Things To Do
in Sigtuna

Sigtuna, Sweden, is a charming town located on the shores of Lake Mälaren, known for its rich history and picturesque surroundings. Founded in the 10th century, it is Sweden's oldest town, boasting medieval architecture, quaint streets, and beautiful waterfront views. Visitors can explore ancient runestones, historic buildings, and a vibrant cultural scene.

With its blend of history, nature, and modern amenities, Sigtuna offers a unique travel experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Sigtuna's History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Sigtuna Museum, where you can learn about the town's Viking heritage. Stroll along Stora Gatan, the main street, lined with charming wooden houses and shops.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic runestones in the town center and take a leisurely walk by the lakeside promenade. Stop by the charming café, Tant Brun, for a traditional Swedish fika.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant such as Tullgarn, known for its seasonal Swedish cuisine, followed by a peaceful evening walk to enjoy the sunset over Lake Mälaren.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery, then head to Sigtuna's waterfront for a boat tour of Lake Mälaren to enjoy the surrounding nature.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Sigtuna Golf Course or visit the nearby forest for a leisurely hike. Grab lunch at a food market or try some local street food.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit by dining at Restaurant Mälardrottningen, where you can enjoy a meal with stunning views of the lake, followed by a nightcap at a local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal in a Restaurant$20
Coffee$4
🍔Fast Food Combo$10
🏨Hotel Night$100
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical heritage and beautiful architecture.
  • Stunning natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Quaint and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be quiet during the off-season.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent.
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Förlåt" - Sorry
  • "Var är toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Jag förstår inte" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Sigtuna

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Mälaren

The serene waters of Lake Mälaren provide a stunning backdrop for photography, especially at sunset.

Sigtuna Town Hall

This historic building offers a picturesque setting with beautiful architecture and surrounding gardens.

Runestones

Capture the ancient runestones scattered around the town, each telling a story of Sigtuna's Viking past.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sigtuna

Sigtuna offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Swedish flavors.

Sigtuna Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gravad Lax

A traditional Swedish dish of cured salmon, typically served with mustard sauce and crisp bread.

Must-Try!

Köttbullar

Swedish meatballs served with lingonberry sauce and creamy mashed potatoes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sigtuna Food Market

A vibrant market held on weekends featuring local produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sigtuna experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers (June to August) are mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are transitional seasons, with varying temperatures and occasional rainfall. Rain is common throughout the year, so it's wise to pack an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Personal Space

Swedes value personal space, so it's polite to stand a little distance apart when chatting.

Quietness

Keeping noise levels down in public spaces is appreciated; Swedes generally prefer a calm atmosphere.

Punctuality

Being on time is important; lateness can be seen as disrespectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sigtuna is considered a safe destination for travelers. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft can occur, particularly in tourist areas. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Sigtuna

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments are increasingly popular. Cash is not commonly used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a lovely time to visit Sigtuna as flowers bloom and outdoor activities become more popular. Expect mild weather, perfect for hiking and exploring.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather and vibrant events. Enjoy outdoor dining, boat tours, and festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for photography and outdoor activities. The weather can be brisk, so dress warmly.

Winter

Winter in Sigtuna offers a magical atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes. Enjoy winter sports, Christmas markets, and cozy indoor cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Sigtuna at Night

Sigtuna's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger Swedish cities. The town has a few bars and restaurants that offer a cozy atmosphere for drinks and socializing. Many locals enjoy gathering in small groups at cafés or pubs, especially during the summer months. For a livelier scene, nearby Uppsala offers a wider range of nightlife options including clubs and music venues.

Hiking in Sigtuna

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sigtuna Nature Reserve

A beautiful reserve offering various trails through forests and along the lakeside, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

Rosersberg Palace Park

Located nearby, this park features well-marked trails through lush gardens and scenic views of the palace, ideal for leisurely hikes.

Airports

How to reach Sigtuna by plane.

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)

Located about 20 kilometers from Sigtuna, Stockholm Arlanda is the main international airport serving the region, offering a wide range of flights to destinations worldwide. Regular bus and train services connect the airport to Sigtuna.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sigtuna is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance from each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. The lakeside promenade is particularly scenic and perfect for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Young families are a significant demographic in Sigtuna, attracted by the town's community-oriented environment, good schools, and access to nature.

Retirees

Many retirees choose to live in Sigtuna for its peaceful setting, historical charm, and proximity to larger urban areas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Sigtuna, with local teams participating in regional leagues and many residents enjoying playing casually.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is also widely followed, with local clubs and youth programs contributing to the sport's popularity in the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sigtuna is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses connecting Sigtuna to surrounding areas, though frequency may vary. For longer distances, trains are available from nearby stations, providing access to larger cities like Stockholm and Uppsala.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sigtuna.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants in Sigtuna offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available at many eateries; just ask your server for recommendations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sigtuna is accessible, with several clinics and medical facilities available. Emergency services can be reached easily, and the quality of care is generally high. Travelers should have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and it's advisable to carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide