Uddevalla Travel Guide

Explore the charm of Uddevalla, a beautiful town in Bohuslän, Sweden, with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay, along with local customs and safety tips.


Introduction to Uddevalla

Located in the heart of Bohuslän, Uddevalla is a charming town in Sweden that embodies the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant culture, Uddevalla is a must-visit destination for travellers looking to experience the best of Sweden.

List of Places to Visit in Uddevalla

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Uddevalla boasts of several museums and historical places that allow you to discover the town’s rich heritage and understand its evolution over the years. The most notable among them include:

  • Bohusläns Museum: This magnificent museum houses a vast collection of artefacts and exhibitions that showcase the region’s history, culture, and traditions. Visitors can enjoy interactive displays, artefacts, and fun activities for children.

  • Gustafsberg Nature Reserve: This beautiful reserve is home to a vast network of hiking trails, beautiful bays with crystal-clear water, and breathtaking panoramic views. It also features a spa and a restaurant where you can unwind and relax after a day of exploring.

Natural Attractions of Uddevalla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Uddevalla is a nature lover’s paradise, with an array of outdoor activities and scenic views that offer a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Some of the must-visit natural attractions in Uddevalla include:

  • Hogstorpsskogen: This beautiful park features stunning hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls, and tranquil lakes that are perfect for picnics or fishing.

  • Saxenhof Arboretum: This beautiful botanical garden boasts of a vast collection of exotic plants and trees from around the world. Visitors can also enjoy a peaceful walk around the garden’s serene surroundings and soak in the beauty of nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Uddevalla

Uddevalla has several hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the town’s natural landscapes and beautiful vistas. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Kungen: This beautiful hiking trail takes you through the lush forests and rugged mountains of Bohuslän, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Soten Canal: This scenic route follows the Soten Canal, a historic waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean to Lake Vänern, offering stunning natural beauty and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and fishing.

Best Things to Do in Uddevalla: Activities and Tours

Uddevalla offers an endless array of activities and tours that cater to all interests, from history buffs to adventure-seekers. Some of the best things to do in Uddevalla include:

  • Kayaking: Explore the beautiful bays and crystal-clear waters of Bohuslän by taking a kayaking tour. You can paddle to hidden coves and secluded beaches that are inaccessible by foot, offering a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty.

  • Boat Tours: Take a boat tour of the archipelago and discover the town’s rich maritime history. The guides offer fascinating insights into the region’s past, from the Viking era to the present day.

Week-Long Itinerary for Uddevalla

For travellers looking to explore Uddevalla in-depth, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Bohusläns Museum and Gustafsberg Nature Reserve
2 Hike the Hogstorpsskogen Trail and enjoy a picnic by the lakeside
3 Relax at the Saxenhof Arboretum, followed by a spa treatment
4 Take a kayaking tour of the archipelago and discover the hidden coves
5 Explore the town’s historical landmarks and indulge in local cuisine
6 Take a boat tour of the Soten Canal and enjoy some fishing and birdwatching
7 End your trip with a scenic drive along the Kungen Trail and catch the stunning sunset views

Food and Drink Scene of Uddevalla

Must-Try Dishes

Uddevalla’s food scene is heavily influenced by the region’s maritime culture and proximity to the sea, offering an array of delicious seafood dishes. Some of the must-try local dishes include:

  • Fiskesoppa: This tasty fish soup is a regional specialty, combining the flavours of the local catch with cream, vegetables, and herbs.

  • Räkmacka: A shrimp sandwich makes the perfect light lunch, featuring generous amounts of fresh shrimp, followed by a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of dill on top.

Local Beverages

Uddevalla has a thriving beer culture, with several local breweries offering refreshing and unique brews. Some of the best breweries to visit include:

  • Poppels Bryggeri: Known for its award-winning beers, Poppels Bryggeri offers exciting tasting tours that allow visitors to sample the brewery’s finest brews.

  • Sjögärde Brygghus: This cosy brewery offers a wide range of delicious craft beers that are handcrafted on-site, using locally sourced ingredients.

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

Uddevalla has an array of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences, whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, a cosy guesthouse, or a budget-friendly hostel. Some of the best places to stay in Uddevalla include:

  • Bohusgården Hotell & Konferens: This luxurious hotel offers excellent amenities and stunning sea views, making it the perfect choice for travellers looking for some pampering.

  • Villa Söderås: This cosy guesthouse is nestled in the picturesque countryside and offers an array of outdoor activities, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers.

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

Uddevalla has several unique souvenirs and local products that make for great gifts or mementoes of your trip. Some of the best souvenirs to buy in Uddevalla include:

  • Kattegattleden Maps: If you’re planning to hike or bike the Kattegattleden, investing in a map is an excellent way to support the local tourism industry and help you plan your route.

  • Dala Horse: This iconic wooden horse is a symbol of Sweden and makes a beautiful addition to any home décor.

Local Culture and Customs of Uddevalla

Uddevalla has a rich culture and history that is deeply rooted in tradition, showcasing the region’s maritime past and its appreciation for nature. Some of the local customs and traditions to be aware of include:

  • Midsummer: Celebrated on the summer solstice, Midsummer is a pagan festival that involves dancing around a maypole, summertime feasts, and a general sense of merriment.

  • Crayfish Party: This traditional Swedish feast is held in August and involves gathering with friends and family to enjoy delicious crayfish, beer, and schnapps.

Best Time to Visit Uddevalla

The best time to visit Uddevalla is during the summer months, from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. The shoulder season, from March to April and October to November, is also an excellent time to visit to enjoy the town’s natural beauty at a more relaxed pace.

Do’s and Don’ts of Uddevalla

Do:

  • Do take off your shoes before entering someone’s home.
  • Do try the delicious seafood and locally brewed beer.
  • Do be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be loud and disruptive in public places.
  • Don’t forget to tip the wait staff at restaurants and cafes.
  • Don’t litter in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Uddevalla

Uddevalla is a relatively safe town, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, visitors should take precautions to avoid becoming the victim of petty theft, such as keeping their valuables in a safe place and not leaving them unattended in public places.

Health in Uddevalla

Uddevalla has a state-of-the-art healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics that provide excellent medical care. Travellers should have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and familiarise themselves with the local emergency numbers.

Getting to Uddevalla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Uddevalla

The nearest airports to Uddevalla are Gothenburg-Landvetter Airport, which is about an hour’s drive away, and Trollhättan-Vänersborg Airport, which is about 25 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Uddevalla

Uddevalla has a well-connected bus station that offers regular services to the neighbouring towns and cities. Visitors can also take the regional train or ferry services to reach Uddevalla.

Other Options

Travellers who prefer to drive can also rent a car and take the scenic E6 motorway that runs through Uddevalla, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

How to Get Around in Uddevalla

Uddevalla is a relatively small town that is easy to navigate on foot, bike or public transit. Visitors can also take taxi services to reach their destination easily.

Where to Go Next from Uddevalla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Uddevalla serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding towns and cities, each offering unique attractions and experiences. Some of the best nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Lysekil: This charming seaside town is an excellent place to enjoy water sports and explore its stunning archipelago.

  • Marstrand: Located near Gothenburg, this beautiful island boasts of a well-preserved fortress, several beaches and is a favourite spot for sailing enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Uddevalla is a hidden gem in Sweden that offers an excellent blend of nature, culture, and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for travellers looking to experience the best of Sweden. From its historical landmarks, serene nature reserves, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs, Uddevalla has something for everyone.

Overview of several important tourist sights in Uddevalla. Overview of several important tourist sights in Uddevalla. Strandpromenaden (the Boardwalk). Strandpromenaden (the Boardwalk). Archipelago boat. Archipelago boat. Kungstorget, by Kungsgatan. Kungstorget, by Kungsgatan. Hostel by the sea in Gustafsberg Hostel by the sea in Gustafsberg