Things To Do
in Kalmar

Kalmar, Sweden, is a historic coastal city located on the southeastern shore of Sweden. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, Kalmar Castle stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. The picturesque harbor and islands of the nearby Baltic Sea provide stunning views and recreational opportunities.

With a blend of cultural heritage and modern amenities, Kalmar is an inviting destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Historic Heart
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Kalmar Castle, where you can explore its grand halls and beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the charming streets of Kalmar's old town, visiting the Kalmar Cathedral and enjoying lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant and take an evening walk along the harbor to enjoy the sunset views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Kalmar Art Museum to appreciate contemporary Swedish art.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a ferry to the island of Öland, exploring its lighthouses and unique landscapes.

evening
:

Return to Kalmar for a cozy dinner and enjoy a local craft beer at a nearby pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🍕Street food snack$5-$10
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🥖Loaf of bread$2-$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery with outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during the summer tourist season.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn.
  • "Tack!" - Thank you!
  • "Hej!" - Hello!
  • "Var är toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Jag älskar Sverige!" - I love Sweden!
  • "Hjälp!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Kalmar

Visit one of these nice places.

Kalmar Castle

A stunning medieval castle surrounded by a moat, providing perfect backdrops for photos.

Kalmar Harbor

The picturesque harbor is ideal for sunset photography with boats and the city skyline.

Öland Bridge

The bridge connecting Kalmar to Öland offers panoramic views, especially beautiful at dusk.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kalmar

Kalmar offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Swedish flavors with fresh local ingredients.

Kalmar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kalmar Dungeness Crab

A local delicacy, known for its sweet and tender meat, often served with lemon and butter.

Must-Try!

Smalahove

A traditional dish made from sheep's head, typically served during the winter months.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kalmar Market

A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kalmar experiences a temperate maritime climate with relatively mild winters and warm summers. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities. Winters can be chilly, averaging around -3°C to 3°C (27°F to 37°F) with occasional snow. Rainfall is moderate throughout the year, with the wettest months being August and September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important; it is considered polite to arrive slightly early for appointments.

Respect for Personal Space

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

Quietness in Public Places

Keep noise levels low in public spaces like public transport or restaurants to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kalmar is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals provide healthcare services.

Tipping in Kalmar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and many places prefer electronic payments over cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, ideal for beach visits and local festivals, but can be crowded with tourists.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage; temperatures drop, and it's a great time for photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the city lights up with holiday decorations; winter sports are popular.

Nightlife Guide

Kalmar at Night

Kalmar's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with various bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The Old Town is home to charming pubs offering local beers, while larger venues host live music and dance events. The atmosphere is friendly, and many places close early, so plan your night accordingly.

Hiking in Kalmar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Böda Sand Trail

A scenic trail on Öland, offering beautiful views of the coastline and opportunities for birdwatching.

Stora Alvaret

A unique hiking area known for its limestone plains, rich flora, and fauna; perfect for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Kalmar by plane.

Kalmar Airport (KLR)

Located approximately 5 km from the city center, Kalmar Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kalmar is a highly walkable city, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The charming streets of the Old Town are pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Well-marked paths and pedestrian zones ensure a pleasant walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Kalmar has a significant student population due to its university, contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Families

Families are a prominent demographic in Kalmar, attracted by the city's quality of life and educational opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport in Kalmar, with local teams competing at various levels, drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely followed, with local clubs having a strong fan base and hosting matches during the season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kalmar is generally light, making it easy to navigate the city by car or bike. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas, with reliable schedules. Cycling is also a popular option due to the flat terrain and dedicated bike lanes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalmar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more common; inquire directly at restaurants for specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kalmar is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available. The public healthcare system is accessible to residents and visitors, and emergency services can be contacted easily. Travelers are advised to have health insurance and be aware of their coverage.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide