Things To Do
in Umeå

Umeå is a vibrant city located in northern Sweden, known for its rich cultural heritage and academic atmosphere. It is home to several universities, making it a youthful and dynamic place. The city has a beautiful blend of modern architecture and traditional Swedish wooden houses, nestled along the Ume River.

Umeå is also recognized as the European Capital of Culture for 2014, highlighting its commitment to arts and creativity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Västerbottens Museum, where you can learn about the region's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the Umeå Arts Campus, home to the Umeå Academy of Fine Arts, and enjoy the contemporary art installations.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and then take a leisurely walk along the Ume River, admiring the city lights.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Nydala Park, where you can enjoy the serene environment and beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

Visit the Umeå City Church, a stunning architectural gem, followed by a stop at the local café for coffee and pastries.

evening
:

Attend a performance at the Norrland Opera or enjoy a drink at a local bar to experience Umeå's nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍕Pizza$10
🏨Hotel Night$100
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and artistic scene
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Safe and welcoming environment
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport can be infrequent during off-peak hours
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Var ligger...?" - Where is...?
  • "Ja" - Yes
  • "Nej" - No

Places to Visit in Umeå

Visit one of these nice places.

Umeå Waterfront

A picturesque area along the river, perfect for capturing sunset views and reflections.

Västerbottens Museum

The museum’s architecture and surrounding gardens provide a beautiful backdrop for photography.

The Umeå City Hall

An iconic building with stunning architecture, ideal for capturing the essence of Umeå.

Culinary Guide

Food in Umeå

Umeå offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its northern heritage and innovative spirit.

Umeå Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rökt Renkött

Smoked reindeer meat, a traditional dish that showcases the local Sami culture.

Must-Try!

Köttbullar

Swedish meatballs served with lingonberry sauce, a beloved classic in Swedish cuisine.

Surströmming

Fermented herring, a unique dish for adventurous eaters, often enjoyed during special occasions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Umeå Market

A lively market held weekly, featuring local produce, crafts, and street food from various vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Umeå experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F), while winter temperatures can drop below -15°C (5°F). The city receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the majority occurring during the summer months. Snow is common from November to March, creating a winter wonderland.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Swedish culture, and punctuality is expected for both social and business meetings.

Personal Space

Swedes value personal space, so it’s important to maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Quietness in Public Places

Keeping noise levels low in public transport and shared spaces is appreciated and considered polite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Umeå is considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any urban area, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. Always keep personal belongings secure and be cautious when exploring isolated areas, especially during winter.

Tipping in Umeå

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment options like Swish are popular among locals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Umeå sees blooming flowers and mild weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer offers long days with pleasant temperatures, perfect for enjoying nature, hiking, and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Autumn brings vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for scenic walks and photography.

Winter

Winter is cold and snowy, providing opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and experiencing the Northern Lights.

Nightlife Guide

Umeå at Night

Umeå has a vibrant nightlife scene with a range of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The city is known for its live music venues, where you can enjoy performances from local bands and artists. Popular spots include the Umeå Folkets Hus for concerts and nightclubs like Kafe K and Vezzo for a lively atmosphere. The late-night scene is generally safe, and you can find plenty of places to socialize and unwind.

Hiking in Umeå

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Skurholmen Trail

A scenic trail offering stunning views of the Ume River and surrounding nature, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

Bjuröklubb Nature Reserve

Located a short drive from Umeå, this reserve features hiking trails with breathtaking coastal views and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Umeå by plane.

Umeå Airport (UME)

Located just 5 km from the city center, Umeå Airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it easy to reach.

Getting Around

Walkability

Umeå is a highly walkable city, with many attractions, restaurants, and parks within walking distance of each other. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, featuring wide sidewalks and designated walking paths. Biking is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes making it easy to explore the city on two wheels.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Umeå has a large student population due to its universities, creating a youthful and dynamic community.

Sami People

The indigenous Sami people have a significant presence in Umeå, contributing to the cultural diversity and heritage of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a major sport in Umeå, with local teams attracting passionate fans and frequent games during the winter season.

Floorball

Floorball is widely played in Umeå, with various leagues and clubs engaging both youth and adults in this fast-paced indoor sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Umeå is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation includes buses that connect different parts of the city and surrounding areas, with regular schedules. Most residents prefer biking or walking, contributing to minimal congestion and a pleasant atmosphere.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Umeå.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Umeå offer vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that dietary preferences are accommodated.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free dishes are available in various eateries, but it’s advisable to ask for specific options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Umeå is accessible and of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The Västerbottens County Council operates health services, and emergency care is available through local hospitals. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses incurred during their stay.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide