Nyköping Travel Guide

Discover the best of Nyköping with this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions and outdoor adventures to local cuisine and transportation options, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Nyköping

Welcome to Nyköping, a charming city located in Södermanland County in Svealand, Sweden. This city is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all types. With its convenient location just 100 km south of Stockholm, Nyköping is a popular spot among Swedes and tourists alike.

Whether you’re interested in exploring museums, hiking through stunning landscapes, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Nyköping has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll show you the top things to see and do in Nyköping, as well as helpful information on transportation, accommodation, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Nyköping

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the best ways to learn about Nyköping’s rich history and culture is by visiting its many museums and historical landmarks. Here are some of the top cultural attractions in the city:

  • Nyköpingshus – This medieval castle was built in the 12th century and has played an important role in Swedish history. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s dungeons, walk along its walls, and enjoy stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
  • Sörmlands Museum – This museum showcases the history and culture of Södermanland County, with exhibits on everything from traditional crafts to modern art.
  • Nyköping City Museum – Located in a 17th-century building, this museum focuses on the history of Nyköping specifically, with exhibits on everything from the city’s founding to its role in World War II.
  • Nyköping Guest Harbour – This picturesque harbor is a popular spot for boaters, and also offers plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Natural Attractions of Nyköping: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nyköping is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views at every turn. Here are some of the top natural attractions in the area:

  • Kila Valley – This scenic valley is located just outside of Nyköping and is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  • Finnhamn Nature Reserve – This nature reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids and nesting eagles. Visitors can explore the reserve’s trails or take a guided boat tour through the area.
  • Nyköpingsån River – This beautiful river runs through the heart of the city and is a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river’s banks.
  • Öster-Malma Wildlife Park – This wildlife park is home to a variety of Nordic animals, including moose, bears, wolves, and lynx. Visitors can take a guided tour or hike through the park’s trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nyköping

Nyköping and its surroundings offer many trails and paths for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the best routes include:

  • Sörmlandsleden Trail – This 1,000 km long trail passes through Nyköping and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It’s divided into 100 sections, so visitors can choose the length and difficulty level that suits them best.
  • Rosvalla Runners’ Track – This 2.5 km long trail is perfect for runners and offers views of both the city and the countryside.
  • Björkvik’s Royal Road – This 27 km long path connects Björkvik with Nyköping and is great for both hiking and biking.

Best Things to Do in Nyköping: Activities and Tours

In addition to its museums and natural attractions, Nyköping offers plenty of things to do for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top activities and tours in the area:

  • Nyköping Archipelago Boat Tours – These boat tours take visitors through the archipelago surrounding Nyköping, allowing them to see stunning views and explore the area’s islands.
  • Nyköping Aviation Museum – This museum showcases the history of aviation in Sweden, with exhibits on everything from early flight experiments to modern airplanes.
  • Bowling at Nyköping Bowling Center – This modern bowling center offers fun for the whole family, with 16 lanes, a bar, and a restaurant.
  • Fishing at Nyköpingsån River – This beautiful river is home to a variety of fish species, including salmon, trout, and pike. Visitors can rent equipment and try their hand at fishing on their own, or take a guided tour with a professional guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nyköping

If you’re planning a week-long visit to Nyköping, here’s a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

Day 1 – Arrive in Nyköping and explore the city’s central neighborhoods, with stops at Nyköping City Museum and Nyköpingshus Castle.

Day 2 – Spend the day hiking or biking on one of the many nature trails in Nyköping or the surrounding area.

Day 3 – Take a guided boat tour through the Nyköping Archipelago and explore the islands in the area.

Day 4 – Visit Sörmlands Museum and Finnhamn Nature Reserve.

Day 5 – Explore Nyköping’s food and drink scene, with stops at local cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Day 6 – Visit the Nyköping Aviation Museum and go fishing on the Nyköpingsån River.

Day 7 – Take a day trip to nearby Stockholm or another destination in the surrounding area.

Food and Drink Scene of Nyköping

Nyköping is known for its delicious local cuisine, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pytt i panna – This traditional Swedish dish consists of diced potatoes, onions, and meat (usually beef) fried together and served with a fried egg on top.
  • Räkmacka – This open-faced sandwich is topped with shrimp, boiled egg, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise.
  • Fish soup – This hearty soup is made with local fish, potatoes, cream, and other seasonings.

