Kalmar Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, places to stay, and food to try in the charming city of Kalmar, Sweden. Explore its rich culture and natural wonders.


Introduction to Kalmar

Located in Småland, Götaland, Sweden, Kalmar is a city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. It is famous for its well-preserved castle and historical district, sandy beaches, and scenic islands. Here you’ll find a mix of medieval and modern elements that make Kalmar a destination worth visiting.

List of Places to Visit in Kalmar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the must-visit tourist destinations in Kalmar is the Kalmar Castle. The castle was built in the 12th century and has played a significant role in the region’s history. It houses the Kalmar County Museum, which showcases exhibits on the region’s history, art, and culture. Another historical site is the Kalmar Cathedral, an impressive Gothic structure that has stood for over 800 years.

For those interested in art, the Kalmar Konstmuseum and Slöjd & Form Crafts Museum are both highly recommended. The former features a collection of modern and contemporary artworks, while the latter displays traditional crafts and folk art from the region.

Natural Attractions of Kalmar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kalmar is blessed with natural beauty and offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities. The city has 16 nature reserves, each with its unique charm. Stensö, Blå Jungfrun, and Öland are some of the popular natural attractions that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Stensö is a nature reserve that offers hiking trails, rock formations, and sandy beaches. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers who enjoy hiking, bird watching, and exploring the countryside. Blå Jungfrun is an isolated island that houses a national park, is accessible by boat, and famous for its unique geology. Öland, on the other hand, is the second largest island of Sweden, boasts stunning beaches and picturesque villages.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kalmar

Kalmar has many trails and routes that will suit every level of hiker or biker. The 40 km long Kalmarsundsleden bike route stretches from Färjestaden to Kalmar. Another popular route is the Kalmarleden hiking trail, which starts from Kalmar Castle and winds through the city’s history and nature reserves.

Best Things to Do in Kalmar: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy in Kalmar. Take a guided boat tour around the city’s coastline, or go fishing for sea trout along its shores. If you’re into watersports, you can try windsurfing or paddleboarding. For those who love golf, the Kalmar Golf Club is a great option.

If you are looking for an adventurous activity, Zipline & Adventure Park can provide it. It offers different routes of ziplines through the scenic forest and tree-to-tree activities that can test your courage.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kalmar

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Kalmar:

  • Day 1: Visit Kalmar Castle and learn about its history.
  • Day 2: Take a boat tour and explore the region’s coastline.
  • Day 3: Go shopping and try local food at Kalmar Saluhall.
  • Day 4: Visit Blå Jungfrun National Park.
  • Day 5: Tour Kalmar’s cultural sites, such as Kalmar Konstmuseum and Slöjd & Form Crafts Museum.
  • Day 6: Explore Stensö Reserve and go hiking or biking.
  • Day 7: Visit Öland Island and experience its beaches and villages.

Food and Drink Scene of Kalmar

Must-Try Dishes

Kalmar offers a wide range of gastronomic options. You must try traditional Småland delicacies like Råraka, a potato pancake with smoked pork belly and lingonberry jam. Kalmar Ostkaka is another favorite dessert, a type of sweet curd cheese pudding that is often served with cream and jam.

Local Beverages

In addition to its delicious dishes, the city also has a rich local drink culture. You can try birch forest soft drinks, beer from Kalmar Brewery, or fruit wines from wines produced at Öland’s vineyards.

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

Kalmar has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The Slottshotellet, located near the castle, is an excellent choice for a luxurious stay. The Calmar Stadshotell, in the city center, is also popular, offering comfortable amenities and a convenient location.

If you’re traveling on a budget, Kalmar Vandrarhem is a hostel with excellent facilities and affordable prices. There are several guesthouses and self-serviced apartments in the area.

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

There are many local products that you can bring home as souvenirs from Kalmar, including:

  • Kalmar Glassworks’ hand-blown glass items;
  • Local marmalades, jams, and smoked meat;
  • Hand-made jewelry and clothes from local craftspeople;
  • Öland’s wines.

Local Culture and Customs of Kalmar

Swedish culture has a strong emphasis on individualism, equality, and respect for nature. Kalmar shares these values and is home to a vibrant creative scene and traditions, which are celebrated throughout the year. Swedish Midsummer and Lucia festivals are cultural events you should witness if you’re in Sweden during those times.

Best Time to Visit Kalmar

The best time to visit Kalmar is from May through September when the weather is warm and sunny. During these months, you can enjoy outdoor activities, go for a swim, and witness the blooming of wildflowers. The winter season can be cold, dark, and snowy and may limit your access to some attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kalmar

Do:

  • Prepare to enjoy the scenery of the nature reserves.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try traditional Swedish cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Go topless in the city’s beaches.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kalmar

Kalmar is a generally safe place. Still, it is advisable to take necessary precautions in some areas, particularly when walking alone late at night.

Health in Kalmar

Sweden has a quality healthcare system that ensures high standards of medical care. Visitors may need to have travel insurance to cover treatment expenses.

Getting to Kalmar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kalmar

Kalmar Airport is located six kilometers to the southeast of the city center and has regular flights from Stockholm and other major cities throughout the year.

Bus Stations Near Kalmar

Kalmar central bus station provides transport to destinations around the city and other towns throughout Sweden, including Stockholm, Malmö, Gothenburg, and several towns in Småland.

Other Options

You can also take a train to Kalmar Central Station, which connects the city to all the major cities in Sweden and Denmark.

How to Get Around in Kalmar

Kalmar is easy to navigate, and most attractions are within walking distance or accessible via public transportation. You can rent bicycles or cars at reasonable prices.

Where to Go Next from Kalmar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for nearby destinations and excursions, you can visit:

  • Öland Island, Sweden’s second-largest island, and home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Södra Öland’s agriculture landscape.
  • Västervik, a coastal town known for its maritime history and archipelago.
  • Karlskrona, a charming sea town and home to many naval traditions.

Conclusion

Kalmar is a must-visit destination if you are visiting Sweden. With a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, it has something for every traveler. Its scenic islands, sandy beaches, and national parks make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s rich culture, delectable cuisine, and friendly atmosphere will leave you wanting to come back again.