Things To Do
in Visby
Visby, on Gotland island, is a remarkably well-preserved medieval town enclosed by a historic ring wall and cobblestone streets. It blends deep history with a lively Baltic coastal atmosphere, especially in summer when festivals light up the old town. The coastline, gardens, and harbor-front views give Visby a compact, photogenic charm perfect for wandering.
Seasonal Baltic winds and Gotlandic cuisine add texture to a visit that merges culture, nature, and maritime heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Visby and check into your unique accommodation within the medieval town walls. Spend your morning strolling through the charming cobblestone streets, admiring the ancient stone houses and lush gardens. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Swedish fika, enjoying coffee and pastries.
Explore the rich history of Visby by visiting the Gotland Museum, where you can marvel at Viking artifacts and learn about the island's past. After your museum visit, take a leisurely walk along the town's impressive medieval walls, which offer stunning views of the Baltic Sea. Take some time to browse the quaint shops within the town, picking up local handicrafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Swedish dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. After dinner, consider joining a guided night tour to explore the ghostly tales and legends of Visby. End your evening by enjoying a drink at one of the local pubs, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Start your day with a visit to the medieval ruins of St. Nicholas Church, where you can appreciate the faded frescoes and towering stone archways. Afterward, wander over to the nearby Almedalen Park and enjoy a peaceful morning among the trees and beautiful flowerbeds. Don't miss the chance to grab a bite at the nearby bakery for a fresh, buttery croissant.
In the afternoon, consider taking a guided tour of the impressive Visby Cathedral, which boasts stunning architecture and rich history. Following the tour, explore the picturesque harbor area, watching the fishing boats come in and out. Indulge in a seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, enjoying the view of the bustling port.
As dusk approaches, head to the top of the Visborg Castle ruins for breathtaking views of the town and coastline. After taking in the scenery, retreat to one of the elegant local eateries for another delightful dinner experience. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along the beach as the sky fills with stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Meal at mid-range restaurant | $22-40 |
| 🚌Public transport ride | $2-4 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $120-240 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich medieval heritage and UNESCO-listed walls
- Coastal scenery and seafood cuisine
- Compact and walkable town center
- Limited nightlife outside peak season
- Higher prices for island goods
- Crowds in summer can affect quiet time
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Ursäkta" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Var är toaletten?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Visby
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic medieval fortification encircling the old town; excellent viewpoints for sunset and cityscape shots.
A Gothic landmark with a tranquil interior and photogenic exterior around the cobblestone streets.
A green oasis near the harbor with seasonal blooms and quiet corners for photography.
Colorful medieval houses, archways, and narrow lanes perfect for atmospheric street photography.
Dockside views, boats, and early-morning or dusk light over the water.
Food in Visby
Visby Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic coastal open-face sandwich on rye with shrimp, mayonnaise, boiled egg, cucumber, dill, and lemon.
Must-Try!
Rich saffron-flavored bread or buns from local bakers, a festive treat commonly enjoyed with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls around the main square offering seafood, cheeses, pastries, and local produce.
Temporary summer stalls by the harbor with quick bites like fried fish and shrimp dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Swedes value punctuality and a reserved, respectful demeanor; queue calmly and speak softly in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Visby
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not required; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in tourist areas.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; Swish and other mobile payments are common; cash usage is decreasing but still possible in some spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days, blooming gardens, and ideal conditions for walking the walls; birdlife increases along the coast.
Warm days and long daylight hours; peak festival season with lively markets and outdoor dining.
Cooler air, harvest markets, and quieter streets; great for cycling and coastal hiking.
Chillier with occasional snow; many attractions have reduced hours, but the medieval center feels peaceful and intimate.
Visby at Night
Hiking in Visby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic sea-stack formations with dramatic coastal views and photo opportunities.
Coastal hikes offering cliffs, beaches, and scenic scenery.
Network of coastal trails around Tofta and nearby areas with expansive sea horizons.
Airports
How to reach Visby by plane.
Located near Visby, about 3-4 km from the city center; year-round and seasonal connections to Stockholm and other Nordic destinations; access by taxi or bus.
Major international gateway with frequent flights to Visby via seasonal and year-round routes; requires a domestic connection from Stockholm to Gotland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly long-time locals with an increasing number of seasonal residents and tourists.
Gotland hosts educational programs that bring a student presence to Visby during terms.
Summer is the peak period, with visitors drawn to medieval events, beaches, and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local clubs participate in regional leagues.
Popular indoor sport with active local clubs and community programs.
Kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing are common along the Gotland coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Visby.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; request vegetable-based dishes, eggs, dairy, and salads; some menus are meat-forward, but cafes frequently have veggie plates.