whatdo

Things To Do
in Strängnäs

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Strängnäs is a historic city located in Södermanland County, Sweden, situated on the shores of Lake Mälaren. The city is known for its well-preserved medieval cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, which dominates the skyline. Strängnäs offers a charming blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, with picturesque streets lined with colorful buildings and quaint shops.

Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding natural beauty of the region.

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Västerås Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game

  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Förlåt" - Sorry
  • "Ja" - Yes
  • "Nej" - No

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
  • ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Strngns
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Strängnäs Cathedral, an architectural gem. Take a peaceful stroll around the nearby lake to enjoy the morning serenity.

afternoon
:

For lunch, try one of the local cafes offering traditional Swedish dishes. Spend your afternoon exploring the charming streets filled with local shops and art galleries.

evening
:

End your day with a relaxing dinner by the waterfront, enjoying a view of the sunset. Consider visiting a local bar for some live music.

day 2
History Uncovered
morning
:

Visit the Strängnäs Museum to learn about the town's rich history and culture. Engage with interactive exhibits that bring the past to life.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk to the nearby castle ruins and enjoy the picturesque scenery. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the castle gardens.

evening
:

Return to the town center for dinner at a cozy restaurant. Sample local delicacies while enjoying the ambiance of the historical surroundings.

Strängnäs Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical heritage with well-preserved architecture and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings, including lakes and forests, ideal for outdoor activities.
  • A close-knit community with a relaxed, small-town atmosphere.
  • Good quality of life with low crime rates and a strong sense of safety.
  • Access to local markets and shops, supporting small businesses.
  • Cultural events and festivals that celebrate local traditions.
  • Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other rural areas in Sweden.
  • Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options may be limited, requiring a car for convenience.
  • Possible isolation for those used to urban living, with fewer amenities available.
  • Harsh winter climate may not be appealing to everyone.

Best Activities in Strängnäs

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Mälaren Runt

Enjoy a boat tour around Lake Mälaren, taking in the scenic views and visiting historical sites.

Malmön Island

Explore the nature trails and beaches on Malmön Island for a relaxing outdoor experience.

Strängnäs City Park

Take a leisurely stroll or have a picnic in the beautiful Strängnäs City Park.

Places to Visit in Strängnäs

Visit one of these nice places.

Malmudden

Offers a picturesque view of Lake Mälaren and the city skyline

Strängnäs Cathedral

Provides stunning architectural and historical backdrop for photography

Tom Tits Experiment

Features an observation tower providing panoramic views of the surrounding area

Food in Strängnäs

Strängnäs, Sweden boasts a rich culinary tradition influenced by its local produce and historical heritage. The cuisine offers a delightful combination of traditional Swedish flavors and modern European influences. From local delicacies to international cuisine, Strängnäs has something to offer for every food enthusiast.

Strängnäs Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Strängnäs Ostkaka

A traditional Swedish dessert similar to cheesecake, usually served with whipped cream and jam. Must-try at Kaffestugan Stora Nygatan.

Must-Try!

Strängnäs Sill

Pickled herring, a classic Swedish dish often served with crispbread. Enjoy at Sill och Dynamit.

Lake Mälaren Perch

Freshly caught perch from Lake Mälaren prepared in various ways, a local specialty offered at Köpmangatan 14.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Strängnäs Torg Market

The town's central square hosts a weekly market offering fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade pastries. It's a great place to sample authentic Swedish street food, such as hot dogs, smoked salmon, and reindeer meatballs.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters can be quite cold, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing, while snowfall is common. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, usually hovers around -3°C to -5°C (27°F to 23°F). Summers are generally mild to warm, with average temperatures in July ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, although late summer may experience slightly higher precipitation levels. The transition between seasons can be noticeable, with spring bringing a gradual warming and autumn showcasing vibrant foliage. Overall, the climate supports a variety of ecosystems and influences the outdoor activities and lifestyles of the residents throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Strängnäs, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.

Punctuality

Swedes value punctuality, so it is expected that one arrives on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings in Strängnäs.

Remove shoes indoors

It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home in Strängnäs, as it is a sign of respect and cleanliness.

Safety

This picturesque town, known for its rich history and beautiful scenery, generally has a reputation for being safe and welcoming. Sweden, as a whole, consistently ranks high on global safety indexes, and Strängnäs reflects this trend. Crime rates in the region are relatively low, with most incidents being minor and non-violent in nature. The community is tight-knit, and local residents tend to look out for one another, further enhancing the feeling of safety. Public infrastructure is well-maintained, and there is a visible presence of law enforcement, contributing to a sense of security. As with any location, it’s always wise for residents and visitors to remain aware of their surroundings and take typical safety precautions. Overall, the environment fosters a peaceful and secure atmosphere for both inhabitants and tourists.

Tipping in Strängnäs

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Strängnäs, Sweden, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected at restaurants, bars, or for other services. However, if you receive exceptional service, rounding up the bill as a gesture of appreciation is appreciated but not mandatory.

Payment

Payment in Strängnäs, Sweden is predominantly cashless, with credit/debit cards widely accepted. It is common to use cards for most transactions including at restaurants, shops, and for public transportation. It is rare to find places that accept only cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit for blooming flowers, mild temperatures, and longer daylight hours.

Summer

Ideal for outdoor activities, including boating and swimming in the nearby lakes, as well as enjoying the Midnight Sun phenomenon.

Autumn

Witness beautiful fall foliage and enjoy the crisp air while exploring the town's historic sites.

Winter

Experience a winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes, traditional Christmas markets, and the opportunity for ice skating and cross-country skiing.

Strängnäs at Night

In the charming town of Strängnäs, the nightlife scene offers a quaint yet delightful experience for visitors and locals alike. This picturesque locale, known for its rich history and stunning lakeside views, transforms into a cozy hub of social activity once the sun sets. Bars and restaurants become the focal points for evening entertainment, where you can enjoy exquisite Swedish cuisine and locally brewed beverages in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Live music performances at various venues add to the vibrant ambience, with everything from laid-back acoustic sets to energetic local bands playing a mix of genres. Patrons often find themselves at inviting pubs, where the community feel is strong and conversations flow as smoothly as the craft beers on tap. For a more relaxing end to your evening, the tranquil waterfront and historic settings provide perfect backdrops for leisurely strolls under the starlit sky. Seasonal events, such as summer festivals or winter markets, occasionally enliven the nocturnal scene, offering unique cultural experiences amidst the Scandinavian charm of Strängnäs.

Hiking in Strängnäs

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sundbyholm Nature Reserve

A beautiful area with varied landscapes including forests, lakes, and open fields. Perfect for hiking with marked trails and scenic views of Lake Mälaren.

Åkers Styckebruk

Offers several hiking trails through forests and along riverbanks, providing opportunities to explore nature and experience the tranquility of the area.

Tullgarn Nature Reserve

Located a bit south of Strängnäs, Tullgarn features coastal trails, lush forests, and wetlands, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.

Mariefred to Gripsholm Castle

A picturesque hike along the shores of Lake Mälaren from Mariefred to Gripsholm Castle, with historical sights and beautiful landscapes.

Bjärka-Säby Cultural Reserve

This area combines cultural history with nature, featuring walking paths that showcase local flora and historical sites.

Aiports

How to reach Strängnäs by plane.

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)

The largest international airport in Sweden, located about 70 km northeast of Strängnäs.

Stockholm Skavsta Airport (NYO)

An international airport located approximately 50 km southwest of Strängnäs, primarily serving low-cost airlines.

Gothenburg Landvetter Airport (GOT)

The second largest airport in Sweden, located about 150 km southwest of Strängnäs.

Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA)

A closer airport to Stockholm city, located around 60 km from Strängnäs, serving mainly domestic flights and a few international routes.

Walkability

Known for its charming waterfront and historic architecture, this city offers a pleasant experience for residents and visitors alike when it comes to walking. The town center is compact, with shops, cafes, and local amenities situated within a short distance of each other, fostering a pedestrian-friendly environment. Many streets feature sidewalks and pedestrian zones, allowing for safe and easy navigation on foot. The picturesque lakeside promenade invites leisurely strolls, providing scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere. Additionally, parks and green spaces are integrated within the urban layout, contributing to the overall walkability. Public transport options are accessible as well, allowing for connectivity while encouraging walking as a means to explore the area. Overall, the combination of compact urban design, amenities within easy reach, and beautiful surroundings makes walking an enjoyable and practical choice in this delightful city.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Swedish

The primary demographic group, including individuals with Swedish citizenship and heritage.

Immigrants

A significant group including people from various countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Strängnäs.

Aging Population

Older adults form a considerable part of the demographic, reflecting the broader trend of an aging society.

Youth

Children and teenagers represent a vital demographic, including students in local schools.

Ethnic Minorities

Includes various ethnic groups such as the Sami, Finns, and others from different cultural backgrounds.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (Soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Strängnäs, with several local clubs and a strong community involvement.

Ice Hockey

Ice Hockey has a significant following in Strängnäs, with youth and adult teams participating in local leagues.

Handball

Handball is actively played in Strängnäs, with various teams at different levels contributing to the sport's popularity.

Athletics

Athletics, including running and track events, attracts many participants and is supported by local clubs in Strängnäs.

Floorball

Floorball is a popular indoor sport in Strängnäs, with many clubs providing training and competitions for all ages.

Traffic

Situated along the banks of Lake Mälaren, this charming town experiences a moderate level of traffic, primarily influenced by its combination of residential areas, local businesses, and tourism. The road infrastructure includes several important routes that connect the town to nearby cities like Stockholm and Eskilstuna. During peak hours, traffic can increase significantly, especially as commuters travel to and from the larger metropolitan areas. The town's layout features narrow streets typical of historic regions, which can lead to congestion, particularly during summer months when tourism peaks. Pedestrian traffic is also common, especially in the town center, where scenic sights and shops attract visitors. Public transport options, including buses, help to alleviate some congestion, providing connectivity for those residing in surrounding areas. Overall, while traffic can be busy at times, it is generally manageable and reflective of the town’s small-town charm amidst its growing popularity as a destination.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Strängnäs.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Most restaurants and cafes in Strängnäs offer vegetarian and vegan choices, with dishes highlighting seasonal vegetables and innovative plant-based recipes.

Gluten-Free Options

Many dining establishments provide gluten-free alternatives, from locally inspired dishes to international cuisines, accommodating those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Healthcare

In this town, healthcare services are primarily provided through the regional healthcare system, which is part of Sweden’s publicly funded universal healthcare system. Residents have access to various medical services, including primary care through local healthcare centers, specialized care at hospitals, and outpatient services. The healthcare centers serve as the first point of contact for patients and provide services such as general medical consultations, preventive care, maternity services, and vaccinations. If specialized treatment is needed, patients may be referred to nearby hospitals, which offer a range of services including emergency care, surgery, and specialist consultations. Access to healthcare is generally well-regarded, and the emphasis is placed on preventive care and early intervention. Patients are typically required to have a personal identification number (personnummer) to access services, ensuring that care is organized and patient records are managed efficiently. Overall, the healthcare system in this area focuses on comprehensive, accessible, and cost-effective medical care, ensuring that residents receive necessary treatment while emphasizing overall community health.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2024 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide