Gotland Travel Guide

Discover all the must-see attractions, hiking/biking trails, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options to get around the beautiful island of Gotland, Sweden.


Introduction to Gotland

Located in the Götaland region of Sweden, Gotland is the largest island in the Baltic Sea that boasts a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a slow-paced lifestyle. The island is accessible by ferry and flights from Stockholm, and it has a plethora of attractions that cater to all types of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Gotland

Gotland has a variety of attractions ranging from culturally significant sites to natural wonders that offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Here are some of the top places to visit in Gotland:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Visby City Wall: Built in the 13th century, Visby City Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most well-preserved medieval walls in Europe. Walking along the 3.4-kilometer-long wall, visitors can catch breathtaking views of the city and the sea.

  • Gotlands Museum: Gotlands Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, showcasing the island’s ancient history, Viking age artifacts, and a collection of medieval artifacts from Visby.

  • St. Mary’s Cathedral: Also known as Visby Cathedral, St. Mary’s is one of the most iconic and tallest buildings in the city. The 13th-century cathedral features stunning Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Gotland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gotska Sandön National Park: Gotska Sandön is a remote island with rolling sand dunes, pristine beaches, and a unique ecosystem. The national park is home to endangered species, such as harbor seals and a variety of seabirds.

  • Ekstakusten Nature Reserve: This nature reserve offers hiking and biking trails with breathtaking views of the coast. The reserve spans over 5 kilometers and features rocky shorelines, sandy beaches, and unique flora and fauna.

  • Lummelunda Cave: Lummelunda Cave is an underground wonderland with crystal clear waterfalls, stalactites, and stalagmites. Guided tours are available for those interested in spelunking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gotland

Gotland has a variety of scenic hiking and biking trails, ranging from rugged coastal paths to meandering countryside routes. Here are some of the best trails to explore:

  • Sudret Runt: This 63-kilometer-long bike trail takes you through Gotland’s southernmost region, offering stunning views of the countryside, the sea, and scenic villages.

  • Hall-Hangvar-Hogrän Runestone Trail: This hiking trail spans over 12 kilometers and takes you through Gotland’s ancient history. Along the trail, you will encounter 22 Viking-age runestones and the historic sites of Hall and Hangvar.

  • Gotland Grand National: This annual off-road motorcycle race takes place in August and draws thousands of participants and spectators from all over the world. The race covers 80 kilometers of rocky terrain and is not for the faint of heart.

Best Things to Do in Gotland: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adrenaline-pumping activities, Gotland has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Gotland:

  • Swimming at Tofta Beach: Tofta Beach is one of the most popular and picturesque beaches on the island. It has soft white sand and crystal clear waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

  • Kayaking at the Grogarnsberget: Grogarnsberget is a nature reserve with stunning sea views and rocky cliffs. Take a guided kayak tour around the area to explore the rugged coastline and nearby islands.

  • Visby Medieval Week: This annual festival, held in August, transports visitors back in time to the medieval era. The week-long festival features reenactments, jousting, music, and food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gotland

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for those who want to explore the best of Gotland:

Day Activity
1 Visit Visby City Wall, Gotlands Museum, and St. Mary’s Cathedral.
2 Hike the Sudret Runt trail and visit Faro lighthouse.
3 Take a ferry to Gotska Sandön National Park and spend the day exploring the remote island.
4 Visit Lummelunda Cave and take a guided tour of the underground wonderland.
5 Relax and sunbathe at Tofta Beach, followed by a visit to the nearby Tjauls Hantverk glass factory.
6 Participate in the Gotland Grand National or take a guided bike tour around the island.
7 Attend the Visby Medieval Week festival and immerse yourself in the medieval era.

Food and Drink Scene of Gotland

Gotland has a rich culinary tradition with a focus on locally grown ingredients and fresh seafood. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages of Gotland:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gotlandic Saffron Pancakes: These thin and crispy pancakes are made with saffron, giving them a distinct flavor and aroma.

  • Lamb from Gotland: Gotland lamb is known for its rich and flavorful taste, making it a must-try dish for meat lovers.

  • Gubbröra: This traditional Gotland dish is made with pickled herring and boiled eggs and is typically served on crispbread.

Local Beverages

  • Gotlandic Beer: Gotland has a thriving craft beer scene with several breweries throughout the island. Try the beers from Wisby Bryggeri or Baronen Brewery.

  • Gotlandic Schnapps: Gotlandic schnapps is a distilled liquor made from a variety of local herbs and spices. Try the varieties made by Gotlands Snaps & Likörer AB.

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

Gotland has a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the top places to stay in Gotland:

  • Clarion Hotel Wisby: Located in the heart of Visby, Clarion Hotel Wisby is a luxury hotel housed in a 13th-century building. The hotel features stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a spa.

  • STF Vandrarhem Visby/Rävhagen: This budget-friendly hostel is located outside the city walls of Visby and offers affordable accommodation with a communal kitchen and a garden.

  • Eklectica Guesthouse: This charming guesthouse is located in the countryside and features individually styled rooms, a garden, and a shared kitchen.

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

Gotland has a variety of local products and souvenirs that make great gifts for loved ones or a memento of your trip. Here are some of the best products to bring home:

  • Gotlandic Wool Products: Gotland is known for its high-quality wool products, including blankets, sweaters, and scarves.

  • Glassware from Tjauls Hantverk: Tjauls Hantverk is a glass factory located near Tofta Beach that produces beautiful and unique glassware using traditional techniques.

  • Liquor from Gotlands Snaps & Likörer AB: Bring home a bottle of locally made schnapps or liqueur as a tasty souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Gotland

Gotland has a unique culture and customs that are heavily influenced by its history and geography. Here are some things to keep in mind while traveling in Gotland:

  • Silence: Gotland is known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere, so it’s customary to keep noise levels low and respect the quiet.

  • Visby Rules: The city of Visby has certain rules for visitors, such as not littering, not wearing swimwear outside the beach areas, and not bringing bicycles inside the city walls.

  • Fika: Fika is a Swedish tradition of having coffee and snacks with friends or colleagues. It’s a popular pastime in Gotland, and you’ll see cafes and restaurants promoting fika specials.

Best Time to Visit Gotland

The best time to visit Gotland is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the days are long. June to August is the peak tourist season, which means higher prices and crowds. However, spring and autumn are also beautiful times to visit, with fewer tourists and mild weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gotland

When traveling to Gotland, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect nature and wildlife: Gotland has a unique and fragile ecosystem, so it’s important to respect the wildlife and not disturb their habitats.

  • Try local cuisine: Gotland is known for its fresh seafood and local ingredients, so it’s a great opportunity to try new dishes and flavors.

  • Take your time: Gotland is a relaxed and slow-paced place, so take your time to explore and soak in the atmosphere.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Gotland is a pristine and clean island, so it’s important to dispose of your trash properly.

  • Use loudspeakers or play loud music: Gotland has a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, so it’s important to respect the noise levels and keep it down.

  • Leave valuables unattended: Gotland is a safe place, but it’s always a good idea to keep your valuables secure and not leave them unattended.

Safety and Health

Gotland is a safe place to travel, with low crime rates and a reliable healthcare system. However, it’s important to take basic safety precautions, such as locking your doors and being aware of your surroundings.

Safety in Gotland

  • Sea Safety: Gotland has a rugged coastline, so it’s important to be cautious when swimming or boating in the sea. Always follow the safety guidelines and listen to local authorities.

  • Bicycle Safety: Gotland is a great place to explore by bike, but it’s important to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules.

  • Wildlife Safety: Gotland has a unique wildlife population, including seals and birds. Always keep a safe distance and do not disturb their natural habitats.

Health in Gotland

Gotland has a reliable healthcare system, and there are pharmacies and medical clinics throughout the island. However, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance and bring any necessary medications with you.

Getting to Gotland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gotland is accessible by ferry or flights from Stockholm. Here are some of the transportation options to get to Gotland and around the island:

Airports Near Gotland

  • Visby Airport: Visby Airport is the only airport on the island and has daily flights from Stockholm.

  • Stockholm Arlanda Airport: Stockholm Arlanda Airport has daily flights to Visby during the summer season.

Bus Stations Near Gotland

  • Visby Bus Station: Visby Bus Station has connections to other parts of Gotland and the mainland.

  • Nynashamn Bus Station: Nynashamn Bus Station has connections to Visby via ferry.

Other Options

  • Ferry: Ferry connections to Gotland are available from Nynashamn, Oskarshamn, and Västervik.

How to Get Around in Gotland

Getting around Gotland is easy and convenient, with several transportation options available:

  • Bus: Gotland has an efficient bus system that connects all parts of the island.

  • Bicycle: Gotland has several bike rental companies that offer affordable daily or weekly rentals.

  • Car: Car rental services are available in Visby, but it’s important to note that parking can be difficult during peak season.

Where to Go Next from Gotland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Gotland is a great launching pad to explore other parts of Sweden. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Stockholm: The capital city of Sweden is just a short flight or ferry ride away from Gotland and offers a variety of cultural experiences.

  • Öland: Öland is another island located in the Baltic Sea and is known for its impressive ancient forts and unique birdlife.

  • Småland: Småland is a region known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and traditional crafts.

Conclusion

Gotland is a unique and beautiful destination that has something for everyone. From its ancient history and cultural heritage to its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures, Gotland is a must-visit for any traveler. With plenty of accommodation options, transportation choices, and activities to choose from, Gotland promises to be a memorable experience that you won’t forget.

During summer, planktonic algae spawn around Gotland. A nuisance for bathers, this phenomenon is beautiful from space. During summer, planktonic algae spawn around Gotland. A nuisance for bathers, this phenomenon is beautiful from space. Old Visby is encircled by a city wall Old Visby is encircled by a city wall The ''Jungfrun'' rauk in Lickershamn The ''Jungfrun'' rauk in Lickershamn


    Central Gotland
    Fårö
    Karlsöarna
    Visby