Things To Do
in Sundsvall
Sundsvall is a coastal city in Västernorrland County, perched where the Selångersån river meets the Gulf of Bothnia. Known as Stenstaden, the Stone City, it rebuilt after a great fire in the 19th century with durable stone architecture and a walkable city center. The town blends urban charm with easy access to nature, from riverfront promenades to nearby forested hills just outside the center.
Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, Nordic cuisine, and a friendly, family-friendly vibe with a calendar of cultural events year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Sundsvall's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful 19th-century wooden houses. Grab a coffee and a traditional Swedish pastry at a local café, immersing yourself in the morning buzz of the city. Visit the Sundsvall Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture.
Wander over to the Stora Torget, the main square, where you can explore various shops and boutiques. After some shopping, enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local delicacies like the famous Sundsvall herring. Take a guided walking tour to delve deeper into the stories behind the city's architecture and landmarks.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront and find a cozy spot to enjoy a dinner overlooking the beautiful harbor. Try a seafood dish at one of the waterfront restaurants, savoring fresh fish caught from the nearby Baltic Sea. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk along the promenade, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Prepare for an exciting day by heading to the nearby mountains for a hiking adventure. After a healthy breakfast, pack your gear and drive to the hiking trails at the nearby Skönsberg. The morning is perfect for taking in the picturesque views of Sundsvall and the surrounding landscapes.
Continue your hike along the trails, stopping for a packed lunch amidst the stunning natural scenery. Enjoy the opportunity to spot local wildlife and take photographs of the breathtaking vistas. As you make your way back down, take a moment to appreciate the tranquil beauty of the Swedish wilderness.
After a fulfilling day of hiking, unwind at a local spa that offers traditional Swedish treatments. Enjoy a sauna session followed by a refreshing dip in a hot tub, relaxing your muscles from the day's exertion. Conclude your evening with a light dinner at a nearby bistro, sharing stories from your hiking adventure.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-170 |
| 🚇One-way public transport | $2-4 |
| 🛒Grocery groceries (weekly) | $50-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact city with a walkable center
- Strong seafood and Nordic cuisine
- Good public transport and proximity to nature
- Can be windy and rainy
- Smaller nightlife compared to major cities
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Kan du tala engelska?" - Do you speak English?
- "Var ligger toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Sundsvall
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic stone façades and charming street scenes; best shots are around pedestrian plazas and squares.
Panoramic city views from the hilltop park—great for expansive cityscape and sunset photos.
The bridge silhouetted against the harbor is a classic evening photography moment.
Serene greenspace with the historic church as a backdrop for architectural and nature photography.
Food in Sundsvall
Sundsvall Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Swedish shrimp sandwich commonly found at seaside cafes, piled with fresh shrimp, mayo, and lemon—great with a side salad.
Must-Try!
Savory cheese pie made with Västerbotten cheese; a staple at cafés and bakeries across the region.
Swedish hash of potatoes, onions, and leftovers, typically topped with a fried egg; comforting and widely available.
Cured salmon served with dill sauce, a Nordic favorite found on many restaurant menus and at market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market hall offering fresh fish, cheeses, artisanal breads, and ready-to-eat bites from regional producers.
Seasonal outdoor stalls along the riverfront with berries, pastries, and street snacks during pleasant weather.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'hej' or 'hej hej' is common; handshakes are typical in formal introductions.
Swedes value orderly queues and personal space; speak softly in public places and avoid blocking sidewalks.
Safety
Tipping in Sundsvall
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sweden, tipping is not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated in restaurants.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; Swish (a mobile payment app) is popular for quick transfers and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Crisp days with blooming trees; bring layers as temperatures swing. Rain showers are common, but city parks come alive.
Long daylight hours and mild to warm temperatures; ideal for outdoor dining, harbor walks, and festivals. Pack a light rain jacket.
Colorful foliage and cooler temperatures; layers are key. Shorter days but plenty of scenic views and cultural events.
Cold and often snowy with short days; dress warmly with a good coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots. Snowy landscapes are perfect for tranquil photography.
Sundsvall at Night
Hiking in Sundsvall
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible family-friendly loops with city views and forest scenery.
Shorter, scenic day hikes within a couple of hours' drive; spectacular coastal and forest landscapes.
Easy riverside paths along Selångersån for relaxed walks and photography.
Airports
How to reach Sundsvall by plane.
Regional flights; roughly 20-30 minutes by car to the city center.
Major international hub with long-haul connections; about a 9-10 hour journey to Sundsvall by train or bus plus local transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A steady student presence from local colleges and universities.
Many families live in the suburbs; safe neighborhoods and family-friendly activities.
Active retiree community with cultural clubs and daytime events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport with local teams and arena-based events.
Local and regional leagues with spring and autumn schedules; widely watched and played.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sundsvall.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; look for mushroom or root-vegetable dishes, seasonal salads, and veggie mains.
Gluten-free options are increasingly available; inform staff about dietary needs and check dressings and sauces.