Kalmar

DESTINATIONS sweden kalmar

Kalmar

Kalmar is a captivating Swedish city, which seamlessly intertwines its rich history with contemporary charm. The iconic Kalmar Castle, a well-preserved Renaissance fortress, stands proudly alongside picturesque cobblestone streets. Museums beckon, markets pulse with life, and waterfronts whisper tales. Kalmar's allure extends beyond its borders, serving as a gateway to the enchanting Öland Island, making this city a delightful destination where history, culture, and natural beauty converge.

The City

Wherever you go in Kalmar, you can feel the echoes of history. Many of the old buildings host charming shops, restaurants and pubs. For example, you can buy coffee at 'Gerdas' one of Sweden’s oldest retail premises built in 1667. You can also visit Westholms glass studio at 'Västerport' — Kalmar’s old gateway through the city walls. All year round, events and activities take place around the city. Listen to a free concert at the city square, become a knight at the Kalmar Castle, see all the participants in the IRONMAN competition or visit the art museum in the beautiful city park. In Kalmar, there's always something going on! Here, you can always sense the nearness to the sea. Take a swim at 'Kattrumpan' — a beach located right at the end of the main shopping street. Behind Kalmar Castle, you will find the newest and largest beach 'Kalmarsundsbadet' with a 150-metre-long bridge. You can combine several interests in one holiday. Close to Kalmar, you will also find the beautiful island of Öland and the Kingdom of Crystal.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

In Kalmar, you stroll on venerable paths. With its architecture and city plan, its walls, cobblestone streets and stone buildings from the 17th century, the city has done an exceptional job of preserving the memory of Sweden’s period as a great power. Experience the Old Town, which lies right next to Kalmar Castle, explore the Kalmar County Museum with its exhibition about the ship 'Kronan' and pay a visit to the Kalmar Art Museum with its much-discussed exhibitions.

Kalmar Castle

The history of this legendary castle stretches back over 800 years. Its present appearance dates from the 16th century, when the Vasa kings rebuilt it in the style of a Renaissance palace, with furnishings in a continental …

Kalmar County Museum

Kalmar County Museum is located in a grand building that once housed the Kalmar Steam Mill. The museum offers exhibitions year-round with the Royal Ship Kronan and Sandby Castle history as permanent attractions. In addition, there are temporary exhibitions on contemporary societal and cultural-historical …

Kalmar Art Museum

Kalmar konstmuseum is a vibrant cultural hub housing contemporary art and design from the region. This museum offers engaging weekly guided tours and workshops, providing visitors with immersive experiences in the diverse world of modern artistic …

Västerport (The West Gate)

This magnificent town gate is called Västerport (The West Gate) or Högvakten (The Main Guard). Completed in 1658, it was the main entry to Kvarnholmen right up to …

Kalmar Maritime Museum

During the last few hundred years, a great number of the men of Kalmar have been employed in building ships at 'Varvsholmen' (the 'Ship Yard Island') for Swedish as well as foreign ship owners. It is their history and at the same time the shipping history of Kalmar, which is exhibited at the Kalmar …

Old Town in Kalmar

In the heart of Kalmar, a short distance from the imposing Kalmar Castle, lies the quaint Old Town, offering a glimpse into the city's truly ancient past. Characterised by narrow, winding lanes and impeccably preserved 17th-century red-and-white cottages and buildings, this enclave transports visitors to a bygone era. The Old Town arose from the …

Kalmar City Park

Kalmar City Park is situated beside the castle. Johan Jeansson, a merchant of the town, a bust of whom has stood in the park since 1937, was the driving force behind the park project, and his donation enabled the park to be laid out between 1877 and 1880. The old 'Vasa' monument also stands …

Skälby

Skälby is one of the many green areas located close to the city. The animals and well-preserved buildings of the 4H farm offer the feel of an old farm. The area is child-friendly, closed to traffic, and features a large playground. Visit the rabbits, pigs, cows, chickens, and many other animals that call this …

Äventyrsbadet

Äventyrsbadet is a fantastic destination for swimming, exercise, and relaxation. The facility boasts exciting features such as water slides, whirlpools, a climbing wall, and water bombs. For those seeking tranquillity, separate relaxation areas offer hot tubs, steam and dry saunas, and even a massage …

Stensö Recreation Area

Stensö, about 2.5 km south of central Kalmar, is one of the city's most popular outdoor recreation areas. Stensö boasts a three-star campsite, rental cottages, a café and restaurant, jogging trails, miniature golf and lovely natural …

Krusenstiernska House

A 19th-century, middle-class home in the Old Town, only 200 metres from Kalmar Castle. With its furnishings intact, the house is a museum open to the public during the summer. The fine garden is ideal for picnics or …

Children's Castle

In the summer, Kalmar Castle turns into the children's own castle. Here the children get the chance to challenge the Black Knight and to be ceremoniously dubbed in the castle hall. Or why not try the treasure hunt, or meet the castle princess? The Children's Castle is filled with activities for both large and …

Book a Guided Tour

Take the opportunity to learn more about Kalmar and its history! During the peak season, guided city walks depart from central Kalmar twice a week. Choose a guided tour of Kvarnholmen, the heart of Kalmar, with its majestic cathedral at Stortorget, or explore the Old Town, the medieval core of Kalmar, with its winding …

Swimming

Kalmar boasts a diverse array of swimming spots: from busy beaches right in the city centre to tranquil, charming shores to the north and south of the centre. Make a stop at Kattrumpan beach at the end of Storgatan in central Kalmar. The newest and largest sandy beach, Kalmarsundsbadet, located behind the castle, has …

Dining

Kalmar boasts the opportunities of a large city together with a small town's personality and charm. It offers entertainment and tempo in a beautiful and historic atmosphere. The city abounds in restaurants, cafés, and pubs with different orientations. Enjoy a cup of coffee, a simple dish, Småland specialities, or international gourmet food.

Larmgatan 10

Larmgatan 10's international menu, emphasising meat dishes, delights diners with beautifully presented culinary creations. The restaurant's elegant and classic setting enhances the overall dining experience, making it a perfect choice for those seeking refined gastronomy in a homely …

Stekhuset Kom soon Igen

Housed in newly renovated premises within an old warehouse, Stekhuset is a highly popular restaurant bringing the flavours of southern Europe to Sweden in the form of delightful fish, seafood, and meat …

Castle Restaurant Kalmar

Indulge in a fantastic dining experience at Kalmar Castle, one of Scandinavia's most well-preserved Renaissance castles. The restaurant boasts a menu meticulously crafted to align with inspiration, season, and available raw materials. Delight in the finest food, local delicacies, and unique tastes, all this is served in an elegant and minimalist …

Gröna Stugan

Step into the culinary world of Gröna Stugan, an elegant dining haven where traditional meat and seafood dishes take centre stage. Immerse yourself in the exquisite flavours curated by skilled chefs, complemented by a thoughtfully selected wine list. Conclude your dining experience on a sweet note with tasty homestyle …

Rosenlundska Källaren

Nestled in the historic Rosenlund house's basement dating back to 1654, this charming restaurant and bar offers a cosy setting for a delightful dining experience. The bar boasts a selection of locally crafted beers, malt whiskey, and rum. The menu features a blend of exciting flavours and classic dishes, showcasing a commitment to seasonal …

Ernesto Ristorante

Led by a Napoli-born chef, Ernesto is a traditional Italian restaurant offering authentic pizza, pasta, and risotto dishes, among other flavours of Italian …

Källaren Kronan

Källaren Kronan, situated in seven cellar vaults beneath the historic Sahlsteenska house from the 1700s, is a modern restaurant known for serving traditional Swedish …

Stufvenäs Gästgifveri

Stufvenäs Gästgifveri is a country hotel renowned for its superior-class kitchen. The establishment offers a variety of dining options, including today's lunch, à la carte, and gourmet cuisine, all within the charming setting of an estate …

Kalmar Kött & Bar

Kalmar Kött & Bar is a culinary haven offering breakfast and lunch options, culminating in flavourful meat dishes for dinner. Renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant specialises in high-quality meats, from juicy steaks to savoury burgers. Each dish is crafted from scratch, using the finest seasonal ingredients. Beyond the delectable menu, the elegant …

Rasta Kalmar

Founded in 1973, Rasta is dedicated to authentic Swedish home cooking traditions. Their commitment to real recipes ensures that you'll enjoy genuine Swedish flavours prepared by skilled chefs. Alongside their delectable dishes, Rasta provides the finest freshly brewed coffee from Bergstrands, a small roastery in Gothenburg. Whether it's a steaming cup of coffee or …

Pinchos

Centrally located in the heart of Kalmar, Pinchos is a whimsical circus-themed tapas restaurant dishing up an array of small, flavorful dishes, plus dazzling …

Ming Palace

Ming Palace offers an authentic Chinese buffet experience featuring a diverse array of dishes, along with desserts and drinks, all included in the …

Cafés

Enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry, or a mazarin, a small Swedish almond tart, at some of Kalmar’s many cafés and patisseries. Or pick up a loaf of good, fresh bread for a bite to eat in the evening at home. There is much from which to choose here.

