Central Gotland Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally beautiful Central Gotland with our comprehensive travel guide. Find tips on places to visit, activities, food, and more.


Introduction to Central Gotland

Located in the southeast region of Sweden, Central Gotland is a picturesque island surrounded by the shimmering Baltic Sea. The region is known for its charming medieval towns, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural history dating back to the Viking Age. With numerous attractions, including museums, historical landmarks, outdoor activities, and excellent local cuisine, Central Gotland has something for every type of traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Central Gotland

Whether you are interested in visiting museums, exploring nature, or enjoying local cuisine, Central Gotland has several must-visit places that should be on your itinerary. Here are some recommendations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gotlands Museum: An excellent museum that showcases the cultural history of Gotland, dating back to the Viking Age and middle ages.
  • Visby City Wall: One of the best-preserved medieval city walls in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • St. Mary’s Cathedral: A stunning Gothic-style church in Visby, built in the 12th century.
  • Lummelunda Cave: An underground system of caves with amazing rock formations, located near Visby.
  • Igneous rocks of Gotland: A geological wonder with distinct rock formations in the Gotland island.

Natural Attractions of Central Gotland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gotska Sandön National Park: A pristine nature reserve with sandy beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife.
  • Blue Lagoon: A beautiful sandy beach and a popular swimming spot in Gotland.
  • Högklint: A high cliff with scenic views of the island and the Baltic Sea. There is a hiking trail that leads to the cliff, offering an excellent opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Raukar: Strange limestone formations naturally formed by the sea, scattered along the Gotland Island’s North coast.
  • Närsholmen: A nature reserve on the island of Fårö, famous for its seal colonies and birdwatching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Gotland

Central Gotland is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with several hiking trails and biking routes that offer scenic views and an opportunity to explore nature. Some recommended routes include:

  • Sudret Runt: An excellent 80km cycling route that goes around the southern part of Gotland, offering stunning landscapes and passing through charming villages.
  • Bungemusset: A hiking trail that takes you through meadows, forests, and unique rock formations.
  • Roma Trail: An inspiring hike that passes through the beautiful Gotlandic countryside and leads to a hilltop with panoramic views.

Best Things to Do in Central Gotland: Activities and Tours

Apart from sightseeing, Central Gotland offers travelers to enjoy several exciting and unique activities. Here are some recommendations:

  • Kayaking in Gotland: An excellent opportunity to explore the island’s hidden bays, caves, and stunning coastlines by kayaking.
  • Workshops of Glassblowing: Astound at the handicrafts and marvel at how they are made while attending a glassblowing workshop at the Kosta Glass Factory, located in the town of Vansbro.
  • Fishing in Gotland: Fishing in the Baltic Sea is a true delight, with ample opportunities for angling from the beaches or the pier.
  • Visby Walking Tours: Explore the medieval town of Visby by joining a guided walking tour that covers the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Gotland

To help visitors make the most of their experience in Central Gotland, here is a recommended itinerary for a week-long visit:

  • Day 1: Explore Visby’s medieval town, including the city walls, St. Mary’s Cathedral, and Gotlands Museum.
  • Day 2: Visit the Natural Attractions nearby, from the Blue Lagoon to Högklint and nature reserves on near islands.
  • Day 3: Take the Sudret Runt cycling route around southern Gotland.
  • Day 4: Explore the natural gems of Gotland, from limestone formations to the Igneous rocks.
  • Day 5: Attend a glassblowing workshop and visit other handicrafts and museums.
  • Day 6: Get a chance to row or fish in the Baltic Sea while kayaking.
  • Day 7: Try the local cuisine, take a walking tour of Visby’s town, and shop for souvenirs or local handmade items.

Food and Drink Scene of Central Gotland

No trip to Central Gotland is complete without savoring the local food and drink specialties. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Saffron Pancakes: a sweet thin pancake made with cream, almond paste, and saffron.
  • Sour dough buns: A popular breakfast dish that is served with cheese and jam.
  • Kroppkakor: A signature dish of Gotland consisting of boiled dumplings filled with pork or bacon and onion.
  • Gotlandic Almond Cake: A sweet dessert made with almonds.

