Things To Do
in Linköping

Linköping, Sweden, is a picturesque city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. As a hub for technology and education, it is home to Linköping University and several high-tech companies. The city offers a charming blend of old and new, with stunning architecture, including the iconic Linköping Cathedral and modern buildings.

Nestled in Östergötland County, Linköping is surrounded by lush countryside, making it a perfect destination for both city lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Linköping Cathedral, one of Sweden's largest cathedrals. After exploring the cathedral, stroll through the nearby Stora Torget, the main square, and enjoy a coffee at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Linköping Castle and the nearby gardens, followed by a trip to the Östergötland Museum to learn about the region's history and art.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, then head to a bar in the city center for a nightcap and enjoy some live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Stångån River, enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

afternoon
:

Visit the Linköping Air Force Museum to see impressive aircraft and learn about Sweden's aviation history.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a traditional Swedish restaurant, followed by a walk through the city's charming streets illuminated at night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🍕Fast Food Combo$10-15
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3-5
🏨Hotel Night$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Beautiful natural scenery
  • Vibrant, walkable city center
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors
  • Public transport can be less frequent in rural areas
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Ursäkta" - Excuse me
  • "Var är toaletten?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Jag förstår inte" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Linköping

Visit one of these nice places.

Linköping Cathedral

This stunning cathedral features beautiful architecture and intricate details, perfect for capturing breathtaking photos.

Gamla Linköping

An open-air museum showcasing historic buildings and charming streets, ideal for picturesque shots.

Stångån River

The scenic river provides beautiful landscapes, especially during sunset, making it a perfect spot for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Linköping

Linköping offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects both traditional Swedish flavors and modern gastronomy. From hearty meat dishes to fresh seafood, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Linköping Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Köttbullar

Swedish meatballs, typically served with lingonberry sauce and creamy gravy.

Must-Try!

Gravad lax

Cured salmon with dill, served with mustard sauce on crispbread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Linköping Market

A vibrant market held weekly, featuring local produce, crafts, and street food stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Linköping experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm with temperatures averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters can be cold, dropping to -5°C (23°F) or lower. Spring and autumn are mild, with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Personal Space

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

Politeness

Being polite and using 'please' and 'thank you' is essential in social interactions.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued; always strive to arrive at meetings and events promptly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Linköping is considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings in public places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's advisable to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Linköping

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small percentage (5-10%) is customary.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments are popular. Cash is less commonly used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, perfect for outdoor festivals, picnics, and enjoying local parks.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning fall foliage, ideal for photography and enjoying nature walks.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snow, offering opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Linköping at Night

Linköping has a lively nightlife scene, featuring a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city offers something for everyone, from cozy pubs to energetic dance clubs. Popular areas include the city center where you can find a mix of traditional Swedish bars and modern cocktail lounges. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to socialize and meet locals.

Hiking in Linköping

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tinnerö Ecology Park Trails

A beautiful network of trails in Tinnerö Ecology Park offering various lengths and difficulty levels, perfect for nature walks and hiking.

Röbäck Trail

This scenic trail runs through picturesque forests and fields, providing a peaceful hiking experience just outside the city.

Airports

How to reach Linköping by plane.

Linköping City Airport

Located just a few kilometers from the city center, Linköping City Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections. It is a small airport, making it easy to navigate.

Getting Around

Walkability

Linköping is a very walkable city, especially in the city center, where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within easy walking distance. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, with ample sidewalks and crossings. Biking is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the city, making it easy to explore without a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With Linköping University located in the city, a large student population contributes to the vibrant atmosphere and cultural scene.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals work in the technology and engineering sectors, drawn by opportunities in the growing job market.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a favorite sport in Linköping, with local teams competing in national leagues and drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Football (Soccer)

Football is also widely popular, with local clubs having a strong following and regular matches throughout the season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Linköping is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and local trains, which provide convenient access to surrounding areas. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, supported by an extensive network of bike lanes. Parking can be found throughout the city, but it's advisable to check local regulations and fees.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Linköping.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Linköping offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, especially in cafes and restaurants, but always inquire before ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Sweden has a high-quality healthcare system, and Linköping is served by several hospitals and clinics. Emergency services can be accessed through the national emergency number 112. For non-emergency care, residents can visit local clinics, and many services are available in English. Travelers are recommended to have health insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide