Filipstad Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Filipstad, Sweden with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get there.


Introduction to Filipstad

Filipstad is a town located in Värmland, in the Svealand region of Sweden. It is a perfect destination for those who love nature, history, and adventure. The town is rich in culture and history, and it is the perfect place to explore the beautiful Nordic countryside. Filipstad is a great place to enjoy both outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Whether you like hiking, biking, or exploring museums and historical sites, Filipstad has something to offer to everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Filipstad

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. Filipstad Bergslags Museum

Filipstad Bergslags Museum is one of the most popular attractions in the town. It is a museum that showcases the long history of the mining industry in the region. Visitors can see exhibits that include minerals, tools, and machines used in mining, historical documents, and photographs. The museum also offers guided tours of the old mines in the area.

2. Högbo bruk

Högbo bruk is a cultural center located in Filipstad. It is a former ironworks that dates back to the 17th century. The site includes many historical buildings, such as the ironworks, the smithy, and the manor house. It is a perfect place to learn about the history of the region and to enjoy many cultural events, such as art exhibitions, concerts, and theater plays.

3. Grythyttans Gästgiveri

The Grythyttans Gästgiveri is a historical inn that dates back to the 17th century. It is a perfect place to explore Swedish history and taste traditional Swedish cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a meal in the inn’s restaurant, which serves local specialties, or stay overnight in one of its cozy rooms.

Natural Attractions of Filipstad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Björnberget Nature Reserve

The Björnberget Nature Reserve is located in the heart of Filipstad. It is an ideal place for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The nature reserve has many trails, both easy and challenging, that offer stunning views of the landscape.

2. Rådastrands Camping

Rådastrands Camping is a perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities and water sports. It is located on the shores of Lake Rådasjön, and it offers many water-based activities, such as canoeing, fishing, and swimming. The campsite also has a sauna and a children’s playground.

3. Holjeåns Kanotled

The Holjeåns Kanotled is a popular canoe route that goes through the beautiful wilderness surrounding Filipstad. It is a perfect place to explore the natural beauty of the Nordic countryside and to enjoy a relaxing canoe trip with friends and family.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Filipstad

Filipstad is a perfect destination for those who love hiking and biking. The town has many well-marked trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Here are some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • Filipstad – Lersjön Trail: This trail is a beautiful hiking trail that goes through the forest and along the shores of Lake Lersjön. It is an easy trail that is perfect for families.
  • Högbodaviken Trail: This is a challenging hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Nordic landscape. The trail is around 9 kilometers long and is perfect for experienced hikers.
  • Filipstad – Grythyttan Trail: This is a popular biking trail that goes through the beautiful countryside surrounding Filipstad. The trail is around 30 kilometers long and is perfect for families and beginners.

Best Things to Do in Filipstad: Activities and Tours

Filipstad has many exciting activities and tours to offer to visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Filipstad:

  • Explore the old mines in the region with a guided tour.
  • Enjoy water sports at Rådastrands Camping.
  • Go fishing in one of the many lakes and rivers in the area.
  • Taste traditional Swedish cuisine at the Grythyttans Gästgiveri.
  • Visit the beautiful Björnberget Nature Reserve and enjoy a hiking or biking trail.
  • Go canoeing in the Holjeåns Kanotled.
  • Take a cultural tour of the Högbo bruk ironworks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Filipstad

Here is a week-long itinerary for Filipstad:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Filipstad Bergslags Museum and take a guided tour of the old mines in the region.
2 Explore the beautiful Björnberget Nature Reserve and take a hiking or biking trail.
3 Enjoy water sports and fishing at Rådastrands Camping.
4 Take a cultural tour of the Högbo bruk ironworks and watch a theater play or concert.
5 Taste traditional Swedish cuisine at the Grythyttans Gästgiveri and stay overnight in one of its cozy rooms.
6 Go canoeing in the Holjeåns Kanotled and enjoy the beautiful Nordic wilderness.
7 Visit the historic town center of Filipstad and explore its many shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Filipstad

Filipstad is a perfect place to try traditional Swedish cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Raggmunk: Pancakes made with grated potatoes and served with fried bacon and lingonberry jam.
  • Kanelbullar: Cinnamon buns that are the most popular pastry in Sweden.
  • Smörgåstårta: A sandwich cake that is a typical Swedish party food.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Filipstad is home to many microbreweries that produce high-quality beer.
  • Aquavit: A traditional Swedish liquor that is usually served during festive occasions.
  • Juice: Sweden is known for producing high-quality juice, and Filipstad is no exception. The town’s apple and berry juices are especially famous.

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

Filipstad has many accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Filipstad:

  • Hennickehammars Herrgård: A beautiful hotel located in a 17th-century manor house.
  • Hotell Lero: A budget-friendly hotel located near the town center.
  • Filipstads Vandrarhem: A cozy hostel that offers affordable accommodation.
  • Grythyttans Gästgiveri: A historic inn that offers both accommodation and dining options.

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

Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Filipstad include:

  • Swedish handicrafts, such as hand-woven textiles and pottery.
  • Traditional Swedish souvenirs, such as Dala horses and Viking-themed items.
  • Local products, such as apple and berry juices, and locally produced beer.

Local Culture and Customs of Filipstad

Swedish culture is known for being polite, reserved, and egalitarian. Here are some customs and etiquette tips to keep in mind when visiting Filipstad:

  • It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.
  • It is considered impolite to be overly expressive in public.
  • Swedes are known for keeping a certain distance in social situations.

Best Time to Visit Filipstad

The best time to visit Filipstad is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is mild, and the days are long, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful nature reserves and parks in the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Filipstad

Do:

  • Try traditional Swedish cuisine.
  • Explore the beautiful nature reserves and parks in the area.
  • Visit the historic mining sites in the region.

Don’t:

  • Be overly expressive in public.
  • Wear shoes indoors.
  • Bring up controversial political or social issues in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Filipstad

Filipstad is a safe place to visit, and crime rates are low. However, visitors should always take basic safety precautions, such as locking doors and windows, and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Filipstad

Sweden has a high standard of healthcare, and Filipstad has many medical facilities that offer high-quality care. Visitors should always have travel insurance and any required vaccinations when traveling to the area.

Getting to Filipstad: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Filipstad

The closest airport to Filipstad is Karlstad Airport, which is around 100 kilometers from the town center. Other airports in the region include Orebro Airport and Stockholm Arlanda Airport.

Bus Stations Near Filipstad

Filipstad has a bus station located near the town center, and buses run regularly to other major cities and towns in the area.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Filipstad by car or train. The town is well-connected to the Swedish road network, and there are many trains that run to the nearest train stations.

How to Get Around in Filipstad

Filipstad is a small town, and it is easy to get around on foot or by bike. Many attractions are within walking or biking distance from the town center. Buses and taxis are also available for those who prefer not to walk or bike.

Where to Go Next from Filipstad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations and excursions to consider after your visit to Filipstad include:

  • Karlstad: The largest city in the Värmland region, Karlstad is a popular destination that offers many cultural and historical attractions.
  • Örebro: A historic city with a beautiful castle and many museums and galleries.
  • Leksand: A scenic town located on the shores of Lake Siljan and famous for its traditional Swedish handicrafts.

Conclusion

Filipstad is a perfect destination for those who love nature, culture, and adventure. It offers something for everyone, from exploring the old mining sites to enjoying outdoor activities and tasting traditional Swedish cuisine. With its beautiful nature reserves, historic sites, and many cultural attractions, Filipstad is a charming town that is definitely worth a visit.