Trelleborg Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and how to get around Trelleborg, Sweden with this helpful travel guide.


Introduction to Trelleborg

Trelleborg is a charming town located in the southern part of Sweden, in Scania’s region. Its strategic position on the coast of the Baltic Sea has made it an important trading hub for centuries. Today, Trelleborg has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, outdoor activities, and local culture. Whether you are looking for an adventure-packed trip, a relaxing escape, or a cultural experience, Trelleborg has something to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Trelleborg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Trelleborgen Viking Fortress: A reconstruction of a Viking ring fortress from the 10th century, featuring an exciting exhibition and activities related to Viking history.
  • Trelleborgs Museum: A museum dedicated to the history and traditions of Trelleborg, featuring exhibitions on the town’s development, maritime heritage, and cultural artifacts.
  • Smygehuk Lighthouse: The southernmost point of Sweden, where visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and take in stunning views of the coastline.
  • Gamla Kyrkogarden: A burial ground that dates back to the 17th century, featuring well-preserved gravestones and sculptures.
  • Maglarps Old Church: A medieval church from the 12th century, featuring impressive frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere.

Natural Attractions of Trelleborg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Skanör-Falsterbo Strandbad: A popular beach area with crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and dunes, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
  • Tullstorp Stream Valley: A scenic valley with streams, meadows, and forests, ideal for hiking, biking, and nature walks.
  • Smygehuk Fishing: A charming fishing village with a picturesque harbor where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, fishing trips, and boat tours.
  • Gislövshammar Beautiful Scenery: An idyllic countryside area with quaint cottages, flower fields, and meadows, perfect for picnics and relaxing walks.
  • Hagestad Nature Reserve: A vast nature reserve with a diversity of wildlife, hiking trails, and birdwatching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Trelleborg

Trelleborg is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are plenty of hiking and biking routes that cater to all skill levels. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Söderslätt Hiking Trail: A 34 km trail that takes visitors through the beautiful countryside of Söderslätt, passing by lakes, forests, and traditional villages.
  • Trelleborg Coastal Trail: A 44 km trail that follows the coastline of Trelleborg, offering stunning views of the Baltic Sea, fishing villages, and lighthouses.
  • Smygehuk to Skanör-Falsterbo: A 15 km route that takes visitors through scenic countryside, beaches, and small villages.
  • Tullstorp Stream Valley Trail: A 12 km trail that takes visitors through the picturesque Tullstorp Stream Valley, passing by forests, meadows, and streams.
  • Maglarps Old Church Trail: A 6 km trail that takes visitors from Trelleborg to Maglarps old church, passing by meadows, farms, and forests.

Best Things to Do in Trelleborg: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Trelleborgen Viking Fortress and learn more about Viking history through exciting exhibitions and guided tours.
  • Explore the charming fishing town of Smygehuk and indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
  • Take a relaxing stroll through the picturesque town center of Trelleborg and admire the beautiful architecture and cultural landmarks.
  • Enjoy a day at the beach at Skanör-Falsterbo Strandbad and soak in the sun, swim in crystal clear waters, or indulge in water sports.
  • Go on a wildlife safari at Hagestad Nature Reserve and spot some of the native wildlife, such as deers and birds.
  • Take a boat tour from Smygehuk and explore the gorgeous coastline of Trelleborg from a different perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for Trelleborg

Day 1: Arrive in Trelleborg and explore the town center, visit the Trelleborgen Viking Fortress, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Visit the Maglarps Old Church and go hiking in the Tullstorp Stream Valley.

Day 3: Enjoy a day at the beach at Skanör-Falsterbo, indulge in fresh seafood, and go surfing or windsurfing.

Day 4: Explore the town of Smygehuk, go on a fishing trip or boat tour, and experience the local culture.

Day 5: Take a day trip to the beautiful island of Ven, known for its gorgeous beaches, nature reserves, and charming villages.

Day 6: Go on a wildlife safari at Hagestad Nature Reserve and enjoy a picnic in the countryside.

Day 7: Depart Trelleborg and take one last stroll through the town center before heading to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Trelleborg

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smörrebröd: A traditional Danish open-faced sandwich served on rye bread, topped with various toppings such as smoked salmon, pickled herring, cheese, and vegetables.
  • Meatballs: Swedish meatballs are a must-try dish, typically served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and gravy.
  • Gravlax: A Scandinavian delicacy, Gravlax is a cured salmon dish, served with bread, mustard sauce, and dill.
  • Ostkaka: A Swedish cheesecake made of curdled milk, sugar, and eggs, typically served with whipped cream and berries.
  • Kanelbullar: A Swedish cinnamon roll flavored with cardamom and cinnamon, typically served with a cup of coffee.

Local Beverages

  • Akvavit: A traditional Scandiavian spirit distilled from potatoes or grain and flavored with herbs and spices, such as caraway, dill, or fennel.
  • Swedish Beer: Swedish beer has a long tradition and is typically brewed with hops and barley and has a crisp, refreshing taste.
  • Coffee: Sweden is known for its coffee culture, and locals enjoy a cup of coffee almost every hour of the day, typically served with a cinnamon roll or other baked goods.

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

Trelleborg offers a variety of accommodations for visitors, ranging from cozy guesthouses to modern hotels and hostels. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Best Western Hotel Hansa: A modern hotel located in the heart of Trelleborg, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
  • Trelleborg Vandrarhem: A budget-friendly hostel located close to the town center, featuring shared and private rooms, kitchen facilities, and a lounge area.
  • Vår Gård Saltsjöbaden: A luxurious spa hotel located by the beach, offering upscale rooms, wellness facilities, and a restaurant.
  • Hotell Dannegården: A charming guesthouse located in a historic building, featuring cozy rooms, a garden, and a restaurant.
  • Smygehus Havsbad: A family-friendly resort located by the sea, offering spacious rooms, a spa, and outdoor activities.

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

  • Glassware from Kosta Boda: Sweden is famous for its high-quality glassware, and Kosta Boda is one of the most iconic brands.
  • Swedish Design: Sweden is also famous for its minimalist and functional design, and visitors can find many design products and furniture pieces to take home.
  • Lingonberry Jam: A traditional Swedish condiment made from lingonberries, typically served with meatballs and other savory dishes.
  • Trädgårdsmästarens Örtagård: A local farm that produces high-quality herbs, spices, and teas, perfect for cooking and as a souvenir to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Trelleborg

Trelleborg has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its artistic community, architecture, and traditional festivals. Visitors can experience the local culture through various events and traditions, such as:

  • Trelleborgs Gatumusikfestival: A street music festival showcasing local and international artists.
  • Trelleborgs Gästhamn: A popular harbor during summertime, where visitors can experience the bustling local life, live music and street performances.
  • Valborgsmässoafton: A traditional spring festival in late April, where locals celebrate the arrival of spring with bonfires and singing.

Best Time to Visit Trelleborg

Trelleborg can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is mild, and the attractions and outdoor activities are in full swing. Summer is the peak tourist season and is ideal for beach activities, festivals, and outdoor adventures. Winter, from December to February, can be cold and snowy, but visitors can enjoy winter sports and festive celebrations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Trelleborg

Do:

  • Respect local customs and manners, such as removing shoes in private homes and not interrupting conversations.
  • Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites.
  • Use public transportation or bike instead of driving to limit traffic congestion and pollution.
  • Try local dishes and beverages, such as meatballs and akvavit, to experience the local flavors.
  • Be polite and courteous with locals, as Swedes value kindness and respect.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or smoke in public, as it is considered impolite.
  • Don’t tip in restaurants, as service fees are usually included in the bill.
  • Don’t take photographs of people without their permission, as it is considered intrusive.
  • Don’t raise your voice or make loud noises in public, as it may disturb others.
  • Don’t be late for appointments or meetings, as Swedes value punctuality.

Safety and Health

Safety in Trelleborg

Trelleborg is a safe and secure town, but visitors should exercise caution and common sense, especially in crowded areas or during late hours. Some safety tips include:

  • Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuable items.
  • Use common sense when traveling alone or at night and stick to well-lit and populated areas.
  • Be aware of the traffic rules and use pedestrian crossings when crossing the streets.
  • Familiarize yourself with the emergency numbers and the location of the nearest hospital or medical center.

Health in Trelleborg

Trelleborg has a high standard of healthcare, with well-equipped hospitals and clinics. Visitors from the EU countries can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive emergency medical treatment at the same cost as Swedish residents. It is also advisable to get travel insurance that covers medical expenses, especially if you are not from the EU.

Getting to Trelleborg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Trelleborg

The nearest airport to Trelleborg is Malmö Airport, located about 30 km away. Visitors can take a bus, taxi or rent a car to get to Trelleborg from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Trelleborg

Trelleborg has a bus station located in the town center, with regular connections to nearby towns and cities such as Malmö, Lund, and Copenhagen. Visitors can purchase tickets at the station or online.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Trelleborg by train from Malmö or Copenhagen, with frequent connections and affordable fares. Trelleborg also has a ferry port with routes to Germany and Poland.

How to Get Around in Trelleborg

Trelleborg is a small town, and most attractions and amenities are within walking distance. Visitors can also rent a bike or take public transportation, such as buses and taxis, to get around the town and nearby areas.

Where to Go Next from Trelleborg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Trelleborg’s strategic location and excellent transportation connections make it an ideal starting point for exploring nearby areas and cities. Some popular nearby destinations include:

  • Malmö: A bustling city with a cosmopolitan vibe, trendy restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, located about 30 km away from Trelleborg.
  • Copenhagen: The capital of Denmark, located about 60 km away from Trelleborg, offers a unique blend of Scandinavian and European cultures, stunning architecture, and museums.
  • Skåne: The southern region of Sweden, Skåne, is known for its idyllic countryside, castles, and historic sites, located a short drive away from Trelleborg.
  • Gotland: A picturesque island located in the Baltic Sea, featuring medieval towns, pristine beaches, and nature reserves, accessible by ferry from Trelleborg.

Conclusion

Trelleborg is a hidden gem in Sweden, offering a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and adventure. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural experience, Trelleborg has something to offer. From charming fishing towns to scenic trails, from traditional cuisine to contemporary design, Trelleborg is a perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty and diversity of Sweden.

Axel Ebbes konsthall. Axel Ebbes konsthall.