Skövde Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful Skövde with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and accommodations to stay in.


Skövde, a city in the Västergötland region of Sweden, is a true example of a hidden gem. The city has a perfect blend of Nordic beauty, rich culture, and mouth-watering food. Skövde has something for everyone, whether you are an adventure seeker, a history buff, or someone who loves to indulge in local delicacies. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will walk you through Skövde’s famous attractions, best places to stay, where to eat, and everything else you need to know to make your visit an unforgettable experience.

Introduction to Skövde

Located in the heart of Västergötland, Skövde is a historical city that dates back to the medieval age. It has a population of around 33,000 and is easily accessible by transportation options like trains and buses. The city is surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and shimmering lakes, making it a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is known for its vibrant culture, traditional festivals, and hospitality, making it an ideal destination for tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Skövde

Skövde has a plethora of places to visit, each with its unique charm and character. Below is a list of the top attractions that should be on your Skövde bucket list.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Skövde Art Museum: This museum houses a collection of works of art from contemporary Swedish artists that will leave you in awe.
  2. Baltak: It is a prehistoric tomb and is considered a cultural heritage monument in Skövde.
  3. Hornborga Lake: This lake is known for its annual spectacle of thousands of cranes that migrate to the area. It is truly a sight to behold.

Natural Attractions of Skövde: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Skövde City Park: Located in the heart of the city, this park is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with your family.
  2. Hertig Johans Trail: Hiking or biking on this trail is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Swedish countryside.
  3. Hornborgasjön Wildlife Reserve: It is a habitat for many rare species of birds, including cranes and geese, and is a great place for bird watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Skövde

Skövde is a paradise for adventure lovers and offers some of the most scenic hiking and biking routes.

  1. Hertig Johans Trail: This trail stretches for 47 kilometers and takes you through various landscapes, including forests, lakes, and rolling hills.
  2. Brahegatan: This picturesque path takes you through historic landmarks, including the Brahegatan statue and St. Helena Church.
  3. Skövde City Trail: This 10-kilometer trail is perfect for those who want to explore the city’s highlights on foot or bike.

Best Things to Do in Skövde: Activities and Tours

  1. Visit the Skövde Cultural Center: This center showcases various art exhibits, cultural performances, and concerts throughout the year.
  2. Attend the Karnevalen Festival: This festival is held each year in June and is a celebration of local traditions and customs.
  3. Explore the Tiveden National Park: This national park is a hidden gem and is perfect for those who love to hike and explore the outdoors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Skövde

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Skövde, here’s a great itinerary that will help you experience the best of what Skövde has to offer.

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Skövde, check-in to your hotel, and explore the city center
2 Visit Skövde Art Museum and Brahegatan
3 Hike/bike Hertig Johans Trail and visit Baltak
4 Visit Hornborga Lake and the Hornborgasjön Wildlife Reserve
5 Attend a cultural show at the Skövde Cultural Center
6 Explore Tiveden National Park
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Skövde

Skövde’s local cuisine is all about hearty meals, featuring locally-sourced ingredients. Below are a few must-try dishes and local beverages that you should not miss out on.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Wallenbergare: A classic Swedish dish, Wallenbergare is made from ground veal and served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries.
  2. Ärtsoppa: This is a traditional Swedish pea soup and is usually paired with pancakes with whipped cream and preserves.
  3. Oxfile: This is a Swedish beef fillet and is often accompanied by a whiskey or cognac sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. Julmust: A seasonal soda with a unique malt content, is a must-try during Christmas.
  2. Snaps: A popular Swedish liquor, Snaps can be served with a variety of flavors and herbs.

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

Skövde has a range of accommodation options that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels, there is something for everyone.

  1. Scandic Billingen: This 4-star hotel is situated in the heart of Skövde and provides easy access to the city’s attractions and landmarks.
  2. Stadshotellet Princess: This hotel boasts of its rich heritage and is located next to the train station, providing easy access for travelers.
  3. Visitors Rest and Nations of Youth Hostel: This is a budget-friendly accommodation option perfect for backpackers and solo travelers.

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

Skövde is famous for its glassware, wooden handicrafts, and textiles. Below are a few places to buy authentic Skövde souvenirs and local products.

  1. Ikea: The world-famous furniture store first opened in Skövde, and one can find unique Scandinavian furniture, along with souvenirs and local products.
  2. Erikshjälpen Second Hand: This is a thrift store that sells second-hand clothing, books, and home decor.
  3. Nordic Art & Crafts: This shop is best known for its handmade Swedish glassware and wooden handicrafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Skövde

Skövde’s customs and traditions date back to Medieval times, and many of them are still practiced. It’s essential to respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious or cultural monuments.

Best Time to Visit Skövde

The best time to visit Skövde is from May to September when the weather is warm, and the days are longer. However, each season offers a different experience; winter is for skiing, and Christmas markets, and summer is for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Skövde

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  2. Take off your shoes before entering a private residence.
  3. Thank locals in Swedish.

Don’t:

  1. Smoke in public places.
  2. Disturb the peace and tranquility of Skövde’s natural surroundings.
  3. Forget to pack warm clothes during winters.

Safety and Health

Skövde is a safe city, and the locals are hospitable and welcoming. However, it’s always best to take precautions and remain aware of your surroundings. Below are a few safety and health tips for travelers.

Safety in Skövde

  1. Avoid unlit areas at night.
  2. Keep your belongings close while in crowded areas.
  3. Beware of pickpockets.

Health in Skövde

  1. Make sure to have health insurance before your travel.
  2. Check with your doctor regarding vaccination requirements.
  3. Follow the COVID-19 guidelines while traveling.

Getting to Skövde: Transportation Options and Logistics

Skövde is well connected with the rest of Sweden and Europe. Below are a few transportation options to help you plan your trip.

Airports Near Skövde

  1. Gothenburg Landvetter Airport: It’s the closest international airport to Skövde, situated around 90 kilometers away.
  2. Stockholm Arlanda Airport: This airport is located around 325 kilometers away from Skövde.

Bus Stations Near Skövde

  1. Skövde Bus Station: The bus station is located in the city center and connects Skövde with other cities and towns in Sweden.

Other Options

  1. Train: Skövde has a railway station that connects the city with Gothenburg, Stockholm, and other nearby towns and cities.
  2. Car: Skövde is located on the E20 highway, and renting a car is an option for those who prefer driving.

How to Get Around in Skövde

Skövde is a pedestrian-friendly city, and most of the attractions are located within walking distance. However, public transportation like buses and taxis are available for those who prefer it.

Where to Go Next from Skövde: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Skövde is a great starting point to explore other destinations in Västergötland. Below are some nearby destinations worth a visit.

  1. Falköping: This small town is located just a few miles away from Skövde and is famous for its limestone formations and museums.
  2. Göteborg: Gothenburg, the second-largest city in Sweden, is located around 160 kilometers away from Skövde and is a picturesque city famous for its seafood, museums, and shopping centers.
  3. Stockholm: The capital city of Sweden is located around 325 kilometers away from Skövde and is known for its architecture, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.

Conclusion

Skövde is one of those places that you cannot afford to miss when exploring Sweden. The city’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights make it an ideal destination for all kinds of travelers. We hope this comprehensive tour guide helps you plan your trip to Skövde and makes it an unforgettable experience.