Falun Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Falun, Sweden with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, food, accommodation, transport options, and more.


Falun is a small but beautiful city located in the heart of Dalarna County, Sweden. Known for its rich copper mining history, scenic beauty, and outdoor adventures, Falun is a destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in exploring cultural attractions, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local ambiance, Falun has it all. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best things to see and do in Falun, along with recommendations for accommodation, food, and transport options.

Introduction to Falun

Falun is a picturesque city located in the heart of Sweden, approximately 230 kilometers northwest of Stockholm. The city is famous for its copper mining history, which dates back to the 9th century. The Falu copper mine, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once one of the most important copper mines in the world. Today, visitors can explore the mine and learn about the history of copper mining in the region. In addition to its rich history, Falun is also known for its beautiful natural scenery, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Falun

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Falu Gruva (Falu Mine): Visitors can explore the underground mine and learn about the history of copper mining in the region.
  • Stora Kopparberg Church: One of the largest wooden churches in Sweden, built in the early 17th century.
  • Carl Larsson-gården: The former home of Swedish artist Carl Larsson, now a museum showcasing his works and life.

Natural Attractions of Falun: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Falun Copper Mountain: A hiking trail with breathtaking views of the Falun Mine.
  • Bjursås Ski Center: A popular winter sports destination with a range of activities including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
  • Runn Lake: A scenic lake with opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Falun

  • Vildmarksleden Trail: A 40 km hiking trail through the forests of Runn and Dalarna County.
  • Faluån Trail: A hiking and biking trail following the Falu River with beautiful views of the city and surrounding forests.

Best Things to Do in Falun: Activities and Tours

  • Falun Copper Mine Tour: Explore the underground mine and learn about the history of copper mining in the region.
  • Kayaking Tour: Take a guided kayaking tour of Runn Lake and explore the surrounding forests.
  • Ice Skating: Visit Falun’s ice skating rink, which is open year-round.

Week-Long Itinerary for Falun

Day 1: Explore the Falu Copper Mine and Stora Kopparberg Church. Day 2: Hike the Vildmarksleden Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest. Day 3: Take a guided kayaking tour of Runn Lake. Day 4: Visit Carl Larsson-gården and learn about the works and life of Swedish artist Carl Larsson. Day 5: Ski or snowboard at Bjursås Ski Center. Day 6: Explore the city on foot and visit local shops and restaurants. Day 7: Visit Faluån Trail and enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride with views of the city and surrounding forests.

Food and Drink Scene of Falun

Must-Try Dishes

  • Falukorv: A traditional Swedish sausage made with ground pork and beef.
  • Raggmunk: A potato pancake eaten with lingonberry jam and bacon or pork sausage.
  • Smultron: Wild strawberries often used in desserts and jams.

Local Beverages

  • Julmust: A sweet, non-alcoholic Christmas drink similar to root beer.
  • Glögg: A mulled wine often served during the winter holidays.

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

  • Falun Scandic Lugnet: A modern hotel located near Lugnet National Ski arena.
  • STF Falun Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located in the city center.
  • Kvarntorpets Bed & Breakfast: A charming guesthouse located in a peaceful rural setting.

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

  • Falukorv: A traditional Swedish sausage made in Falun.
  • Dala Horses: A symbol of Swedish culture, these wooden horses are made in the nearby city of Nusnäs.
  • Runn Lake Pearls: Unique freshwater pearls harvested from Runn Lake.

Local Culture and Customs of Falun

  • Swedish culture is characterized by a high regard for nature, simplicity, and egalitarianism.
  • In Falun, it is customary to remove shoes when entering someone’s home.
  • Tipping is not expected in Falun, but it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation.

Best Time to Visit Falun

The best time to visit Falun depends on your interests. The summer months (June to August) are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and swimming. Winter (December to February) is the perfect time for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The Christmas season is also a lovely time to visit Falun, with festive markets and events taking place throughout the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Falun

Do:

  • Respect nature and the environment.
  • Take your shoes off when entering someone’s home.
  • Try the local cuisine and learn about Swedish culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Wear shoes inside someone’s home.

Safety and Health

Safety in Falun

Falun is a safe and welcoming city. However, travelers should take standard precautions to ensure their safety, such as not leaving valuables visible in a car and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Falun

In general, Sweden has an excellent healthcare system. Travelers should have comprehensive medical insurance while traveling in Falun, as medical care can be expensive.

Getting to Falun: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Falun

  • Stockholm Arlanda Airport: Approximately 230 kilometers from Falun.
  • Borlänge Airport: Approximately 30 kilometers from Falun.

Bus Stations Near Falun

  • Falun Bus Station: Located in the city center, with connections to cities throughout Sweden.

Other Options

  • Train: Travelers can take a train to Borlänge and then transfer to a bus or taxi to reach Falun.

How to Get Around in Falun

  • Walking: The city center is easily explored on foot.
  • Bike: Bikes can be rented from several locations throughout the city.
  • Bus: Public buses run throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Falun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mora: A beautiful lakeside town known for its winter sports and outdoor activities.
  • Zorn Museum: Located in nearby Mora, the museum showcases the works of Swedish artist Anders Zorn.
  • Stockholm: The capital city of Sweden, approximately 230 kilometers from Falun.

Conclusion

Falun is a unique and beautiful destination that offers travelers a mix of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich copper mining history, enjoying outdoor activities such as skiing and hiking, or simply relaxing and taking in the local culture, Falun has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to Falun and experience all that this wonderful city has to offer.

Kristine Church and the Engelbrekt statue, Main Square Kristine Church and the Engelbrekt statue, Main Square Map of Falun Map of Falun The mining museum (yellow building), near the edge of the Great Pit. Central Falun is in the background. The mining museum (yellow building), near the edge of the Great Pit. Central Falun is in the background. Ski jump sculpture, Lugnet. Hills in the background. Ski jump sculpture, Lugnet. Hills in the background. Falu Maiden Falu Maiden Scandic Hotel Lugnet Scandic Hotel Lugnet Carl Larsson's home, as portrayed by the artist himself in 1894. Carl Larsson's home, as portrayed by the artist himself in 1894.