Kullzénska Caféet

Travel back in time as you enter the historic Kullzénska house, a charming establishment on Kalmar's central pedestrian street. With creaking wooden floors, tiled stoves, and framed portraits, the ambience recalls a bygone era. Choose a table in one of the eight dining rooms or outdoor areas, and indulge in the Swedish tradition of …

Hamnkaféet

‘Mysigt’, which means cosy in Swedish sounds like the right word to describe Hamnkaféet. An unpretentious and rustic café in Kalmar’s port providing you with a charming spot to enjoy traditional Swedish 'fika' with an array of …

Konditori Fiesta

Situated near Larmtorget in central Kalmar, Konditori Fiesta is a delightful café and patisserie offering an abundance of sweet treats. Whether you're in the mood for cakes, pastries, or other confections, there's a diverse selection to satisfy your sweet tooth. For those seeking a light lunch, Konditori Fiesta also serves sandwiches, pies, and …

Krusenstiernska Gården

Experience the charm of the 19th-century Krusenstiernska garden, a well-preserved city garden in the Old Town. During the summer months from May to September, the garden's café offers a delightful retreat, serving homemade pastries and coffee amid lush and cosy …

Café Lotsutkiken

Nestled in Kalmar's port, Café Lotsutkiken occupies a charming 20th-century house that still retains its splendid allure. Enjoy a scenic coffee break by the sea, where you can savour a variety of offerings, including sandwiches, bowls, and delightful Belgian …

Holmgrens Konditori

Nestled in the heart of the bustling shopping street Kaggensgatan, Holmgrens is a classic pastry shop, boasting over 150 years of history. This establishment is renowned for its extensive array of pastries, cookies, and …

Wayne's Coffee

Serving coffee from Wayne's Coffee's own distinguished brand together with pastries crafted in their very own bakery, the café takes pride in offering food made from the finest natural ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for a quick and wholesome snack, a leisurely coffee indulgence, or a hearty and delicious lunch, Wayne's Coffee promises …

Espresso House

Espresso House is the largest coffeehouse chain in the Nordic countries. In addition to an extensive selection of coffee drinks, Espresso House also offers a tempting array of pastries, wraps, and …

Bars & Nightlife

If you want to go out and get a beer or a glass of wine, Kalmar is guaranteed to have a place that is just right for you. Scottish or Irish atmosphere, crowded and genial or a little more spacious, live music or sports bar — there is something here for all tastes. And if you are not famished but just a little hungry for something lighter, most pubs and bars also have something edible to offer.

Lilla Puben

Contrary to its name, Lilla Puben, or The Little Pub, stands out with possibly the town's most extensive array of beer, rum, and whiskey. Boasting around 100 whiskey varieties, spanning from Islay to Japan, including single malt, blend, grain, and bourbon. The pub also offers a diverse selection of beers from around the world, …

O'Learys

Located in the heart of Kalmar, O'Learys is a family-friendly restaurant and sports bar with a menu filled with delicious American plates, plus drinks and activities in a pleasant and laid-back …

Pipes of Scotland

Pipes of Scotland is a Scottish pub boasting an extensive selection of whiskey and beer. The pub also features a tasty and authentic pub menu, complemented by live music on multiple nights each …

Krögers

Established in 1993, Krögers is the first pub on Larmtorget in Kalmar. Serving as the city's go-to meeting place, Krögers is a versatile venue encompassing a pub, restaurant, piano bar, and nightclub, providing a multifaceted experience for …

Söderport

Söderport, ideally situated in the picturesque Old Town just across from Kalmar Castle, is the perfect destination for a meal, snack, or drinks. Operating year-round, the bar/restaurant opens every day in the summer and a few evenings each week in the winter for dinner, followed by a diverse concert program ranging from Blues and …

Shopping

Kalmar offers everything from well-known chain stores to small, cosy shops. Stroll around on Kvarnholmen — the attractive city centre where you sense the pulse of history — or make an excursion to some of the city’s shopping centres.