Things To Do
in Söderhamn

Söderhamn is a picturesque coastal town located in Gävleborg County, Sweden, known for its rich maritime history and beautiful natural surroundings. The town offers a blend of cultural heritage and modern amenities, making it a charming destination for visitors. With its serene waterfront, lush parks, and vibrant local community, Söderhamn provides a perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Visitors can engage in various outdoor activities, explore local museums, and savor delicious Swedish cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Söderhamn
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Söderhamn Museum, where you can learn about the town's history and maritime heritage.

afternoon
:

Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy a picnic at Stenö Park, followed by a visit to the nearby Söderhamn Church, a beautiful example of Swedish architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional Swedish dishes, and then take a relaxing evening walk along the harbor.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Håsta Nature Reserve, exploring its scenic trails and diverse flora.

afternoon
:

Visit the local artisan shops and craft markets in the town center, where you can find unique souvenirs and local handicrafts.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local brewery for a tasting session and enjoy live music at a nearby pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🍺Local Beer$5-$8
🏨Hotel Night$70-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery
  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Wide range of outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Not as touristy as larger cities
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Var är toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kan jag få menyn, tack?" - Can I have the menu, please?
  • "Jag talar inte svenska" - I do not speak Swedish

Places to Visit in Söderhamn

Visit one of these nice places.

Stenö Park

A scenic park located along the waterfront, perfect for capturing stunning sunset views and natural beauty.

Söderhamn Harbor

The harbor area offers picturesque views of boats and the surrounding landscape, ideal for lively waterfront photos.

Söderhamn Church

A striking architectural landmark that provides a beautiful backdrop for photography with its unique design.

Culinary Guide

Food in Söderhamn

Söderhamn offers a delightful culinary experience with fresh, local ingredients and traditional Swedish flavors.

Söderhamn Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Köttbullar

Swedish meatballs served with lingonberry sauce and creamy mashed potatoes.

Must-Try!

Gravlax

Cured salmon served with mustard sauce and bread, a staple of Swedish cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Söderhamn Food Market

A bustling market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and street food vendors offering a taste of regional specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Söderhamn experiences a temperate climate, with distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F) and snowfall common. Summers are mild to warm, with temperatures averaging 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Spring and autumn are transitional, offering mild temperatures and occasional rain, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Swedish culture, so punctuality is expected for social and business gatherings.

Politeness

Swedes appreciate politeness, so greetings and small talk are important when interacting with locals.

Personal Space

Respect for personal space is significant; it's best to maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Söderhamn is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any location, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's recommended to familiarize yourself with local emergency contacts.

Tipping in Söderhamn

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.

Payment Methods

Swedes commonly use credit/debit cards for transactions, and mobile payment apps are widely accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring nature.

Summer

Summer offers warm temperatures and long daylight hours, perfect for beach outings and festivals.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, making it a picturesque time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter provides opportunities for snow sports and cozy indoor activities, with beautiful snowy landscapes to enjoy.

Nightlife Guide

Söderhamn at Night

Söderhamn's nightlife is relatively laid-back, featuring a mix of cozy pubs, bars, and occasional live music venues. The local scene is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration, with many establishments offering a friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and local wines while mingling with locals. During summer, outdoor seating areas become popular spots for socializing, while winter brings a cozy ambiance indoors.

Hiking in Söderhamn

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Håsta Nature Reserve Trail

This scenic trail offers a moderate hiking experience through lush forests and along beautiful lakes, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Björkön Trail

A picturesque trail on Björkön Island that features coastal views, wildlife, and opportunities for birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Söderhamn by plane.

Hälsingland Airport (SDL)

Located about 20 km from Söderhamn, Hälsingland Airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Söderhamn is quite walkable, with many attractions, shops, and eateries located within a short distance of each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are designated walking paths along the waterfront, enhancing the experience for visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Söderhamn has a growing population of young families attracted by the town's quality of life, educational facilities, and outdoor spaces.

Retirees

Many retirees choose Söderhamn for its peaceful environment and access to nature, contributing to a vibrant community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A beloved sport in Sweden, ice hockey sees local teams competing in leagues and is a favorite pastime during winter months.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely popular in Söderhamn, with local clubs fostering community spirit and engaging fans throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Söderhamn is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes local buses that connect various parts of the town, and the schedule is reliable. Cycling is also popular, with many designated bike lanes available for safe travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Söderhamn.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand.

Gluten-Free Options

Some restaurants provide gluten-free alternatives, but it's best to inquire about specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sweden is of high quality, and Söderhamn has access to local clinics and hospitals. Emergency services are efficient, and non-emergency medical care can be accessed through local healthcare providers. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical needs while abroad.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide