Your guide to the Swedish West Coast
Pack your swimwear and set off to explore the Swedish west coast. From Bohuslän in the north to Halland in the south, you will find archipelagos, coastal towns and experiences that are just as perfect for a weekend break as they are for a longer road trip. Here are some of the places not to miss when visiting Sweden's west coast.
Bohuslän and the northern west coast
Bohuslän is one of the best places on the Swedish west coast and a destination that is well worth a visit. Here, you will find beautiful islands, fresh seafood, granite rocks, cosy coastal villages, and plenty of places to discover.
You can start your journey in Strömstad, one of the oldest seaside towns in Sweden. This is a perfect starting point if you want to visit Kosterhavets National Park, which is the first marine national park in the country. Continue from there to Fjällbacka, a lovely fishing village with colourful wooden houses and a large mountain called Vetteberget right next to it. Smögen is a must-visit for a walk along the iconic Smögenbryggan, a long wooden boardwalk filled with shops and people, whilst the island of Orust offers nice nature and great places for a swim. Further south, Stenungsund awaits with great spots for a dip in the sea, before your journey continues to Marstrand. This is a classic town for sailing and swimming, where you can visit the impressive 17th-century Carlstens Fortress.
The northern west coast
Hotels along the west coast
Gothenburg and the city pulse
What would a road trip along the Swedish west coast be without a stop in Gothenburg, the second biggest city in Sweden? Here, the peace of the archipelago is replaced by city life, restaurants, shopping and culture. You can get around with the charming trams that have become one of the most famous symbols of Gothenburg, or experience the city from the water with a boat tour on Paddan. If you are looking for more speed and excitement, Liseberg amusement park is a must-visit, with exciting roller coasters for both adults and children.
Gothenburg has plenty of experiences all year round. Do you want more tips? Here you will find our guides to Gothenburg.
Popular islands in the archipelago
The Gothenburg archipelago
Hönö
Stroll along the harbour, sit down at an outdoor café or restaurant, or go for a swim in the sea. Hönö is one of the most popular islands in the Gothenburg archipelago.
Vrångö
Furthest south in the Gothenburg archipelago, you will find Vrångö – a car-free nature reserve that offers beautiful walking trails, swimming in the sea and a relaxed pace.
Styrsö
This completely car-free island in the Gothenburg archipelago offers a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. Stroll among charming wooden houses or explore the island by bike.
Head out to the archipelago
It is easy to discover the Gothenburg archipelago. You can travel to Hönö via the ferry from Lilla Varholmen, or hop on a ferry to Styrsö and Vrångö from Stenpiren in the city centre or Saltholmen.
Halland and the southern west coast
If you continue south along the Swedish west coast, Halland awaits – a coastline with long sandy beaches and some of the most popular summer towns in Sweden. Here you will find Varberg, Falkenberg, Halmstad and the popular Tylösand, where beach life, outdoor cafés and beachside bars are all part of the summer.
Halland is perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Try surfing, go kayaking, discover the walking trails along the coast, or enjoy a bike ride next to the sea. If you feel like shopping, the huge department store Gekås Ullared is also just a short drive from the coast.
The southern west coast
Hotels along the west coast
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