Local Beverages

  • Gotlandsdricka: A local beverage made with malt and juniper berries.
  • Gotlandic Beer: A range of locally brewed beers made with birch sap. Some of the famous breweries in Gotland include Gotland Bryggeri and Wisby Ölcafé.

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

Central Gotland offers various accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel St. Clemens: A cozy and comfortable hotel located in the heart of medieval Visby.
  • Snäck Annex Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that offers guests rooms with shared bathrooms and kitchen facilities.
  • Hoburgsgubben Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse located in a quiet area with scenic surroundings.

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

When in Central Gotland, visitors can shop for unique and handmade souvenirs to take back home. Here are some recommendations:

  • Gotlandic Wool: Made from the wool of the indigenous Gutefår sheep breed, Gotlandic wool is known for its softness and quality.
  • Handmade Pottery: Pottery made by local artisans is unique, and visitors can find several pottery workshops in Gotland Islands.
  • Limestone Jewellery: Handcrafted jewelry made with limestone from the coast is popular in Gotland.

Local Culture and Customs of Central Gotland

Gotlandic culture is deeply rooted in the Island’s Viking Age history and is a blend of Scandinavian and European influences. Gotlanders pride themselves on welcoming visitors to the island and preserving their history and heritage. Some Gotland customs and traditions include:

  • Viking Week: An annual event that celebrates the Viking history and culture of the island.
  • Midsummer Celebrations: Midsummer is a big celebration in Gotland, with floral wreaths, dancing around the maypole, and traditional food and drink.

Best Time to Visit Central Gotland

The best time to visit Central Gotland is from May to September, which is the peak tourist season. The weather is mild, and most activities and attractions are open during this period. Visitors who prefer a quieter environment can consider visiting in April or October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Gotland

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take care of the natural surroundings and wildlife.
  • Try the local food and drink specialties.
  • Attend cultural festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage any historic sites or natural resources.
  • Wear shoes indoors when visiting someone’s home.
  • Interfere with protected wildlife or their habitats.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Gotland

Central Gotland is generally a safe destination with low crime rates, but visitors should take standard safety precautions. Here are some recommendations:

  • Be aware of pickpockets and protect your belongings.
  • Follow traffic laws when cycling or driving.
  • Make sure to bring the necessary equipment for outdoor activities, including proper clothing and gear.

Health in Central Gotland

Gotland has a modern healthcare system, and visitors can find several medical facilities and pharmacies on the island. Visitors should ensure they have adequate medical insurance before travelling and consult their physician before departing.

Getting to Central Gotland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Central Gotland is accessible by air, sea, and land, and visitors can choose the mode of transportation that suits them best.

Airports Near Central Gotland

Gotland Island’s primary airport is the Visby Airport, which connects with several cities in Sweden, including Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö.

Bus Stations Near Central Gotland

Visby has a central bus station, which connects with several cities in Sweden, including Stockholm and Gothenburg.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Gotland by ferry, with daily ferry services from the Swedish mainland to the island. Alternatively, visitors can rent a car or a bike and explore the island at their leisure.

How to Get Around in Central Gotland

Central Gotland is best explored by car, bike, or public transport. For those who prefer to rely on public transportation, the island has extensive bus services connecting various locations.

Where to Go Next from Central Gotland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Central Gotland, visitors can consider visiting other nearby destinations, including Stockholm and the other major cities in Sweden.

Conclusion

Central Gotland is a hidden gem of the Baltic Sea, with its medieval towns, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural history. With numerous attractions, including museums, historical landmarks, outdoor activities, and excellent local cuisine, Central Gotland is an ideal destination for visitors seeking a unique and authentic Swedish experience.

Geese over the shore at Vivesholm Nature Reserve in the Sanda district Geese over the shore at Vivesholm Nature Reserve in the Sanda district