Things To Do
in Stenungsund

Stenungsund is a scenic coastal town in Västra Götaland County on Sweden's Bohuslän coast. It combines a working harbor, a sunny seaside charm, and easy access to the surrounding archipelago. The town serves as a gateway to nearby islands like Tjörn and Orust, with boating, nature trails, and friendly cafes.

It’s compact and walkable, making it ideal for a relaxed coastal getaway close to Gothenburg.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Stenungsund and check into your charming accommodation by the waterfront. Spend your morning soaking in the fresh sea air while strolling along the picturesque marina. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Swedish breakfast with fresh pastries.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the nearby Tjörn Island, known for its stunning landscapes and artistic vibe. Explore the Nordiska Akvarellmuseet, which showcases contemporary watercolor art, and enjoy the vibrant surroundings. Take a leisurely hike along the coastal paths to absorb the beautiful views.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head back to Stenungsund and indulge in dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring delicious seafood. Enjoy the local cuisine while listening to the soothing sound of waves. After dinner, take a peaceful walk down by the waterfront to end the day.

day 2
A Day at the Beach
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to one of Stenungsund's beautiful beaches like Stora Dyrön. Enjoy swimming in the refreshing waters or relaxing on the sandy shore with a good book. Take your time to soak in the summer sun amidst the stunning coastal scenery.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the nearby Archipelago by renting a kayak or taking a boat tour. Paddle through the serene waters and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife and feel the calmness of nature.

evening
:

Upon returning, unwind at a local pub that offers a vibrant atmosphere and traditional Swedish fare. Drink locally brewed beer as you enjoy the company of your fellow travelers. Wrap up the evening by watching the sunset from the beach, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🚌One-way public transport ticket$2-4
🏨Mid-range hotel night$90-150
🎟️Movie ticket$12-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and access to nearby islands
  • Compact town with walkable center and easy day trips from Gothenburg
  • Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
  • Can be busy in summer and more quiet in winter
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Ursäkta" - Excuse me
  • "Var ligger toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Kan du hjälpa mig?" - Can you help me?
  • "Jag skulle vilja detta" - I would like this
  • "Pratar du engelska?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Stenungsund

Visit one of these nice places.

Stenungsund Harbour at Sunset

Harbor shots with moored boats and golden hour reflections on the water.

Archipelago Viewpoint

Coastal cliffs and rocky shoreline with views toward the Bohuslän archipelago.

Marina Promenade

Colorful boats, wooden piers, and morning light along the docks.

Culinary Guide

Food in Stenungsund

Stenungsund's cuisine centers on fresh seafood from the Bohuslän coast, simple Nordic cooking, and seasonal produce from local farms and markets.

Stenungsund Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Räksmörgås

A classic Swedish shrimp sandwich on rye bread with mayonnaise, dill, and lemon; commonly found at coastal cafes.

Must-Try!

Gravad lax

Cured salmon slices served with mustard sauce and flatbread; a staple at coastal restaurants and buffets.

Kräftor (kräftskiva)

Seasonal crayfish boiled with dill, served with bread and cheese; iconic during late-summer celebrations by the coast.

Grilled havsabborre

Freshly grilled sea bass with potatoes and peas, a popular catch-at-the-coast preparation.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Stenungsund Harbour Market

Seasonal market by the marina offering fresh seafood, local produce, bakery items, and crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Stenungsund has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cold winters. The coastal location brings frequent wind and rain; expect changeable weather, especially in spring and autumn. Summer temps typically range from 15-22°C (59-72°F), winter temperatures around -2 to 5°C (28-41°F) with frost and occasional snow. The area experiences higher humidity and breezes from the sea year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Be on time for reservations and avoid late arrivals; it is polite to queue and wait your turn.

Personal space and manners

Respect personal space and speak politely; Swedes value quiet conversations in public.

Environmental respect

Sweden emphasizes sustainability; recycle and avoid litter; enjoy nature responsibly.

Language

Most people speak English; learning a few Swedish phrases like 'Hej' is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stenungsund is generally safe with low crime rates. Standard travel precautions apply: keep valuables secure, be mindful near water, and watch for slippery surfaces on piers after rain. In emergencies, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. If traveling at night, stay in well-lit areas and use official taxis or rideshares.

Tipping in Stenungsund

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in sit-down restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cards (Visa/Mastercard/Chip and PayPass) and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is less common; some places may accept mobile wallets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days and blooming paths; bring light layers and a waterproof layer for showers.

Summer

Long daylight hours, sea breeze, and beaches; ideal for outdoor activities and boat trips.

Autumn

Cooling temperatures, foggy mornings, and autumn colors; good for coastal hikes and photography.

Winter

Cold and windy with possible snow; many outdoor attractions are quieter but indoor venues are cozy and welcoming.

Nightlife Guide

Stenungsund at Night

Stenungsund's nightlife is intimate and seasonal, centered around harbor pubs, cozy bars, and seaside cafés. In summer, many spots host live music and outdoor decks with views over the water; weekends see a livelier scene, while weeknights are quieter. For late-night options, head to a marina bar or a hotel lobby lounge, and enjoy a relaxed Swedish evening with friends.

Hiking in Stenungsund

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bohusleden – Coastal segment

A long-distance trail with sections accessible near Stenungsund; offers forest and coast views.

Orust Island Trails

Coastal and forest hikes on Orust with seaside villages and panoramic seascapes.

Tjörn Island shore walks

Coastal trails along Tjörn’s coastline with rocky shores and sheltered coves.

Airports

How to reach Stenungsund by plane.

Göteborg Landvetter Airport (GOT)

Main international airport serving Gothenburg; about 60-70 km from Stenungsund; frequent domestic and international flights.

Trollhättan-Vänersborg Airport (THN)

Smaller regional airport with domestic flights; around 100 km from Stenungsund.

Getting Around

Walkability

Stenungsund's center is compact and walkable, especially along the harbor and waterfront promenades. Many attractions, cafes, and shops are within a short stroll, though some coastal spots require a short bike ride or bus. For wider exploration of the archipelago, borrowing a bike or taking a short ferry can be convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families with children live in the town and nearby islands; good schools and safe neighborhoods.

Retirees

A stable portion of residents enjoy a quieter pace and local community events.

Seasonal tourists

Summer visitors from Gothenburg and beyond boost activity and business during warm months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing and water sports

The Bohuslän coast is ideal for sailing, kayaking, and SUP throughout the summer.

Football and ice hockey

Popular team sports with local clubs and youth programs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is mostly moderate; the E6 highway runs along the coast and connects to Gothenburg and the northern Bohuslän coast. Public transportation is operated by Västtrafik with buses connecting Stenungsund to nearby towns; ferries run to some archipelago isles in summer. In peak tourist season, expect busier roads around weekends and in coastal towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Stenungsund.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Stenungsund, vegetarian options appear on most menus; look for salads, vegetable dishes, and veggie burgers. When ordering, ask for meals without shrimp or meat, and you can request dairy-free options. Local markets offer fresh produce and herbs to supplement meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Sweden has high-quality public healthcare. In Västra Götaland County you can access general practitioners, hospitals, and emergency services; EU residents can use their EHIC. For non-emergency medical advice call 1177 or your local health center. Carry your ID and any necessary insurance information when traveling.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide