Lund Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do, places to stay, where to eat and drink, and how to get around in Lund, Sweden with this comprehensive travel guide.


Lund, located in Scania, is a charming city in southern Sweden with a rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s historical landmarks, hiking and biking the scenic trails, or savoring the local cuisine, Lund offers something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll help you plan your trip to Lund with a list of must-visit attractions, recommendations for outdoor adventures and scenic views, and insider tips on the best things to do, where to stay, and what to eat and drink.

Introduction to Lund

Lund is a university town known for its medieval architecture, picturesque streets, and fascinating museums. Founded in the 10th century, Lund has a long and storied history, with Viking origins, Medieval influences, and a thriving cultural scene. The city is home to Lund University, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions. Whether you’re interested in history, art, literature, or science, Lund has plenty to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Lund

Here’s a list of must-visit attractions in Lund:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lund Cathedral: a magnificent 12th-century cathedral with Gothic arches and stained glass windows
  • Lund University Historical Museum: an excellent collection of Viking artifacts, Medieval treasures, and modern art
  • Kulturen Open-Air Museum: a fascinating collection of historic buildings and exhibitions showcasing the culture and traditions of southern Sweden
  • Skissernas Museum: a unique museum dedicated to the art of sketches and drawings, with an impressive collection spanning the 20th century
  • Lund Castle: a well-preserved 16th-century castle with a rich history and panoramic views of the city

Natural Attractions of Lund: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lund Botanical Garden: a beautiful oasis of exotic plants and flowers, with greenhouses, ponds, and walking paths
  • Stadsparken: the city’s largest park, with a lake, playgrounds, and picnic areas
  • Kungsmarken Nature Reserve: a pristine nature reserve with hiking trails, birdwatching, and fishing opportunities
  • Söderåsen National Park: located just outside of Lund, this stunning national park features dense forests, valleys, and waterfalls

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lund

Lund’s natural surroundings offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Lund:

  • Romeleåsen Ridge: a challenging 15 km ridge trail with stunning views of the countryside
  • Skåneleden Trail: a 1000 km trail stretching across the entire region of Skåne, with several sections passing through Lund
  • Stenshuvud National Park: located near the town of Kivik, this scenic national park offers several hiking and biking trails, and stunning coastal views

Best Things to Do in Lund: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, here are some of the best things to do in Lund:

  • Join a guided tour of Lund Cathedral, Lund Castle, or the Kulturen Open-Air Museum
  • Attend the Lund Literature Festival, held annually in September, featuring talks and readings by famous authors
  • Visit the Lund International Fantastic Film Festival, held annually in October, showcasing the best in science fiction, fantasy, and horror films
  • Bike to the nearby town of Dalby, and explore the impressive 12th-century Dalby Church
  • Take a day trip to the nearby city of Malmö, and explore its charming Old Town and modern landmarks, such as the Turning Torso skyscraper

Week-Long Itinerary for Lund

To help you plan your trip, here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Lund:

  • Day 1: Explore the historic landmarks, such as the Lund Cathedral, Lund University Historical Museum, and Lund Castle
  • Day 2: Visit the Skissernas Museum and the Kulturen Open-Air Museum
  • Day 3: Hike in the nearby Söderåsen National Park, or take a bike tour to the town of Dalby
  • Day 4: Relax in the Lund Botanical Garden and Stadsparken
  • Day 5: Join a guided tour or attend a festival or event, such as the Lund Literature Festival or the Lund International Fantastic Film Festival
  • Day 6: Take a day trip to the nearby city of Malmö and explore its landmarks and cultural highlights
  • Day 7: Shop for souvenirs and local products, and savor the local cuisine at a restaurant or café in Lund

Food and Drink Scene of Lund

Lund boasts a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of options for foodies and beer lovers. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Lund:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rösti: a Swiss-inspired potato fritter, served with a variety of toppings, such as bacon and cheese
  • Smoked salmon: a local delicacy, typically served on a slice of rye bread with boiled eggs and dill
  • Toast Skagen: a traditional Swedish dish, consisting of shrimp salad on toast, typically served as an appetizer

Local Beverages

  • Lundaklacken IPA: a locally brewed IPA, with notes of citrus and hops
  • Swedish cider: a refreshing and fruity cider, typically made with apples, pears, or berries
  • Glogg: a traditional Swedish mulled wine, typically served during the winter holidays

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

Lund offers plenty of options for travelers on any budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Lund:

  • Grand Hotel Lund: a luxury hotel located in the heart of the city, featuring elegant rooms, a spa, and a restaurant
  • Winstrup Hostel: a cozy and affordable hostel located within walking distance of Lund Cathedral and Lund University
  • Lilla Hotellet: a charming guesthouse located in a historic building, featuring cozy rooms and a garden

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

Looking for some unique souvenirs to bring home? Here are some of the best local products to buy in Lund:

  • Swedish handicrafts and textiles, such as hand-woven rugs and tablecloths
  • Swedish sweets and snacks, such as chocolate, licorice, and marzipan
  • Lund University merchandise, such as mugs, t-shirts, and bags

Local Culture and Customs of Lund

Swedes are known for their friendly and polite demeanor, so be sure to greet people with a smile and a handshake. It’s also customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a carpeted area. In Lund, tips are generally not expected, as a service charge is usually included in the bill.

Best Time to Visit Lund

The best time to visit Lund is during the spring and summer months, from April to August, when the weather is mild and the days are long. September is also a great time to visit, as the city hosts several festivals and cultural events. Winter can be cold and dark, but also cozy and festive, with Christmas markets and traditional celebrations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lund

Do:

  • Explore the historic landmarks, such as the Lund Cathedral and Lund Castle
  • Hike or bike the scenic trails in the city and its surroundings
  • Savor the local cuisine and drinks, such as smoked salmon and Lundaklacken IPA
  • Shop for souvenirs and local products, such as Swedish handicrafts and textiles
  • Embrace the local customs and culture, and interact with the friendly locals

Don’t:

  • Forget to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a carpeted area
  • Expect tips, as a service charge is usually included in the bill
  • Infringe on someone’s personal space or privacy, as Swedes value their personal space and privacy

Safety and Health

Lund is generally a safe city, but be aware of pickpocketing and petty crime, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. It’s also important to take precautions against tick bites, as the region is known for tick-borne diseases. Wear long clothing, tuck pants into socks, and use insect repellent with DEET when hiking or biking in the countryside.

Getting to Lund: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lund is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Lund

  • Malmö Airport (MMX): located 35 km from Lund, with several flights to domestic and European destinations
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): located 70 km from Lund, with several flights to international destinations and a direct train connection to Lund

Bus Stations Near Lund

  • Lund Central Station: located in the city center, with several bus connections to nearby towns and cities
  • Lund University Hospital: located in the southeast of the city, with several local and regional bus connections

Other Options

  • Train: Lund Central Station is connected to several major cities in Sweden, such as Stockholm and Gothenburg, via train
  • Car: Lund is easily accessible by car, with several major highways connecting the city to other parts of the region and country

How to Get Around in Lund

Lund is a compact city, and most attractions are within walking or biking distance. Buses and trains are also available, with several options for tickets and passes. It’s also possible to rent a car or bike, or use a taxi or ride-sharing service.

Where to Go Next from Lund: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lund is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding region of Skåne. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Malmö: a vibrant and multicultural city with a charming Old Town and modern landmarks, such as the Turning Torso skyscraper
  • Helsingborg: a coastal town with a historic castle, a scenic harbor, and a variety of cultural and artistic attractions
  • Ystad: a picturesque town famous for its medieval architecture, museums, and sandy beaches
  • Österlen: a scenic and charming region in southern Skåne, known for its beautiful landscapes, farms, and cultural attractions

Conclusion

Lund is a fascinating and charming city with a rich history, scenic surroundings, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food and drink, Lund offers something for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip to Lund and explore the best the city has to offer.

Lund Cathedral Lund Cathedral Kulturen's main building. Kulturen's main building.