Bohuslän Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, exciting things to do, food and drink scene, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and more in Bohuslän, Sweden.


Introduction to Bohuslän

Bohuslän is a beautiful region situated in Götaland, Sweden’s southern part. It is well-known for its scenic coastline, picturesque fishing villages, and rich cultural heritage. The region offers plenty of outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, biking, and swimming in clear waters. Bohuslän’s archipelago is home to over 8000 islands, islets, and rocks. Explore the nature reserves of Kosterhavet and Tjörn islands, which offer an abundance of marine life, flora, and fauna. This travel guide will introduce you to the must-see destinations, activities, and cultural experiences that can be enjoyed in Bohuslän.

List of Places to Visit in Bohuslän

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Nordic Watercolour Museum: This museum houses a collection of Nordic art and has a beautiful location overlooking the sea.
  • Bohus Fortress: This fortress was built-in 1308 and is a significant historical landmark of the region. Visit the museum and explore the ruins of the fortress.
  • Havets Hus: It is an aquarium that showcases the diverse marine life of the region. The highlight is the underwater tunnel that provides a view of the fish and seals swimming.

Natural Attractions of Bohuslän: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kosterhavet National Park: It is the first marine national park in Sweden and is home to over 12,000 marine species. Go for a guided boat tour to Koster islands, or pack a picnic to enjoy on the beautiful beaches.
  • Tjörn Island: It is the sixth-largest island in Sweden and has a diverse range of flora and fauna. Take a scenic drive or bike ride through the island’s picturesque villages and fishing harbors.
  • Säveån River: It is the second-largest river in the region and is popular for fishing. The river’s surroundings are also excellent for hiking and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bohuslän

  • Bohusleden Trail: The trail spans 370 km and is divided into 27 sections. It offers stunning views of the sea, forests, and mountains and is ideal for hiking and biking.
  • Trollhättan Canal Tour: It is a popular guided tour that takes you through the canal and offers a glimpse of the locks and the surrounding beautiful countryside.
  • Göta Canal: It is a historic canal that connects Gothenburg to Stockholm and offers scenic boat tours.

Best Things to Do in Bohuslän: Activities and Tours

  • Archipelago Tour: Go for a guided boat tour of the region’s archipelago and explore the beautiful islands, fishing villages and enjoy a seafood meal.
  • Kayaking in Kosterhavet: Explore the stunning coastline and marine life of Kosterhavet National Park on a guided kayaking tour.
  • Fishing Trips: Enjoy a relaxing fishing trip in the clear waters and try to catch some fish, and savour a meal prepared from your catch.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bohuslän

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the shops and cultural attractions at Gothenburg
Day 2 Visit the Nordic Watercolour Museum and Stenungsund
Day 3 Kayak in the calm waters of Kosterhavet National Park
Day 4 Hike the Fjallbacka trail, famous for scenic views and granite cliffs
Day 5 Explore the island of Tjörn and visit the Tjörnbron and Ockero Church
Day 6 Outdoor adventure at Havets Hus and visit Lysekil for a seafood dinner
Day 7 Visit the Bohus Fortress and enjoy a boat tour to the beautiful islands of archipelago.

Food and Drink Scene of Bohuslän

Must-Try Dishes

  • Swedish Meatballs: Savour the famous Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce and potatoes.
  • Fisksoppa: It is a creamy seafood soup with shrimp, salmon, and dill.
  • Smorgasbord: It is a selection of cheeses, meats, and seafood served with crispbread.

Local Beverages

  • Aquavit: It is a flavoured spirit, usually served chilled, and goes well with seafood meals.
  • Beer: Try the local Gothenburg Beer for a refreshing drink.

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

  • Bokenäset Hostel: A beautiful hostel situated on a peninsula with beautiful sea views
  • Strömstad Spa & Resort: A luxurious spa resort situated near the Kosterhavet National Park
  • Salt & Sill: Stay at Sweden’s first floating hotel and enjoy the unique experience of sleeping over the sea.

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

  • Shellfish: Bring back fresh seafood such as shrimp and lobster
  • Swedish crystal: Buy some beautifully crafted glassware.
  • Woollen blankets: Get a cozy woolen blanket locally made in Bohuslän.

Local Culture and Customs of Bohuslän

  • Get used to a fika break; it is a part of the everyday routine and is a traditional Swedish custom of having coffee and a pastry.
  • Swedes are reserved but polite and friendly, so be prepared to say hej frequently.
  • Tipping is not mandatory but considered as good etiquette if it’s a great experience.

Best Time to Visit Bohuslän

The best time to visit Bohuslän is between June and August, which is the peak summer season. During this time, you can enjoy an array of outdoor activities, beautiful weather and experience the long daylight hours of the Swedish summer. The temperature during the summer months ranges between 20°C to 25°C. If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy some quiet time, visit during the shoulder seasons of May or September/October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bohuslän

Do:

  • Do try seafood dishes and Aquavit while you’re in Bohuslän.
  • Do respect the environment and nature of the region by not littering and following rules when hiking or biking.
  • Do take a fika break according to Swedish customs and savour delicious coffee and pastries.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to check the weather conditions before planning any outdoor activities.
  • Don’t be loud and disrespectful to the locals and their customs.
  • Don’t forget to switch off the lights and save water when staying in a hotel or guesthouse.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bohuslän

Bohuslän is a safe region to travel to, with very few instances of significant crimes. However, it’s recommended to take care of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Follow the necessary safety measures while indulging in outdoor activities, such as hiking, to avoid any incidents. Also, keep an eye on weather reports before planning any outdoor activities, as the weather in the region can be unpredictable.

Health in Bohuslän

The region has some well-equipped hospitals, and emergency services are also readily available. But be sure to have comprehensive travel insurance while traveling to Sweden. It’s recommended to stay hydrated and carry water while indulging in outdoor activities. In case of any health emergencies, seek medical assistance from the nearest medical facility.

Getting to Bohuslän: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bohuslän

The nearest international airport to Bohuslän is Gothenburg’s Landvetter Airport (GOT). From the airport, take a bus or train to the respective destination.

Bus Stations Near Bohuslän

Bohuslän is well-connected via bus networks. Västtrafik operates buses to and from all major towns and cities of the region.

Other Options

Bohuslän’s archipelago is easily accessible via ferry services. Ferries operate from Gothenburg, Strömstad, and Uddevalla.

How to Get Around in Bohuslän

The best way to explore the region is by car, as it gives more flexibility and independence to travel around. Alternatively, it’s common to travel by bus, where Västtrafik operates bus networks frequently. Bikes are also available on rent, and cycling is a popular way to explore the region.

Where to Go Next from Bohuslän: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gothenburg: The biggest city of West Sweden that offers a bustling food, culture and shopping scene.
  • Stockholm: The capital city of Sweden is famous for its picturesque architecture, museums, and recreational activities.
  • The Norwegian Fjords: The Norwegian Fjords are a popular destination for their stunning views and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Bohuslän is a destination that has something for everyone. This travel guide offers a comprehensive list of things that you can do or explore and provides tips on how to enjoy your vacation while considering the local culture and customs. Plan your trip to Bohuslän and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage of the region.

Rock carvings, Tanum Rock carvings, Tanum


    Kungälv
    Marstrand
    Orust
    Sotenäs
    Strömstad
    Uddevalla