Varberg

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Varberg

The old health resort tradition in Varberg has been refined over the years, and is nowadays a way of life for both residents and visitors. All the essentials for a good quality of life are available here to tailor the treatments that make you feel good. These treatments consist of a massage therapy, a visit to the cold bath house or seaweed baths. Others prefer a windsurfing board, a stroll along the beach promenade around Varberg Fortress or a forest excursion to Åkulla Beech Forests.

The City Accommodation

The City

Varberg, a municipality of over 63,000 inhabitants, is situated on the west coast of Sweden. It's where the rugged Bohuslän coast meets the open coast of Halland with its extensive sandy beaches. Varberg has a complex history and is the most relocated town in the Nordics, having had five different locations. The current layout as a grid-plan town dates back to the 1660s. Varberg's castle and fortress, initially built in the 13th century on the Wardberg rock, have a significant history. "Ward" means guard, and large fires, known as 'vårdkasar,' were lit here as defensive signals. The fortress has housed many kings and queens over the centuries. The 19th century saw the development of Varberg as a spa town after a water source was discovered in Apelviken. The buildings from that era, including the Cold Bath House, Warm Bath House, and Societetsparken, still stand and serve their original purposes. Moreover, several hotels with spa departments offer unique experiences ranging from thalassotherapy (seawater spa) to Asian-inspired spa treatments. Varberg is a popular destination, with tourism being a significant sector of its economy. The town boasts a diverse range of businesses, including food producers, distribution companies, and innovative IT firms.

Accommodation

In Varberg, you do not need to choose between staying in the town center or by the sea. Even if the hotels are centrally located, the sea is at a walking distance. Varberg is known as Sweden’s health resort, so many of the hotels also give you access to their own spa or swimming facilities. If you do not want to stay at a hotel, you can choose between hostels, B&B and camping sites with cabins, both in the town center and in the countryside.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Varberg is an exciting town with all of its attractions located at a convenient distance. Its proximity to Denmark makes it an important tourist destination, attracting Swedes, Danes, and other Europeans. Its popularity relies on its fascinating history, serene and relaxing spas, idyllic beaches and beautiful hiking trails. It is also one the best surf towns in Northern Europe.

Konsthallen / Hamnmagasinet

Hamnmagasinet is an art gallery located in the area around the harbour, Society Park and the Fortress. Housed in an 1874 building, this arts centre offers various exhibitions and workshops all year round. Featuring paintings, crafts, ceramics, and silversmith workshops, the gallery predominantly highlights contemporary art. Visitors can enjoy these artistic offerings against the …

Varberg's Art Gallery

Varberg's art gallery offers exciting and engaging exhibitions throughout the year. Contemporary art takes the centre of the stage here, making it an open space for both national and international art. The space is also used to conduct extensive educational activities, with guided tours and workshops where visitors have their fair share of artistic …

Elbe's Fiske & Marin AB

Elbe's Fiske & Marin AB is a company that provides fishing trips on fully equipped and licensed vessels. Explore numerous thrilling fishing spots, including Fladen, Flacket, Kristian, Great Middelgrund, Red Bank, Danish Lilja, and Little Middelgrund. The crew has extensive experience in chartering along the coast of Halland, offering a unique service to guarantee …

Halland Museum of Cultural History

Located at the top of the Varberg fortress, the Kulturhistoriska Museum allows visitors to delve into the cultural history of Halland, showcasing iconic exhibitions such as the Bocksten Man from the 14th century and the Halland photo exhibition. Also, the Artist Colony of Varbergsskolan, exhibits paintings from Swedish …

Fortress Bath

The Fortress bath is located alongside the fortress pier. It combines a sun deck, a jetty, and a diving tower. The wharf is ideal for various activities, including sunbathing, swimming and diving, all conveniently located in the heart of …

Kallbadhuset

The Cold Bathhouse is used by bathers during both summer and winter. Through the large windows of this Moorish style building, you have a fantastic view of the shimmering sea. The Bathhouse is divided into two parts, one for the gentlemen and one for the ladies, each containing two …

World Heritage Grimeton Radio Station

The radio station in Grimeton was opened in 1925 for wireless radio links and today represents a unique technological heritage. It was added to UNESCO's list of world heritage sites in 2004. The facility, along with its six accompanying aerial towers, serves as the sole surviving example of a once-global network of long wave …

