What to do in Västerås, Sweden: The Ultimate Guide

Need some inspiration for what to do in Västerås, Sweden?  I’ve got you covered, as someone who currently lives here and has done the majority of activities. Västerås is a quaint and peaceful city with so many fun and unique things to do whether you are here for a day, weekend, or longer. This is your ultimate guide for what to do, see, eat, and drink in Västerås, Sweden. 

Västerås is the 5th largest city in Sweden with a population of around 127,000. On a map, it is in the mid-southern region of Sweden. It is only an hour west of Stockholm and 1.5 hours southeast of Uppsala. When traveling to Sweden, don’t miss this unique city.

Read more about Sweden:

18 Classic Swedish Foods To Try When Visiting

17 Cultural Differences Between Sweden and the US

What are the Differences Between Scandinavian and Nordic Countries?

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Västerås fun facts

• Västerås is one of the oldest cities in Sweden and Northern Europe for that matter. It dates back to the Viking Age (before 1000 CE).
• The first ever H&M opened in Västerås in 1946
• Västerås is surrounded by Lake Mälaren that connects to Stockholm. In the summer you can go by boat or ferry through this lake between the two cities. 
• In the winter Lake Mälaren freezes and turns into a giant ice skating rink. You can rent a pair of ice skates and there are even hot dog stands set up on the frozen lake. 

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What to do in Västerås

History and culture

• Anundshög: A Viking burial site, located right outside of the city. It has fields with burial mounds, shipwrecks, and monuments to their dead. It is the largest burial site in Sweden and the Vikings were known to come to this area to gather and communicate. You can take the bus, bike or take an Uber here. 
• Västerås Cathedral: Built in the 13th century and reconstructed in 1958-1961. It is free and open to the public to explore. 
• Karlsgatan 2: This building has two museums in it, the Västerås Art Museum and the Västmanland County Museum. Both of the museums are free and unique to the area.
• Västerås Castle (Västerås Slott): This castle or some people call it a house dates back to the 13th century. Gustav Vasa, the former King of Sweden’s son, was imprisoned here. 
• Vallby Friluftsmuseum: An open air museum that is set up like a village. It shows how people lived in the 17th-20th centuries  

Outdoors

• Stroll along Lake Mälaren: There is a great boardwalk along the water with restaurants and cafes. In the summer, take a ride on a ferry or in the winter, ice skate on it. 
• Björnö: Björnö is an island located on Lake Mälaren. It is a nature reserve where you can hike, bike, canoe, and camp. There is Active Outdoor Life where you can rent sports equipment for the day. Björnö is located <7 km from the city center, you can get here by bus, car, or on foot.
• Lögastrand: A city center beach with palm trees and sand. In the summer, you’ll feel like you’re in Southern Europe. 
• Walk around the City Park (Vasaparken): See the Hotell Hackspett (Woodpecker Hotel) which is a treehouse hotel, people used to be able to stay in 

Unique activities

• Check out local events: There are activities like art walks, wine tastings, farmers markets, concerts, and comedy shows.
• Steam Hotel: This used to be an over 100 year old power plant that got converted into a hotel. It has a nice vibe to grab a drink and learn about its history. 
• Kopunken: This is a waterpark that is attached to The Steam Hotel. It is fun for all ages!
• View the Utter Inn:  A floating underwater hotel, created by a Swedish artist. You can even book a stay here. 
• Elektra Bio: This is a local cultural center and cinema. Come watch the latest movies or watch a play. Check out their daily schedule for what is playing!
• Shop around the two malls: Punkt and Kvarteret Igor to find some trinkets and window shop.
• IKEA: I mean, you’re in Sweden, why not visit an IKEA? Hop on the bus or get an Uber and go shop around or eat at the cafe. 

Bakeries / Coffee in Västerås

• Bageri April: My favorite bakery in town. Try everything, but definitely get the cardamom cinnamon bun. 
• Maria Therese: Bakery, coffee, and homemade rotating food menu
• Kopparlundens Bageri: Great sandwiches and they have sourdough pizza on Wednesdays. Limited hours so check before going
• Kalle På Spången: Coffee, food, pastries. Great casual spot to grab a bite and coffee.
• Bread and Sweets by Jeanie: Located near Lake Mälaren, a cute cafe to grab baked goods and coffee. 
• Espresso House: Swedish chain coffee shop. Free wifi to work. 

Food in Västerås

• Magpie: Magpie has artisan small plates that are unique and delicious. I took my husband here for his birthday – so maybe reserve it for a special occasion. Definitely book a table in advance.
• Udden: Best Japanese food in town!! They do have limited hours, so check before going. 
• Mocca Deli: Great locals spot with a wide range of food to choose from pasta, pizza, salads, desserts, wine, and more. 
• Hermanas: Mexican food that is so so good and it’s better than most of the Mexican food I’ve had in the U.S. Get the sampler platter and try a little bit of everything. 
• Nojon Moni: Great Indian food in town.
• Zakaya City: In the city center, this place has an assortment of Asian food to choose from.
• Kajplats 9: Along the waterfront, go here for the Swedish meatballs.
• Kajens Café: Reasonably priced food at a more casual setting. It is also along the waterfront with some great views. 
• Vichi: If Udden is closed, this is another Japanese food option. 
• Global Living: Food inspired from around the world, it has a very eclectic vibe that makes you feel cozy.

Drinks in Västerås

• The Bishops Arm: UK pub style bar in a relaxed pub environment.
• Mocca Deli: Just come here to enjoy some drinks. 
• Kajens Café: Again, simply come here to enjoy the drinks. 
• Publik: Night club and bar open till 4am.
• Bar LOKAL: Bar and restaurant
• O’Leary’s: American themed Swedish bar. This is probably one of the most popular places to grab a drink and go out in Västerås. It’s huge compared to your typical European bar, they have a downstairs with bowling, karaoke, arcade games, and usually live music going on.

Let me know if you visit Västerås and what you end up doing 🙂

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