Motala Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Motala with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore culturally significant museums, natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, and local customs. Learn about the safety and logistics to make the most of your trip.


A Comprehensive Guide to Motala, Sweden

Motala is a picturesque town in Östergötland, Sweden, featuring parks, lakes, and an intriguing history with its 19th-century Göta Canal and Viking burial grounds. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your visit to Motala with information on culturally significant museums, natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, and local customs. Learn about the safety and logistics to make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Motala

A visit to Motala is a one-of-a-kind experience with several places worth exploring.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Motala has several museums and historical places that showcase its rich culture and tradition.

  1. Motala Motormuseum: Explore an impressive collection of motorcycles at one of Sweden’s largest motor museums.
  2. Vikbolandet Church: Admire beautiful church architecture and learn about the religious history of Motala.
  3. Medevi Brunn: Visit the oldest spa in the world and learn about its history and healing properties.

Natural Attractions of Motala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Motala’s breathtaking natural attractions are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

  1. Varamobaden: Take a dip in Sweden’s biggest lake, Vättern, at this lovely sandy beach.
  2. Omberg: Enjoy fantastic views of Lake Vättern on this mountain with hiking trails and ancient oak trees.
  3. Tiveden National Park: Discover this stunning park’s rugged terrain, deep ravines, and lakes, and go hiking or camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Motala

Motala is a haven for hiking/biking enthusiasts with trails that cater to all skill levels.

  1. Göta Canal: Explore the town’s history and scenery while biking or hiking around the canal.
  2. Tiveden National Park: Hike through untouched forests, stunning viewpoints, and unique natural formations.
  3. Omberg Mountain: Discover beautiful views of the lake and wildlife while hiking or biking around the mountain.

Best Things to Do in Motala: Activities and Tours

Discover the best things to do in Motala with exciting activities and tours.

  1. Göta Canal Boat Tour: Explore the canal on a boat tour and learn about its history while enjoying the scenic views.
  2. Medevi Spa Experience: Relax and recharge at the famous Medevi spa with its renowned healing waters.
  3. Motala Jazz Festival: Enjoy some of the best jazz performances with a lively atmosphere in Motala.

Week-Long Itinerary for Motala

Here’s a week-long itinerary to make the most of your visit to Motala.

Day Activity
1 Discover Motala; take a walking tour of the town and learn about its history.
2 Visit the Motala Motor Museum, Vikbolandet Church, and Medevi Brunn
3 Go hiking at Omberg and enjoy the stunning views from its peak.
4 Take a boat tour on Göta canal, visiting the historic locks and bridges.
5 Visit Tiveden National Park for a day of trekking surrounded by natural beauty.
6 Relax and rejuvenate with a Medevi spa experience.
7 Visit the nearby Vadstena and its famous castle and park.

Food and Drink Scene of Motala

Motala’s food and drink scene is well worth exploring, with some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Roe Deer Steak: Venison is a popular dish, and the Roe Deer Steak is known to be delicious.
  2. Gravad Lax: A Swedish traditional dish of salmon cured with salt, sugar, and dill.
  3. Västerbotten Cheese Pie: A savory pie made with Västerbotten cheese, a regional specialty.

Local Beverages

  1. Nippy: A Nordic cider made with elderflowers, clean and refreshing.
  2. Päronsaft: A non-alcoholic pear cider, a regional favorite.
  3. Öl: Sweden’s love for beer is well-known, with countless microbrews and craft beers available.

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

Motala has several accommodation options that cater to all budgets.

  1. Hotell City: A charming city hotel that is centrally located.
  2. Stadshotellet Motala: A modern hotel in the center of the town, with a restaurant and bar.
  3. Motala Vandrarhem: A budget-friendly hostel for backpackers and solo travelers.

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

Motala has several local products perfect as souvenirs to bring back home.

  1. Smoked Fish: Motala’s location near Lake Vättern makes it the perfect place to buy smoked fish.
  2. Viking-inspired Products: Motala has a rich Viking heritage, and several shops sell Viking-inspired jewelry and souvenirs.
  3. Linen Textiles: Motala is famous for its high-quality linen textiles, including tablecloths, napkins, and runners.

Local Culture and Customs of Motala

Swedish culture is known for its simplicity and cleanliness, and Motala is no different. Visitors are encouraged to maintain cleanliness and respect the environment.

Best Time to Visit Motala

The best time to visit Motala is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is pleasant, and most attractions and activities are open.

Do’s and Don’ts of Motala

Here are the do’s and don’ts to follow when visiting Motala:

Do:

  1. Respect the environment and keep the surroundings clean.
  2. Greet locals with a smile and a friendly “Hej.”
  3. Learn about Swedish culture and history.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the surroundings.
  2. Forget to take off your shoes when entering someone’s home.
  3. Speak loudly or behave in an imposing manner.

Safety and Health

Visitors to Motala need not worry about their safety and health. However, it is advisable to follow general safety precautions and maintain good hygiene practices.

Safety in Motala

Motala is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should take care of their valuables and avoid dark and isolated areas at night.

Health in Motala

Motala is known for its high-quality health care, and visitors can visit the Medevi Spa for a unique health and wellness experience.

Getting to Motala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Motala is accessible via multiple transport options and is well-connected to the rest of Sweden and Europe.

Airports Near Motala

The closest airport to Motala is the Norrköping Airport, which is around 40 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Motala

Motala Bus Station is situated in the center of the town and has connections to most of Sweden’s major cities and towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Motala by train, car, or ferry.

How to Get Around in Motala

Motala is a small town that is easily walkable, and visitors can explore most of the town’s attractions on foot or bike. Local buses are also available for those who prefer public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Motala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Motala’s proximity to several desirable destinations makes it an excellent base for day trips and excursions.

  1. Vadstena: Visit the beautiful castle and park and explore this medieval town just a short distance from Motala.
  2. Linkoping: Visit the university town and explore the old town’s cobbled streets and historic buildings.
  3. Gränna: Visit the charming town of Gränna and take a ferry to the picturesque island of Visingö.

Conclusion

A visit to Motala is an exceptional experience with several places worth exploring, including museums and historical places, natural attractions, and hiking/biking trails. With a unique culture and rich history, make sure to explore the food and drink scene and purchase some local souvenirs before leaving. Remember to follow local customs and take care of your safety and health, and enjoy your stay in Motala!

Court house Court house Göta kanalbolag Göta kanalbolag Motala Motormuseum Motala Motormuseum