In search of some fun weekend trips from Västerås, Sweden, but just have the weekend as well as no car? Well, I can attest as I wanted to explore more of Sweden, but just had the weekend and needed to rely on public transportation. I outline the 5 best day trips from Västerås, Sweden without a car.
This list goes from closest to furthest away in time to get there. Some of the locations are a shorter distance, like Uppsala, but the time to get there varies because of transfers on public transit.
All of these routes depart from Västerås Central Station. I’ll include the mode of transportation that is going to be typically if not the only public transportation mode. Make sure to download the SJ app, this is the local app where you can buy all, but the Skultuna tickets on. It’ll give you all the different routes and prices you can choose from.
- Stuktula (bus, 27 mins)
- Örebro (train, 54 min)
- Stockholm (train, 59 mins)
- Eskilstuna (train/bus, ~1 hour 3 mins)
- Uppsala (bus/train combo ~1 hour 36 mins)
Skultuna (bus, 27 mins)
Skultuna is municipality of Västerås that was centered around the brass industry. Founded in 1607 by Carl IX, It is now known for Skultuna Messingbruk AB with homeware shops, jewelry, and a great restaurant. It’s a great way to spend the morning or afternoon and leisurely shop and eat.
Getting there: Take bus 21 towards Skultuna. Get off at the last stop and then put Skultuna Messingbruk AB in your Google Maps and it’s probably only a 10 min walk from there. Pro tip: Make sure to check the bus times to prevent yourself from waiting because they can be far apart getting there and going back.
Örebro (train, 54 min)
Örebro is the seventh largest city in Sweden – and it’s gorgeous. An hour west by train of Västerås, making it a perfect day trip to explore. Historically, Örebro was a hub for transportation and trade and in the 19th century it was known for shoe manufacturing. Now it is best known for it’s castle that housed King Gustav Vasa. The city is almost centered around it, so it’s a must do to explore and learn more inside it. There are also cafes, the cathedral, and hiking and biking further outside of town.
Getting there: Book a direct train on the SJ app. Trains leave frequently.
Stockholm (train, 59 mins)
Of course, Stockholm is a great choice and could easily become more than a day trip as there is so much to do. Spend the day eating at the local restaurants, exploring historic Gamla Stan, going to the MANY museums, taking the metro to see all the artwork, or shopping at the many stores they have. Stockholm is a great day trip that will keep you wanting more.
Getting there: Book a direct train on the SJ app. Trains leave frequently. In the summer you can also take a ferry, although it’s a more expensive and takes longer, it’s a unique way of transportation. I believe you can also take your bike (at additional cost) to then bike around the city.
Eskilstuna (train/bus, ~1 hour 3 mins)
Eskiltuna is a small town with an industrial past, now evolving into a charming spot with a mix of history, nature, and modern Swedish culture. It’s great for a quiet stroll along the river, visiting small museums, or going in local shops.
One of the highlights is Rademachersmedjorna (Rademacher Forges), which is a 17th-century open-air museum showcasing traditional blacksmithing and craftsmanship. Wander through red-painted forges where artisans still practice metalworking, ceramics, and jewelry making.
Getting there: Book a bus or train on the SJ app. These leave frequently.
Uppsala (bus/train combo ~1 hour 36 mins)
Uppsala is a must do (in my opinion for Sweden), it is a beautiful, historic city with a vibrant student atmosphere, stunning architecture, and a deep connection to Swedish culture and science.
Wander around the charming downtown, explore cozy cafés and bookshops, and don’t miss the stunning Uppsala Cathedral. It is the tallest in Scandinavia and has roots stretching back to the Viking era.
Getting there: Book a train or bus (most the time it’ll be a combo of both) on the SJ app.
