Things To Do
in Kalmar
Kalmar is a charming coastal city located in southeastern Sweden, known for its well-preserved historical buildings and picturesque waterfront. The city is home to Kalmar Castle, a stunning medieval fortress that dates back to the 12th century and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the cobblestone streets, explore the vibrant local markets, and relax in the beautiful parks and gardens scattered throughout the city.
Kalmar also hosts a range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, making it a lively and welcoming destination for tourists.
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Förlåt" - Sorry
- "Ja" - Yes
- "Nej" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Kalmar Castle. Enjoy the beautiful views of the castle grounds and take a guided tour to learn about its rich history.
After lunch, stroll through the castle gardens and relax by the waterfront. Grab a coffee at a nearby café while admiring the view of the Kalmar Strait.
Dine at a local restaurant that offers traditional Swedish cuisine. End your day with a peaceful walk along the waterfront as the sun sets.
Spend the morning at the sandy beaches of Kalmarsund. Enjoy a swim or simply relax on the beach with a good book.
Have a picnic lunch by the water, taking in the fresh sea breeze. In the afternoon, try out some water sports or rent a kayak for some fun on the waves.
Visit a beachside bistro for dinner with ocean views. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere as you watch the sunset over the horizon.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and proximity to the Baltic Sea
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and museums
- Well-developed transportation infrastructure
- High quality of life and standard of living
- Strong focus on sustainability and environmental initiatives
- Cold winters with limited daylight
- Higher cost of living compared to other Swedish cities
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Potentially isolated from larger urban centers
- Public transportation options may be less frequent in rural areas
Best Activities in Kalmar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful beaches along the coast of Kalmar, such as Sandvik, Kalmarsundsbadet, and Långe Jan.
Enjoy cycling through Kalmar's scenic landscapes, including the Kalmar Castle area and the Kalmar Strait.
Paddle along the coast, explore the Kalmar Sound, and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding islands.
Places to Visit in Kalmar
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the city and the Baltic Sea.
Provides a picturesque view of the bridge connecting Kalmar to the island of Öland.
Beautiful park area with panoramic views of the Kalmar Strait and the city skyline.
Food in Kalmar
Kalmar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved local dish featuring herring marinated in a unique blend of herbs and spices. Look for it at traditional Swedish restaurants like Sjötornet or offer it as a starter at Matkällaren.
Must-Try!
This delightful dessert is a must-try, showcasing the flavors of the region with a creamy curdled milk and almond base, often served with lingonberries. Visit Kullzénska Gården to sample this delicacy.
Indulge in the local catch of the day, flounder, prepared in various delightful ways. For an authentic experience, head to Guntorps Herrgård, known for its fresh seafood dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local delights, offering a vast array of fresh seafood, cured meats, artisan cheeses, and organic produce. Be sure to try the mouthwatering street food options here, such as freshly grilled sausages or traditional Swedish meatballs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kalmar, it is important to greet people with a handshake and direct eye contact. It is considered respectful to address others using their titles and last names, especially in formal settings.
Punctuality is highly valued in Swedish culture, including in Kalmar. Arriving on time for social and business meetings is seen as a sign of respect for others' time and schedules.
Swedes, including those in Kalmar, value their personal space. It is important to maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others, and physical touch is generally kept to a minimum, especially between acquaintances.
Safety
Tipping in Kalmar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Kalmar, Sweden is not obligatory and is not a common practice. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or from a service provider, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated.
In Kalmar, Sweden, cash is not commonly used for transactions, and most businesses accept credit and debit cards. Contactless payment methods such as Swish and mobile payment apps are also widely used. It is important to note that most places in Kalmar do not accept foreign currency, so it is advisable to have Swedish Krona when making purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Kalmar is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm, and there are many outdoor activities and events to enjoy. You can expect long daylight hours, vibrant green landscapes, and a lively atmosphere.
Spring, from March to May, is another great time to visit Kalmar when the city starts to come alive after the winter months. The weather begins to warm up, and you can witness the beautiful blossoming of flowers and trees.
Autumn, from September to November, brings cooler weather and stunning foliage as the leaves change color. It's a great time for outdoor walks and enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Winter, from December to February, is the coldest time to visit Kalmar. While the city may be covered in snow, it offers a unique charm with winter activities such as ice skating and holiday markets.
Kalmar at Night
Hiking in Kalmar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Öland is a scenic island located just off the coast of Kalmar with numerous hiking trails, offering beautiful coastal views, diverse landscapes, and the famous Öland alvar.
The area around Kalmar Castle has lovely walking paths and gardens, providing a mix of historical architecture and natural beauty, perfect for a leisurely hike.
Located south of Kalmar, this nature reserve features a variety of trails through forests and wetlands, ideal for hiking and observing wildlife.
Situated on Öland, Trollskogen offers unique hiking experiences among intriguing rock formations, ancient trees, and stunning coastal scenery.
A long-distance hiking trail that runs along the coast of the Kalmar Strait, perfect for experienced hikers looking for a challenge and beautiful views.
Aiports
How to reach Kalmar by plane.
Located in Kastrup, Denmark, this is the largest airport in the Nordic countries and serves as a major international hub.
The main airport serving Gothenburg, Sweden. It is the second largest airport in the country.
The largest airport in Sweden, located approximately 40 kilometers north of Stockholm, offering a wide range of international flights.
Located in Sweden, near the city of Malmo, this airport handles both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kalmar, comprising native Swedish citizens with cultural ties to the region.
Individuals from various countries and ethnic backgrounds who have settled in Kalmar, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
Indigenous people of Sweden, with a presence in the region, particularly in terms of cultural contributions.
Ethnic Swedes who have historical ties to Finland, often residing in the Kalmar region.
Residents from other European countries who have moved to Kalmar for various reasons, including work and study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Kalmar, with many local clubs and a strong following among fans.
Ice hockey enjoys a significant fan base in Kalmar, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Handball is widely played in Kalmar, with many clubs participating in both youth and adult leagues.
Basketball has a growing popularity in Kalmar, with local teams and initiatives to promote the sport among youth.
Athletics, including track and field events, is popular in Kalmar, with facilities available for training and competitions.
Swimming is a favored leisure and competitive activity in Kalmar, supported by local swimming clubs and facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalmar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kalmar presents a growing array of dining establishments that cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences, with most restaurants offering dedicated menus or flexible options to accommodate these dietary choices. Notable spots include Raw Food Café and Sattva Naturbageri.
For those seeking gluten-free dining options, many eateries in Kalmar provide gluten-free dishes and are attentive to specific dietary requirements. Visit Restaurant Sensommar or Koppargrillen for a delectable gluten-free dining experience.