Things To Do
in Eskilstuna
Eskilstuna is a dynamic river city in Södermanland, Sweden, steeped in industrial heritage yet energized by modern culture. The town blends green parks, museums, and a walkable city center with easy access to lakes and forests. Its compact layout and friendly atmosphere make it easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Visitors can enjoy historic districts, riverside scenery, and diverse dining experiences just a short ride from Stockholm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Eskilstuna, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Klosters Church, absorbing the serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Visit a local café for a traditional Swedish breakfast, sampling fresh pastries and coffee. This gentle start prepares you for the explorations ahead.
Explore the Eskilstuna Art Museum, which showcases a variety of contemporary and historical art pieces. After appreciating the art, take a scenic walk along the river, enjoying the lush surroundings and vibrant city life. Grab lunch at a riverside bistro, savoring local dishes with a view.
Dine at a cozy restaurant in the city center, indulging in classic Swedish cuisine such as meatballs or herring. After dinner, stroll through the lively streets, perhaps pausing for a drink at a local pub. The pleasant evening ambiance and friendly locals create a memorable experience.
Start your day with a guided tour of the historic Rademachersmedjorna, an old industrial area turned cultural site, where you can learn about the city's rich history. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café before diving into the local crafts. This immersive experience sets the tone for a day of exploration.
Visit the Eskilstuna Zoo, known for its commitment to animal welfare and education. Spend time engaging with the animals and enjoying interactive exhibits, making it perfect for families and animal lovers alike. For lunch, savor snacks at the zoo’s café, surrounded by nature.
Check out the local theater for a performance, which could range from drama to music. Enjoy a pre-show dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring seasonal ingredients. The vibrant cultural scene will leave you inspired and entertained.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week per person | $40-70 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center, 1 month) | $800-1,200 |
| 🚆1-way public transport ticket | $3-4 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city with easy access to nature
- Rich industrial history and charming historic districts
- Good public services and safe environment
- Accessible from Stockholm and surrounding areas
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Winter months can be cold and daylight is limited
- Some attractions require short travel from the center
- Seasonal crowds at popular markets
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta" - Excuse me
- "Var är toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kan jag få menyn, tack?" - May I have the menu, please?
- "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Jag skulle vilja ha..." - I would like to have...
- "Pratar ni engelska?" - Do you speak English?
- "Toaletten är därborta" - The bathroom is over there
- "Jag är vegetarian" - I am vegetarian
- "Kan du rekommendera en bra restaurang?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Trevlig dag" - Have a nice day
Places to Visit in Eskilstuna
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic wooden smithery district with well-preserved workshops, perfect for atmospheric daytime shots and golden-hour photography.
Expansive green space along the river with ponds, bridges, and scenic angles ideal for portraits and nature photography.
Promenade and old industrial silhouettes along the river—great for long exposure and sunset shots.
Cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and market life provide charming urban textures and street photography opportunities.
Food in Eskilstuna
Eskilstuna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Swedish meatballs served with potatoes and lingonberry sauce; a staple you’ll find in most taverns and family-style restaurants.
Must-Try!
Cured salmon with dill-infused potatoes or a light dill sauce, commonly offered as a refined Swedish starter or main.
Potato pancakes fried crisp with slices of pork, a traditional comfort dish often featured on rustic menus.
Elk roast or game dishes reflecting regional Nordic flavors, typically available in seasonal or countryside-inspired spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A central market area with fresh produce, local treats, and casual eateries—great for sampling Swedish snacks and street bites.
Seasonal stalls along the Eskilstunaån offering quick bites, sandwiches, and treats with a scenic view.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Take part in fika—coffee breaks with snacks—and be polite, patient, and punctual in queues and appointments.
Be on time for meetings; maintain respectful personal space in lines and public transport.
Queue in order and avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces like trams or libraries.
Safety
Tipping in Eskilstuna
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Sweden; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is common but not expected.
Cash usage is low; cards and mobile payments (including Swish) are widely accepted in most venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming parks; shoulder-season crowds, good for city walks and garden photography.
Long days with pleasant temperatures; ideal for outdoor activities, waterfront strolls, and al fresco dining.
Colorful foliage and crisp air; perfect for landscapes, riverside scenes, and cultural events in the center.
Cold with potential snow; shorter daylight hours, cozy cafés, and festive decorations in holiday season markets.
Eskilstuna at Night
Hiking in Eskilstuna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested trails with lakes and varied terrain, ideal for day hikes and birdwatching near Eskilstuna.
A network of long-distance trails nearby that offers multi-day hikes through forests and countryside.
Airports
How to reach Eskilstuna by plane.
Main international gateway to the region; about a 1.5–2 hour drive from Eskilstuna depending on traffic.
Low-cost-friendly airport serving many European destinations; located near Nyköping, roughly 1.5–2 hours by road.
Smaller regional airport offering connections to select destinations; about an hour by car from Eskilstuna.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population attends nearby universities and colleges, contributing to a youthful vibe and active cultural scene.
Family-friendly neighborhoods with parks, schools, and community activities are common throughout the city.
A mix of long-time residents and newcomers, maintaining a friendly, small-town feel in a growing city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local clubs and matches draw crowds in regional stadiums.
Seasonal sport with local teams and indoor arenas during winter.
A fast-paced indoor sport enjoyed by many schools and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eskilstuna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; look for veggie mains, salads, and fish-free plates, and ask for meat-free adaptations when ordering.