Local Beverages

  • Nyköping Beer – This local brewery produces a variety of delicious beers, including stouts, ales, and IPAs.
  • Swedish cider – Sweden is known for its delicious cider, which is typically made with local apples.

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

Nyköping offers plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

  • Clarion Collection Hotel Kompaniet – This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Nyköping and features modern rooms, a gym, and a sauna.
  • Best Western Blommenhof Hotel – This hotel is located just outside of Nyköping and offers comfortable, modern rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
  • Hostel Dalhem – This cozy hostel is located in an old building in central Nyköping and features affordable dorms and private rooms.
  • Sörmlandsgården Hotell & Konferens – This charming guesthouse is located just outside of Nyköping and features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a garden with outdoor seating.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Nyköping, here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Handicrafts – Södermanland County is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as wooden spoons, hand-woven textiles, and pottery.
  • Local food and drink – Nyköping is home to many delicious local products, including honey, mustard, smoked fish, and locally-produced beer and cider.
  • Scandinavian design – Sweden is known for its sleek, modern design, and Nyköping offers plenty of shops where you can find everything from furniture and clothing to home décor and accessories.

Local Culture and Customs of Nyköping

Swedes are known for their egalitarianism and reserve, with a strong emphasis on personal space and privacy. Visitors to Nyköping should respect these cultural norms by avoiding loud or disruptive behavior, and giving others plenty of personal space. Additionally, visitors should be aware that smoking is heavily regulated in Sweden, and those who smoke should do so only in designated areas.

Best Time to Visit Nyköping

The best time to visit Nyköping is during the summer months, from June through August, when the weather is warm and sunny and many outdoor activities are available. However, Nyköping is a year-round destination, with plenty to see and do in every season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nyköping

Do:

  • Do try local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do visit the many museums and cultural attractions in the area.
  • Do respect Swedish cultural norms and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t smoke in public areas.
  • Don’t disturb others with loud or disruptive behavior.
  • Don’t underestimate the beauty and diversity of Nyköping and its surroundings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nyköping

Nyköping is a safe and welcoming city with a low crime rate, and visitors should feel comfortable exploring the city and surrounding areas. However, as with any destination, visitors should take normal precautions to protect themselves and their belongings by being aware of their surroundings, avoiding isolated areas, and keeping valuables secure.

Health in Nyköping

Sweden has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors to Nyköping should have access to quality medical care if needed. However, visitors should take precautions to protect themselves from illness and injury, such as getting necessary vaccinations, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding risky behavior.

Getting to Nyköping: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nyköping

The nearest major airport to Nyköping is Stockholm-Skavsta Airport, which is located just outside of the city and offers flights to and from many destinations in Europe.

Bus Stations Near Nyköping

Nyköping Central Station is the city’s main bus station, with connections to many destinations throughout Sweden and Europe. Additionally, there are several bus companies that offer direct services from Stockholm to Nyköping.

Other Options

Visitors to Nyköping can also arrive by train, with connections to Stockholm and other cities throughout Sweden. Additionally, many visitors arrive by car, with easy access to the city from major highways throughout the region.

How to Get Around in Nyköping

Nyköping is a small city that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Additionally, there are several bus lines that run throughout the city and surrounding areas, with information and schedules available on the city’s website.

Where to Go Next from Nyköping: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nyköping is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding region, with many nearby destinations and excursions to choose from. Here are a few ideas:

  • Stockholm – Sweden’s capital city is just a short train or bus ride away from Nyköping, and offers a wealth of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.
  • Trosa – This picturesque coastal town is located just south of Nyköping and is known for its charm, history, and natural beauty.
  • Sörmlandsleden Trail – This 1,000 km long trail passes through Nyköping and offers many opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the region’s natural beauty.
  • Nyköping Archipelago – This cluster of islands surrounding Nyköping is home to beautiful beaches, charming villages, and stunning natural vistas. Visitors can take a boat tour or explore the islands on their own.

Conclusion

Nyköping is a hidden gem in Sweden, with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums, hiking through stunning landscapes, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Nyköping has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to visit Nyköping, and that it helps you make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

Main square. The Town Hall and City Hall are visible here. Main square. The Town Hall and City Hall are visible here.