viking Age. The town's main street, Sankt Olofsgatan, is a vibrant thoroughfare that’s fun to wander and makes a good jumping-off point from which to explore the many ancient monuments and sites dotted around the town.

The most important of these old attractions is Ålleberg mountain, a flat-topped hill (or mesa) that’s home to one of Sweden's largest collections of petroglyphs dating back to the Bronze Age, as well as its spectacular views over the plains of Västergötland. A visit to Falbygdens Museum is another must-do and is popular for its detailed exhibits from the Stone Age to the present day.  

Trosa

Handily located just 90 minutes south of Stockholm, Trosa is for good reason considered one of Sweden's most idyllic small towns. In addition to its picture-perfect coastal setting overlooking the Baltic Sea, it possesses one of Scandinavia’s prettiest main streets. Known as Östra Långgatan, it follows the Trosa River almost as far as the town’s waterfront and marina and is a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and dining (go for the seafood!).

For those interested in history, Trosa Stadsmuseum provides insights into the town's past, showcasing its development from a medieval fishing village to one of the country’s top small-town tourist destinations. Nearby Tullgarn Palace, a royal summer residence, is another popular attraction and offers guided tours and insights into Swedish royalty, while the Trosa Archipelago is a draw for outdoor enthusiasts for its boating, fishing, and kayaking adventures.

Hjo

Hjo’s pretty lakeside setting is a real boon for this small town’s tourism industry. Set on the western shore of Lake Vättern mid-way between Stockholm and Gothenburg, the town is known for its well-preserved wooden buildings, many of them located along its main street. Dating from the 19th century, some fine examples can be seen surrounding Hjo Stadspark, a beautifully landscaped park that borders the lake that’s used for events including music festivals and the much-anticipated Yearly Arts and Crafts Fair.

Popular tourist attractions include the Hjo Museum with its displays relating to the town's history and cultural heritage. Lake Vättern is, of course, another big draw, with the town’s harbor area being especially fun to explore.

Visby

Visby’s location on the Baltic Sea island of Gotland certainly adds to this small town’s appeal. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Visby is famous for its remarkably well-preserved town wall which encircles the old town. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries during the Hanseatic League era to protect the town’s important trading status and cathedral from marauders. Dedicated to Saint Mary, Visby Cathedral was built in the 1200s and makes for a great selfie backdrop (Tip: get close up to capture the twin spires towering above you!).

More can be learned about the island and the cathedral at the Gotland Museum, which offers a deep dive into the island's rich history, from its early roots and beyond through its Viking treasures and medieval artworks.

Mariefred

Mariefred is another lakeside town to include on a Sweden travel itinerary. An hour by car or train west of Stockholm, its location on Lake Mälaren certainly adds to the town’s appeal, as does its name, which literally translates into "Peace of Mary." The star of the show here is Gripsholm Castle, an imposing royal fortress that dates back to the 16th century and boasts a distinctive red-brick façade and stunning location overlooking the lake. Be sure to venture inside for a look at its large collection of portraits of Swedish kings, queens, and notable figures from Sweden’s past.

Strolling Mariefred's cobbled main street is another must-do, as is a ride aboard the Mariefred Steam Train, a historic railway that offers a nostalgic journey through the picturesque countryside between Mariefred and Läggesta.

The Final Word

The enchanting towns of Ystad, Sigtuna, Mariefred, Visby, Hjo, Trosa, and Falköping each promise to provide curious travelers with no end of fun experiences, particularly around their historic main streets. Still bustling after centuries have passed, these charming locations provide a look into Sweden’s past with tourist attractions that paint a fascinating picture of its people and their rich culture.  Learn more about these unforgettable destinations and be inspired by this list of towns in Sweden that have the best main streets.