Weekend in Sundsvall – 10 things to do
Planning a weekend in Sundsvall? Here, the sea meets a historic centre of handsome stone buildings, with nature right on the edge of town. Set between Norra and Södra Berget, the city offers restaurants, culture and plenty of places to slow down — without the pace of a bigger city. Sundsvall is a great choice in any season: in summer, it’s all about the coast and a dip in the sea; in winter, crisp frosty days and snow-covered trails. Here are 10 tips for sights, activities and things to do in Sundsvall.
1. Explore Stenstan
Sundsvall’s city centre is also known as Stenstan, and it’s an excellent place to start your weekend. After the great fire of 1888, the centre was rebuilt in brick and stone, shaping the city’s grand architecture and richly detailed façades. Today, Sundsvall is considered one of the best-preserved stone-built city centres in the Nordics and has been named Sweden’s most beautiful city centre. Wander its streets, browse the shops, settle into a café — or visit the Stenstan Visitor Center to delve deeper into the city’s history.
2. Take in the views from Norra Berget
Norra Berget Open-Air Museum is a great addition to a weekend in Sundsvall. Just a few minutes from the centre, you’ll find yourself surrounded by local history, with wooden houses, farmsteads and heritage buildings dating back to the 19th century. Wander the grounds, browse the craft shops or pause for a traditional Swedish fika at one of the cafés.
The open-air museum also offers plenty of space to explore, with open grounds, play areas and animal enclosures that are especially popular with children. From the viewpoints, you’ll enjoy sweeping views across Sundsvall, the harbour and the Gulf of Bothnia. It’s one of the city’s most popular attractions — whatever the season.
Gateway to Höga Kusten
Sundsvall is often described as the gateway to Höga Kusten, a dramatic stretch of coastline that draws visitors from around the world.
In around an hour, you can reach the Höga Kusten Bridge and the dramatic landscape that has made the area famous well beyond Sweden’s borders.
Höga Kusten is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised in part for its distinctive natural landscape.
3. Family-friendly fun on Södra Berget
Södra Berget is one of Sundsvall’s most popular spots for a day out — in summer and in winter alike. Just a few minutes from the centre, it’s an easy way to add some outdoor adventure to your weekend. Explore hiking trails and fitness tracks, try skiing, or take on the mountain-bike routes — all with views across Stenstan and the Gulf of Bothnia. You’ll also find the Högt & Lågt adventure park here, with high ropes courses and a zip line for children and adults who fancy some fresh air and a bit of adrenaline.
4. Kulturmagasinet
Kulturmagasinet is the city’s cultural hub and an excellent stop on a weekend in Sundsvall. Set right by the harbour, it brings together Sundsvalls museum, the public library and a programme of changing exhibitions for both children and adults. Explore local history, art and temporary displays — and if you’re looking for something to do on a rainy day, Kulturmagasinet is a great place to start.
6. Himlabadet
Himlabadet is Sundsvall’s go-to waterpark, and a great pick if you fancy some time in the pool. It’s centrally located by the Sporthallen arena and the Selångersån river, with waterslides, a wave pool, a pool with a current and a 25-metre pool. In summer, there’s also an outdoor area with even more pools. Adults can unwind in the relaxation zone, with hot tubs, terraces and a sauna. If you’re looking for somewhere to swim in Sundsvall, Himlabadet is a solid option — whatever the weather.
The start of St. Olavsleden
The start of St. Olavsleden in Sundsvall marks the beginning of one of the Nordic region’s best-known pilgrimage routes.
From here, the route leads through the countryside of Västernorrland — all the way to Trondheim in Norway.
Each year, the route draws thousands of pilgrims and walkers in search of nature, history and memorable experiences.
7. Shopping in Birsta City
Birsta City is the largest shopping area in Norrland, and an easy choice if you want to combine shopping with restaurants and entertainment. Just 10 minutes from the city centre, you’ll find a wide range of shops — fashion, homeware and electronics — plus well-known brands, all in one place. If you’re after shopping, something indoors, or simply things to do in Sundsvall, Birsta City is a popular option year-round.
9. Summer on Alnön
Alnö, just outside Sundsvall, is often nicknamed “Norrland’s Hawaii” — and it’s easy to see why. You’ll find shallow sandy beaches such as Tranviken, ideal for warm summer days by the water. At the far end of the island is the charming fishing village of Spikarna, a popular spot for a day out, with waterfront views, a small marina, cafés and easy walking paths.
Just 15 minutes from the city centre, you’ll find some of the best places for swimming and summer days out around Sundsvall — whether you want to sunbathe, take a dip, go for a walk, or simply enjoy the coastal scenery of Västernorrland.
10. Dog sledding near Sundsvall
Fancy some winter adventure at speed? With Villiviimas just outside the city, you can head out by dog sled through snow-covered forests and winter landscapes. It’s a proper nature experience, where you’ll meet energetic sled dogs and feel the quiet of a northern Swedish winter. A dog-sledding trip near Sundsvall is a memorable experience for couples, families and adventure seekers during the winter months.
