About Sundsvall
Sundsvall, a vibrant city in central Sweden, blends rich history with modern charm. Known for its stunning architecture and picturesque coastal setting, it offers a unique mix of culture, nature, and industry. The city thrives with a dynamic atmosphere featuring arts, education, and business innovation. Surrounded by forests and the Gulf of Bothnia, Sundsvall perfectly balances urban life and outdoor adventures. Its warm hospitality and rich heritage make it a captivating destination in Sweden.
6 Breathtaking Tourist Attractions in Sundsvall You Need to See
Here is the list best places to visit in Sundsvall
1. Norra Berget friluftsmuseum – Open-Air Museum
Norra Berget Friluftsmuseum is Sundsvall’s premier open-air museum and cultural heritage site. Situated on Northern Mountain (Norra Berget), this scenic area combines historical charm with breathtaking views of Sundsvall and its surroundings. The museum showcases traditional Swedish rural life, featuring historic buildings, craft workshops, and farm animals. It is a popular tourist and local destination that combines history, nature, and recreational activities.
Location:
Norra Berget Friluftsmuseum is located at Norra Stadsberget, 852 38 Sundsvall, Sweden, easily accessible by car, bus, or hiking trails.
Key Attractions:
- Historic Buildings – The museum houses over 40 well-preserved buildings, including farmhouses, barns, and workshops from the 18th and 19th centuries.
- Observation Tower – The observation tower, which is 22 meters high, offers sweeping views of the beach and Sundsvall.
- Traditional Craft Shops – Artisans demonstrate woodworking, blacksmithing, and other traditional crafts.
Top Activities:
- Walking & Hiking – Explore scenic trails through lush forests and enjoy stunning views from the hilltop.
- Museum Tours – Learn about Swedish rural life through guided tours of historic homes and buildings.
- Children’s Activities – Engage children with interactive seminars, fun playgrounds, and a charming petting zoo, offering a delightful experience for young explorers.
2. Birsta City – Shopping Centre
Birsta City is one of Sweden’s largest and most popular shopping centers. It offers diverse stores, dining options, and entertainment. Located just north of Sundsvall, it serves as a central retail hub for the region, attracting shoppers from near and far. The mall offers a modern shopping experience with international brands and local retailers, making it a must-visit destination for shopping enthusiasts.
Location:
Birsta City is located at Gesällvägen 1, 863 41 Sundsvall, Sweden, about 8 km north of Sundsvall city center.
Key Attractions:
- Over 90 Stores – More than 90 stores carry brands, including H&M, Lindex, Clas Ohlson, IKEA, and others in the fashion, electronics, home décor, and cosmetics categories.
- Family-Friendly Environment – Equipped with a children’s play area, baby-changing facilities, and family-friendly dining options.
- Seasonal Events & Promotions – During holidays like Christmas and Midsummer, there are frequent sales, discounts, and festive décor.
Top Activities
- Shopping – Explore fashion, electronics, home goods, and specialty stores.
- IKEA Visit – Browse furniture, grab a Swedish meal, or buy Scandinavian home essentials.
- Relaxation – Take a break in comfortable lounge areas or enjoy a coffee at a cozy café.
3. Kulturmagasinet – Cultural Centre
Kulturmagasinet is a vibrant cultural center in the heart of Sundsvall. It is housed in a historic 19th-century warehouse by the harbor and serves as a cultural hub, blending art, history, and community engagement. The center annually holds various exhibitions and cultural activities and houses Sundsvall’s museum and city library. This is a great place to visit for those who want to learn more about the area’s history, modern art, and inventiveness.
Location:
Kulturmagasinet is located at Stora Torget 1, 852 30 Sundsvall, Sweden, in the city center, near the main square.
Key Attractions:
- Sundsvall Museum – This museum features Exhibits detailing the city’s history, including its industrial past, the great fire of 1888, and local art.
- City Library – The City Library is a contemporary library with an extensive collection of books. It provides a peaceful setting for reading, studying, and attending activities.
- Art Exhibitions – Contemporary and classic art exhibitions featuring local and international artists.
Top Activities:
- Museum Tours – Explore Sundsvall’s history through exhibits on the city’s development, including the post-fire reconstruction and industrialization.
- Art Exhibitions – Discover rotating art shows featuring both contemporary and traditional artworks.
- Library Visit – Spend time browsing a vast collection of books or reading in a quiet atmosphere.
4. Vängåvan – Park and Garden
Vängåvan is a beautifully landscaped park and garden in Sundsvall, offering a serene escape into nature within the city. It is one of the city’s most cherished green spaces, featuring lush lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and tree-lined paths. The park is peaceful for relaxation, walking, and enjoying the region’s natural beauty. It’s also an excellent location for photography, picnics, or simply unwinding amidst greenery.
Location:
Vängåvan is located at 852 32 in central Sundsvall, Sweden, near the town’s shopping and dining areas.
Key Attractions:
- Flowerbeds & Ornamental Gardens – Beautifully arranged flowerbeds showcasing vibrant seasonal blooms and ornamental plants, perfect for photography.
- Tree-Lined Paths – Beautiful walking trails with old trees lining them provide a quiet, shady walk.
- Water Features – Small ponds and fountains are scattered throughout the park, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
Top Activities:
- Leisure Walks – Stroll along the picturesque paths and enjoy the park’s peaceful environment.
- Picnicking – Set a picnic on the open lawns and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
- Seasonal Visits – Enjoy the park in different seasons, with flowers in the spring, vibrant foliage in the fall, and snow in winter.
5. Katrinelunds trädgård & Café – Garden Centre
Katrinelunds Trädgård & Café is a charming garden center and café in Sundsvall, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. It’s the ideal location for gardeners with various plants, flowers, and gardening equipment. The café enhances the experience and gains popularity among locals and tourists by providing coffee, delectable baked pastries, and light meals. The garden center is a great place to enjoy the calm surroundings in addition to shopping.
Location:
Katrinelunds Trädgård & Café is located at Katrinelund, 862 31 Sundsvall, Sweden, about 10 km south of the city center. It is easily accessible by car.
Key Attractions:
- Wide Range of Plants & Flowers – From perennials and shrubs to seasonal flowers, there’s something for every garden.
- Gardening Tools & Accessories – A well-stocked shop offering tools, fertilizers, and garden decor to help enhance your garden.
- Café with Homemade Delights – Enjoy delicious pastries, cakes, and coffee in a cozy café surrounded by nature.
Top Activities:
- Plant Shopping – Browse a wide selection of plants, flowers, and gardening accessories.
- Coffee & Cake – Relax in the café, enjoying homemade treats surrounded by lush greenery.
- Garden Inspiration – Walk through the garden center to find inspiration for your garden projects.
6. Made In Medelpad – Handicraft
Made in Medelpad is a unique handicraft shop and gallery in Sundsvall dedicated to showcasing the creative talent of local artisans from the Medelpad region. The shop offers a diverse collection of handcrafted goods, including pottery, textiles, woodwork, and jewelry. Each piece is thoughtfully made by local artists, reflecting the area’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Visitors can also meet the artists, purchase one-of-a-kind items, and learn about traditional crafts passed down through generations.
Location:
Made In Medelpad is on the main shopping street at Storgatan 25, 852 30 Sundsvall, Sweden.
Key Attractions:
- Göran Hammarberg Art Gallery – Showcasing works by local artists and artisans, celebrating Medelpad’s creative spirit.
- Workshops & Demonstrations – Regular workshops and craft demonstrations where visitors can try various crafts.
- Local Souvenirs – This is a great place to find unique, high-quality souvenirs that reflect the culture and traditions of Medelpad.
Top Activities:
- Shop for Handicrafts – Browse unique, locally made products that make perfect souvenirs or gifts.
- Attend Workshops – Participate in hands-on workshops to learn traditional Swedish crafts such as pottery or weaving.
- Meet the Artists – Talk to regional craftspeople to learn more about their backgrounds and creation methods.
Taste the Rich Flavors of Sundsvall
Sundsvall offers a rich culinary scene that blends Swedish traditions with modern flavors, making it an excellent destination for food lovers. There is something for every taste, from elegant dining to welcoming cafés. Highlights of Sundsvall’s gastronomic offerings include the following:
- Sundsvalls Strömming: A local delicacy made from herring, often served pickled or smoked. It’s a popular dish in Sundsvall, particularly enjoyed with bread and potatoes.
- Västerbottensost Pie: This savory pie is created with firm, delicious Swedish cheese called Västerbottensost. This traditional Swedish meal is frequently offered in neighborhood eateries.
- Swedish Meatballs: Classic Swedish meatballs accompany gravy, mashed potatoes, and lingonberry sauce. This dish is popular and comfortable in Sundsvall restaurants.
- Räksmörgås: A Swedish open-faced sandwich with shrimp, eggs, and mayonnaise on rye bread. It’s often enjoyed as a lunch or snack.
- Kalvdans: It is a traditional dessert from the region made with curdled milk and sugar flavored. It is often served with berry compote for a sweet treat.
- Lutfisk: A traditional Swedish dish made from dried fish rehydrated in lye and then boiled. It’s usually served with peas, potatoes, and bacon, particularly during the holiday season.
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