Things To Do
in Härnösand

Härnösand is a picturesque coastal town in Sweden, known for its stunning natural scenery and rich maritime history. Nestled along the Gulf of Bothnia, it offers beautiful views of the archipelago and a charming town center filled with historical buildings. The town serves as a gateway to the nearby Höga Kusten (High Coast) UNESCO World Heritage site, which features dramatic cliffs and lush forests.

With a population of around 18,000, Härnösand combines small-town friendliness with a vibrant cultural scene.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Härnösand
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Härnösand Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the charming streets of the town center, stopping at local shops and cafes. Visit the beautiful Härnösand Cathedral.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant while taking in views of the sunset over the Gulf of Bothnia.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby Höga Kusten area, exploring trails that offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

afternoon
:

Visit the Höga Kusten Bridge and enjoy a picnic in one of the designated areas nearby.

evening
:

Return to town for a relaxing evening, perhaps enjoying local craft beers at a pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local beer$5-$7
🏨Hotel per night$80-$150
🚌Public transport ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings
  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Cold winters
  • Some attractions may have seasonal hours
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Var ligger...?" - Where is...?
  • "Jag skulle vilja ha..." - I would like...
  • "Ursäkta mig" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Härnösand

Visit one of these nice places.

Höga Kusten Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, especially at sunset.

Härnösand Cathedral

A beautiful architectural landmark with intricate details, perfect for capturing both exterior and interior shots.

Bergslagsleden Trail

A scenic hiking trail that provides breathtaking vistas of the Gulf and the rugged coastline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Härnösand

Härnösand offers a delightful culinary experience with local specialties that reflect its coastal heritage.

Härnösand Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Surströmming

Fermented herring, a traditional Swedish dish, often served with flatbread and potatoes.

Must-Try!

Raggmunk

Potato pancakes, usually served with lingonberry sauce and sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Härnösand Farmers Market

A weekly market featuring fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and street food vendors offering traditional Swedish snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Härnösand experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Personal Space

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

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Swedish culture; arriving late can be considered rude.

Quietness in Public

Keep noise levels low in public spaces, as Swedes appreciate a calm and quiet atmosphere.

Safety Guide

Safety

Härnösand is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping personal belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Tipping in Härnösand

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a 10% tip is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments are popular. Always confirm in advance if cash is required.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring nature.

Summer

Summer is warm and sunny, perfect for beach outings and enjoying the archipelago. Be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning fall foliage, particularly in the forests surrounding Härnösand, with cooler temperatures.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snow, suitable for winter sports, but be sure to dress warmly and check local conditions.

Nightlife Guide

Härnösand at Night

Härnösand's nightlife is relatively low-key but offers a cozy atmosphere with several bars and pubs. Most venues focus on a relaxed vibe, featuring live music and a selection of local beers. The summer months see a rise in outdoor events and gatherings, enhancing the social scene.

Hiking in Härnösand

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Skuleberget Trail

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views of the coast and surrounding forests, suitable for various skill levels.

Björkön Nature Reserve

A beautiful reserve with well-marked trails through forests and along the coastline, ideal for both hiking and birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Härnösand by plane.

Sundsvall-Timrå Airport (SDL)

Located about 30 km from Härnösand, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it the most convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Härnösand is a walkable town with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town center features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are several parks for relaxation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Young families are a growing demographic in Härnösand, attracted by its family-friendly environment and good educational facilities.

Retirees

Retirees are also well-represented, enjoying the peaceful lifestyle and natural beauty of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is extremely popular in Härnösand, with local teams participating in various leagues and games drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Football (Soccer)

Football is another widely played sport, with several local clubs and community support for various youth leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Härnösand is generally light, making driving comfortable. Public transportation includes buses that connect the town with nearby areas, and cycling is also popular given the town's flat terrain. Walking is a preferred method of transport for many locals.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Härnösand.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to inform the staff of any strict dietary requirements.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, especially in larger establishments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Härnösand is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics providing general and specialized care. Emergency services are available, and most healthcare providers speak English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance to cover any medical needs.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide