Hey Lykkers! If you're dreaming of a peaceful town with rich history, seaside charm, and easy vibes, Kalmar in Sweden should be on our radar.

It's one of those underrated places where we can walk through medieval streets, visit real castles, and relax by the calm waters of the Baltic Sea—all in one day. Plus, it’s small enough to explore on foot but big enough to keep us entertained for a weekend or more.

Where Is Kalmar and How to Get There

Kalmar is in southeastern Sweden, in Småland province, and it's the capital of Kalmar County. From Stockholm, we can reach Kalmar in about 4.5 hours by train with SJ (Swedish Railways), or in 1 hour by flight via Kalmar Öland Airport (KLR). There's also bus service with FlixBus, though it's a longer ride (about 6 hours).

Once we’re in Kalmar, we can easily get around on foot or rent a bike. The city center, castle, waterfront, and old town are all within walking distance of each other.

Kalmar Castle – The Star of the Show

No visit to Kalmar is complete without seeing Kalmar Castle (Kalmar Slott). Built in the 12th century and heavily modified during the Renaissance, this castle played a big role in Nordic history, including the signing of the famous Kalmar Union in 1397.

Opening Hours (2025):

- April to September: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

- October to March: Limited hours (weekends only), 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Ticket Prices:

- Adults – ~$12 USD (130 SEK)

- Students/Seniors – ~$9 USD (100 SEK)

- Children under 6 – Free

- What to See Inside: Royal halls, furnished rooms, Renaissance art, interactive exhibits, guided tours (extra ~$4 USD), and a kid-friendly “Knight School” during summer.

- Tip: Buy tickets online during summer to avoid lines. English tours are available.

Old Town and Kalmar Cathedral

The Old Town (Gamla Stan) is just steps from the castle. Here, we’ll find cobblestone alleys, colorful wooden houses, and Kalmar Cathedral, a beautiful 17th-century landmark. There are several quaint cafés and local craft shops, perfect for slow exploration. It’s a great area for photography and souvenirs.

Kalmar Art Museum and City Park

Located near the castle, the Kalmar Art Museum (Kalmar konstmuseum) showcases modern Swedish art with rotating exhibitions.

Opening Hours:

- Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

- Closed on Mondays

- Tickets: Around $5 USD (50 SEK); free for kids under 19

Right next to the museum is Kalmar City Park, a lovely spot with flower gardens, fountains, and views of the Baltic Sea. We can easily spend an hour relaxing here after sightseeing.

Öland Island Day Trip

From Kalmar, we can cross the Öland Bridge (6 km long!) to explore Öland Island, known for its beaches, windmills, and the ancient Borgholm Castle ruins.

- How to Go: Rent a car or take a public bus from Kalmar’s central station. The trip takes around 30–40 minutes.

- Best for: Nature walks, seaside picnics, and a look into rural Swedish life.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Kalmar?

The best time to visit is June to August when the weather is warm (18–25°C / 64–77°F), and most attractions are fully open. If we like fewer crowds and crisp air, late May or early September is ideal.

Where to Stay in Kalmar

- Budget: STF Kalmar Hostel – Dorms and private rooms, walkable to city center

- Mid-range: Frimurarehotellet – Historic charm with modern comfort

- Luxury: Calmar Stadshotell – Right in the main square with elegant rooms

- All hotels are within walking distance to major sights.

Local Tips and Useful Info

1. Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK), but many places accept cards.

2. Language: Swedish is official, but most people speak English well.

3. Local Food: Try “kroppkakor” – traditional potato dumplings filled with onions and mushrooms.

4. Souvenirs: Handcrafted wooden goods and local honey.

Extra Tips:

- Download the Kalmar Guide app (free) for walking tours.

- Bring a light jacket even in summer; the breeze by the sea can be cool.

- Museums usually offer free Wi-Fi and lockers.

Are You Ready to Walk Through Swedish History?

So Lykkers, Kalmar is calling us with its peaceful streets, centuries-old castle, and fresh sea breeze. We can stroll through the old town, enjoy local flavors, and dive into stories that shaped Nordic history. This is the kind of place where every corner feels like a quiet discovery. Let’s plan our visit, slow down our steps, and let Kalmar surprise us with its timeless charm. We’ll carry its warmth with us, long after the trip ends.

A Gem of the Baltic Coast-Kalmar Sweden Travel Guide and Things To Do | Kalmar Nation #kalmar

Video by Touroopi