Things To Do
in Umeå
Ume å is a vibrant city located in northern Sweden, known for its rich cultural scene and beautiful outdoor surroundings. The city is home to Umeå University, one of the largest universities in Sweden, giving the city a youthful and dynamic atmosphere. Umeå experiences long, cold winters with plenty of snowfall, offering residents and visitors opportunities for winter sports and outdoor activities.
In the summer, the city comes alive with festivals, concerts, and outdoor markets along the Ume River.
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Förlåt" - Sorry
- "Ja" - Yes
- "Nej" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Västerbottens Museum to learn about local history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Ume River afterwards.
Have lunch at a cozy café near the museum before heading to Umeå Arts Campus. Explore the various art galleries and installations.
Finish your day with dinner at a local restaurant, trying traditional Swedish dishes. Take a scenic walk in the city center to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Kick off with a hearty breakfast before venturing to Nydala Lake. Enjoy a morning of hiking or cycling along the picturesque trails.
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake. After lunch, rent a kayak and explore the tranquil waters.
Return to the city for a casual dinner at a riverside restaurant. In the evening, relax in a local park and enjoy the sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including forests and rivers.
- A vibrant cultural scene with museums, theaters, and music festivals.
- Strong educational institutions, including Umeå University.
- Access to various outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and biking.
- A welcoming community with a relatively low crime rate.
- Cold winters with significant snowfall, which may not be suitable for everyone.
- Limited job market in certain sectors compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living than some smaller Swedish towns.
- Limited public transportation options outside the city center.
- Potential for isolation, especially in the winter months due to weather conditions.
Best Activities in Umeå
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural surroundings of Umeå by going on a hiking adventure. There are several trails and nature reserves to discover, such as Umelagun and Tavelsjöleden.
Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Umeå by taking a bike ride. The city and its surrounding areas offer many cycling paths and routes for all levels of cyclists.
Experience the tranquility of the Ume River by renting a canoe and embarking on a peaceful journey through the waterways. This activity allows you to enjoy the serenity of nature.
Umeå and its nearby lakes and rivers provide great opportunities for fishing. Grab your fishing gear and spend a relaxing day by the water, trying your luck at catching some local fish.
Tours
Uncover the best of Umeå with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Umeå
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful park with outdoor sculptures, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
A picturesque island with panoramic views of the Gulf of Bothnia, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Offers a breathtaking aerial view of Umeå, providing excellent photo opportunities of the cityscape.
Food in Umeå
Umeå Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sjötunga is a traditional Swedish dish made with lightly salted and smoked fish, typically served with boiled potatoes, pickled cucumber, and dill. For an authentic taste, visit Restaurang Rex, a renowned local restaurant.
Must-Try!
Renstek, or reindeer steak, is a beloved local delicacy. The tender, succulent meat is often accompanied by lingonberry sauce and root vegetables. Seek out Rex Brasserie for an excellent rendition of this classic dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Umeå better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Umeå Folkets Hus Food Market is a vibrant hub of local produce, artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, and organic treats. For a quick bite, explore the various stalls offering savory Swedish street food such as meatballs, hot dogs, and traditional pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Umeå, Swedes generally value their personal space and prefer to maintain a distance when interacting with others. It's important to be mindful of this and avoid standing or sitting too close to people.
Punctuality is highly valued in Swedish culture, including in Umeå. Arriving on time for appointments, meetings, or social gatherings is seen as a sign of respect for others' time and is greatly appreciated.
Umeå and Swedish culture in general emphasize equality and consensus-building. When interacting with others, it's important to treat everyone with respect, avoid boasting or showing off, and strive for consensus in decision-making processes.
Safety
Tipping in Umeå
Ensure a smooth experience
In Umeå, Sweden, tipping is not expected or required as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, it is appreciated to leave a small amount as a gesture of satisfaction for exceptional service.
In Umeå, Sweden, cash is used less frequently, and card payments are widely accepted, including contactless payments. It is also common to use mobile payment apps such as Swish. Many places also accept major international credit and debit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Umeå with temperatures warming up, trees and flowers blooming, and longer daylight hours.
Great for outdoor activities with warm temperatures and the midnight sun, allowing for extended daylight hours.
Beautiful autumn foliage and a chance to experience the northern lights at the beginning of the season.
Ideal for winter sports, such as skiing and snowmobiling, and the opportunity to witness the magical Northern Lights.
Umeå at Night
Hiking in Umeå
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking area with well-marked trails, offering beautiful views of the surrounding nature and Lake Umeå.
A popular hiking spot featuring forested trails and a variety of landscapes, ideal for both leisurely walks and more challenging hikes.
A charming area with a mix of art installations along the trails, providing a unique hiking experience combined with cultural elements.
Offers several trails through picturesque woodlands, perfect for hiking and nature walks, with options for different skill levels.
A local favorite for residents, featuring easy-to-follow paths through lush forests and along rivers, suitable for families and casual hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Umeå by plane.
The main airport serving Umeå, Sweden, with domestic and a few international flights.
Located approximately 100 km south of Umeå, providing international and domestic flights.
Around 130 km southwest of Umeå, serving international and domestic destinations.
Approximately 200 km north of Umeå, offering both domestic and international flights.
Located about 150 km southwest of Umeå, providing various domestic flights and limited international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, consisting of individuals who are citizens of Sweden.
A significant population due to Umeå University's status as a prominent educational institution attracting students from various countries.
Includes individuals from countries such as Syria and Iraq, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
Indigenous people of the region, with a unique culture and language, traditionally associated with reindeer herding.
Includes residents from other European countries, contributing to Umeå's diversity.
Includes individuals from various Asian countries, adding to the demographic mix.
A notable demographic group, representing the younger population within families living in Umeå.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Umeå, with a strong local team, Umeå IK, and a passionate fan base.
Football has a significant following in Umeå, with numerous local clubs participating in various leagues and competitions.
Due to Umeå's snowy winters, cross-country skiing is a popular recreational activity and competitive sport in the region.
Floorball is widely played in Umeå, with many clubs and youth programs supporting the sport.
Handball has a strong presence in Umeå, with local teams competing at various levels and strong community support.
Running is a popular sport in Umeå, with many running clubs, events, and beautiful natural trails for training.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Umeå.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Umeå offers a variety of eateries with dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus. Consider visiting Båten, a restaurant known for its innovative plant-based dishes, or Koksbaren for a fusion of vegetarian flavors inspired by global cuisines.
Diners following a gluten-free diet will find accommodating choices at many establishments. Noteworthy options include Rex Restaurant and Kulturbageriet, where gluten-free breads and pastries are readily available.