Öland Travel Guide

Plan a perfect trip to Öland with our comprehensive tour guide featuring best places to visit, things to do, and local food, culture and customs. Read now!


Introduction to Öland

Öland is the second largest island in Sweden measuring 137 kilometers in length and 18 kilometers at its widest point. It is situated on the east coast of Sweden in the province of Kalmar, Götaland and is known for its scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and authentic local experience. Öland is accessible through a bridge from mainland Sweden, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

List of Places to Visit in Öland

When traveling to Öland, there are several places to visit that showcase the rich history and beautiful landscapes of the island.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Borgholm Castle

Borgholm Castle is one of the most popular attractions in Öland. It was built in the 12th century and has been the summer residence for the Swedish royal family. The castle is now open to tourists who can explore the ruins, learn about its history from the interactive displays, and enjoy the scenic view of the sea.

Eketorp Fortress

Eketorp Fortress is a well-preserved Iron Age fort from the 4th century. Visitors can explore the reconstructed fort and learn about the fort’s history from the museum guides. The fort is also used to educate visitors about ancient Viking life and culture.

Natural Attractions of Öland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Alvaret

Alvaret is a cultural landscape recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a vast plain covered in limestone that is home to various plant and animal species. Visitors can go hiking or biking to explore the expansive nature reserve, go bird watching, or visit the fossil museum nearby.

Neptuni Åkrar

Neptuni Åkrar is a unique place where visitors can see naturally formed limestone columns along the shore. Tourists can hike along the coast, enjoy the scenic views, and take pictures amidst the columns.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Öland

Öland has numerous hiking and biking routes that enable visitors to explore the island’s unspoiled nature and heritage.

Stora Alvaret

Stora Alvaret is the biggest limestone plain in Europe and is perfect for hiking and biking. Visitors can explore the area by foot, bike, or horse riding and discover ancient burial sites, fortresses, and ruins.

Solliden Palace Park

Solliden Palace Park is a royal park that was created in 1906 in honor of Crown Princess Victoria’s birth. The park features royal gardens, sculptures, and fountains that visitors can explore on foot, take guided tours, or attend events held in the palace.

Best Things to Do in Öland: Activities and Tours

Öland offers many activities and tours that travelers can participate in, both indoors and out.

Ottenby Naturum

Ottenby Naturum is a nature centre in South Öland that offers activities and educational programs for groups and individuals. Visitors can learn about nature conservation and the history of the area, enjoy a guided tour of the lighthouse, or take a boat tour to explore the surrounding islands.

Art and Crafts Tours

Öland is famous for its local crafts and you can take tours to meet local artisans and learn about their work. Visitors can explore the glass-blowing workshops, pottery, and weaving studios, and purchase handicrafts as souvenirs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Öland

To make the most of a visit to Öland here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay:

Monday Explore Borgholm Castle and visit VIDA Museum and Art Gallery
Tuesday Visit Ottenby Naturum and explore the historic lighthouse, take a boat tour to explore the surrounding islands
Wednesday Go on a guided food tour and taste local delicacies, visit to Neptuni Åkrar, and learn about the natural wonders of the area
Thursday Take a cycling tour of Solliden Palace Park and attend royal events or concerts in the palace
Friday Visit to Eketorp Fortress and learn about Viking life and culture, shopping for souvenirs in local handicraft stores
Saturday Explore Stora Alvaret plain and discover the various ancient burial sites, bike or hike along nature trails
Sunday Relax at the nearby beaches, enjoy a picnic or a BBQ, try water sports activities like windsurfing or kayaking

Food and Drink Scene of Öland

Öland offers fantastic cuisine that is deeply rooted in its local culture and traditions. Here are some dishes and beverages that should not be missed:

Must-Try Dishes

Island Truffle

Island Truffle is a signature dish of Öland, which is a type of potato that grows underground and is retrieved only in the winter season. It is considered a local delicacy because of its unique flavor, texture, and aroma.

Rökstenen Sausage

Rökstenen sausage is a traditional smoked sausage in Öland made of local pork and beef. It has a distinct flavor due to the smoking process it undergoes.

Local Beverages

Ölands Brewery

Ölands Brewery is a family-owned microbrewery that produces premium beer using locally-sourced ingredients. The brewery offers tasting tours for visitors to learn about their brewing process and sample their different beer varieties.

Äppelmusteriet Juice

Äppelmusteriet Juice is a popular local brand that produces delicious and refreshing apple juice made from locally grown apples. Visitors can buy their products in local stores or during their visit to the farms.

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

Öland offers many accommodation options that cater to different needs and budgets. Here are some options you can choose from:

  • Borgholm Hostel
  • Gröndals Camping
  • Norra Vidinge Gård B&B
  • Villa Verdi Guesthouse
  • Strand Hotell Borgholm

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

Öland is home to a vibrant market scene that sells unique handicrafts, artisanal products, and souvenirs. Here are some items you can take home as souvenirs:

  • Limestone sculptures
  • Handmade glass pieces
  • Traditional woolen clothing
  • Gourmet food products
  • Woven baskets and rugs

Local Culture and Customs of Öland

Öland has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its local customs and traditions. Some notable traditions include:

  • Midsummer celebrations that involve dancing around the Maypole and lighting bonfires
  • Christmas markets that feature local handicrafts and traditional food
  • Folk music festivals that showcase traditional Swedish music
  • Harvest festivals that celebrate the bounty of the land

Best Time to Visit Öland

The best time to visit Öland is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild, and the island’s natural beauty is at its peak. During this time, visitors can attend cultural events, enjoy outdoor activities, and explore the exceptional landscapes. However, the island can be visited all year-round, and each season has its own charm and activities available.

Do’s and Don’ts of Öland

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Take care of the environment and avoid littering
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities
  • Learn a few words of Swedish to communicate with locals

Don’t:

  • Disturb the natural habitat and protect endangered species
  • Smoke in public places
  • Take photos without permission, especially of people
  • Swim in unsupervised areas or if not confident in swimming

Safety and Health

Safety in Öland

Öland is a safe destination, and it is uncommon for tourists or visitors to experience any problems during their stay. However, visitors should remain cautious and take standard safety precautions like locking up valuables in rooms and not leaving bags unattended on beaches.

Health in Öland

Öland has top-notch medical facilities and services and can manage any medical emergency. Visitors should take medical travel insurance and all necessary medication that they may need when traveling.

Getting to Öland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Öland can be reached either by car or by bus. The island is connected to mainland Sweden by two bridges, which are both free of charge. However, visitors can also come to Malmö Airport and take a connecting flight to Kalmar Airport, which is an hour drive away from Öland.

Airports Near Öland

  • Kalmar Airport
  • Ronneby Airport
  • Visby Airport

Bus Stations Near Öland

  • Kalmar Resecentrum
  • Löttorp bus station
  • Borgholm bus station

Other Options

Visitors can also hire bicycles or cars to explore the island and its natural beauty on their own.

How to Get Around in Öland

Öland has a well-connected public transportation system, which includes buses, taxis, bike rentals, and car rentals. However, visitors can also explore the island on foot, which is a great way to enjoy its beautiful landscapes and culture.

Where to Go Next from Öland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kalmar

Kalmar is a historic city located on the mainland and is a great place to explore its beautiful architecture, fascinating history, and local cuisine. Visitors can explore the Kalmar Castle and its museum, Stortorget Square, and the Kalmar Art Museum.

Stockholm

Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden and is just a few hours away from Öland by train. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and colorful history. Visitors can explore the Gamla Stan, Royal Palace, and the Vasa Museum.

Conclusion

Öland offers an authentic travel experience featuring the best of Swedish culture, heritage, and nature. It is a perfect destination for travelers of all kinds, who wants to explore the beautiful landscapes, taste the local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the local culture. We hope our comprehensive guide has provided you with an idea of what to expect and enabled you to plan your perfect trip to Öland.

Borgholm Castle Borgholm Castle Eketorp fortress at Alvaret (the Southern Agricultural Landscape) Eketorp fortress at Alvaret (the Southern Agricultural Landscape) Böda Sand Böda Sand Gettlinge grave field Gettlinge grave field