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Smögen – The Most Charming Seaside Town in Sweden

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Rocky coastlines, colorful fishing cottages and home to some of the best open-top shrimp sandwiches in the country – Smögen is definitely the most charming seaside town in Sweden. Smögen is great to visit year-round, but the island really comes to life in summer, when the town’s population grows from its 2,000 inhabitants to a whopping 30,000! Smögen makes for a perfect day trip from Gothenburg, or as a stop on your road trip through West Sweden . The island itself is not big and if you plan your trip well, there are plenty of things to do in Smögen on a day trip. Here is everything you need to know about your visit to Smögen!

Everything you need to know about Smögen

Best time to visit smögen.

Smögen is definitely most popular between June and August but be prepared for the crowds of tourists during the high summer. If you happen to be visiting for the Swedish holiday Midsummer (usually mid to end of June), make sure you book a place to stay at least 2 months in advance.

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I would say the crowds make Smögen more charming, so if you are okay with not being the only one there, then you’ll definitely love Smögen in summer!

You can visit Smögen year-round, but there won’t be as many shops or restaurants open.

How to get to Smögen

From gothenburg to smögen by car.

Getting from Gothenburg to Smögen by car is the easiest, fastest and cheapest way to travel. The journey takes approximately 1h 40min. Smögen is connected to the mainland via a 500-meter long bridge, called the Smögen Bridge (“Smögenbron”). Before you drive over the bridge make sure you stop by the parking areas on the mainland and take a few pictures of the stunning views of the island.

Parking in Smögen, especially by the Smögen Pier, is very expensive and costs up to SEK 50 per hour. You are better off parking just across the bridge and then walking to the touristy part – especially if you plan on spending a whole day in Smögen. The one I found most worth parking at was Sandöns Parking , at SEK 190 per 24 hours.

From Gothenburg to Smögen by bus

There is a direct connection from Nils Ericson Terminalen (Gothenburg Central Station), arriving at Smögen bus station. The journey takes about 2h 30min and the services depart daily. For travel planning on the West Coast, make sure you download the app To Go, so you can see exactly when your bus departs – the most common route is taking the bus 841 and then changing to 860. In this app, you can also purchase a bus ticket and one way from Gothenburg to Smögen is SEK 102. If you are more than two people, I would definitely recommend renting a car.

Smögen camping – Where to stay

Since Smögen is quite small, there aren’t many hotels on the island, and those that are tend to be quite pricey, with not much bang for buck and at least USD 150 per night for a room. Instead of staying in a hotel on the island, I would highly recommend you spend your night off the island and a little further away in a camping place instead.

We stayed at First Camp Solvik-Kungshamn and they are a great choice for camping Smögen. We booked a bungalow by the water, but they also have camping spots and a place to park your campervan if you happen to be traveling by one. The bungalow we rented also sleeps 6 people, so it’s perfect for a family and makes for a great budget stay.

Best Restaurants in Smögen

Since Smögen is located on the West Coast of Sweden, the best choice is definitely getting fresh seafood! I would definitely say it’s not a visit to Smögen unless you tried an open-top shrimp sandwich, so definitely scout out a good place for a ‘räckmacka’. The prices in Smögen are definitely higher than you’d experience in Gothenburg, but the island is a popular tourist destination even for the locals and Norwegians, so they know people don’t mind spending a little extra for good quality seafood!

Göstas Fiskekrog Restaurang

This is where you’ll buy your shrimp sandwich and get a real taste of Smögen.

Hållä Bar

This is a slightly more casual seafood bistro bar and often features live music, which makes for a great vibe in the summer days!

If you’re in for something more classic, then this burger joint will not disappoint.

Ocean Smögen

If you happen to be in the company of people who like different food, then Ocean Smögen is the place. They have everything from pasta, burgers to seafood and are located just a few meters, by those famous Smögen cottages.

Best things to do in Smögen

See the smögenbryggan.

Smögenbryggan is by far the most popular thing to do while in Smögen, and for a good reason. The colorful fishing cottages make for the most photo-perfect spot on the West Coast. In the summer the place gets quite packed, but you’ll also see plenty of small boats parked in the harbor.

Walk on the Smögen boardwalk

Definitely one of the main things to do while visiting Smögen is walking on the Smögen boardwalk. The boardwalk winds along the sea in the middle of the main/touristy part of town and here you’ll be walking past many tourist shops, restaurants, and cafes. In the summer you’ll also see plenty of luxury boats, plenty of Norwegian flags, and just as much striped clothing as you can probably imagine.

Take a dip at one of the swimming spots

Smögen is the perfect one-day destination and after a walk on the boardwalk, a photo-op at the harbor, and a yummy shrimp sandwich lunch, don’t forget to take a dip at one of Smögen’s many swimming spots!

Vallevik, Smögen’s largest and most popular bathing spot is perfect for those of you who love a good rocky beach. A great spot for sunset watchers as well.

Flöjten 

This bathing place is adjacent to the large parking lot at Smögenbryggan. Perfect bathing spot for the whole family, with a small sandy beach and bathing stairs. Here is the exact location since it’s not marked on the map.

Makrillsvikens

Located on the west side of Smögen, the Makrillsvikens bathing place has the jetty and ladder on site all year round. Inside the bay, you’ll also see Makrillviken’s hostel, where you can book the sauna by the jetty for a true Swedish experience in the wintertime.

Smögen’s only natural sandy beach, located in the nature conservation area Sandön, a short walk from Sandöns parking. Sandön also offers a fantastic hiking trail, so if you plan on spending more than a day in Smögen, definitely give it a check!

Kleven is an island just next to Smögen and offers very nice opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. On Smögen there are two diving centers and at Kleven you’ll be able to both get a certificate and buy individual dives with a guide at Smögen Dyk & Upplevelse.

Visit Nordens Ark

Nordens Ark is a private, non-profit foundation that works to ensure endangered animals have a future. They are engaged in conservation, rearing, research and training, as well as doing what we can to increase public awareness of biological diversity. The wildlife park and conservation center are open year-round and the perfect place for a family trip if you’re staying in Smögen for longer than a day.

Take the ferry to Hållö

Hållö is an island located near Smögen and Kungshamn. Here you’ll be able to find Bohuslän’s oldest lighthouse, take a swim or perhaps a hiking tour, or simply enjoy the west coast’s most charming feature – the rocky landscape. The island is located just 10 minutes away from Smögen by ferry and the ferry leaves every 30 minutes from the harbor. I would also say it’s slightly reminiscent of the Weather Islands , but on a smaller scale.

Sandöns naturreservat

The Sandön Nature Reserve makes for a nice walking area on a rocky peninsula. There is a 2 km long path and here you’ll be able to see plenty of interesting plants and vegetation, as well take a swim or do a little bit of fishing.

I hope you enjoyed this ultimate guide with everything to do in Smögen in Sweden. For more travel guides to Sweden, click here !

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Andi Fisher

Monday 28th of June 2021

My hubby is a photographer and we really want to do a nordic trip - Sweden is SO colorful and gorgeous and really seems to be a good place for road trips which is how we like to travel! Thanks for sharing this little corner of heaven!

oh wow! this makes me want to visit Sweden even more! The cottages really are beautiful colours and this looks like an amazing trip! :)

Magicandbliss

Sunday 27th of June 2021

Smogen looks like a beautiful Nordic town and gosh there are so many things to do here. I'd love to go to Kleven and get a diving certificate too. Thanks for sharing this detailed guide :)

I am happy you found my guide helpful and hope you get those as soon as you can!

Thursday 24th of June 2021

What an absolutely beautiful town! I wish if have seen this when I was in Sweden ?

It really is very lovely! Maybe next time you come then! :)

This is such a quite place. I've never heard about it until I read your post. I know you said it's quite popular in the summer months, have you also been in the winter. I bet those beautifully colored cottages stand out in the snow (if it gets a lot of snow).

I haven't been in winter yet since everything is pretty much closed (it's very much a summer destination). But it would definitely be nice to take photo of the snowed-in cottages!

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Europe , Island Getaway , Smögen and Sotenäs , Sweden , The Best Day Trips From Gothenburg, Sweden · March 11, 2024

The Best Things To Do in Smögen, Sweden

Imagine narrow alleyways lined with white house’s intertwining along the cliffside on their way down to the harbour, colourful boat houses backed by cliffs, and a pristine rocky coastline perfect for late summer night swims – That is Smögen. One of the most picturesque islands on Sweden’s West Coast , it is no surprise that this is one Sweden’s most visited destinations. While it might sound like a lot of hype, I can tell you that Smögen definitely delivers everything it promises. From the lively old harbour turned restaurant quarter, to the calming pools of Smögens Hasvsbad , you won’t be disappointed with a visit here!

Living in Gothenburg , we are relatively close to Smögen and make sure to take a trip at least once every year. In the summer, it is a real island paradise. Restaurants open for the season and the swimming spots are busting with people (in a good way I promise!). In the autumn and winter, it’s the perfect place for a quiet spa weekend, quiet, relaxing, and still just as beautiful.

In this guide I have put together a few of the best things to do in Smögen and the surrounding area – no matter what time of year you plan to visit!

Please note that this post contains affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase through the link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I make sure to only ever promote products and brands I have used and like, and that all links are to trusted websites.

How To Get to Smögen

Where to stay in smögen, the best things to do in smögen, sweden, the best restaurants in smögen, frequently asked questions, overview: things to do in smögen, sweden, getting to smögen from gothenburg.

For this blog post I will assume you are visiting Smögen as part of a visit to the West Coast of Sweden, so it is likely you will be passing through the city of Gothenburg. To get to Smögen from Gothenburg is possible with both public transport and driving.

If you are driving, the trip takes just under 2 hours. If you can, and are thinking about hiring a car, I do recommend it! A West Sweden road trip is an amazing way to see this part of the country and having a car gives you so many possibilities for stops along the way! Find your best car hire options here.

