Kungälv Travel Guide

Discover the culturally important attractions, natural attractions, and outdoor adventures for your perfect Kungälv travel experience.


Introduction to Kungälv

Nestled in the west of Sweden, Kungälv is a serene town in the beautiful region of Bohuslän. Dotted with picturesque landscapes, Kungälv will transport you back to the Middle Ages with its rich cultural heritage and timeless structures. The charming town is surrounded by woodlands, lakes, and cliffs, making it an adventurer’s paradise. Here is a guide to explore the many wonders of Kungälv.

List of Places to Visit in Kungälv

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bohus Fortress: This 700-year-old fortress is a must-visit in Kungälv, known for its remarkable towers and impenetrable walls. There are guided tours available, through which you can learn about its fascinating past and interesting stories.

  • Gårda Hangar: Situated on the outskirts of Kungälv, the Gårda Hangar is a vast museum dedicated to aviation history in Sweden. The museum displays well-preserved airforce planes, including Saab Draken and Viggen.

  • Kronhuset: Built-in 1642, Kronhuset is one of the oldest buildings in Gothenburg, which is only a 20-minute drive from Kungälv. The historical building was initially constructed for weapon production for the Swedish army, but now it acts as a museum showcasing the local handicrafts.

Natural Attractions of Kungälv: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nordre älv: Rent a canoe or a kayak, paddle your way across Nordre älv and enjoy the serene views of the town. The river is suitable for all skill levels and perfect for a relaxing day out.

  • Kungälv Kyrktupp Hiking Trail: This hiking trail follows the path of the iconic Kyrktupp, a golden rooster that once graced the top of the Kungälv church. The route is full of exciting sights, and it ends at the top with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city from above.

  • Ragnhildsholmen: Located at the mouth of The River Nordre älv, this heavenly island is perfect to relax and enjoy the alluring views of the bay. There is a footbridge that connects the island to the mainland.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kungälv

Kungälv offers various hiking and biking routes that will take you through the town and its surroundings. Some of the most popular routes are:

  • Onyxen Trail: This 4km hiking trail starts at the Kungälv train station and ends at the Nordre älv. The trail is suitable for all skill levels.

  • Mountain biking in Glimmingen: The vibrant Glimmingen area is perfect for mountain biking with its rough terrain and stunning hills.

  • Kungälv Rund Ett: This biking route is around 15km and starts in the town of Kungälv, takes you through various towns and villages, and ends back in Kungälv.

Best Things to Do in Kungälv: Activities and Tours

  • Bohus Fortress Guided Tour: Discover the historical past of Bohus Fortress with a guided tour, which takes you through the castle’s nooks and corners.

  • Lake Lilla Asarum Canoe Tour: Take a relaxing canoe tour of Lake Lilla Asarum and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of nature in Bohuslän.

  • Ragnhildsholmen Sunset Experience: Witness the awe-inspiring sunset views over Ragnhildsholmen island, making this a bucket-list experience for any traveller.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kungälv

Day 1 - Arrival in Kungälv, explore the town centre and its attractions.

Day 2 - Visit Bohus Fortress and learn about its history.

Day 3 - Kayaking trip on Nordre älv.

Day 4 - Hiking on Kyrktupp hiking trail.

Day 5 - Day trip to Gothenburg and visit Kronhuset.

Day 6 - Mountain biking in Glimmingen.

Day 7 - Departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Kungälv

Must-Try Dishes

  • Blodpudding: A local Swedish delicacy, Blodpudding is a blood sausage that typically consists of pork blood, oatmeal and potato.

  • Palt: Another traditional dish in Kungälv, Palt is a thick potato dumpling often served with fried pork rashers or lingonberry.

Local Beverages

  • Bryggstark: A locally brewed beer with a rich, malty flavour.

  • Sprit: Strong distilled spirits produced in the region often taking on the flavour of berries such as lingonberry.

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

  • Grand Hotel Marstrand: A luxurious hotel situated on the island of Marstrand, a short drive away from Kungälv.

  • Nordiska Folkhögskolan Gästhem: A budget-friendly guesthouse in Kungälv town centre.

  • Thorskogs Slott: A unique and beautiful hotel located in the lavish Swedish countryside.

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

  • Gota kanalbolaget: Souvenirs to represent the boating culture of Kungälv.

  • Artisanal handicrafts: Bohuslän is known for its handicrafts, and Kungälv has plenty of shops selling handmade items from local craftsmen.

Local Culture and Customs of Kungälv

The culture of Kungälv is a beautiful combination of Swedish and Norwegian influences as the town is situated close to the Swedish-Norwegian border. The people of Kungälv are exceptionally friendly, and the town is known for being peaceful and relaxing.

Best Time to Visit Kungälv

The best time to visit Kungälv is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is mild, and the days are longer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kungälv

Do:

  • Respect the nature and environment.

  • Follow the rules and regulations when visiting natural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave any garbage behind.

  • Disturb the natural habitat of animals and birds.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kungälv

Kungälv is a peaceful and safe town to visit, but as with any travel destination, it’s best to follow general safety measures and take care of your belongings.

Health in Kungälv

Sweden has an excellent healthcare system, and Kungälv is no exception. It is also advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses when travelling.

Getting to Kungälv: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kungälv

Landvetter Airport is the nearest airport with national and international flight connections to Kungälv.

Bus Stations Near Kungälv

Kungälvs Station, located in the town centre, offers bus connections to nearby towns and destinations.

Other Options

Kungälv also has a railway station, providing regular train connections to Gothenburg and nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Kungälv

Kungälv is a relatively small town, and you can easily explore its attractions on foot. Alternatively, you can rent bikes to explore the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Kungälv: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Marstrand Island: Visit the stunning island of Marstrand, which is just a short drive from Kungälv and boasts a charming atmosphere.

  • Gothenburg: Gothenburg city is only a 20-minute drive from Kungälv and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, museums, and cultural events.

Conclusion

Kungälv is a hidden gem, tucked away in the heart of Bohuslän. This peaceful town offers a perfect blend of beautiful natural attractions and exciting tourist activities, making it ideal for travelers of all types. With numerous outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and charming accommodations, there’s no reason not to include Kungälv in your travel itinerary.