Getterön Nature Reserve — a Bird Sanctuary

Getterön is a nature reserve that encompasses an area of 3.5 square kilometres, including parts of the Getterön peninsula. It's mainly popular due to its exceptional bird watching opportunities, providing hiding spots and observation positions that allow visitors to get up close to the birds without disturbing them. During spring and autumn, large numbers of …

Cultural House Komedianten

The building called Komedianten is located in the city centre of Varberg, housing the City Library, City Art Gallery, Varberg Theatre and a café. This is the place to borrow books, surf on the internet, look at interesting art, listen to lectures or attend performances and …

Ästad Vineyard

Originally a traditional farm, Ästad Vineyard has transformed into the region's most inspiring venue for meetings and activities. The activities include the high rope course with zip lines, wine tastings and their Senses Spa in which you find the world's only underwater sauna. Ästad Vineyard offers locally crafted wine from their own grapes. You can …

Sheep Farm Öströö

Located in the middle of the beech forest, Öströö is home to one of Sweden's largest populations of Gotlandish sheep and Highland Cattle cows. The farm features a handicraft shop where they sell sheepskin products and straw work. Additionally, there's a butcher's shop where their own ecological products are sold, including tasty lamb and other …

Strandpromenaden

Strandpromenaden is a promenade that was built in 1912. Ever since, it's been a popular walking area for both visitors and locals. Regardless of the weather, people can be seen walking from Kallbadhuset, in the north, all the way to Apelviken in the south. The promenade also welcomes joggers and cyclists looking to enjoy the …

Varberg's Square Market

Varberg's square charms many with its picturesque streets and cute little shops. However, what truly sets the square apart is its lively market, a tradition that has endured and takes place every Wednesday and Saturday. There's no better place in Varberg to find seasonal fruits, vegetables, clothing fabrics, handcrafts and …

Spa & Fitness

There are several establishments in Varberg offering a number of different treatments and spa packages ranging from facials and body treatments to makeup consultations. You'll also have the opportunity to work out during your stay. Given the health-conscious culture of Swedes who enjoy working out, a number of fitness centres, sports facilities, and health …

Fishing

In Varberg, there are many beautiful places where you can fish. You can find both popular fishing waters as well as more obscure fishing spots that will amaze you with their charming landscape. The harbours and the sandy beaches are suitable places for coastal fishing where flatfish where flatfish are commonly caught. In various locations, …

Snorkelling

There are different locations to snorkel in Varberg. They extend over sandy bottoms, eelgrass beds, and seaweed-covered rocks. In most outdoor bath spots there are white buoys located in shallow water while the red ones are placed in deeper water. The depth can vary depending on the low and high tide, but the maximum depth …

Åkulla Beech Forests

Åkulla's beautiful beech forests are located about 25 km east of Varberg. The area is famous for its outstanding viewing points, numerous lakes and hiking trails. If you're looking to spend a few nights in the forests, there are various lodgings that welcome tourists throughout the year, experiencing a particular peak in winter when …

Surfing

Varberg has been characterized by surfing since time immemorial, and there is a constantly expanding surf culture. With a modern surf center, Varberg has consolidated itself as the premier surfing town in the Nordic region. There are a number of businesses that offer courses, rentals, and shops. These include a center in Apelviken that …

Kattegattleden Bicycle Route

Kattegattleden is a 370-kilometre-long cycling route with a unique coastal location. It runs between Helsingborg in the south and Gothenburg in the north, all the way through Halland. It's divided into 8 sections, and along these sections, you will find interesting attractions, places to stay, eat, rent bicycles, as well as assistance along the …

Dining

The emphasis on consuming local and organic products is strong in Varberg. Restaurants and food shops are no exception to this, upholding a commitment to maintaining high-quality food. Horseradish, elderberries and curly kale are some of Varberg's most popular ingredients.

Joels Brygga

Joels Brygga is a seafood restaurant located right next to the Kattegat strait. The restaurant features a smokehouse where they infuse flavour, colour and aroma into their dishes. Seaweed, fish, and shellfish are locally sourced, all for a sustainable …

Nami

Nami is a genuine Japanese restaurant when it comes to food, atmosphere, and interior design. The menu offers the best of traditional Japanese cuisine. In addition to sushi, they offer meat courses, salads, fish, seafood and much …

John's Place

John's Place is a cosy restaurant on Apelviken’s waterfront, offering a fantastic sea view and pleasant atmosphere. This place is famous for serving fantastic steaks straight from an open grill, beef tartare, T-bone, sirloin and pluma pork. Additionally, their menu has a selection of rich desserts to choose …

Cyrano Varberg

Cyrano Varberg is where you can find authentic Provencal pizzas straight out of a wood-fired brick oven. The vibrant décor and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere. For a standout choice, the De luxe pizza comes highly …

Pinchos

Pinchos offers an extensive menu of small dishes from all over the world. You can find everything from Mexican quesadillas to Asian dumplings, Hungarian plank steak, and French crème brûlée. All dishes are served in tapas format, making them ideal for sharing. For added convenience, you can download their app to make reservations or …

Varbergs Ölhall

Varbergs Ölhall is located right in the heart of the city. The well-thought-out menu allows you to enjoy everything from after-work gatherings to à la carte dining. Their beer selection is simply impressive, including a wide range of non-alcoholic ones. Ample and comfortable seating is available both indoors and …

Grappa

Located in Brunnsparken in Varberg's city centre, the Grappa is a spacious venue with a lounge area and a dining room. You can enjoy a cocktail, a glass of wine or a beer in the lounge, or sit at their dining tables for a lovely dinner. Additionally, during the summer, the outdoor seating becomes …

Societén & Bodegan

Societén is more than just a restaurant. This building built in the late 1800s also house a nightclub, bars and a stage for concerts. The restaurant offers a stunning seaside location, conveniently close to Societetsparken. With its delightful cuisine and welcoming staff, it's a place that is truly worth a visit. The oysters served …

Gästis Kafe & Matsalar

Located next to Brunnsparken, Gästis Kafe & Matsalar has quickly become a popular meeting place for both Varberg residents and guests staying at Hotel Gästis. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, catering to meat-eaters, vegetarians or vegans. They also offer a substantial selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic …

Västerports Kök

Västerports Kök is located in the inner harbour, next to Varberg Campus University. The restaurant is open all year round, featuring a daily lunch menu throughout the week. It's the perfect place to enjoy Varberg's sunny days. During summer, with late sunsets, the bustling open-air café enjoys a lively …

Hell's Burger

Hell's Burgers is a relatively new venue on Varberg's restaurant scene, offering world-class burgers made from fresh ingredients and a lot of love. To go with your burger, enjoy a delicious drink from the unique beer selection or opt for a classic …

Ästad Vineyard Restaurants

A Swedish vineyard with unique restaurants in a rustic, rural environment. Located in the middle of the Åkulla Beech Forests, these establishments offer a variety of dishes for both lunch and dinner, all crafted with organic local products. Ästad Vineyard also houses a wine bar, where organic wines are served. The restaurants are often …

Verket

Housed in an old iron nail factory, Verket always serves fresh fish and Scandinavian cuisine. Whether you want to dine in or takeaway, the lunch price includes salad, water or sparkling water, butter, crackers, coffee, and …

Restaurant Zorba

Zorba is located in the centre of Varberg, across the street from Engelska Parken. The menu offers a fusion of both Greek and Swedish specialties. The atmosphere feels authentic, and with the addition of atmospheric background music, it creates a delightful Greek …

Ristorante Italiano Invito

Invito takes you on a gastronomic journey through Italy, blending flavours from fresh ingredients. This establishment offers tasty pizzas, pasta, focaccias, salads and an extensive wine menu. The atmosphere here is fantastic, with English-speaking staff and an English menu for customers who don't speak Swedish. The wine menu is …

Havanna Kök & Bar

Housed in the Hotel Havana, the restaurant offers simple food creations, but with first-class ingredients. While it's not strictly Cuban cuisine, you can see touches of the Caribbean in their dishes. Choose from over 50 types of rum, while you smoke a hand-rolled Cuban cigar from their selection in the cigar …

