Things To Do
in Arvika

Arvika is a picturesque town located in Värmland County, Sweden, known for its beautiful lakes and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it a great destination for outdoor activities. Arvika boasts a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and music festivals that attract both locals and tourists alike.

With its charming architecture and friendly atmosphere, Arvika offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Arvika
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, then take a stroll around the town center to admire the historic buildings.

afternoon
:

Visit the Rackstad Museum to appreciate Swedish art and culture, followed by a walk along the scenic shores of Lake Glafsfjorden.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Swedish restaurant, followed by a local music performance at a nearby venue.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast before heading to the Arvika Kanot & Camping for some kayaking or canoeing.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the local craft shops, then visit the Arvika Church, known for its stunning architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy bistro and enjoy the vibrant nightlife by visiting a local bar or pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$4
🍺Beer$7
🏨Hotel night stay$100
🚌Public transportation ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and lakes
  • Rich cultural experiences with art and music scenes
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation can be infrequent
  • English is not universally spoken among older generations
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Var ligger...?" - Where is...?
  • "Jag förstår inte" - I don't understand
  • "Kan jag få menyn, tack?" - Can I have the menu, please?

Places to Visit in Arvika

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Glafsfjorden

A stunning lake offering picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Rackstad Museum

A beautiful blend of art and nature, with outdoor sculptures and serene landscapes.

Arvika Church

An architectural gem with intricate designs and a scenic backdrop.

Culinary Guide

Food in Arvika

Arvika offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its rich culture and natural surroundings. Local cuisine features fresh ingredients from the region, making every meal a treat.

Arvika Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Köttbullar

Swedish meatballs served with lingonberry sauce and creamy potatoes.

Must-Try!

Rökt lax

Smoked salmon often served with bread, potatoes, and dill sauce.

Älgstek

Moose roast, a local delicacy, served with seasonal vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Arvika Farmers Market

A weekly market where local farmers and artisans sell fresh produce, handmade goods, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Arvika varies significantly throughout the year. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often below freezing, while summers are mild to warm with temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, offering cool temperatures and beautiful scenery. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly more precipitation in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important; lateness is often considered disrespectful.

Personal Space

Swedes value personal space; keep a respectful distance during conversations.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public areas; loud conversations are frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Arvika is considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Basic emergency numbers are 112 for police and medical assistance.

Tipping in Arvika

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Sweden, but rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments via apps like Swish are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring nature.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, ideal for water sports and outdoor festivals, with long daylight hours.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, making it a great time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter offers opportunities for skiing and ice fishing, with a magical snowy landscape.

Nightlife Guide

Arvika at Night

Arvika's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with several pubs, bars, and live music venues. The town hosts occasional festivals and events that draw local crowds. Most establishments close early, around midnight, giving a cozy atmosphere to the night.

Hiking in Arvika

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Glaskogen Nature Reserve Trail

A well-marked hiking trail offering stunning views of the natural landscape and diverse wildlife.

Björnsjön Trail

A scenic trail around Björnsjön Lake, ideal for a leisurely hike with picturesque views.

Airports

How to reach Arvika by plane.

Karlstad Airport (KSD)

Located approximately 75 km from Arvika, Karlstad Airport serves both domestic and a few international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Arvika is quite walkable, with most attractions and amenities located within a short walking distance in the town center. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of pedestrian-friendly areas. Biking is also a popular alternative for getting around.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Adults

This demographic often engages in arts and culture, contributing to the town's vibrant scene.

Families

Families enjoy outdoor activities and community events, which are plentiful in Arvika.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a beloved sport in Arvika, with local teams drawing passionate support from the community.

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing is popular during the winter months, with many trails available for both beginners and experienced skiers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Arvika is generally light. The town's layout allows for easy navigation by car, bicycle, or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns, but schedules can be limited, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Arvika.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, especially in larger establishments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Arvika are of high quality, with a public hospital and several clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide