What are the most beautiful places on the west coast of Sweden? Sweden is the land of untouched nature, lakes, forests and, of course, moose. There are said to be over 96,000 lakes here and over 200,000 islands, many of which are barely larger than a few square meters. Sweden is not a country of spectacular superlatives like neighboring Norway. There are no world-famous rocky peaks or unique fjords to discover here. The beauty of Sweden is revealed in other ways. Through the peace and seclusion of the endless forests. We will now reveal the most beautiful places on the west coast of Sweden.
Malmö
Malmö is located in the very southwest of Sweden, just over the border with Denmark. The top attraction in Malmö, the third largest city in Sweden, is without a doubt the beautiful old town. If you start from Stortorget (the central square), you will immediately see the old town hall and the impressive Apoteket Lejonet. This historic pharmacy was built between 1895 and 1900 and is worth seeing both from the outside and the inside. Malmö City Hall was built as early as 1547, but only received its beautiful Renaissance façade in 1860.
If you walk from Stortorget to Lilla Torg (the small market square), you can not only stop off at various restaurants or store in nice boutiques, but also marvel at the pretty half-timbered houses. A particular highlight of Malmö (in the truest sense of the word) is the iconic Turning Torso, the tallest building in Scandinavia, which impresses with its modern architecture. Unfortunately, it can only be viewed from the outside.
Don’t miss a visit to St. Peter’s Church, the oldest church in the city with its Gothic architecture. Finally, you should relax at Västra Hamnen, a modern district with beaches and fantastic views over the Öresund.
Helsingborg
Helsingborg is located a little further north of Malmö on the west coast of Sweden. Here you should visit Sofiero Castle, which is known for its beautiful gardens and exhibitions. Climb the medieval Kärnan Tower to enjoy a magnificent view of the city and the Öresund. Stroll along the beach promenade and explore the charming city center with its cute cafés and boutiques.
You can also take a trip to the Fredriksdalopen-air museum, where historic buildings and gardens are on display. Helsingborg offers enough sights to spend at least one day here. If you have a little more time, you can take the ferry to Helsingør in Denmark to visit the famous Kronborg Castle.
Kullaberg
Just north of Helsingborg at the tip of a narrow headland lies the impressive Kullabergnature reserve on Sweden’s west coast on the Kullen peninsula. Here you can enjoy the numerous hiking trails that lead through dense forests and along the breathtaking coastline. The steep cliffs also offer great opportunities for climbing.
At the very top is the small but beautiful Silvergrottan (Silver Grotto), which can be entered free of charge. It is only a few meters deep, but the way there is very adventurous.
All maps for hiking, cycling and horse riding at Kullaberg can be found here: Kullaberg outdoor maps
Tylösand beach
Tylösand beach on the west coast of Sweden is a real insider tip for beach lovers. With its soft, white sand, gently lapping waves and endless horizon, you almost feel like you’re in the Caribbean – only without the tropical heat. The beach is spacious and has room for everyone: sun worshippers, families, surfers and even art lovers who want to admire the famous sculptures along the beach promenade.
At sunset, the sun bathes the coast in a warm, golden light and conjures up an incomparable atmosphere. Not forgetting the legendary Hotel Tylösand*, which is known not only for its location, but also for its impressive art collection and cool beach parties.
Hotel
The luxurious Hotel Tylösand* is located directly on the beautiful beach. In addition to the great surroundings and cozy rooms, you can expect a great restaurant and a lovely spa to relax in. You should definitely book and enjoy a room with a sea view at Hotel Tylösand.
Mellbystrand
Mellbystrand is a coastal town on the south-western tip of Sweden in the province of Hallands and has the longest (and in our opinion) most beautiful beach in Sweden. Together with the neighboring town of Skummeslövsstrand, Mellbystrand’s sandy beach is a full 12 km long. And every kilometer of it is really beautiful and invites you to swim, walk on the beach or do other activities.
The dunes on the beach at Mellbystrand are another highlight of this wonderful place. They are several meters high and heavily overgrown with dune grass and reeds. And unlike the Dutch dunes, it is not forbidden to walk on the dunes here.
The beautiful Hökafältet nature reserve begins directly behind the dunes. Four million trees were planted here at the turn of the last century, which now form a closed forest. Various paths and roads lead through the nature reserve, so you can explore the forest on your own.
Varberg
On the way towards Gothenburg, you will pass Varberg. Varberg is a charming coastal town on the west coast of Sweden with a relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking nature. The long beach promenade and the mighty Varberg Fortress offer a fascinating mix of history and modern coastal life.
Whether you want to enjoy the view from the impressive Bockstensmannen lookout point, stroll through small boutiques or take a refreshing dip in the sea in summer – everyone will find a little highlight here. Particularly popular is the Kallbadhus, a beautiful bathhouse on stilts that is worth a visit at any time of year. Varberg is ideal for anyone looking for relaxation, nature and the authentic Swedish way of life.
Gothenburg on the west coast of Sweden
Hospitable and relaxed Gothenburg is the second largest city in Sweden and offers up-and-coming trendy districts, several Michelin-starred restaurants and a lively cultural scene. One of the reasons for this is that most of the major trade fairs and events take place here rather than in the capital Stockholm. Gothenburg is a very pedestrian-friendly city, with most attractions within easy walking distance. Be sure to visit the central old town district of Haga with its many cafés, boutiques and old wooden houses in the style of the 19th century.
Haga is cozy, quiet and very authentic. Visit Café Husarenon Haga Nygata street for a fika (coffee break) and one of Sweden’s biggest cinnamon buns. Just outside the city is Liseberg , an amusement park that is particularly popular with children.
Recommended accommodation near Gothenburg
Campsite
The Liseberg campsite is located 15 minutes outside the city by the sea. You can easily stay here with your camper if you want to explore Gothenburg.
Hotel
The chic Hotel Royal* dates back to 1852 and is very centrally located near the main train station. From here, you can visit the city on foot, explore the sights and eat in one of the great restaurants.
Archipelago Islands
If you want to experience a little more nature, then head to the Saltholmen ferry terminal (by car or better still by public transport). There you can use numerous ferries with a public transport ticket to explore the many impressive archipelago islands.Archipelagos are rocky, small islands that often appear in groups of several hundred, which is why they are often called archipelagos.
The archipelago islands off Gothenburg are a true paradise for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Each island has its own charm: from rocky coasts and small fishing huts to green meadows and picturesque villages. Life can be slowed down here, whether hiking, kayaking or simply relaxing by the water. Especially in summer, the archipelago shines in a magical light, providing the perfect setting for an unforgettable vacation in Sweden.
Asnes National Park
Åsnen National Park in Sweden is a true natural paradise and perfect for those who want to experience the Scandinavian wilderness up close. With its countless islands, quiet bays and dense forests, it offers an impressive backdrop and a refuge for rare animal species such as ospreys and moose.
The large Åsnen lake area in particular characterizes the landscape and is ideal for kayaking, fishing or simply relaxing. In autumn, the colorful forests transform the park into a sea of color, and in summer, well-marked hiking trails ensure that every visitor can find their own little adventure.
Smögen
Smögen, a picturesque coastal village on the Swedish west coast, is a real insider tip for anyone who loves the sea and Scandinavian charm. Here, the famous Smögenbryggan, a kilometer-long wooden walkway, winds along the colorful fishermen’s huts and offers a breathtaking view of the glittering water and the sailboats in the harbor. The small boutiques and cafés along the promenade invite you to stroll and enjoy the fresh sea air.
A visit to Smögen is not complete without a taste of the local specialty: fresh prawns or lobster straight from the sea, which taste particularly good on the cliffs at sunset. You should plan at least one afternoon here to enjoy a leisurely meal and stroll along the promenade.
Fjällbacka
Fjällbacka is another coastal village on the Swedish west coast that is known above all for its idyllic location and breathtaking nature. Surrounded by rugged granite cliffs and a labyrinth of small archipelago islands, Fjällbacka is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who simply wants to unwind. The old, colorful wooden houses line the coast, and the charming little cafés and restaurants overlook the glittering sea.
In Fjällbacka, the short hike up to Vetteberget is particularly worthwhile. Here you have a spectacular view of the coast and the archipelago islands that surround Fjällbacka.
We hope you enjoyed our article on the most beautiful places and sights on the west coast of Sweden. If you have any questions or further tips, please leave us a comment.