Things To Do
in Borlänge
Borlänge is a compact city in central Sweden, tucked along the Dalälven river in Dalarna County. It blends urban amenities with easy access to forests and lakes, making it a good base for outdoor adventures. The town center offers a relaxed, family-friendly vibe with cultural sights, parks, and a growing selection of shops and eateries.
Year-round, Borlänge welcomes visitors with a friendly pace and straightforward access to nature and regional culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Settle into your hotel and enjoy a freshly brewed coffee at a local café overlooking the banks of the Faluån river. Stroll along the riverside paths taking in views of colorful buildings reflecting in the water. Pause at a bench to watch kayakers drift by as the town awakens around you.
Head to the Tunet Shopping Center to browse Scandinavian design stores and sample traditional pastries in the food court. Venture to the nearby Playground Park for a gentle walk among modern sculptures and playground art. Stop at a street-side kiosk for a plate of fresh pickled herring or meatballs served with lingonberry jam.
Return to the riverside for a sunset walk and capture the pink hues dancing on the water. Dine at a cozy bistro serving locally sourced game meats and seasonal vegetables. Conclude your evening with a craft beer tasting at one of Borlänge’s microbreweries while listening to live folk music.
Begin your day with a guided walking tour of Borlänge’s historic center, learning about its industrial past and transformation into a cultural hub. Stop at Gammelgården open-air museum to explore traditional Dalarna farmhouses and craft workshops. Chat with local artisans demonstrating woodcarving and weaving techniques handed down through generations.
Enjoy a homemade lunch at a family-run inn with hearty soups and homemade bread. Visit Carl Larsson-gården to admire the artwork and personal belongings of Sweden’s beloved painter and his family. Wander the sculpture garden featuring contemporary installations among tall pine trees.
Attend a performance at Borlänge Kulturhus, where local theater troupes bring Swedish folklore to life. Savor a three-course meal highlighting foraged mushrooms and artisanal cheeses at a nearby farm-to-table restaurant. Finish the night with a stroll under illuminated streetlights along the main promenade.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $6-9 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-15 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact city with easy access to nature
- Friendly locals and good public services
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger Swedish cities
- Some attractions have limited hours outside peak season
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Var ligger toaletten?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Kan jag få notan?" - Can I have the check?
Places to Visit in Borlänge
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic green space with ponds, bridges, and seasonal blooms—great for family and nature photography.
A hilltop vantage point offering sweeping views over Borlänge and the river valley, especially striking at sunset.
Railway architecture and activity provide urban photo opportunities and candid scenes.
A modern glass-and-steel mall facade that contrasts with older city textures for architectural shots.
Riverside scenes with reflective water and wildlife, ideal for tranquil landscape photography.
Food in Borlänge
Borlänge Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Swedish meatballs served with potatoes, lingonberry, and creamy gravy—common in traditional eateries and family-friendly cafés.
Must-Try!
Potato pancake usually served with fried pork and lingonberries; a rustic staple you may find in local bistros.
A milk-based Swedish cheesecake/dessert that is popular in Dalarnan cafés and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering berries, cheeses, honey, bread, and other regional specialties.
Casual bites and lighter fare, great for a quick outdoor meal or coffee break.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Swedes value orderly queues and respectful interactions; maintain personal space in public spaces.
The cherished coffee break with pastries; it’s as much about socializing as about caffeine.
Safety
Tipping in Borlänge
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated but not obligatory.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; cash use is decreasing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, pleasant temperatures, and outdoor events; bring a light layer for evenings.
Colorful foliage and cooler days; great for photography and forest walks.
Snow-covered landscapes and crisp air; plan for frosty mornings and occasional road conditions.
Mild temperatures with rain showers and budding trees; layers recommended.
Borlänge at Night
Hiking in Borlänge
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic, varied terrain along the river with options for easy strolls and moderate hikes.
Hillside paths offering city views and forested sections suitable for a half-day hike.
Protected areas within a short drive with diverse landscapes for nature walks and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Borlänge by plane.
Small local airport close to the city with domestic flights and some seasonal international connections; easy to reach by taxi or bus.
Sweden's main international hub; about 2.5–3.5 hours away by train or car from Borlänge.
Major international hub in Norway; convenient for connections when traveling through the region, accessible via rail or car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Family-friendly neighborhoods with parks, schools, and community activities.
A portion of the population attends regional education centers and contributes to a youthful local culture.
Residents who travel to nearby Falun or larger regional hubs for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved winter sport with local clubs and community rinks.
A common indoor sport throughout schools and clubs in the region.
Active local leagues and community fields; a staple of outdoor sports in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Borlänge.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus offer vegetarian options; ask for meat-free versions and many places can adapt recipes.