Taking public transport from Gothenburg, you will want to start off by downloading the Västtrafik app on your phone. This is the public transportation app for West Sweden and here you can not only plan your route, but also buy tickets. To travel from Gothenburg to Smögen you will need to purchase an ABC zone ticket. There are a few different connections, each taking around 3 hours in total. I have taken the 841 from Nils Ericsson bus terminal in Gothenburg to Torp Terminalen and then the 860 Smögen busstation on past trips and it has always been quite a nice journey!

You might like: Get my West Sweden Map with over 300+ curated hikes, villages, cafes, viewpoints and more!

Smögenshafvsbad Spa Hotel

My first recommendation has to be Smögen’s Hafvsbad . This is a beautiful spa hotel located in the heart of Smögen. It is the perfect mix of luxury and relaxation, with an amazing in-house restaurant, beautiful spa and great location. We have visited and stayed at Smögens Hafvsbad quite a few times over the past few years and have always has the best time. Being able to start with an amazing breakfast, spending the best part of the day wandering around Smögen, and ending with an afternoon in the spa is the perfect way to visit this seaside town.

You can book it here!

Tip: I recommend staying at least two nights in Smögen and slowly exploring the area if you can!

The Cottage in Smögen

For something a little more casual and cosier, this great little cottage nestled into one of the streets on Smögen is a great pick! With space for 2 to 3 people this is the perfect self-catering style accommodation option for a smaller group.

Book it here!

See more: Find all your Smögen accommodation options here!

Smögen is quite a small island and if I could recommend anything, it would be to visit with the intention of taking it slow and spending time enjoying the Swedish island lifestyle. Obviously, there are quite different things to do depending on what season you visit. Being a “summer island”, many of the restaurants and shops are closed from late September to April and some other tourist attractions run on a reduced schedule. Most things on this list are possible to do all year round but it is worth checking in advance if you are visiting outside of the peak season.

Visit Smögenbryggan (Smögen Harbour)

Probably the most well-known pier in West Sweden and definitely one of the most photographed, you can’t miss a visit to Smögenbryggan while in Smögen. Known for its colourful line of boat houses that sit along the water’s edge, Smögenbryggan is really the heart of Smögen. Home to a few great restaurants and boutique shops, a walk along here is a must. I can recommend starting from Smögens Fiskauktion and wandering around the harbour until you read Smögenbryggan. From here you can follow the path up and around the rocks towards Kleven where you can get a beautiful view of the harbour from another perspective ( map ).

Take a dip from the cliffs

Smögen is home to some of the best swimming spots, with an abundance of rocky cliffs and inlets typical to the West Coast of Sweden. The best thing about visiting Smögen is that it is a small island and therefore very walkable – you can beach hop all day or seek out your favourite. However, most of the swimming spots do also have a nearby car park if you are just visiting Smögen for a few hours or on a day trip.

The Best Swimming Spots on Smögen

As it is an island, you can pretty much swim anywhere along the coast of Smögen if it is not on private land! Sometimes it is nice to go to these spots and then take a little walk away from the main area and find your own hidden spot. Below you will find a list of all the swimming spots on Smögen. These spots all have stair access to the water, and some have diving platforms and small boat sheds too.

• Badhusparken
• Smögen’s Hafvsbad Bryggan

Wander The Streets of Smögen

My absolute favourite thing to do when I visit any small town on the West Coast of Sweden is to spend some time exploring the village. Smögen is one of my favourite places to do this. Here, every corner you turn is a picturesque little alley way or small garden with some type of interesting decoration or old lemonade stand. It is a special place where you are able to weave in and out of the houses, down cobblestone paths and through strange laneways. It really brings out your sense of wonder!

The houses here are all traditional Swedish style, most wooden and painted white with orange roofs! When you look closer it is amazing to see all the unique details put into every window frame or balcony.

Tip: If you like Smögen then you may also like Marstrand , Käringön , or Fiskebäckskil.

Take a day trip to Hållä Lighthouse

One of the best things to do in Smögen if you are staying for a few days is to take a day trip out to the island of Hållö. Known for its lighthouse, this island is only 10 minutes from Smögen with a boat leaves every 30 minutes from the harbour. On the island, don’t miss exploring the lighthouse or taking a dip in the pristine waters of Marmorbassängen Hållö – known to be one of the most beautiful swimming spots in West Sweden. You can find the information here .

See More: Find all the best tours and activities in Smögen

Visit Norden’s Ark Wildlife Park

Norden’s Ark is a wildlife park and conservation centre located just outside of Smögen. It is a great day out for both adults and children, and they are open all year round! If you want to visit, you can find their information here.

Walking Trails on Smögen

If you enjoy walking, then there are a few different trails to explore on Smögen. Bear in mind that the island is quite small, so these walks are not proper hiking trails, more short walks around the island. There are three main walking paths on Smögen with slightly different environments so you can choose which suits your needs best!

The first is the trail through Sandön Nature Reserve. This is a 1.5km walk through the nature reserve with beautiful coastal views. You can find the map and brochure (unfortunately in Swedish) on this page .

The second trail is called Hästen. This runs around the cliffs near Smögenbryggan and is a good pick for a short walk if you are only visiting Smögen for the day. Find the map here .

Tip: If you want a longer walk, I can recommend the nearby stretch of the Kuststigen or taking a day trip to Bohus Malmön !

Swedish Whiskey Tasting at Mackmyra

If you like whiskey and want to try something different, then take a visit to the Mackmyra Whiskey Cellar for a tasting. Located by Smögen Bryggan, here you can take part in a whiskey tasting and walk around their stores! The tastings last around 1.5 hours. You can find all the information here.

Lobster and Crayfish Fishing

With Smögens Fiske och Skärgårdsturer you can take a unique trip out into the archipelago looking for lobsters, crayfish, crabs and fish. What is available when you visit will depend on the season, with the fishing tours held on a regular basis and the lobster safari only occurring in September You can find a complete list of their tours here .

Spa Day at Smögen’s Hafvsbad

No matter what time of year you are visiting Smögen, one of the best things to do is visit Smögens Hafvsbad for a spa day. While I do recommend staying here staying here , you can also just visit for a day spa. This is usually around 3 to 4 hours where you can enjoy all the facilities, including the indoor and outdoor pools, waterside sauna, steam sauna, and jacuzzi! As well as just entry, they have a few other spa packages to choose from. My favourite is the Morgon Sol package where you get breakfast and lunch in the restaurant and a few hours in the spa in between. Find more information here.

Island of Light Festival

Every year in September, the Island of Light festival is held in Smögen. This is an immersive light show that celebrates the balance between art and nature, lighting up the different areas of Smögen with beautiful, colourful installations. This year the festival will be held from the 5 th to 8 th September (2024). You can find all the details on this page .

Being an island on Sweden’s West Coast, Smögen is known for its fresh, quality seafood! You do pay the price for this though so make sure to be prepared to spend a little extra money! Quite a few of these restaurants are only open in the summertime and have limited hours throughout the rest of the year. Make sure to double check if they are open before visiting!

• The Barn: Delicious burgers served in a very cosy outdoor area in the heart of the village. The Barn is open from week 20 to 36. Find out more .
• Nippon Sushi: On the cheaper side, here you will find delicious sushi and other Japanese dishes. Open all year round.
• Smögens Hafvsbad: More on the side of fine dining, they do a great three course meal in the evenings! Open all year round.
• Hållä Bar: A more casual seafood bar with live music, located right by the harbour. Find the meny here.
• Klevens Tre Kök: Known for its mussels and seafood, this is one of the best restaurants on Smögen. Only open during the summer. Find out more here.

Tip: Don’t miss a stop at Hamnbageriet in Kungshamn just outside of Smögen. This is a super cosy little bakery and café serving traditional Swedish fika.

Is Smögen worth a visit?

If you are travelling around West Sweden then Smögen is definitely worth adding to your itinerary! The colourful boat houses of Smögenbryggan, great swimming spots, restaurants, and spa hotel make this one of the most popular destinations for visitors all year round!

When is the best time to visit Smögen?

The best time to visit Smögen is during the summer – from late May to early September. At this time of year, all restaurants and shops have opened for the season and the island has come to life a little. However, the island can also be a great stop all year round – with different seasons offerings different things to do and experience!

Smögen is a beautiful seaside town on the West Coast of Sweden. Whether you’re visiting for the day or spending longer here, there are so many different things to see and do! If you’re spending more time in this region, you might enjoy these posts:

• The Best Places to visit in West Sweden
• Swedish West Coast Road Trip
• Marstrand Island Guide
• Käringön Island Guide
• Things to do on Tjörn
• Åstol Island Guide

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September 12, 2020 at 3:41 am

Wow! Smogen looks so beautiful. It looks like the absolute perfect summer destination! Also, the architecture there is so stunning. 🙂

September 16, 2020 at 12:09 pm

It is the perfect summer town! If you ever make it to Sweden you have to add it to your list!

September 17, 2020 at 5:59 am

Such a beautiful blog and this sights.Every pics too cool and fabulous. <a href=" https://e-healthonline.com/food-that-starts-with-m/">food that starts with M</a>

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Finding the beauty in Smogen

Smogen, on an island just of the West Swedish coast, is a lively summer town. But it’s away from the people that I found my favourite spots.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: August 17, 2023

Smögen, Sweden

If West Sweden was a cocktail bar, then the town of Smögen would be its cosmopolitan.

Trendy and sophisticated, it appeals to a fashionable crowd that likes to have a good time. Classic and somewhat understated, it still sends a message of class and fun.

The problem is, I don’t like cosmopolitans.

That’s not to say I don’t like Smögen – just that the waterfront bars and restaurants along the boardwalk of “Sweden’s liveliest summer town” are not my style.

They seem popular with the tourists who have come here from across the region and, with the long sunny days, are pleasant for afternoon drinks that evolve into a seafood meal, no doubt.

I can see why most people have recommended this part of town as somewhere I might enjoy… but it’s not what I’m looking for.

Smögen is small – it’s technically an island but is so close to the mainland that it’s connected by an enormous spanning bridge and if you were distracted for the seconds it takes to cross, you might not realise there’s water underneath you.

Technically the population of Smögen is only about 1,500 people – but it’s a holiday town and the real number of people here is much larger in these warmer months.

I assume the size means it won’t take too long for me to wander around the town. As I discover, it takes longer than expected because of the hills, cliffs, winding roads and rocks I need to navigate. But this is much more my style.

Away from the busy central tourist hub, Smögen reveals itself to be a beautiful natural oasis. The water reflects the rock formations close to the shore while small inlets add texture.

Large parts of the island have no development and I walk alone with just silence as company – I could be so far away from the shops and restaurants of the boardwalk.

Even where there are buildings on the island, many parts seem peaceful.

The old fishing huts could easily be part of the nature themselves, they seem so organic. And up on the cliffs, it feels like you’re looking down on a world below that is accessible but not stifling.

It was this exploration that I loved about Smögen and I want to now share with you some more of the photos I took of the island.

I hope the visitors in the central part of town get a chance to see this as well. It’s not all champagne and prawns.

Time Travel Turtle was a guest of the West Sweden Tourist Board but the opinions, over-written descriptions and bad jokes are his own.

More stories about Sweden

• How to visit Drottningholm Palace in Stockholm
• Why this Swedish cemetery is a World Heritage Site
• Heading out on a Oyster safari in Grebbestad
• The best things to do in Smogen
• The fascinating story behind the Tanum Rock Carvings

12 thoughts on “Finding the beauty in Smogen”

Love all your photos! Smogen is a little heaven on earth!

You certainly found beauty, and having to search makes it even nicer! I also enjoyed going through your photos to see a transition from city to nature and then the calmer edges of town. Thanks for sharing!

Quite agree about getting out of town. Getting out and exploring the surrounding region is usually better than the staying in the centre of towns and cities. Love the coastal images. Hopefully I can get over to Sweden soon, and have a look around.

Why waste time in a bar when you’ve got scenery like that to to see? Those little houses remind me of Newfoundland.

i love these advices of people. You are going to love there… and then you come confused…well i can have shops and restaurants pretty much everywhere ;). Beautiful photos. im glad you found this untouched part of Smögen to show us 🙂

Looks picturesque… like something from a children’s picture book almost.

What a charming island!

Sweden is on my list as one of the next countries I need to spend an extended period of time experiencing. It sounds like this little town is a bit of a tourist trap, but I know there are beautiful and serene spots all over the country Beautiful photos.

The landscape reminds me so much of Southwestern Finland! I need to make it over to Sweden one of these days!! 😉

Can anyone explain to me how they install underground water and sewer lines in this solid rock?

A good question, Paul. I have no idea off the top of my head! But, you’re right, it must be some clever system!

Amazing post and photos of the west coast in Sweden. Also really liked your other posts about my home country.. Just did miss one “little” thing, the fantastic beauty of the north part of Sweden. Hope you drop by to visit and to explore that the next time :). Thanks for a great blog 🙂

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Photographer:  Åsa Dahlgren

Smögen Sotenäs

Smögenbryggan in Sotenäs municipality has thousands of visitors from all over the world every year. Smögen offers wonderful archipelago settings, good food and comfortable places to stay.

Sweden’s most popular pier

It takes just under two hours to drive from Gothenburg to Smögen. After crossing Smögen Bridge from the centre of Kungshamn, you first arrive in the northern area called Hasselön, which has residential areas, fishing huts and beautiful countryside.

Continue for another five minutes and you come to Smögenbryggan, by far the most famous tourist spot in Bohuslän! The pier is almost 600 metres long and the many boathouses have been converted into shops, cafés and restaurants. Take a walk along the pier and enjoy the boating life, different archipelago activities, lively crowds in the summer season and a wide range of locally caught seafood in the bars and taverns, some of which are open all year round.

Fresh shrimp and archipelago tours

If you are an early bird, you can see the fishing boats as they bring their catches ashore, which you can later buy in one of the fish shops on Smögen. Don’t miss the fresh shrimp; it's a must when you visit Smögen.

Photographer:  Tina Stafren

From Smögenbryggan there are a number of ferries to nearby  Hållö  and Kungshamn, as well as cruises along the beautiful Sotekanalen. Seal safaris or deep-sea fishing with local fisherman are more options to enjoy.  Smögens Fiske & Skärgårdsturer  and  Smögens Fisketurer are there to help.

Enjoy great food on Smögenbryggan

If you are looking for the famous shrimp sandwich, Skärets Krog is highly recommended since it was here that their shrimp sandwich was first launched in the early 1930s. Another well-renowned restaurant is  Musselbaren  which offers gourmet pizzas, traditional Swedish food and of course, lots of mussels.  Göstas Fiskekrog  is right next to the fish and seafood shop, so you can also buy your favourite food as a take-away. The restaurant at  Smögens Hafvsbad  is well worth a visit.

Always close to the sea

There are many different forms of accommodation on Smögen: cabins, B&Bs, hostels and hotels, all of them close to the sea. The rich and famous used to flock around  Hotell Smögens Hafvsbad  in the good old days to enjoy seaweed baths and entertainment. These days you can enjoy luxurious spa-treatments and different bathing rituals instead of the traditional scrubbing with hard brushes. Other nice places to stay are Sea Lodge Smögen,  Pensionat Bryggan  or  Makrillvikens hostel .

Photographer:  Jonas Ingman @ Bruksbild

Nordens Ark and Kuststigen

Twenty minutes east of Smögen is  Nordens Ark , one of the most popular family attractions in Bohuslän, where you can see endangered species and indigenous Swedish animals. Get a close look at snow leopards, Siberian tigers, wolves and lynx, or let the kids cuddle rabbits and walk along the Ekopark trail.

If you enjoy long walks, the beautiful costal footpath, Kungsstigen, is very close by. The path meanders along the west coast through Smögen, Kungshamn, Bohus Malmön, Ramsvik, Hunnebostrand and Bovallstrand. You can walk it easily by dividing it into sections.

Photographer:  Lukasz Warzecha LWimages Studio

Dating back to the 1500s

Fishermen used Smögen's protected harbour as early as the mid-1500s, and the first time Smögen was mentioned in writing was in 1594. The origin of the place name is believed to be "Smyghålet", as the small canal between the islands of Smögen and Kleven was called. The name has evolved over the years from Smögit, Smöenn, Smöget and Smygesund.

Tip!  If you would like to experience Smögen without sharing it with thousands of summer tourists, why not come here in the spring or early autumn when the winds are still balmy.

Sotenäs Turism

Ångbåtspiren Hamngatan

456 31 Kungshamn

Phone: +46 523 66 55 50

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: sotenasturism.se

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18 August 2022 / 11 Comments

Things to do in Smögen - 17 tips for the seafood mecca

What to see and do in Smögen? This lovely west coast town is truly a seafood mecca. In addition, you can experience beautiful nature and exciting boat trips. Here you will find our best tips for sights and activities in and around Smögen.

Innehållsförteckning

Smögen in Bohuslän

Smögen is a picturesque and popular summer destination, known for Smögenbryggan and all the colourful boathouses. We drove to Kungshamn by motorhome, and then took the Zita boats over to Smögen.

Smögen is located on the west coast of Bohuslän, just northwest of Kungshamn.

Is it 'doing in Smögen' or 'doing on Smögen'?

When I (Helena) wrote this article, I wondered whether it is called "to do in Smögen" or "to do on Smögen". The main rule is that you use i in the case of a city or town, but on when it is an island. Smögen is both a town and an island, which made me insecure.

I looked around to see what others are writing and realised that it is different . After I saw that the official visitor guide "West Sweden" writes "on", I decided to go for it ... Any comments or thoughts on this?

What can you see and do on Smögen?

What can you see and do on Smögen? In addition to being able to relax and enjoy the wonderful environment, there is a lot to do. We have collected our best tips here in a list.

1. strolling on the Smögen pier

The most famous place on Smögen is Smögenbryggan, and whether you've visited Smögen or not, you've probably seen photos from here. One of the most popular spots is the innermost part of the pier, where the colourful boathouses are picturesquely set against the large rocks.

However, Smögenbryggan goes on for much longer than this, and as you continue outwards you'll find more and more shops and restaurants.

2. Shopping in the shops on Smögen

We knew that we would be met with shops on Smögen, but we were surprised by how many they are. Every other boathouse has open doors, with products both inside and out on the street.

The shops on Smögen are full of clothes and many of the garments have a marine style, such as blue and white stripes or fish patterns. There are also plenty of billowing summer dresses. If you are looking for marine-themed interior design you have also come to the right place.

3. Shop (or eat) at Göstas Fisk & Skaldjur.

There are many shops selling seafood on Smögen, but perhaps the best known of all is Göstas Fisk & Skaldjur. In the shop you will find fish, oysters and shellfish, but also delicacies and accessories.

You can also enjoy the goodies on the spot by sitting down at Gösta's fish restaurant. Here you can order things like vendace roe toast, moules marinières, Gösta's seafood stew or butter-fried cod loin.

4. Feast on fish and shellfish

As mentioned, Göstas is not alone in selling seafood on Smögen. There are lots of small shops and restaurants specialising in the delights of the sea. Do you prefer crayfish, prawns, mussels, oysters or perhaps crab? It's up to you whether you want to buy in a bag or sit on an outdoor terrace.

5. Eat mussels at the Mussel Bar

Choosing where to eat is not easy when there are so many restaurants that look appealing, but for us the choice fell on Musselbaren. Actually, the restaurant seems to be called "Musselbaren & Kleven's three kitchens", and is located together with Pizzabistron, Lilla Kök and Møllers Smørrebrød.

We each ordered Moules Frites, which were served with fries in newspaper, mayonnaise and a small paper bag with small pieces of bread. Great food, great service and a fantastic environment. Can it get any better?

6. Trying beer from Smögenbryggar'n

While sitting at Musselbaren, we also took the opportunity to order a local beer each: Snipa, which is an Indian Pale Ale from Smögenbryggar'n and Klockren Pilsner, which was brewed by Musselbaren together with Smögenbryggar'n. Both were very good!

7. Swimming at Vallevik bathing area

There are several bathing areas on Smögen, including Makrillsviken bathing area and Vallevik bathing area. Both are nice, but the latter we experienced as a little extra delicious with all the rocks, bridges and ladders.

8. Hike along the Hästen outdoor trail

The Hästen outdoor trail starts, or ends if you like, at Vallevik bathing area. The trail then continues along the coast to Makrillviken, which is located below Smögens Hafsbad. This hiking trail is truly amazing and offers beautiful views. The most famous places along the trail are Torskrännan, Holländarebacken, Holländareberget and Hästen.

9. Explore the Kleven outdoor trail.

Another nice trail that we can definitely recommend is the one called Kleven. The trail starts at a large car park, where motorhomes are usually parked, and runs on footpaths and rocks along the water. A fantastic walk!

10. See the view from Smogen's pilot lookout

Smogen's pilot lookout served as a pilot lookout until 1969. The building is, since 1997, a listed building and is definitely worth checking out.

The lookout also offers a great view of the surroundings, the cliffs and the sea.

11. Take a trip with M/S Soten.

M/S Soten is a nice passenger boat that can take you on archipelago tours in the Sote Canal. Various tours are organised, such as "Berättarlunch med Soten", "Berättarkväll med Soten" and "Malå strömmar". A west coast buffet is served on board, including prawns, salmon and herring.

12. Join a seal safari

An exciting adventure that you can experience at Smögen, and at other resorts along the west coast, is a seal safari. You get to go out to a seal colony, which is viewed from a reasonable distance so that the seals are not disturbed. It is mainly harbour seals that are seen, and tours are arranged by Smögen's fishing tourism, among others.

13. join a fishing trip or lobster safari

If you like fishing, there are a lot of exciting experiences to try on the west coast. Both Smögens fisketurism and Smögens fisketurer organise various tours, where you can, for example, fish for mackerel, cod, crabs or crayfish. During the autumn there is also the opportunity to join a lobster safari.

14. Get wind in your hair on a rib boat ride

If you like speed and excitement, you can join a rib boat tour instead. We didn't try it here, but have tried it before in Norway. So fun! The boat, which is a Ring Powercraft 11.3, has a maximum speed of about 70 knots. A trip takes about 20 minutes.

15. Take the Hållö ferry to Hållö.

Another boat trip you can make is to take the Hållö ferry to Hållö. The ferry journey from Smögen to Hollö takes about 10 minutes. On the island you can experience nature and swim, for example in the popular Marble Pool. In the summer there is also a waffle café.

16. Be active with Smögen Dive & Experience

At Smögen Dyk & Upplevelse you can join diving excursions or take diving courses. Many other active experiences are also organised here, such as kayak trips, climbing, kayak & yoga, swimrun, sauna and spa baths.

17. Visit the Nordic Ark

Smögen is also not far from the Nordens Ark zoo. The park works to preserve endangered species, and you can see around 60 different species from all over the world. The park is open all year round, and there is also a hotel and restaurant.

More to do in Smögen for those who like culture, history and shopping

There is, of course, more to see and do in Smögen than what we have described above. Here are some more tips for those who like culture, history and shopping:

• Gallery Smögen can be found at the shop Keramik & Mode, among the boathouses in the centre of Smögenbryggan.
• Smögen Outlet is for those who want to do affordable shopping (Hamngatan 9).
• Church of Smogen was built in 1904-1905 in the neo-Gothic style, to designs by Adrian C. Peterson. (Church Street 14)

More things to do on Smögen for nature lovers

Do you like nature best? Then you will find even more tips on things to see and do in Smögen here, which may be suitable for you.

• The Bohus Trail consists of 27 stages and extends from Lindome in the south to Strömstad in the north.
• Golf you can play at Sotenäs Golf Club. (Önna, Hunnebostrand)
• Sand Island Nature Reserve includes a swimming area and a 1.5 kilometre hiking trail, one way.
• The loophole  is a small canal in the centre of  Smog  harbour, which is believed to be the basis for the name Smögen.
• Parishioners runs through Kungshamn and Smögen and the surrounding area.
• Åbyfjorden is a narrow fjord with steep granite shores. The fjord separates Sotenäset in the northwest from Härnäset in the southeast.

More things to do in Smögen for those who like events

Do you like events and happenings? For you there are also things to do on Smögen. Keep an eye out for the following events.

• Amaze is a music festival, with performers, organised several years in a row.
• Icebug Xperience is a hiking and trail running race in the Bohuslän countryside.
• Island of Light  is an annual light festival where light artists illuminate Smögen with light installations.
• Maritime Rescue Society Day is usually organised in mid-July.

More to do in Smögen for those travelling with children

Travelling with children or teenagers? Then you can find even more tips on things to do in Smögen here.

• Fishing for crabs is a popular activity among children all along the west coast.
• mountain bike and guided cycling experiences are organised by the experience company Abloc.
• The tumbleweed is a fitness centre that also organises swimming lessons, bike rentals and more.
• The zita boats are charming wooden boats that run between Smögen and Kungshamn, a 15-minute trip.

Where can you stay on Smögen, or park your campervan?

On Smögen there are many different hotels to choose from, such as the popular Smogen's harbour bath or Makrillen hostel . Both of these are relatively close to each other, as well as to Badhusparken and Makrillens badplats. Smögens Hafsbad is a spa hotel with a pool, sauna and spa treatments.

We are travelling by motorhome, and there are a number of different options. We stood on RV park at Fisketångens yard in Kungshamn and took us over to Smögen for the day with the Zita boats.

If you want to be more central, there is a large parking in Smögen , not far from Smögenbryggan, where you pay with the EasyPark app. There are public toilets nearby, but no other services. There should also be a car park called Park & Stay on Hasselösundsvägen.

We also saw camper vans standing on one side of the Smögen Bridge . A short distance from Smögen there are also campsites, in the form of Johannesvik camping and First Camp Solvik - Kungshamn .

Things to do on Smögen - on film

Peter has also edited a film from Smögen. You can watch it here:

More to see and do in Smögen - nearby

When you visit Smögen, you can of course take the opportunity to check out... King's Harbour . In addition, we can recommend some great Ramsvik country with King Tryggve's tomb and cosy Hunnebostrand . If you head south instead, you can visit the island of Malmön with the beach Pärlane, lovely Lysekil or fine Skaftö .

Street art in Strömstad - Artscape Lighthouse

Skaftö in Bohuslän - Grundsund and Fiskebäckskil

Tjurpannan nature reserve - western coastal idyll in Grebbestad

Things to do in Uddevalla - 17 tips for the heart of Bohuslän

Käringön in Bohuslän - an idyllic island off the coast of Orust.

Visiting the Koster Islands in Bohuslän - a lovely trip!

Hafsten Resort & camping in Uddevalla - natural camping luxury

Things to do in Grebbestad - 12 tips for the oyster mecca

Öckerö Islands - by campervan in the Gothenburg archipelago

Things to do in Kungshamn - 11 tips for the resort town of Smögen

Things to do in Hunnebostrand - 19 tips for an archipelago idyll

The Swedish Bohuslän Road - FREEDOMtravel Themed Roads

Tureborgen in Uddevalla - an exciting ruin

What to do on Tjörn - 17 tips for a lovely island in Bohuslän.

What to do on Orust - 15 tips for a beautiful island on the west coast

Things to do in Lysekil - 20 tips for a West Coast gem

Bohus Fortress - the castle that survived 14 sieges

A lovely boat trip with M/S Donalda in Grebbestad.

Hamburgsund - West Coast charm and seafood feast

The King's Gap in Fjällbacka - The Wolf Claw in Ronia the Robber's Daughter

Bohusläns museum in Uddevalla - an interesting visit

Rock carvings in Tanum - a Unesco World Heritage Site

Dyrön in Bohuslän - a lovely archipelago island outside Tjörn.

Carlsten's fortress on Marstrand - an exciting attraction

Ramsvikslandet in Bohuslän - walking in the 'kingdom of rocks'

Trollhätte canal by motorhome - a journey along the Göta river

MUMA Mural paintings on Orust - stories about women

What to do in Strömstad - 17 tips for Sweden's westernmost town

More suggestions for things to do in Smögen?

Have you been to Smögen? How was your experience? Do you have any other good tips on what to see and do in Smögen?

Facts about Smögen

• Landscape:  Bohuslän
• County:  Västra Götaland County
• Municipality: Sotenäs municipality
• Population: More than 1200 (2020)
• Name: The name of the community has varied over the years, and the place has been called "Smögit", "Smöenn", "Smöget" and "Smygesund". The name is probably linked to the so-called Smyghålet, the narrow strait between Smögen Island and the island of Kleven south of the main island.
• Read more: You can find more information at West Sweden website .

The history of smog

• 16th century: At the end of this century, Smögen is mentioned for the first time.
• 17th century: People settled on Hasselön, and over time this community grew together with Smögen.
• 1878: The pilot house on the island was built.
• 1933: The dance restaurant Smögenbaden was built, and became a very popular place that attracted many people.
• 1998: Smögenbaden burned down.

• READ MORE: Things to do in Bohuslän - tips for sights and experiences

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Home in Stockholm after 4 months on the road

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That was the first thing I thought of when I saw the title. I must say that it was the first time I read "on Smögen". I myself have always said "in Smögen". Anyway - guuuuu so hungry for moules frites or moules marinières now. I have a former work colleague who lives on/in Smögen. Maybe time to visit her;-)

18 August 2022 - 19:54

Kullen says:

Is so nice there. Fun reading and good tips. A visit to ramsvikslandet happens for us at least once a year.

19 August 2022 - 18:50

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Discovering Smögen: A Swedish Coastal Gem

• June 5, 2023

Nestled on the Swedish west coast, Smögen is an enchanting little island that transforms into a vibrant “summer town” during the warmer months. It experiences an astonishing surge in popularity as its population skyrockets from 2,000 to an astounding 30,000 people from June to August! When I was researching captivating destinations, Smögen consistently emerged as a top recommendation. After personally exploring its wonders, I comprehended the allure it holds.

The fishing village itself exudes a small-town charm, adorned with a delightful array of restaurants, cafes, and bars. It is renowned for its delectable seafood, particularly fish, prawns, and other marine delicacies. Smögen boasts one of Sweden’s rare fish markets, where you can indulge in the freshest catches. Alongside the tantalizing culinary experiences, the coastal town presents breathtaking vistas that enhance your journey. Unfortunately, we couldn’t savor the local eateries as they were either closed or only offering take-out options. However, we eagerly anticipate our return to Smögen, where we will have the opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in its gastronomic delights.

Smögenbryggan 

One of the primary reasons behind Smögen’s rise to fame is its incredibly picturesque pier, known as Smögenbryggan. This captivating wharf stretches for nearly a kilometer along the waterfront, enticing visitors from all corners of the globe. I must confess, the area exuded an undeniable charm and left me utterly breathless. To our sheer delight, the pandemic granted us a rare opportunity to have the entire place to ourselves, as there were no other tourists in sight. We were able to leisurely explore the surroundings and even indulge in a small photo shoot. However, I’ve come across accounts stating that capturing stunning images during the summer can be challenging due to the high influx of visitors. It’s no wonder, though, as who could resist the allure of capturing the vibrant, colorful fishermen’s houses for their Instagram profiles?

Cliff hiking 

After exploring the charming town, we couldn’t resist the allure of venturing out for a serene stroll along the cliffs, immersing ourselves in the beauty of nature. We chose to follow the trail leading to “ Kleven ,” eager to uncover the hidden treasures of the area. As we meandered along the path, we were greeted by awe-inspiring vistas that took our breath away. The combination of idyllic weather, bathed in warm sunlight and complemented by a gentle breeze caressing our skin, made the experience all the more enchanting. Traversing the rocky terrain, we found ourselves utterly captivated by the mesmerizing scenery that unfolded before our eyes. It was a truly magnificent encounter that left an indelible mark on our hearts.

Fisherman’s Hut

For those seeking a glimpse into the lives of the past inhabitants, a visit to the Fisherman’s Hut is an absolute must. This meticulously furnished fisherman’s dwelling, dating back to approximately 1850, offers a fascinating window into history. Inside, you’ll discover a captivating display of period interiors, traditional attire, evocative photographs, and much more. To find this hidden gem, venture behind Smögenbryggan, following the signs that lead from Bryggans Guest House. During the summer months, the cottage is open for public viewing at specific times. For the rest of the year, simply reach out to Smögens Hembygdsförening to arrange a private showing. 

Visit Hällo Island

If you happen to find yourself in Smögen during the vibrant summer season, check out a ferry ride aboard the renowned ‘Hållöfärjan’ to the captivating island of Hållö, home to Bohuslän’s oldest lighthouse. Just a short 10-minute journey from the harbor, this excursion is an absolute must-do. The ferry operates with regular departures every 30 minutes, ensuring convenient access for all visitors.

Immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere as you set foot on Hållö, where a myriad of adventures awaits. Take a refreshing dip in the invigorating waters of ‘Marmorbassängen,’ embark on a scenic hiking tour, or simply bask in the breathtaking beauty of the rocky coastal landscape that characterizes the West Coast. 

For more detailed information about this exciting opportunity, please visit  http://www.hallofarjan.se/ . Although we regretfully didn’t have the chance to experience it ourselves, it certainly caught our attention as an intriguing venture well worth exploring.

Other activities

In addition to the wonderful experiences I’ve already shared, Smögen offers a plethora of activities to cater to every traveler’s desires. Embark on exhilarating fishing tours, where you can try your luck and reel in your own catch of the day. For a more leisurely adventure, indulge in a serene boat tour along the picturesque Sotekanalen, allowing you to soak in the coastal beauty at a relaxed pace. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, why not try your hand at sailing or climbing. Engage in friendly competition with a game of minigolf or revel in the vibrant nightlife by visiting the renowned local bars that exude a unique charm. For water enthusiasts, there’s a myriad of options, including kayaking, fishing, and even scuba diving, allowing you to explore the depths of the azure waters. And of course, the inviting freshness of the sea beckons for a rejuvenating swim in its salty embrace. Smögen truly offers an abundance of activities to ensure an unforgettable journey for every adventurer.

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Smögen and the Smögen Pier

The small island of Smögen in Bohuslän has no more than 1,300 inhabitants. During the summer, however, the population doubles. Additional several hundred guests can be found in the harbour on numerous sailing boats and motorboats. In Smögen the peak season is indeed a very busy period.

For over a hundred years the locality has been a popular seaside resort. In contrast to other resorts such as Varberg (in Halland) or Gustafsberg (near Uddevalla, Bohuslän), the “high society” has never been at home in Smögen. Today many Swedes and Norwegians connect Smögen not only with sailing, motorboating, diving and other water sports, but also with parties, nightclubs, alcohol and amorous adventures. Many rich young people come here on their yachts to party.

Vibrant nightlife

The Smögen Pier (“Smögenbryggan”) – an almost 1,000 m long wooden pier – is  the biggest summer attraction in Bohuslän . Along and on the pier it tends to be very crowded in July and early August. The boats lie in several rows along the pier. The shops, cafés, restaurants, pubs and clubs are jam-packed when the weather is fine.

In the boats it is cramped, too. Some young people sleep on the floor, among bottles, cans, chips and waste. From the pier you can see it all quite well.

Suitable for families with children as well

Fortunately, the island is not only hustle and bustle. At the end of the wooden pier there is the great swimming spot Vallevik , which invites you to sunbathe on the cliffs and to swim in the sea. There is a diving platform and a protected and safe sandy beach for children.

Smögen by car, motorboat and water taxi

We visited Smögen by car, in a private motorboat and with the Zita boats, a kind of water taxi that sails from Kungshamn.

• The locality is connected to the mainland via a high and 500 metre long bridge , the Smögen Bridge (“Smögenbron”). On the mainland side, there are rest and parking areas just before the bridge where you can stop and take pictures of the stunning views. Visiting Smögen by car is not cheap, though. Parking near the Smögen Pier costs about SEK 50 per hour.
• Getting into the port of Smögen on a motorboat is as a great experience. We kept driving along the pier towards its very end. Here you will find a small bay with one of the most popular Swedish postcard motifs: On the foot of the Ängebacken cliff there are brightly painted fishermen’s cottages and boathouses. From the water you can also see again how crowded the guest harbour is. Altogether, there are over 200 berths for yachts and motorboats on this short stretch.
• If you only want to visit Smögen for a few hours, you can take the Zita boats from Kungshamn. The ride with the open wooden boats takes around 20 minutes and offers – weather permitting – extensive opportunity to photograph beautiful Bohuslän motifs. Parking in Kungshamn is also significantly cheaper. Right at the waterfront of Kungshamn you can even park for free for two hours.

  Hotels in Smögen

Book now:  Hotels, hostels, B&Bs in Smögen

On the Smögen Pier

Approaching the pier by motorboat

Leaving the pier on a Zita boat

The Smögen Bridge

If you want to stay away from the more touristy side of the island, you will find a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere in the hotel Smögens Hafvsbad . It is located high above the island and is considered to be one of the most beautiful hotels in Sweden. The hotel was opened in 1900 and made Smögen a seaside resort.

Our photo on the top of the page shows Ängebacken, at the very end of the pier. Hotel photo: Smögens Hafvsbad.

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Smögen Top Things to Do

Smögen located in west coast of Sweden, a perfect getaway in a Swedish summer town. Therefore, it is very popular amongst the Swede as a summer getaway, but the outside world is a little bit unaware of this little hidden gem. So, when we were visiting Gothenburg, asked my friend if Smögen is a good option to visit and she was like Of Course. We visited Smögen in April, it’s not yet the touristy season.

Table of Contents

When to visit Smögen?

It is ideal to visit during summer month as nordic countries will be extremely cold in winter. We travelled in April which was not too cold, but lot many businesses have not started yet. Being said that, we often wonder how it look like in winter. Maybe someday we can re-visit in winter.

How to reach Smögen from Gothenburg?

There are many buses that takes you to Smögen from Gothenburg bus terminal. It takes roughly two and half hour to reach here. You can get the direct bus no 861 from the city (check here), but it’s not that frequent. If you are okay to change busses then you will have options in every one hour.

Top things to do in Smögen

1. boardwalk.

The boardwalk near the pier Smögenbryggan, is beautiful. You will have the ocean on one side and shops and restaurants on the other. This place can get really busy in summertime causing to wait to complete the walk. The walk is easy for few 15-20 mins one way. Basically, I suggest you to walk till the end so that you can see the beautiful colourful fishing huts. These huts in Smögenbryggan, is one of the most famous and photographed place in Smögen.

2. Eat Seafood

In the boardwalk by the pier there are some amazing restaurants you can try or have lunch at. However, if you are visiting in the evening then have Fika here. We highly recommend you to try seafood here, it’s fresh and yummy.

3. Walk around the town

Smögen is a very cute little town. The houses in the town are vibrant in colour and beautiful. Therefore, once you reach the bus stop, walk towards the pier through different lanes of the town.

4. Go for swimming or explore the rocks

If it is summer you can take a plunge in the water and go for swimming. If you are visiting in winter or shoulder months then you can explore the rocky boulders around the city. You can go for a hike around Kleven and get a good view point of the city.

5. Boat Trip

You can opt for a boat trip from the pier. It takes you to visit the nearby lighthouse on a boat, but the trips are available only in summer. You can find more information here .

If you want, you can opt to stay in Smögen, there are many airBnBs, but we did not. we chose to stay Lysekill instead and took the bus as day trip. You can do a day trip Lysekill from here.

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West Coast Sweden - 4 Day road trip itinerary for Summer (from Stockholm to Smögen)

The West Coast of Sweden is filled with quaint fishing villages, colourful beach huts, some of the best seafood we have ever eaten and a coastline of rugged uninhabited rocky islands of the clearest (and surprisingly warm) warms for swimming. It's perfect for a relaxing road trip. See our post below for an easy-to-follow 4-day travel itinerary that will have you visiting all of the highlights of Sweden's West Coast.

Getting to and around the West Coast of Sweden from Stockholm:

For a 4-day trip, we'd highly recommend hiring a car. A lot of the West Coast villages are spread out along the coastline (around a 1-hour drive between most). Having a car will offer more flexibility. You can hire directly from Stockholm and drive (7 hours) or take the h igh-speed rail to Gothenburg and hire a car from there (Also around 7 hours total trip duration if staying in Smögen).

Where to stay on the West Coast of Sweden - Smögen :

If you're looking for a base to stay for the trip we'd recommend Smögen , situated between Gothenburg (2 hours drive south) and Fjällbacka (1.5 hours drive north). It's a charming fishing village with many restaurants, cafes and bars and a 10-minute ferry ride from Hällo Island. Basing here will minimize driving distance up and down the coast each day.

Smögen Hotels:

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West Coast Sweden - 5-Day Travel Itinerary:

Day 1 - stockholm to örebro to smögen.

From Stockholm to Smögen it takes about 7 hours of driving, which is a beautiful countryside drive, filled with green hills, red farmhouses and a few small towns along the way. We recommend breaking up the journey with a visit to Örebro.

In Örebro you can get lunch at the historic village of Wadköping , a living open-air periodic museum, home to original houses and shops from 17th and 18th century Sweden. It is also located right along the river for a walk after.

Örebro - Wadköping Historic Village:

In the evening once you've reached Smögen we recommend watching the sunset from the Smögenbron bridge. For a late dinner try the Musselbaren , located on the water.

Views from Smögenbron Bridge

Day 2 - Smögen, Hallö Island & Hunnebostrand

Morning: Of all the villages we visited on the West Coast of Sweden, Smögen was our favourite. Start the morning with a walk along the wooden boardwalk lined with colourful fishing houses. Further along, you'll find a number of restaurants and cafes perfect for breakfast. For a quick option by the water visit Skärets Korg & Cafe, try the local shrimp toast with mayonnaise and cinnamon scrolls, they are two of the most famous local dishes.

Smogen Colourful fishing huts:

Breakfast: Skärets Korg & Cafe

Afternoon - Hallö Island: After breakfast take a 10-minute ferry ride from the Smögen boardwalk across to Hallö island (ferries run every 30 mins up to 4 pm). Hällo island is an uninhabited island of all boulders formed during the ice age, the landscape feels like another planet. While there, take a tour of the iconic red and white lighthouse which is still in operation today, learn about the WW2 plane crash that happened on the island and swim in the clearest waters of the Marble Pools . The island is small enough to walk around on foot for the day. We spent around 4-5 hours there.

Hallö Island Lighthouse & Landscape

Swimming Locations Hallö Island - Marble Pools and WW2 crash site:

Evening - Hunneborstand: In the evening take a 30-minute drive from Smögen to Hunnebostrand, walk along the coastline visiting the annual summer sculpture exhibits before having dinner by the water.

Day 3 - Smögen to Käringön Island and Gullholmen, Dinner in Kungshamn

Getting to Käringön Island: Käringön is an island located in the Bohuslän archipelago and requires taking a ferry to reach the island. The public ferry terminal is Tuvesviks which takes 1.5 hours to drive from Smögen. The drive from Smögen to Tuvesviks is incredible, stop along the way at some of the viewpoints overlooking the fjords.

Views from the drive between Smögen and Tuvesviks Ferry Terminal:

Ferries depart from Tuvesviks daily every 1-1.5 hours (cost is 35kr each way) and the journey takes approximately 40 minutes to arrive in Käringon. In each direction, the ferry also makes a stop at Gullholmen Island (5 minutes from the Tuvesviks terminal) , if you have time during the day, this is also worth a visit. Once on Käringon and Gullholman islands , they are is small enough to explore on foot for the day.

Things to do on Käringön Island:

Walk around the village

Swim in one of the bathing locations

Eat at one of the restaurants: There are a number of restaurants open in the summer months, for a more casual dish, try the Crêperiet, it is one of Käringöns most popular eateries, which offers both savoury and sweet crepes. Two of the more popular restaurants for a sit-down meal are Simsons Prästgård and Petersons Krog. We visited later in the summer season when not a lot of these restaurants were open and ate directly at the Hotel Käringön, which offered nice outdoor dining right by the waterfront.

Dinner in Kungshamn - Tant Anton:

End the evening a 10-minute drive from Smögen in Kungshamn for dinner at one of the top-rated restaurants in the area - Tant Anton, situated on the waterfront making it perfect for a late sunset. They do a tasting menu we'd recommend trying.

Day 4 - Smögen to Fjällbacka

Just over an hour's drive north of Smögen is the equally as picturesque seaside town of Fjällbacka, worth spending a day visiting. Start the morning with breakfast along the waterfront at one of the many cafe options. Be sure to try the local shrimp toast for breakfast.

Morning - Walk Kungsklyftan and Vëddo nature reserve

Kungsklyftan is located right in the centre of Fjällback, you'll see the signage for the steps which start the walking trail. It's a quick 10-minute hike from the centre of town uphill amongst massive boulders to the top of the hill. The viewpoint offers the most amazing views of the red beach houses in Fjällback & uninhabited rocky island coast

Vëddo Nature Reserve is a 4kms walk along the coast of a small island (accessible by driving 10mins from Fjällabacka) this was our favourite hike of the trip. There's also a small beach located on the reserve which had very clear waters perfect for swimming.

Evening - Dinner in Smögen at Göstas Fiskekrog

End the evening with dinner by the water at Göstas Fiskekrog , another great spot to watch the fisherman bring in their catches at the end of the day and for spotting seals in the bay in the late afternoon. Be sure to order the local Smögen shrimp and Swedish pickled red hearing.

End your trip by watching the sunset from the rocks by Kleven

We hope you enjoyed our summer travel guide to Smögen and the West Coast of Sweden. To see more of our other destination guides click here .

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Guide to smögen.

Smögen is my very favorite place on earth and here is my complete guide to the best places at the tiny island.

What to do at Smögen

A tiny little island at the Swedish West Coast with 2000 inhabitants and thousands of tourists everyday at the peak season. Is there really anything to do there? Yes. I have a tendency to get easily bored but although it is a very small island there is a lot to do. Here I am listing my top things to do.

Smögenbryggan

You can’t go to Smögen without having a stroll at the famous Smögenbryggan. It is about 700 meters long and during the middle of the day it is very crowded. But it is a great spot for people watching, taking pictures and going to the cozy shops and buy local things. Or if you are up for running go there 8:30-9 in the morning and you will have the place for yourself.

Where to stay

There are a few hotels at the island and Smögen Havsbad is the largest one. Loads of visitors come for a day trip but honestly you miss out the best parts if you do so I would recommend staying overnight. There are a lot of B&Bs and private rentals which you can find at AirBnB. My heart is though with Smögensgästgifveri which was my mums childhood home and I have spent tens of summers at when growing up.

Eat and drink

Buy some crazy expensive but famous and tasteful seafood from one of the stores at the fish market. Gösta’s is one of the most famous places to buy fresh shrimps from. I guarantee that you never have had any better crayfish than the just cooked ones. One summer I actually worked at one of the seafood places which was quite a lot of fun. If you don’t wanna sit around at the fish market stalls the very best idea is to bring your food and go out to the cliffs at Valleviken. You can’t have a better view. Don’t forget to buy bread or tasteful buns from Skäret . Best bakery in Sweden if you ask me. If you like to go for an after beach you should visit Sea Lodge .

Cliff hiking

I love being outdoors and hiking is a favorite of mine. Especially on cliffs. I actually prefer doing it during the autumn when it is rainy and windy and you can see the waves. The smell of the ocean and the salty wind that makes you feel all salty is unbeatable. My best hike starts when you leave Smögenbryggan then you just keep on going under the bridge and continue to a trail called “Hästen” form where you could walk to Makrillviken and further over the cliffs all the way to ICA Ankaret nearby the bridge if you would like to.

From the fish market you can spot a light house at one island. That is Hållö. A must visit if you are at Smögen. If you don’t have your own boat you can buy a ticket with Hållöfärjan and you will have a great day. Just remember to bring your own food and protection from the sun. Check out Liniztravel if you want to read more about this jewel. If you would like to stay over there is a hostel on the island and if you consider getting married there is a chapel with a fantastic view.

One more outdoor adventure you need to try. That is hiking or running the trail at Sandö which is located nearby ICA Ankaret at the bridge. It is a 2K walk out to the end and it is one of my favorite running routes in the world. The view is unbeatable and worth taking a break when you reach the end just to enjoy the view and quietness. At Sandö you will also find one of the few (but small) sandy beaches at the island. That is a good spot for catching yelly fish.

Sunset watching

Sunsets. I am a big fan of sunsets and either having some food and drinks at the cliffs, take a swim or just watching the sun going down over the water is a must do while you are at Smögen. My favorite location for sunset watching is at Hasselösund where you get a lot of great views. There is also a great swimming spot with a trampoline.

Didn’t I said you can do loads of things at Smögen? in addition to what I just mentioned you can go on fishing tours, take a boat tour in Sotekanalen, go sailing, climbing, play minigolf, visit the famous bars, eat pastries at Skäret, kayaking, go fishing, scubadive and of course go swimming in the fresh and salty water. Just remember that if you want to bring your own alcohol, the closest Systembolag is located in Kungshamn. Any questions on Smögen? I am sure I can answer most of them. The small cute island is my second home or by heart my first.

/ Pernilla that already look forward to the next Smögen visit

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11 comments.

I never been to Smögen – but sure looks lovely. I love the west coast of Sweden, the cliffs, the waves, the smell of salt water ❤ I need to book a trip there, thanks for the tips on good places for running! 🙂

You should go there. Small but really nice place 🙂

Ja jäklar vilka fantastiska foton 😉 Fick vandra tillbaka en lång väg för att finna en referens i området. Har rötter på min mors sida i Lysekil och det är nog så nära Smögen jag kan komma tror jag. Min mormor föddes 1915 och dog redan 1946 i den tidens farsot TBC. Minns en resa i min barndom då jag bl.a. besökte Lysekils kyrka!

Tack! enkelt att fota när det är fina ställen. Lysekil är också riktigt nice tycker jag. Men Smögen och Bohus Malmön (en annan liten ö) är mina favoriter på Västkusten.

Äh, västkusten! Har väl inte varit överdrivet mycket i just Smögen men väl Bohus Malmön och så klart Lysekil där min morbror bodde. Älskade, och älskar, klipplandskapet

Bohus malmön 😍 älskar det stället!!

Musikläger på kursgården där, fantastiska minnen!

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Smögenbryggan

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Smögenbryggan - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Smögen, Bohuslän – Exploring Sweden

• Post author: Jesper
• Reading time: 10 mins read
• Post published: 2021-08-05
• Post last modified: 2023-06-19
• Post category: English / Sweden / Travel
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Smögen is probably one of the most famous fishing harbors along the western coast of Sweden. The locality spreads out over four islands: Smögen, Kleven, Sandön, and Hasselön. During the summers the population of the islands, almost 1.300 inhabitants, is dwarfed by the hordes of tourists. Fishing might have declined compared to the past, but is still significant for the islands. It is especially important for preserving their image and the attractiveness of the locally fished shrimps.

A Short History of Smögen

It has a name whose origins will probably never be confirmed, but a few theories sound more probable than others. Smögen has a long and fishy history. The name is likely to come from the surrounding natural features and is the name for the main island. Smögen has since it was inhabited in the 17th century grown to cover most of the surrounding small islands.

For centuries the island’s life has focused on fishing, especially during the periods when the herring comes around in huge numbers. The last known period of this occurred at the end of the 19th century and meant a large upswing for the community on the islands. The century would, however, end with another new industry starting to take hold. Tourism was here to stay.

A pilot station was established here in 1878, to assist ships and vessels navigate the water passages. The station was manned until 1869 when it was moved to Lysekil.

There should have been around 325 active fishermen on Smögen in 1939, supporting 85% of the population. The same year saw about 900 external visitors to the island. With a ferry connection to the mainland established in 1958, the island’s development took additional speed and had around 30.000 visitors in 1963. A bridge replaced the ferry in 1970.

Things to Do and See in Smögen

With a lot of visitors each summer, many will most likely first worry about where to park the car before it is time to consider what to do once you have everything in order. Smögen is famous for fishing and many restaurants serve dishes that especially make use of the local shrimps. Prices tend to be higher than average compared to many other Swedish towns, but that is common for popular summer destinations. There are a few sights of interest on these small islands and don’t forget to enjoy the view of the sea.

Smögenbryggan

Smögenbryggan is a wharf or walkway stretching almost a kilometers along the waterfront. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the province of Bohuslän . It offers both shopping and dining options in addition to the views of the water.

Sandö Island

The peninsula of Sandö is a protected nature reserve covering around 134 hectares. There is around 1.5 kilometers of walking to reach the tip. The area also includes a beach.

Vallevik is one of the most popular spots for swimming during the summers. It is located close to Smögenbryggan and mostly consists of cliffs.

Makrillviken

Another well-known place for swimming can be found at the bay Makrillviken. This bay did originally offer separate swimming areas for men and women, but the cliffs are today a bit less conservative.

Smögens Hembygdsmuseum

Smögens Hembygdsmuseum is a local heritage museum that offers an insight into the old way of living on the island. It is split into two parts, “Fiskarstugan” which shows how the family of a fisherman lived at the end of the 19th century, and “Sjöbodsmuseet” which exhibits a large collection of old fishing gear.

The bridge that connects Smögen with the mainland is known as Smögenbron. With a length of almost 400 meters and a height of 35 meters, it is an impressive sight by itself. It was completed in 1970 and for visitors, it is mainly the rest stop next to the bridge on the mainland that will be of interest. The view on offer here is impressive and includes both Smögen and the nearby town of Kungshamn .

How to Get to Smögen

• Flights : There are domestic and international routes to and from Göteborg Landvetter Airport (GOT), which is 155 kilometers away.
• Car : Smögen is almost at the end of road 174, close to Kungshamn.
• Bus:  Local and regional buses connect Smögen with the surrounding region.

The driving distance from 5 major Swedish cities, according to Google Maps:

• Stockholm – 505 kilometers (5h 51min)
• Gothenburg – 133 kilometers (1h 32min)
• Malmö – 402 kilometers (4h 28min)
• Linköping – 366 kilometers (4h 27min)
• Kiruna – 1602 kilometers (19h 2min)

Find out more about other destinations in Sweden by visiting our page  Exploring Sweden

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Smögen boardwalk

Åsa Dahlgren

Gothenburg is making waves for its locavore dining scene, notably Michelin-starred seafood spot Sjömagasinet and Norda Bar & Grill, which won the world’s best bartender award in 2015. Norda also showcases the talents of chef Marcus Samuelsson, who was born in Ethiopia, grew up in Gothenburg, and now lives in New York City . He spent childhood summers in Smögen, a postcard-perfect fishing village that’s well worth a detour. First, fuel up the Swedish way: with a fika (coffee break), preferably at Café Husaren, famous for its oh-so-generously-sized cinnamon buns. Then hit the road; it’s about a 90-minute straight shot up the west coast to Smögen. Brightly painted wooden homes, restaurants, and shops line the small town’s pier, and a fish market waits at one end. You can make an easy, satisfying meal out of fresh prawns in a paper cone and a cold beer. After all, the cool, pristine water here in the Bohuslän archipelago is rich in minerals and makes West Sweden practically unrivaled as a source for quality seafood. One of the most authentic ways to experience the region’s bounty is by joining local fishermen on a seafood safari. Don a windbreaker, and spend an invigorating afternoon hunting for crayfish or lobster, raking oysters, or visiting mussel farms. You’ll learn to prepare your catch, perhaps over an open fire, and savor dinner in a picturesque setting. Smögen is just one of many coastal villages that host these shellfish outings in spring, summer, and autumn.

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• Southern Sweden

Malmö – a city of contrasts and an international melting pot

All roads in the southern province of Skåne lead to Malmö. The blend of old-world charm and ultra-modern cosmopolitan vibes, together with food and culture from every corner of the globe, make this seaside city a must-see for all visitors.

• Malmö is the third largest city in Sweden after Stockholm and Gothenburg.
• In 2024, Malmö will host the Eurovision Song Contest for the third time. It had the same honour in 1992 and 2013. The latest edition will mark the seventh time the event has been held in Sweden.
• Around half of Malmö residents are under 35, making it one of Sweden’s youngest cities.

Malmö is one of the most eclectic cities in Scandinavia. One minute you’ll be enjoying Sweden’s best falafel, the next, Michelin star meals blending the best of food from the locality and far beyond. Today, home to over 350,000 people, Malmö is a true melting pot of cultures, with residents hailing from over 170 countries. Whether it’s sights, culture, food, adventure or nightlife you’re after, Malmö has the answer.

If you’re wondering what to do in Malmö, the good news is it’s all easily reachable. With some 515 kilometres of cycle paths, it’s no surprise to hear that Malmö has a well-earned reputation as one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities. Skilful city planning pays dividends on a daily basis here, with nothing more than a 15-minute bike ride away.

The Malmö weather is slightly milder than in the rest of Sweden. Located at the edge of the sea, it is a fairly windy city. But in general, you’ll find warm, pleasant summers and relatively temperate winters.

Biking by Öresund

Malmö is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. Most attractions are reached within 10-15 minutes by bike.

Photo : Werner Nystrand/skane.com

Lilla Torg, Malmö

Photo : Apelöga

Västra Hamnen, Malmö

Photo : Per Pixel Petersson/imagebank.sweden.se

Öresund Bridge, Malmö

Photo : Werner Nystrand/ Malmö Stad Werner Nystrand

Malmöfestivalen in Stortorget

Photo : Pierre Ekman

Malmö – where traditional and ultra-modern collide

Founded in the late 1200s, Malmö, originally belonged to Denmark, only becoming Swedish in 1658. The Old Town is a must on any Malmö sightseeing trip. An island in the heart of the city, it is split into two parts: the Gamla Väster district in the west, filled with historical buildings, and the eastern district, which was revitalised in the 1960s. You’ll inevitably end up in Stortorget, the oldest and largest square in Malmö, encircled by beautiful 16th century architecture. One block northeast, you’ll find Malmö’s oldest building, the 14th century Gothic Saint Peter’s Church (St. Petri Kyrka).

Lilla Torg is a square packed with quaint restaurants, bars and cafés and a real treat during the summer especially, when tables and chairs spill out on to the streets full of locals and visitors alike. Even among Malmö’s many historical treats, Kockska huset still stands out. The city’s second oldest building dates back to 1524, and while visitors aren’t allowed inside the main house, you can still sample its charm in its restaurant, Årstiderna i Kockska huset in the cellar.

In stark contrast to the old town charm, Malmö boasts some of the most impressive modern structures in Northern Europe. The Öresund Bridge , famed from the hit Swedish-Danish television series ‘The Bridge’, is an 8 kilometres railway and motorway bridge that runs from Malmö to Copenhagen across the Öresund strait. It’s the longest bridge of its kind in Europe.

Literally towering over the city is another feat of modern engineering, Malmö’s Turning Torso. One of the tallest buildings in Scandinavia, this neo-futuristic skyscraper is residential, its 54 floors twisting 190 metres into the sky. The tower is in the centre of the city’s trendy Västra Hamnen (Western Harbour) neighbourhood. Located at a former shipyard, this sustainable urban hub has become a magnet for visitors, with plenty to enjoy, including bathing spots, parks, restaurants and cafés.

Malmö Castle

Malmö Castle (Malmöhus slott) was built in 1434 and is the oldest preserved castle in the Nordics.

Form/Design Center in Malmö

Photo : Daniel Engvall

Moderna Museet in Malmö

Photo : Miriam Preis/imagebank.sweden.se

Malmö Konsthall

Photo : Malmö turism

Malmö Opera

Photo : Oskar Falck/Malmö Turism

Malmö's cultural highlights

In keeping with its city of contrasts identity, just south of the historic Lilla Torg lies the Form/Design Center , an exhibition space celebrating modern art, design and architecture, complete with courtyard and café.

Museum fans will love Malmö Castle (Malmöhus Slott ). The oldest preserved Renaissance castle in Scandinavia, it was built on the ruins of a fort and completed in 1542. Today, it also hosts the Natural History Museum of Malmö, Malmö Art Museum and an aquarium. One entry ticket gives you access to everything.

Another of the many things to do in Malmö is Moderna Museet . Converted from a former power station in 2009, Malmö’s contemporary art museum is a branch of the capital’s Moderna Museet and showcases work by both local and international artists.

Malmö Konsthall , one of Europe’s largest contemporary art galleries, is housed in a cavernous 2,000 square metre exhibition space. With contributions from local and international artists and new exhibitions three or four times a year, there is always something fascinating to discover. Meanwhile for those of a musical persuasion, there is plenty of choice from live music venues like Plan B , to the Malmö Live Concert Hall and the Malmö Opera .

Slottsträdgården in Malmö

Slottsträdgården is a 12,000 square metre garden with different themes surrounding Malmö Castle.

Photo : Oskar Falck

Kungsparken in Malmö

Photo : Linnea Svensson Arbab

Pildammsparken in Malmö

Photo : Malmö Stad

Ribersborgsstranden, Malmö

Photo : Werner Nystrand

Ribersborgs Kallbadhus, Malmö

Kayaking in Malmö

Photo : Werner Nystrand/ Malmö Stad

A city surrounded by nature

You’ll find plenty of green places to visit to get away from the city buzz for a while. Slottsträdgården, surrounding Malmöhus Castle, is a huge garden resplendent with ornamental plants, orchard, rose, and Japanese gardens, as well as edible crops. Meander along the verdant pathways and enjoy a coffee at the café. Other popular parks include Kungsparken – Malmö’s 34-hectare version of Central Park – and Pildammsparken, further to the south. The latter was created around a system of ponds in the 17th century, and is a perfect spot for a picnic as well as hosting performances, concerts and art exhibitions.

When the temperature rises, cool off with a trip to Ribersborgsstranden beach (known to locals as ‘Ribban’), a 1.5-kilometre stretch of city beach just 10 minutes from the Old Town. Here you can go for a swim and sauna at the historic Ribersborgs Kallbadhus (open-air cold bath house), or perhaps go kayaking, either out to the coast for great views of the Öresund Bridge, or on an inner city circular tour through the city’s canals.

Lyran, Malmö

Lyran offers a Scandinavian menu that changes daily. In addition to their regular menu, they offer alternatives for vegans, vegetarians and pescetarians.

Photo : /Malmö Stad

Ruths, Malmö

Photo : Ruths Malmö

Aster, Malmö

Hyllie Bryggeri, Malmö

Photo : Daniel Martinez

A treat for the tastebuds – Malmö’s food and drinks scene

With Denmark and mainland Europe on its doorstep, it’s little wonder that Malmö is fiercely proud of its international nature. Malmö restaurants are diverse and plentiful, and whether it’s the Michelin two-starred restaurant or sumptuous takeaways based on locally grown raw ingredients, Malmö leaves you spoilt for choice. You’ll find fine falafel on almost every street corner, but if you really want to go where the locals eat, head out to the outskirts of the city and sample this genuine Middle Eastern specialty at Falafel N1 or X Falafel . Elsewhere, if it’s local delicacies you’re after, Lyran fits the bill nicely. Here, the four-course menu changes daily depending on what fresh ingredients are available.

The Michelin two-star establishment Vollmers ’ mission is to blend local carefully selected produce with modern cooking techniques – a test they’ve been passing with flying colours since opening in 2011. Lauded by the White Guide, restaurant/deli/bakery Ruths’ popularity never seems to wane. The fine Scandinavian inspired cuisine is matched by its ambience – especially in the inner courtyard during the summer. At Aster , located in the hip Varvsstad district, all meals are cooked over an open fire, and you get to sit around crackling flames with your fellow guests.

If you're thirsty, why not try one of Malmö’s many craft breweries? The Malmö Brewing and Taproom was founded in 2010, eight years after CEO Anders Hansson persuaded his parents to buy an abandoned building and help him realise his dream to turn it into a brewery. It took a similar leap of faith for the founders of the Hyllie Bryggeri to turn a garage on the outskirts of the city into the thriving independent business it has become today in its new city centre location.

Practical information before your trip to Malmö

By train: SJ national trains run from major cities, such as Stockholm (4.5 hours) and Gothenburg (3 hours) to Malmö.

By plane: You can fly directly to Malmö Airport , but Copenhagen Airport in Denmark tends to have more frequent international flights. The regular Öresundståg trains take you from Copenhagen Airport to Malmö’s central station (across the Öresund Bridge) in less than 30 minutes.

By car: From mainland Europe, the drive from central Copenhagen over the Öresund Bridge takes around 50 minutes.

Malmö has an extensive bus network , but the best way to get around is by bicycle. There are some 515 kilometres of cycle paths in the city and most places of interest are in the city centre, meaning a quick 5–10-minute bike ride can get you where you need to go. Bikes can be hired from a number of facilities.

You can also purchase a 24- or 72-hour subscription to Malmö By Bike , the city’s bike share system.

The sky-scraping Clarion Hotel Malmö Live is located next to the central station and has wonderful views over Öresund and the city.

The Story Hotel Studio Malmö , part of the Hyatt Group is another modern city centre option with great sea and city views.

The colourful four-star MJ’s Hotel is right in the heart of Old Town, but maintains an air of serenity. Enjoy an “outdoor” breakfast in its glass roofed courtyard.

For people-watching, few places rival the buzz of Möllevångstorget in the Möllevången quarter. Known by locals as “Möllan” it is one of the city’s hip areas, with the eclectic fruit and vegetable market and numerous cafés, boasting countless nationalities, its beating heart.

It’s not often you visit a museum knowing you’ll find it revolting – but that’s the USP of the Disgusting Food Museum . This one-of-a-kind adventure showcases some 80 of the most inedible things you could possibly imagine consuming.

Folkets Park is a perfect place to while away a few hours. Catch a concert or theatrical performance, enjoy the multiple playground activities, or just relax and treat yourself at one of the park’s restaurants and cafés.

Malmö is very child friendly. A group of themed playgrounds dotted around the city adds to Malmö’s reputation as being a creative, fun and inspiring place with themes including outer space, the jungle, the circus and the theatre.

Funnys äventyr gives kids the chance to meet characters from Nordic stories like Pettson and Findus, Alfie Atkins and the Moomins, ride the fairytale carousel, and let their imagination run wild.

Animal loving youngsters can head to Malmö’s Reptile Center in Folkets Park, which is filled with exotic creatures from all parts of the world.

Clarion Hotel Malmö Live

Malmö is Sweden's third largest city and Clarion Hotel Malmö Live, with its rooftop and skybar, is located next to the central station.

Photo : Max Nordanåker/Clarion Hotel

Hotel room at MJ's, Malmö

Photo : MJ'S

Folkets Park, Malmö

Öresundslekplatsen, Malmö

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NATO Secretary General to visit Sweden

• 06 Jun. 2024 - 07 Jun. 2024
• Last updated: 05 Jun. 2024 20:12

On 6 - 7 June 2024, the NATO Secretary General, Mr Jens Stoltenberg, will travel to Stockholm, Sweden.

On Thursday, 6 June, the Secretary General will be in Stockholm to attend the ceremony to celebrate the Kingdom of Sweden’s National Day, he will also meet with the Prime Minister of Sweden, Mr Ulf Kristersson. On Friday, 7 June, after a military demonstration by the Swedish Armed Forces, the Secretary General will hold a joint press conference with the Prime Minister.

Media advisory

11:30 (CEST)   Joint press conference by the Secretary General and the Prime Minister of Sweden

Media coverage

• The events will be streamed live on the NATO website .
• Videos from the visit will be available for download from the NATO Multimedia Portal .  
• Transcripts and photos will be available on the NATO website.

For more information:

Press contact: Christina Grapenfelt, Communication specialist, [email protected]

For general queries:  Contact the NATO Press Office

Follow us on X:  @NATO ,  @jensstoltenberg  and  @NATOPress

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