Kusthotell Restaurant

Housed in the Kusthotell, 3 km south of the city centre. Outside the hotel are long beaches, this award-winning restaurant promises an extraordinary food experience with a sea view and magnificent sunsets. Their buffet includes fish, meat and vegetarian options, as well as desserts. Last but not least, the restaurant serves brunch every …

Stadshotell Restaurant

Stadshotell has an award-winning restaurant honoured with membership in Sweden's best tables. The menu draws inspiration from food creations worldwide, yet the emphasis is on locally produced ingredients in accordance with the season. Here you will have a complete experience where well-composed dishes and beverages interact in a unique …

Hamnpaviljongen

Given its privileged location between Socitetetsparken and the harbour, Hamnpaviljongen becomes the beach spot in the middle of town during the summer. Their menu features pizzas, salads and homemade hamburgers during the summer season. The outdoor seating is one of the largest in Varberg, and there's also an outdoor bar for guests to …

Cafés

It goes without saying that having a cup of coffee is a Swedish tradition, and Varberg is no exception. There are a great number of cafés, both by the sea and the city centre. During summer, the cafés offer outdoor seating where you can catch some rays and enjoy your coffee. Conversely, in autumn and winter, you can opt for takeaway coffee or tea and stroll along the sea.

Kafé Längan

Located within Varberg's Fortress, right beside Halland's Cultural History Museum, Kafé Längan offers their homemade pastries, coffee and contemporary trends. Enjoy your coffee or tea with a view overlooking the Kattegat. Takeaway options are also …

Café Mignon

The former Varberg's old pharmacy building now houses Café Mignon. This café is renowned for its homemade treats, coffee, ice cream, and a lunch menu. Beyond its extensive offerings, the café stands out with a distinctive glass roof. During summer you can enjoy their large outdoor …

Veras Café

Located near Varberg's square, Veras Café offers a good selection of sandwiches and cakes in a cosy environment. It prides itself on having homemade cakes and pastries. The café features tables and chairs in various colours and shapes, and it offers several small rooms to choose from, including a …

Espresso House

A modern café with skilled baristas. The majority of their world-class coffee is sourced from South and Central America, although they occasionally feature exceptional beans from Africa or Asia. Notably, they undertake the roasting process for their coffee beans in an environmentally-friendly manner. They also offer bread and cakes from their own …

Vareborgs Strawberry Café

At Vareborg, strawberries hold a special place. The café takes pride in its homemade delicacies, featuring everything from a classic strawberry cake to dreamy strawberry-flavored biskvier, rich chocolate cookies, and of course, ice cream topped with strawberries. To complement these treats, be sure to try the café's own strawberry cordial. Additionally, Vareborg's farm shop …

Bars & Nightlife

Varberg's nightlife offers a charming blend of pubs, lively beachfront hangouts, and live music venues. As the sun sets, its streets come alive with locals and visitors looking to have some beers or classic cocktails with friends. The town's coastal location adds a special touch, with some establishments providing the perfect setting to have a good time by the sea.

Societén Nightclub & Bars

Societén is a multifaceted establishment, encompassing a restaurant, a nightclub, bars, and a stage for concerts. When it comes to nightlife, this building hosts parties, DJ sessions and performances by various artists. Since all events are scheduled, it's important to check their website regularly to stay updated on upcoming …

Black Pearl

Black Pearl blends a restaurant, sports bar and nightclub into a single venue. During weekdays, the atmosphere feels more like a restaurant, but when the weekend arrives, the night comes alive with live music, drinks and DJ …

Harrys Pub

The two Harrys Pubs in Falkenberg and Varberg were the first to open in Sweden and after these successful ventures the concept was expanded and Harrys became a chain. Harrys Pub and restaurant is situated in Central Varberg on Kungsgatan, the “restaurant street”. Each Harrys pub is unique and in Varberg the restaurant was …

Nyfiket

Nyfiket is a sports bar and restaurant that features major sporting events on the big screen. The menu primarily offers pub-style dishes and a selection of drinks. As a fun fact, Nyfiket is the official supporter bar of the local football team, Varbergs …

Shopping

Strolling along the cobbled streets and exploring Varberg's unique shops offers a relaxing and intimate experience. Visit to the bustling square and vibrant markets. Outside town, you'll find an area for bulk purchasing, farms and shops selling food, furniture, antiques and clothes.