Things To Do
in Alingsås

Alingsås is a picturesque town in Västra Götaland County, Sweden, located about an hour from Gothenburg. It blends a charming Nordic small-town atmosphere with scenic lake and river landscapes. The town is renowned for its well-preserved wooden architecture and the annual Lights in Alingsås light festival.

It serves as a cozy base for exploring western Sweden, with easy access to forests, lakes, and cultural sights.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Alingsås
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Swedish pastries and freshly brewed coffee. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Alingsås, renowned for its beautifully preserved wooden houses and vibrant flowers. Make sure to visit the local shops to pick up souvenirs or handmade crafts from the area.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head over to the Alingsås Cultural Center, where you can indulge in art exhibits and local history. After exploring the center, find a cozy spot at one of the lakeside parks, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch or perhaps rent a kayak to experience the picturesque waters around the town. This is a great opportunity to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of your surroundings.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant specializing in Swedish cuisine, where you can savor dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, take an evening walk along the canal, witnessing the mesmerizing reflections of the lights shimmering on the water. Conclude your day with a relaxing drink at a bar known for its craft cocktails, providing the perfect ambiance to reflect on your day.

day 2
Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before setting out to explore the stunning nature trails surrounding Alingsås. Take a guided hike in the nearby forests, where you can witness the region’s rich flora and fauna, and breathe in the fresh air. Don't forget to bring along your camera for the beautiful scenery that awaits you.

afternoon
:

After your morning adventure, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a quaint countryside café, savoring traditional Swedish dishes. Spend the afternoon cycling along the picturesque paths by the many lakes, where you can stop to fish or enjoy short dips in the water. This active day will connect you further with the beautiful landscapes of Sweden.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Alingsås and dine at a restaurant that offers seasonal menus, highlighting local specialties. After dinner, engage with locals or fellow travelers at a nearby pub, where you can hear stories about Alingsås and its history. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and the warmth of Swedish hospitality as you reflect on your adventurous day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🚌One-way local transport$2-4
🏨Mid-range hotel for one night$90-150
🧺Groceries for a week (2 people)$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town vibe and scenic surroundings
  • Good base for exploring western Sweden
  • Walkable center with cafes and shops
  • Safe and peaceful environment
  • Limited nightlife and some services may close early
  • Public transport outside peak hours can be limited
  • "Hej, hur mår du?" - Hi, how are you?
  • "Tack så mycket" - Thank you very much
  • "Kan jag få menyn, tack?" - Could I have the menu, please?
  • "Var ligger toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Ursäkta, jag vill gärna beställa" - Excuse me, I would like to order

Places to Visit in Alingsås

Visit one of these nice places.

Nolhaga Canal and the Old Town

Vibrant rows of colorful wooden houses mirrored in tranquil canal waters, especially photogenic at dawn or dusk.

Stora torget (Main Square) at dusk

Historic square with fountains, market stalls, and architectural details that glow in evening light.

Gräfsnäs Castle grounds

Ruins set against forest and water, offering moody landscape shots and forest textures.

Lake Mjörn shoreline

Wide lake views with pine silhouettes and reflecting skies, ideal for wide-angle landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Alingsås

Swedish fare in Alingsås blends regional produce with classic seasonal dishes. Expect fresh fish, local dairy, rye bread, root vegetables, and hearty dishes that suit the Swedish climate. In summer, you’ll find plentiful berries and lighter preparations; in winter, comforting dishes and warming beverages are popular.

Alingsås Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gravlax with dill and mustard sauce

Cured salmon served with a dill-senap (mustard) sauce and rye bread.

Must-Try!

Köttbullar with mashed potatoes and lingonberries

Swedish meatballs served with creamy potatoes and tart lingonberry sauce.

Raggmunk with fried bacon and lingonberries

Potato pancakes topped with crispy bacon and lingonberry sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Alingsås Saluhall (Market Hall)

A local market area featuring seasonal produce, bread, dairy, and small street-food stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Alingsås experiences an oceanic climate with four distinct seasons: mild summers, cold winters, and regular rainfall. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 17–22°C, with cooler nights. Winter temperatures often hover around freezing, with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn bring variable weather and colorful scenery; pack layers and a waterproof layer for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common; address people by their first name once you know them. Quiet conversation is valued in public spaces.

Public behavior

Keep noise modest in cafés and public transport; queues are observed; punctuality is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Alingsås is generally safe for travelers. Exercise common-sense precautions: watch your belongings in crowded areas, especially markets, and be mindful of icy sidewalks in winter. In emergencies, dial 112 for immediate assistance.

Tipping in Alingsås

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory; round up the bill or leave 5–10% for excellent service.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and Swish mobile payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days with pleasant daytime temperatures (roughly 17–22°C). Outdoor cafés, markets, and festivals flourish; take advantage of extended daylight for long excursions.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and cooler air; ideal for scenic walks and photography. Local produce markets return to full swing.

Winter

Snow and frost are possible; shorter daylight hours mean cozy indoor experiences and crisp outdoor walks. Dress in layers and be prepared for icy paths.

Spring

Milder temperatures and blooming greenery; good for river walks and outdoor cafés returning to full operation.

Nightlife Guide

Alingsås at Night

The nightlife in Alingsås is intimate and relaxed, centered around cozy pubs and casual bars in the town center. Some venues offer live music on weekends, while others provide a quiet setting for conversation and fika after dinner. Most places close by late evening, but there are always opportunities to socialize with locals in cafés and small venues.

Hiking in Alingsås

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gräfsnäs Naturreservat

Forest and lake trails near a historic manor, with several easy to moderate loops.

Lake Mjörn shoreline

Scenic lakeside hikes and easy round-the-lake paths.

Airports

How to reach Alingsås by plane.

Gothenburg Landvetter Airport (GOT)

Main international airport serving the region, about 60-70 minutes by car or train from Alingsås.

Jönköping Airport (JKG)

Smaller regional airport located roughly 1.5–2 hours by road.

Getting Around

Walkability

Alingsås has a compact city center with a pleasant riverfront and pedestrian-friendly streets. Most sights are within walking distance of the central square, and there are well-marked paths along the water. Bicycles are popular for getting around, and local buses connect the outskirts to the town center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Swedes

Majority population, with many families and professionals.

Foreign-born residents

A growing share from various countries, adding cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular at amateur and youth levels; local clubs nearby.

Cross-country skiing and ice hockey

Winter sports commonly enjoyed in the region.

Biking and kayaking on local lakes

Active outdoor options around Alingsås.

Transportation

Traffic

The town is walkable and well-connected by bus (Västra Götaland Region). Car traffic is usually light in the center; parking can be limited near the square. For longer trips, trains connect to Gothenburg and surrounding towns; biking and walking are efficient within the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Alingsås.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most establishments offer vegetarian options; look for mushroom dishes, lentil stews, and veggie plates, or ask for substitutions with cheese or tofu.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Alingsås is provided by Västra Götaland Region. The town has a local hospital facility (Alingsås sjukhus) and several primary care clinics. For visitors, EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card; non-EU travelers should have travel insurance. Emergency services operate via 112.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide