Things To Do
in Kalmar
Kalmar is a historic port city in southeastern Sweden perched on the Kalmar Strait. Its crowning feature is the medieval Kalmar Castle, which anchors a compact, walkable old town of colorful wooden houses. The city blends centuries of history with a lively harbor scene, cozy cafés, and easy access to the island of Öland.
Visitors can explore museums, stroll along the waterfront, and enjoy outdoor adventures in the Baltic coastal landscape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kalmar and check into your hotel. After settling in, head straight to Kalmar Castle, an impressive Renaissance fortress. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about its history and admire its stunning architecture and gardens.
After exploring the castle, stroll along the picturesque streets of Kalmar's old town. Visit the charming boutiques and cafes while soaking in the local atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to stop by the Kalmar Art Museum to appreciate contemporary Swedish art.
Dine at a cozy restaurant in the heart of Kalmar, where you can savor local seafood dishes. Enjoy the serene views of the sunset over the water as you relax after a day of adventure. Consider taking an evening walk by the harbor to feel the fresh sea breeze.
Take a short drive or bike ride over the iconic Öland Bridge to the island of Öland. Start your day by visiting the beautiful Borgholm Castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Spend some time walking through the historical ruins and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Head to the coastal town of Borgholm for lunch, then explore the picturesque beaches and landscape of Öland. Visit the unique Stora Alvaret, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique biodiversity. Don't forget to stop at local shops for unique souvenirs.
Return to Kalmar and enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring traditional Swedish cuisine. Reflect on your day’s adventures while sipping on coffee or a local drink. If time allows, take a leisurely stroll through the city center, enjoying the vibrant night life.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🚎One-way public transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable center with rich medieval history
- Easy access to Öland and Baltic coastal scenery
- Quiet nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some attractions require day trips to nearby islands or nature reserves
- "Hej" - Hello / Hi
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta" - Excuse me
- "Var ligger toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Kan jag få notan, tack?" - Can I get the bill, please?
- "Jag skulle vilja boka ett bord" - I would like to book a table
- "Jag förstår inte" - I don’t understand
- "Vänligen" - Please
Places to Visit in Kalmar
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic fortress with striking towers and waterfront views, providing dramatic shots from the outer ramparts and gardens.
Colorful timber-framed houses and historic facades create a quintessential Swedish townscape, especially at golden hour.
Gothic architecture with impressive interiors and a tower offering city and harbor glimpses.
Scenic perspectives over the Kalmar Strait and the distant island of Öland, ideal for sunset photography.
Boats, masts, and Baltic light make for lively maritime images, especially at dawn or dusk.
Food in Kalmar
Kalmar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic seaside snack with fresh shrimp, lettuce, mayo, dill, and lemon on crusty bread; widely available at harborside cafés.
Must-Try!
Cured salmon served with dill-infused mustard sauce, often on rye bread with dill potatoes.
A warming fish stew featuring local catch, herbs, cream, and seasonal vegetables.
Hearty meatballs served with lingonberry sauce and typically potatoes; a nod to the broader Småland culinary tradition.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls by the harbor offering fresh seafood, berries, cheeses, and local crafts.
Seasonal stalls with local produce, baked goods, and regional specialties in the city square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite “hej” (hello) or a handshake; Swedes value modesty and politeness in interactions.
Be punctual for appointments and respect orderly queues in shops and public transport.
Generally low-key and respectful in public, avoiding loud conversations in quiet areas or on public transport.
Safety
Tipping in Kalmar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; service charges are usually included. Round up bills or add a small tip for good service in cafés and restaurants if you wish.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted (contactless is common); cash is accepted but less common in some venues. Mobile payment apps (Swish) are increasingly used in Sweden.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures start to rise, trees bloom, and city parks become pleasant for outdoor strolls; showers are common, so carry a light waterproof layer.
Long daylight hours and pleasant to warm temperatures (often in the 20s °C); ideal for harbor walks, boat trips, and outdoor markets; expect crowds near harbors and festival events.
Cooling days with colorful fall foliage; great for photography and city walks; occasional rain—pack layers and a compact umbrella.
Chillier with chances of snow; days are shorter but the city takes on a cozy, festive feel; indoor attractions and cafés provide warmth and cultural experiences.
Kalmar at Night
Hiking in Kalmar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Vast limestone plain with unique flora and expansive trails; reachable by crossing the Öland Bridge for immersive day hikes.
Coastal walking routes along the Kalmar Strait offering sea views, cliffs, and quiet coves.
Forest trails around ancient Gråborg with historical ruins and scenic woodland scenery.
Airports
How to reach Kalmar by plane.
Small regional airport offering domestic and seasonal routes; about a short drive from the city center.
Larger regional airport with connections to Stockholm and other European destinations; roughly a 2–2.5 hour drive or train ride from Kalmar.
Sweden’s main international gateway; accessible by train or domestic flight with onward rail connections to Kalmar.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly city with parks, museums, and kid-friendly cafés.
A university-influenced community with cultural events, affordable dining, and housing options.
Quiet residential areas and accessible public services, contributing to a steady, peaceful city rhythm.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and community teams, with supporters and matches that draw visitors to the regional sports scene.
Kalmar’s coastal location makes sailing, kayaking, and other water-based activities popular in season.
Nearby wooded areas and countryside offer opportunities for winter sport when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalmar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Kalmar; look for veggie mains at both cafés and restaurants, request meatless versions of regional dishes, and enjoy seasonal salads, veggie soups, and plant-based substitutes.