Things To Do
in Eksjö
Eksjö is a small, well-preserved wooden town in Småland, Sweden, known for its historic grid of timbered houses around a charming market square. The town blends 17th- and 18th-century architecture with a lively cultural scene, including museums, cafés, and seasonal markets. Surrounded by forests, lakes, and rural trails, Eksjö makes for easy day trips to experience rural Sweden.
Visitors can enjoy a calm, walkable historic core with friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by wandering through Eksjö's beautifully preserved wooden buildings, a testament to the town's rich history. Take a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets while admiring the unique architecture and local art. Don't forget to pop into the Eksjö Museum to learn about the town's past and its significance in Swedish culture.
After lunch at a charming café, continue your exploration by visiting the town's picturesque parks and gardens. Take some time to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings, maybe even with a good book in hand. You may discover some hidden gems, such as local artisan shops and boutiques offering handcrafted goods.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant offering traditional Swedish cuisine for dinner. Enjoy the local flavors, perhaps trying surströmming or köttbullar, while soaking in the ambiance of this historic town. End the evening with a leisurely walk along the river, reflecting on your delightful day.
Wake up to the sounds of nature and prepare for a day of adventure as you embark on a scenic walk in the surrounding forests and lakes. The fresh air and stunning landscapes will invigorate your spirit and offer a different perspective of Eksjö. Look out for local wildlife and take in the tranquil beauty that Sweden has to offer.
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serene backdrop of nature, perhaps by the edge of a sparkling lake. Spend the afternoon exploring the plethora of trails available in the nearby nature reserves, allowing you to experience the diverse flora and fauna. Don't forget your camera to capture picturesque moments along your hike.
Return to Eksjö for a relaxed evening, and treat yourself to an outdoor dinner where you can savor more of the local cuisine under the open sky. Share stories with fellow travelers, and if the weather permits, find a spot to stargaze after dinner. The peaceful ambiance and fresh air will end your day on a perfect note.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥪Lunch at a cafe | $6-9 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket (one-way) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $90-150 |
| ☕Coffee to-go | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with preserved wooden architecture
- Scenic nature nearby for day trips
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Rich fika culture and seasonal events
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Smaller selection of high-end restaurants
- Weather can be changeable and wintery for extended periods
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta" - Excuse me
- "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does this cost?
- "Var är toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kan jag få notan?" - Can I have the bill?
- "Talar du engelska?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Eksjö
Visit one of these nice places.
A compact ensemble of timber-framed houses, cobbled streets, and pastel colors perfect for atmospheric daytime and golden-hour photography.
The central square framed by historic wooden buildings and the town hall, ideal for street photography and market scenes.
Quiet streets and a backdrop of traditional architecture suitable for architectural shots.
Tranquil water reflections and forest backdrops for landscape photography.
Food in Eksjö
Eksjö Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic Swedish meatballs served with mashed potatoes, cream sauce, and lingonberry jam.
Must-Try!
Potato pancakes fried until crisp, typically served with fried bacon and lingonberries.
Apple pie often served with vanilla sauce or cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend market around the main square offering local produce, berries, breads, and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Take a coffee break mid-morning or afternoon; it’s a social pause and a sign of politeness to join colleagues or friends.
Be on time for appointments and events; lateness is generally frowned upon.
Speak softly in public areas and avoid loud phone conversations on transport.
Safety
Tipping in Eksjö
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sweden, service charges are usually included; tipping is appreciated for exceptional service but not mandatory.
Card payments and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash usage is declining but possible in small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; flowers begin to bloom and trails reopen after winter.
Long days, lively outdoor events, and abundant outdoor dining; ideal for walking and lake activities.
Vibrant fall foliage; great light for photography and forest hikes.
Snow-covered scenery; cozy cafés and potential Christmas markets; daylight hours are shorter.
Eksjö at Night
Hiking in Eksjö
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle forest loops and lakeside viewpoints a short drive from the town center.
Scenic water edges and shaded paths suitable for all levels.
Airports
How to reach Eksjö by plane.
Closest regional airport with domestic and some international connections; about a 2–3 hour drive to Eksjö depending on route.
Small airport near Jönköping offering domestic flights and connections to major hubs; accessible by car or bus to Eksjö.
Regional airport with occasional flights; longer transfer to Eksjö but serves as a gateway in the area.
Major international hub, reachable by train or flight; used for international arrivals and connecting flights to Sweden.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Eksjö with a strong sense of local community.
Nearby universities and vocational schools contribute a youthful presence.
A steady population with emphasis on community services and healthcare.
Visitors attracted by the Old Town, nature, and seasonal events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across all ages; local clubs and amateur leagues.
Common in winter, with nearby trails and snowy landscapes.
Winter sport with community teams and indoor arenas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eksjö.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian versions of classic dishes; look for veggie bakes, mushroom dishes, and dairy-free options. Ask for 'vegetarian' or use 'vegetarian' as a signal; many menus label meat-free dishes.