Sundsvall Travel Guide

Sundsvall is a charming city located in northern Sweden, surrounded by hills, forests, and rivers that offer a wealth of outdoor activities. Discover the breathtaking scenery, magnificent museums, and vibrant cultural scene of this fascinating destination with our guide to the top 10 places to visit and 5 places to avoid during your trip to Sundsvall.

10 Places to Visit in Sundsvall

1. Norra Berget

Norra Berget is a hill overlooking Sundsvall, with stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The hill has several hiking trails, a museum, a zoo, and a botanical garden. The main attraction is the open-air museum, showcasing Swedish rural architecture and culture, with over 80 buildings from the 18th to the 20th century.

2. Sundsvalls Museum

The Sundsvalls Museum is a comprehensive museum devoted to the history and culture of Sundsvall and the surrounding region. The museum has exhibitions on local industries, like forestry and textiles, as well as on significant events in the city’s history, such as the Great Fire of 1888.

3. Stenstan Visitor Center

The Stenstan Visitor Center is a starting point for exploring Sundsvall’s historic city center, known as Stenstan. The visitor center has exhibits on the city’s architecture, history, and culture. You can also join a guided tour of Stenstan and learn about the city’s past and present.

4. Birsta City

Birsta City is a shopping and entertainment complex located just outside Sundsvall. It has over 80 stores, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a cinema and a bowling alley. Birsta City is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and leisure activities.

5. Selånger Church

The Selånger Church is a medieval church located on the outskirts of Sundsvall. The church dates back to the 12th century and has been restored several times. The interior has beautiful frescoes, wood carvings, and sculptures. Selånger Church is one of the oldest and most significant cultural landmarks in the region.

6. Casino Cosmopol Sundsvall

The Casino Cosmopol Sundsvall is a branch of the Swedish state-owned Casino Cosmopol chain. The casino offers a variety of games, including roulette, blackjack, poker, and slot machines. It also has a restaurant and bar, with live entertainment on weekends.

7. Gustav Adolfs kyrka

Gustav Adolfs kyrka is a neo-Gothic church located in central Sundsvall. The church was built in the late 19th century and has a prominent bell tower and stained glass windows. Gustav Adolfs kyrka is a popular venue for concerts and cultural events.

8. Tonhallen

Tonhallen is a concert hall and cultural center located in central Sundsvall. The hall has a capacity of 1,000 seats and hosts a variety of performances, including classical music, jazz, pop, and theater. Tonhallen is one of the premier cultural venues in the region.

9. Haga park

Haga park is a large park located in central Sundsvall. The park has walking paths, gardens, and a small lake. It’s a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and relaxation. Haga park is also a venue for cultural events, like outdoor concerts and festivals.

10. Sundsvall Bridge

The Sundsvall Bridge is a steel suspension bridge that spans the Selånger River, connecting Sundsvall with the nearby town of Selånger. The bridge is over 2 kilometers long and has four lanes for cars, as well as separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists. The bridge is a modern engineering marvel and provides excellent views of the river and the city.

5 Places to Avoid in Sundsvall

1. Gärdehov stadium

Gärdehov stadium is a sports arena located in northern Sundsvall. The stadium is home to the local hockey team and hosts various events, like concerts and exhibitions. However, the stadium is often crowded and noisy during games, and the surrounding area can be congested with traffic and parking problems.

2. Stora Torget

Stora Torget is the main square in Sundsvall’s city center. While it’s a popular meeting place for locals and tourists, the square is often crowded and noisy, with street performers, vendors, and beggars. The square can also be a magnet for pickpockets and other petty criminals, especially during the peak tourist season.

3. Bredsand Beach

Bredsand Beach is a popular beach located outside Sundsvall. While the beach itself is beautiful, the area can be overcrowded during the warm months, with limited parking and facilities. The beach can also be windy and cold, even in the summer, which can deter some visitors from taking a dip in the water.

4. Harnosand Train Station

Harnosand Train Station is a railway station located in Harnosand, about 40 kilometers south of Sundsvall. While the station is a convenient transport hub for travelers to and from Sundsvall, the area around the station can be unsafe, especially at night. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and avoid walking alone or carrying valuables in the area.

5. Satra Brunn Spa

Satra Brunn Spa is a spa and wellness center located about 70 kilometers southeast of Sundsvall. While the spa is highly rated for its services and facilities, the distance and cost of travel make it a less accessible and more expensive option for visitors to Sundsvall. Alternatively, there are several local spas and salons in Sundsvall that offer quality services at a more affordable price.

With its rich history, stunning natural scenery, and vibrant cultural scene, Sundsvall is a must-visit destination in Northern Sweden. By avoiding the above mentioned places, you can make the most of your time in the city and enjoy a hassle-free and memorable experience. Happy travels!