Things To Do
in Hudiksvall
Hudiksvall is a picturesque coastal town in Hälsingland on Sweden's High Coast, known for its charming harbor and wooden façades. It blends maritime heritage with modern cafés, shops, and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. The town serves as a gateway to nearby archipelagoes, forests, and scenic coastal walks.
Visitors can enjoy a welcoming Swedish experience with cultural events, outdoor activities, and easy access to nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Hudiksvall and settle into your accommodation overlooking the bay. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Swedish coffee accompanied by a local cardamom bun at a nearby café. Spend time browsing the harborfront to get your first glimpse of the charming seafront town.
Take a leisurely stroll through the town center and visit the Hudiksvall Tourist Center to plan upcoming excursions. Explore quaint shops selling Swedish handicrafts, ceramics, and maritime souvenirs. Pause at a riverside café for a light lunch of open-faced sandwiches and Hälsingland specialties.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant serving freshly caught Baltic seafood with locally sourced ingredients. Witness a spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Bothnia as you sample gravlax and herring plates. Conclude your evening with a relaxing walk along the pier, breathing in the crisp sea air.
Join a guided walking tour of the historic Old Town to admire preserved 19th-century wooden buildings. Learn about Hudiksvall’s maritime heritage while visiting the charming Trinity Church. Feel the rich history seep through cobblestone lanes lined with pastel-colored facades.
Head to the Hudiksvalls Hantverkskompaniet to watch local artisans craft traditional Hälsingland textiles. Visit the Hudiksvalls Museum to uncover tales of shipbuilding and local folklore. Enjoy a light lunch in the museum café, sampling a reindeer stew or vegetarian quiche.
Experience a traditional Swedish dinner at a cozy tavern featuring meatballs and lingonberry jam. Pair your meal with a glass of local craft beer or aquavit. End the night with a stroll through illuminated narrow streets and quaint plazas.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $6-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🧭Groceries for two for a week | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastline and archipelago
- Compact and walkable town center
- Good value for money and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and larger-city amenities
- Weather can be changeable and cooler than expected
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta" - Excuse me
- "Var ligger toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kan du rekommendera en bra restaurang?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does this cost?
- "Jag talar lite svenska" - I speak a little Swedish
Places to Visit in Hudiksvall
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over the quay with boats and reflections on the water.
Historic, colorful façades and charming narrow streets ideal for architectural photography.
Sweeping views of the coastline and town lights at golden hour.
Industrial-chic structure with water reflections and a moody sky.
Food in Hudiksvall
Hudiksvall Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cured salmon served with a creamy dill-mustard sauce and potatoes, a common Scandinavian treat in coastal Sweden.
Must-Try!
Smoked fish paired with boiled or mashed potatoes and fresh dill.
Summer celebrations with boiled crayfish, dill, and crusty bread, often enjoyed outdoors with friends.
A classic pairing found in many local eateries and markets, showcasing Baltic influences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local produce, berries, dairy, and fresh fish from nearby waters; great for tasting regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual, respect personal space, and join the fika tradition for a coffee break with friends or colleagues. Queue patiently and speak politely in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Hudiksvall
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Sweden, but for good service 5-10% is appreciated in higher-end establishments.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments are common. Cash is accepted in most places but some venues prefer cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with bright daylight and comfortable temperatures; ideal for harbor strolls, boat trips, and outdoor dining. Expect more visitors and seasonal events.
Mild days with fall colors and frequent showers; layer up and keep an umbrella handy for forest walks and city strolls.
Cold, snowy, and short daylight hours; embrace winter activities like ice skating and nearby cross-country skiing, with warm clothing essential.
Warming temperatures and blooming trees; outdoor cafés reopen and trails become more inviting as nights lengthen.
Hudiksvall at Night
Hiking in Hudiksvall
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Part of the long-distance Hälsingeleden route, offering forest and coastal scenery near Hudiksvall.
Shorter loops with sea views and opportunities to spot birds and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Hudiksvall by plane.
Nearest regional airport with domestic flights and some international connections; reachable by road or rail via transfers.
Smaller regional airport within a reasonable driving distance, suitable for domestic travel.
Sweden’s main international gateway; connected to Hudiksvall by train or car with several daily options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families with children; family-friendly services are readily available.
A notable portion of the population enjoys a quieter coastal lifestyle.
Summer influx brings additional energy and short-term hospitality staff.
Predominantly Swedish-speaking with some residents from other Nordic and European backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local clubs and informal matches; a common spectator activity in season.
Winter staple with local leagues and indoor rinks.
Accessible on nearby trails during winter with scenic forest views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hudiksvall.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian plates, salads, and pasta. Ask for meat-free dishes or dairy-free options, and you’ll often get creative seasonal vegetables and grains.