Things To Do
in Gävle

Gävle is a charming coastal city located in central Sweden, known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. It features picturesque parks, historical architecture, and a beautiful waterfront along the Gavleån River. The city is home to the iconic Gävle Goat, a large straw goat erected each Christmas, which has become a symbol of the city.

With a mix of modern amenities and traditional Swedish charm, Gävle offers visitors a unique travel experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Gävle Art Gallery, where you can admire both contemporary and classical art pieces.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll in Boulognerskogen Park, enjoying the beautiful nature and perhaps a picnic by the lakes.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, such as Restaurant Duvkullen, which offers traditional Swedish dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Gävle Museum to learn about the city's history and culture, including exhibits on local industry.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic district of Gamla Gävle, with its well-preserved wooden houses and charming streets.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife at a pub like The Bishop, known for its lively atmosphere and selection of beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🍕Street Food$7-$12
🏨Hotel Night$80-$150
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and parks.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent on weekends.
  • Some attractions may have seasonal opening hours.
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Ursäkta" - Excuse me
  • "Var ligger...?" - Where is...?
  • "Jag förstår inte" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Gävle

Visit one of these nice places.

The Gävle Goat

An iconic symbol of Gävle, perfect for capturing festive holiday spirit.

Boulognerskogen Park

A picturesque park filled with lush greenery and scenic views, ideal for nature photography.

Gamla Gävle

The historic wooden houses and charming streets offer a perfect backdrop for capturing the city's history.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gävle

Gävle offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects Swedish traditions and local specialties, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Gävle Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sill

Pickled herring served with various accompaniments, a staple in Swedish cuisine.

Must-Try!

Köttbullar

Swedish meatballs served with lingonberry sauce and creamy gravy.

Raggmunk

Crispy potato pancakes served with sour cream and lingonberries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gävle Market

A weekly market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food options.

Food Trucks at Gävle Strand

Seasonal food trucks serving various international and Swedish street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gävle has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and snowfall common. Summers are mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Spring and autumn are transitional, featuring mild temperatures and occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Swedes value punctuality, so it's important to arrive on time for meetings or gatherings.

Respect for Nature

Always respect nature and designated paths in parks and outdoor areas.

Personal Space

Swedes appreciate personal space, so maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gävle is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by calling 112, and it's advisable to have travel insurance for added security.

Tipping in Gävle

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of around 10% is appreciated in restaurants, but not mandatory as service is included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common, making transactions easy.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Enjoy warm temperatures and long daylight hours, perfect for exploring parks and waterfronts.

Autumn

Experience beautiful fall foliage, ideal for photography and nature walks.

Winter

Prepare for cold weather and potential snowfall, but also enjoy winter sports and holiday festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Gävle at Night

Gävle's nightlife is vibrant and varied, featuring a mix of lively pubs, bars, and clubs. Many venues host live music and cultural events, making it easy to find entertainment. The Bishop and Cafe Norrland are popular spots for locals, offering a casual atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks. For those looking for dancing, clubs like The Kings or The Lounge provide an energetic vibe.

Hiking in Gävle

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking at Högbo Bruk

A scenic area with marked trails, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Björkhagen Nature Reserve

Offers various trails with stunning views of forests and lakes, suitable for all hiking levels.

Airports

How to reach Gävle by plane.

Gävle-Sandviken Airport

Located about 20 km from Gävle, this regional airport offers limited domestic flights and connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gävle is a very walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, especially in the city center. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to explore on foot. Additionally, the scenic waterfront and parks offer beautiful walking paths for leisure strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant population of students due to the presence of local universities and colleges.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Gävle, attracted by job opportunities and the city's amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a major sport in Gävle, with local teams competing at various levels.

Football (Soccer)

Football is also popular, with several local clubs and a strong fan base supporting matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gävle is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses that connect the city with surrounding areas, offering a reliable way to get around. Biking is also popular, and many bike lanes are available for cyclists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gävle.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's good to check the menu ahead.

Gluten-Free Options

Some cafes and restaurants provide gluten-free meals, especially in larger establishments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Gävle is accessible and of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are prompt and efficient, and most medical professionals speak English. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide