10 things to do in Visby
The historic city wall, medieval church ruins, Viking treasures and activities for the whole family – it is no wonder that Visby on Gotland is one of the most popular destinations in Sweden. There are sights and experiences here for all ages, whether you want to discover cultural history or are seeking exciting adventures. Here are 10 things to do in Visby.
World Heritage
1. Visby City Wall
When you visit Visby, the city wall is an unavoidable sight and the history behind it is truly fascinating. The wall was built as early as the 13th century to protect the city, and today it is the main reason why the entire town of Visby is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Following the wall, which stretches for 3.5 kilometres, on foot is a perfect way to get to know Visby.
A quiet moment
2. Visby Cathedral
Wherever you are in Visby, you can see Sankta Maria Cathedral reaching up towards the sky. The church was consecrated at the beginning of the 13th century and is the only one of the town’s many medieval churches that is still in use. Stepping through the doors of this magnificent building is an excellent way to take a break from the lively pace of the town for a moment.
📍How to get here: Västra Kyrkogatan 2
Gotland
Sweden’s largest island offers a perfect blend of medieval charm and vibrant summer life. Here, you can easily combine beaches and iconic sea stacks with the lively pulse of Visby.
Arrive to Gotland with a ferry
An easy way to reach the island is by Destination Gotland’s ferries, departing from both Nynäshamn and Oskarshamn. The journey takes about 3 hours.
Travel to Gotland by plane
You can also travel to Gotland by plane. Visby Airport is just a short drive from the city center, and several airlines offer direct flights from Sweden’s major cities.
A unique nature experience
3. Lummelunda Cave
North of Visby, you will find Lummelunda Cave, a cave formed in limestone that is around 400 million years old. Here, you can see stalactites and stalagmites, learn about how the cave was formed, and hear the story of how it was discovered. Down in the cave, the temperature is around 8 °C all year round, so it is a good idea to bring a sweatshirt. You can easily get here by both car and bus, or via the cycle path that goes all the way from Visby.
📍How to get here: Lummelunda Lummelundsbruk 520
Family-friendly experiences
4. Kneippbyn
Are you looking for a day filled with summer vibes and exciting adventures? Just a short drive from Visby, you will find Kneippbyn – a summer and water park filled with experiences for all ages. Here, you will find everything from the real Villa Villekulla from the Pippi Longstocking movies to pools of various sizes and thrilling rides.
📍How to get here: Kneippbyn 15
Photo: Kneippbyn Resort
Hotels in Visby
Clarion Hotel® Wisby
Centrally located just inside the city wall, with the alleys of Visby right outside the door. You can wind down at the end of the day with a relaxing dip in the indoor pool.
Quality Hotel™ Visby
A family-friendly hotel located nearby the ferry terminal, with convenient access to flights and buses. It is an ideal base for exploring Visby.
Museum in Visby
5. Fornsalen
Do you want to dive deeper into the exciting history of Gotland? In the centre of Visby, you will find Fornsalen, one of the oldest cultural history museums on the island. Here, you can look at unique remains from the Viking Age, finds from the historic Battle of Visby in 1361, and the enormous Spillings Hoard – the largest Viking silver treasure in the world. With captivating exhibitions and experiences for all ages, this is a must-visit destination.
📍How to get here: Strandgatan 14
Handmade by you
6. Wheel-throwing in Visby
Gotland has a long and strong tradition of ceramics. Trying your hand at pottery wheel throwing is a popular activity on the island, and in Visby, you will find potteries that offer introductory courses. It is a great experience for the whole family – where both adults and children can create their own souvenir from Gotland.
A green oasis
7. Visby Botanical Garden
If you need a break from the lively pace of the town, you will find the Botanical Garden just inside the city wall. The garden was founded as early as 1855 and offers a mix of exotic trees, beautiful flowers, and a historic atmosphere. One of the most charming parts is the old church ruin located in the middle of the garden.
📍How to get here: Strandgatan
Ice cream break
8. Glassmagasinet
When you stroll along the harbour and the waterfront, a stop at Glassmagasinet is a must. Here, hundreds of different flavours are on offer – buy a few scoops of your favourite flavour, or try something completely new and sit down by the water.
📍How to get here: Skeppsbron 12
A historical park
9. Almedalen
Almedalen is now best known for the annual political week, but on ordinary days, it is a relaxing park right by the sea. During the Middle Ages, Almedalen served as Visby’s harbour, but today you are met by large lawns, pleasant walking paths, and a beautiful pond. This is an excellent place for a picnic or a quiet moment.
📍How to get here: Birgers gränd 7
Medieval heritage
10. Discover church ruins
All around Visby, there are several medieval church ruins that today serve as venues for concerts and theatre, among other things. Two of the most famous are St Karin at Stora Torget, with its enormous arches, and St Nicolai, located near the Botanical Garden. Stepping inside these historic ruins is a powerful experience that you must not miss during your visit.
📍How to get here: St Karin on Stora torget 2 and St Nicolai on Smedjegatan 19
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