Hello and welcome to my last blog of this academic year!

Whenever I am in contact with newly admitted students, one of the most common questions is when is the best time to arrive. Well… there is no easy answer to that as it is individual preference how long before the roll-call you want to be here. Normally, I would say a week is good if you want to settle down calmly. But remember you can arrive a few days before or even 3 weeks before – as I said, it depends on you.

Now, let’s assume you want to arrive sometime in advance. Firstly, of course, you should go to the university, register and whatnot but after that, you can travel a little before your studies start. I compiled a list of places you can visit. They are mostly in Östergötland or surrounding areas.

Linköping and neighbourhood

Starting off with the largest city in Östergötland – Linköping. It is a pleasant and historic city with some attractions. You can check out the stunning Linköping Cathedral or the open-air museum Gamla Linköping that transports you to a bygone era. Don’t miss the beautiful gardens of Stångebro (and generally have a walk along the water). In the nearby area, you can also visit the Air Force Museum.

Norrköping and neighbourhood

Another major city in Östergötland, Norrköping is known for its industrial heritage and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the interactive museum The Industrial Landscape and explore the picturesque neighbourhood of Knäppingen. The Kolmården Wildlife Park, located just outside Norrköping, is also worth a visit. While you’re there it’s worth to visit Marmorbrukets Naturreservat for stunning views of Bråviken Bay.

A park in the city (under renovation at the time when the picture was taken)

Vadstena

Travelling back in time, we arrive in Vadstena, a town steeped in medieval allure. You can explore the grand Vadstena Castle, once a regal residence and now a museum. Take a walk through the narrow cobblestone streets so you can admire the well-preserved wooden houses. You can also pay a visit to the Abbey Church of Vadstena, a significant religious landmark with stunning Gothic architecture.

Vadstena castle

Söderköping

Next is Söderköping, a picturesque town nestled by the Göta Canal. I was charmed by this old town and adorned with delightful wooden houses and picturesque squares. Also try the Söderköping smorgasbord, a local culinary speciality, as well as ice cream (apparently, best in Sweden). Don’t hesitate to climb up the Ramunderberget for stunning views of the city. If you’re interested in history this is your must-to-visit destination! Also, on your way there feel free to stop by Ekenäs castle.

Ekenäs castle

Tåkern

For nature lovers, a visit to the Tåkern Nature Reserve is an absolute must. It is remarkable bird habitat. It covers an area of approximately 18 square kilometres and is considered one of Northern Europe’s most important bird habitats. Tåkern is a paradise for birdwatchers and ornithology enthusiasts. there is a visitor centre that serves as an information hub for visitors. The centre offers educational exhibits, interactive displays, and knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the reserve’s ecology, bird species, and conservation efforts. It is an excellent starting point for learning more about Tåkern before going into the reserve.

Omberg

Omberg is a captivating nature reserve located on the eastern shore of Lake Vättern. This majestic area covers an expanse of approximately 27 square kilometres and offers a unique blend of nature, history, and recreational activities. Omberg is characterized by its diverse landscapes, ranging from forests and meadows to cliffs and lakeshores. The reserve is well-known for its rich biodiversity. It has an extensive network of well-maintained hiking or biking trails, allowing visitors to explore forests and offer offering panoramic views of lake Vättern. Omberg is home to a collection of ancient burial mounds that date back to the Bronze Age. These burial sites, known as “gravrösen” in Swedish, are archaeological treasures that provide insights into the region’s history and cultural heritage. You can also enjoy kayaking, fishing, and camping in the area.

Astrid Lindgren’s World

Astrid Lindgren’s World is a theme park located in Vimmerby. It is dedicated to the works of renowned Swedish author Astrid Lindgren, who is celebrated for her children’s books. Perhaps you heard about Pippi Långstrump (Pippi Longstocking), Emil i Lönneberga (Emil of Lönneberga), Ronia the Robber’s Daughter (Ronja rövardotter)?

Gränna and Röttle

Gränna

As of now, I think this is my third favourite place in Sweden (after Lapland and Marmorbruket). These two locations are very charming, picturesque and bring a mix of nature, history and culture. Gränna is renowned for its traditional red and white candy canes, known as “polkagrisar” in Swedish. You can even witness the process of candy cane making. The town is also home to various confectioneries and bakeries, offering an array of delicious pastries and sweets. The highlights of Röttle are the historic Röttle Mill, a picturesque wooden watermill dating back to the 17th century and the Röttle Falls, a series of cascades that create a scenic view. Just a short ferry ride away from Gränna, there is Visingsö Island where you can bike around and enjoy the beautiful summer weather.

Store with sweets

Lakes

If you’re interested in swimming in the lake there are various options. I wrote a blog about lakes this spring so feel free to check that out.

Other

When it comes to places further than Östergötland of course, Stockholm and Göteborg are on top of the list (but they offer so much that it will be another blog 😉 ). Uppsala, Helsingborg and Malmö are also popular destinations.

Gotland is Sweden’s largest island and a popular tourist destination. I must agree, it’s pretty but to be fully honest you can find equally nice views closer (but don’t let my opinion influence you). Worth mentioning is the fact that the medieval town of Visby is the main attraction on Gotland and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Also, what is Gotland well-known for is Medieval Week (Medeltidsveckan). It’s held annually in August and is one of the largest medieval festivals in Europe. Imagine, the entire town transforming into a medieval marketplace with reenactments, jousting tournaments, theatrical performances, music, dancing, and various workshops. Apparently, visitors can experience the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.

Lastly, Dalarna. Dalarna is a beautiful province in central Sweden, known for its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and traditional Swedish charm. I have heard many good words about this area however, I have not had a chance to visit it yet. Hopefully, this summer!

 

As we come to the end of our short journey through Sweden, it’s clear that this country has so much to offer. From the cosmopolitan streets of Stockholm to the natural wonders of Lapland, from the rich history of Gothenburg to the picturesque landscapes of Östergötland and Dalarna, Sweden is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a lover of art, an outdoor adventurer, an amateur historian, or a foodie craving culinary delights, Sweden has something for everyone.

Also, as you travel, remember to savour the little moments—a fika break with a cinnamon bun, a sunset over the Baltic Sea, and a conversation with a friendly local. It’s these small experiences that create lasting memories and make travel truly meaningful.

Safe travelling and very soon… välkommen till Sverige!

 

/Alexandra, Experimental and Medical Biosciences

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