Blekinge Travel Guide

Blekinge is a gem of Sweden. Explore the culturally important museums and historical places, natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, what to buy, and nearby destinations and excursions in Blekinge with our comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Blekinge

Blekinge is a gem of Sweden, nestled in the southeast region of the country. Its scenic views, picturesque coastlines, and rich culture attract visitors from all over the world. Blekinge is a part of the Götaland region in Sweden, in Nordic countries, and in Europe. Blekinge is known as the Garden of Sweden, with its vast countryside and stunning archipelagos.

List of Places to Visit in Blekinge

Here is a list of places to visit in Blekinge:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Blekinge is home to several culturally important attractions, such as museums and historical places that are worth visiting.

  • Kulturcentrum Ronneby: This center is home to several exhibitions like art, photography and design, but also theater, Hästparaden being one of the most popular theater productions.
  • Karlskrona Marine Museum: Visitors can explore the history of the Swedish Navy and famous naval battles fought in the Baltics.
  • Karlshamn Museum: This museum showcases the history of the famous Swedish food entrepreneur, Frans Wilhelm Lindqvist, who is known for inventing the Regal Sardine.

Natural Attractions of Blekinge: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Blekinge is also blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and scenic views for nature lovers.

  • Eriksberg Wildlife Park: This park offers visitors an opportunity to see exotic wildlife like zebras, giraffes, and antelopes.
  • Kustleden: This hiking trail spans 165 kilometers along the Blekinge coastlines and offers visitors stunning ocean and forest views.
  • Vilshärad: This beach is known for pristine sands and crystal clear waters.
  • Bräkne-Hoby: The idyllic Bräkne-Hoby is home to numerous sheep farms, charming cafes, and antique shops.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Blekinge

Blekinge offers several hiking and biking routes for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Here are the top trails:

  • Kustleden: A 165km trail winding through the coastal towns, forests and rocky outcrops.
  • Galtesundleden: Uncovering the coastal landscape through seven loops, with some challenging terrain.
  • Snapphaneled/Hallandsleden: Through the countryside and deep forests, towards the ruins of Hjortsberga snapphane-camp.

Best Things to Do in Blekinge: Activities and Tours

Blekinge has plenty of fun activities and tours to offer visitors.

  • Kayaking in the Blekinge Archipelago: Paddle along the rocky coastline, or head out to one of the many islands for a picnic and some swimming.
  • A bike tour through the countryside: Rent a bike and tour the Swedish countryside, stopping at quaint cafés to sample some traditional Swedish treats.
  • Fishing in the lakes: Enthusiasts can try their hand at fishing in several of Blekinge’s lakes and streams, which is particularly popular in Tingsryd and Olofström.

Week-Long Itinerary for Blekinge

Here’s our recommended itinerary for those visiting Blekinge:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Kulturcentrum Ronneby in Ronneby and then head over to the nearby Ronneby Brunnspark spa for some rest and relaxation.
Day 2 Explore the archipelagos by taking a boat tour around Tjärö, Stenshamn, Aspö and Hasslö.
Day 3 Visit the Karlskrona Marine Museum and then head out to Rosengården, a famous waterfront park in the city.
Day 4 Rent a bike and travel through the countryside to Blekinge’s famous Eriksberg Wildlife Park.
Day 5 Join a guided underwater diving tour and discover Blekinge’s exotic marine life.
Day 6 Hike the Kustleden trail and enjoy stunning views of the coast.
Day 7 Take a day trip to the nearby city of Kalmar and explore its famous Kalmar Castle and the city’s old town.

Food and Drink Scene of Blekinge

Blekinge’s food and drink scene is a must-try, with many delicious dishes like seafood, game, and traditional Swedish food.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Herring: The local restaurants prepare the herring in many ways like smoked herring, pickled herring, and fried herring.
  • Moose stew: This hearty stew made with locally sourced moose meat is a must-try.
  • Netten pie: This sweet dessert pie is made from lingonberries and is a perfect finish to any meal.

