Things To Do
in Bålsta
Bålsta is a small, verdant town in Uppland, Sweden, located along the Mälaren valley and well-connected to larger cities by train. It combines a tranquil, residential vibe with convenient access to nature and local services. The town serves as a friendly base for day trips to Enköping, Uppsala, and Stockholm, while offering its own parks, cafés, and a compact downtown feel.
Visitors can enjoy lakeside strolls, fika at cozy cafés, and easy rail connections that make weekend exploring simple and enjoyable.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the Bålsta church, a beautiful building dating back to the 17th century. Take your time to admire its architecture and the serene surroundings. After this, stroll through the nearby park to enjoy the fresh morning air.
Enjoy lunch at a local café where you can taste typical Swedish cuisine. Post lunch, head to the Bålsta Museum to learn about the area's rich history and culture through its various exhibitions. Don't forget to take a short walk along the scenic waterfront afterward for some stunning views.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant along Lake Mälaren for dinner, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. The evening can be spent relaxing by the lake, where you can reflect on your day while taking in the beautiful colors of the sunset. End your night with a leisurely stroll through the town center.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to explore the natural beauty of Bålsta. Pack a picnic and take a trip to the nearby nature reserves, such as the Skarholmen nature reserve, known for its lush landscapes. Spend the morning hiking the trails and observing the local wildlife.
After the hike, lay out your picnic amidst nature and enjoy a lunch surrounded by trees and the sound of chirping birds. Continue your adventure by renting bicycles to explore more of the picturesque surroundings. You could also visit the Håbo Castle to admire the stunning architecture and its historical significance.
For dinner, visit a local grill offering barbecue specialties and traditional Swedish dishes. Afterward, consider attending a local event or concert if available, to immerse yourself in the regional culture. Wind down the night with a peaceful walk near the shores of Lake Mälaren.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $100-150 |
| 🥖Milk (1 liter) / groceries | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with easy access to nature
- Good rail connections to Stockholm, Uppsala, and Enköping
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Scenic lakeside views and quiet outdoor spaces
- Limited nightlife and few high-energy entertainment options
- Smaller dining and shopping scene compared to bigger cities
- Weather can be chilly outside of summer; plan for seasonal layers
- Some services require short trips to nearby towns
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Var ligger toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Bålsta
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene lakeside scene with reflections at sunrise or sunset, ideal for landscape and silhouette shots.
Historic churchyard and charming streets with traditional Swedish architecture, great for architectural and street photography.
A compact urban space with seasonal décor and people, good for candid shots and urban textures.
Photographic contrast of sleek rails against a rustic backdrop, especially at dawn or dusk.
Food in Bålsta
Bålsta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic Swedish meatballs served with potatoes, lingonberries, and creamy sauce. A staple at family-style eateries and bistros.
Must-Try!
Potato pancakes fried with crisp bacon and a side of lingonberries or sour cream.
Cured salmon served with mustard-dill sauce, often found on light lunch plates and in cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small local market offering seasonal produce, bread, cheeses, and ready-to-eat snacks on market days.
Historic market area with fresh produce, fish, and street-food options, good for a day trip detour.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and respect lines; Swedes value orderly queuing and timely arrivals.
Take part in fika: a coffee break with pastries; it’s a social ritual and a chance to connect with locals.
A simple greeting like 'Hej' or 'God dag' is appreciated; remove shoes when entering someone’s home if invited.
Safety
Tipping in Bålsta
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sweden, tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for exceptional service. Many service charges are included in totals; rounding up or leaving a small tip is common in cafes or restaurants if you’re pleased with the service.
Credit/debit cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted. Cash usage is declining in urban areas but still possible in some smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days return, flowers start to bloom, and outdoor spaces become pleasant. Pack layers and a light rain jacket for variable showers.
Warm days with long daylight hours; ideal for lake swims, hikes, and outdoor dining. Bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Colorful foliage and cooler temps; great for scenic drives and forest walks. Expect occasional rain and early sunsets.
Cold with a possibility of snow; enjoy cozy cafés, winter landscapes, and short days. Dress in warm layers and robust footwear.
Bålsta at Night
Hiking in Bålsta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle forest trail suitable for all ages; shaded paths and small clearings with benches for breaks.
Easy-to-moderate shoreline path along Lake Mälaren with water views and wildlife opportunities.
Protected reserve area offering seasonal flora and small woodland streams; good for a longer half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Bålsta by plane.
Major international hub about 40-60 minutes by train or car from Bålsta; frequent domestic and international flights; convenient rail connections from Stockholm to Bålsta.
Close-in airport with domestic and some European routes; convenient for short trips and city access via rail or taxi.
Smaller regional airport; serves a limited number of destinations; accessible by road or train with a transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly community with schools, parks, and safe sidewalks.
Residents who travel to Stockholm or Uppsala for work via train or car.
A number of quieter neighborhoods and green spaces appeal to visitors and locals seeking a relaxed pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular local pastime; community leagues and school teams are common across the region.
Winter sport with local clubs and rink facilities in nearby towns; a staple of Swedish winter culture.
Common in winter months, with nearby forest trails and gentle slopes suitable for beginner to intermediate skiers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bålsta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers will find options at most cafés and bistros; look for quiches, veggie plates, and egg-based dishes. In restaurants, ask for plant-based mains or sides, and you can often substitute meat for mushrooms, legumes, or seasonal vegetables.