Local Beverages

  • Snaps: This traditional Swedish liquor is typically served with the herring but is also enjoyed with many other dishes.
  • Öl: There are several microbreweries that produce locally crafted beer, which is definitely worth a try.

Where to Stay in Blekinge: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Blekinge has plenty of accommodation options for visitors to suit every budget. Here are some of our recommended places to stay:

  • Villa FloraViola - Located in Mörrum, this hotel is beautifully designed with a garden, outdoor pool, and sauna.
  • Ronneby Brunn - The historical Ronneby Brun has been a luxurious spa and hotel since the 19th century.
  • Camping and Cottages: There are plenty of camping and cottage facilities throughout Blekinge, some of them very luxurious, like Fridafors semesterby.

What to Buy in Blekinge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home some souvenirs from Blekinge, there are several options to consider.

  • Handmade woolen garments: Locally-made woolen garments like mittens, hats, and sweaters make a great souvenir.
  • Glassware: Blekinge is known for its quality glassware products, so be sure to check out local shops and galleries for unique glassware designs.
  • Swedish chocolate: There are several artisanal chocolate makers in Blekinge that make handcrafted and delicious chocolates, a perfect gift for family and friends.

Local Culture and Customs of Blekinge

The people of Blekinge, like most Swedes, value their independence, equality, and honesty. Here are some of the local customs that you should be aware of:

  • Punctuality: Being on time is greatly appreciated in Sweden, so it’s always best to arrive at your destination promptly.
  • Private Space: Swedes value their privacy, so it’s best to avoid asking personal questions or talking to strangers unless it’s necessary.
  • Recycling: Swedes are very conscious of the environment and have a high rate of recycling. So be sure to recycle your waste correctly during your visit to Blekinge.

Best Time to Visit Blekinge

The best time to visit Blekinge is during the summer months from June until August when the weather is warm and the daylight hours are longer. The fall months from September to November offer visitors stunning foliage, while the winter months from December to March are perfect for winter sports and activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Blekinge

Here are some do’s and don’ts when visiting Blekinge:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Recycle your waste correctly.
  • Bring appropriate outdoor gear and clothing for your visit.

Don’t:

  • Litter.
  • Be loud and disruptive in public.
  • Walk in bike lanes or use bike paths without caution.
  • Ignore warning signs when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Blekinge

Blekinge is a very safe destination, but as always, visitors should exercise caution and common sense, especially when traveling alone at night.

Health in Blekinge

Blekinge has an excellent healthcare system, and all visitors can receive medical assistance if required. EU citizens are entitled to free healthcare, while visitors from other countries may need to buy medical insurance before their visit.

Getting to Blekinge: Transportation Options and Logistics

Blekinge is easily accessible via several transportation options. Here are some of the popular options for getting to and around Blekinge:

Airports Near Blekinge

  • Ronneby Airport: This airport is located 6 kilometers from the center of Ronneby and offers domestic flights from Stockholm.

Bus Stations Near Blekinge

  • Blekingetrafiken: This regional public transportation company offers bus services throughout the Blekinge region.

Other Options

  • Train: The closest station is Karlskrona Station, which is located in the center of Karlskrona.

How to Get Around in Blekinge

Getting around Blekinge is easy with several transportation options:

  • Bus: Blekinge has an excellent bus system operated by Blekingetrafiken.
  • Car: Renting a car from the airport is a convenient option to explore the countryside and surrounding areas.
  • Bike: Bicycles are available for rent in several locations and are an easy way to get around the cities and countryside.

Where to Go Next from Blekinge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions worth considering after your visit to Blekinge:

  • Copenhagen, Denmark: A three-hour drive or train ride away from Blekinge is the capital city of Denmark, famous for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and rich culture.
  • Växjö, Sweden: A four-hour drive or train ride away is the small city of Växjö, home to the world-famous glass museum, Glasriket.

Conclusion

Blekinge is a beautiful region of Sweden that offers visitors stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and fun activities. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, or exploring the local cuisine, there’s plenty to do and see in Blekinge.



    Blekinge archipelago
    Karlskrona
    Ronneby
    Sölvesborg