Gotland Sweden Travel Guide
The remarkably preserved 13th-century Visby City Wall (Ringmuren) almost completely surrounds Visby. At around 3.4 kilometers long, it has many towers and gates. It ranks among Europe's best-preserved medieval city walls. Its presence reflects Visby's past wealth and Hanseatic League importance, needing strong defenses. The wall is an UNESCO World Heritage site and a defining symbol of Visby.
Visby Cathedral (Sankta Maria kyrka) is the only medieval church in Visby still in use today. German merchants built it in the 13th century. It saw expansions and renovations, reflecting different architectural styles while keeping its historic core. Its strong structure and imposing appearance show Visby's the historical weight of.
Plan visits to museums during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.
Visby Botanical Garden (within city wall) is a peaceful oasis with diverse plants. Almedalen Park is a green space by the sea in Visby for relaxation and picnics.
Unique limestone formations carved by erosion. Langhammars on Fårö is the most famous raukar field. Högklint south of Visby and Holmhällar in the south of Gotland are other impressive areas.
Gotska Sandön National Park (north of Fårö) has beaches, pine forests, unique flora/fauna, and grey seals. Stora Karlsö (southwest) is a birdlife nature reserve with guillemots and razorbills. Getting there by seasonal ferry/boat.
Many sandy beaches: Tofta Strand, Ljugarn, Sudersand (Fårö). Swimming in the sea is preferred over lakes for warmth.
Find guided tours and tickets for natural attractions on GetYourGuide.
Beyond the popular spots, Gotland has unique places loved by locals.
A former limestone quarry in northern Gotland, now filled with clear, turquoise water. A popular swimming hole, visually striking.
Ancient burial sites shaped like ships using large standing stones (e.g., Gnisvärd, Bro). Less visited but offer a strong connection to the island's distant past.
A local apple farm in southern Gotland. Seasonal apple picking, farm shop with local produce, and a cozy café. A taste of rural Gotlandic life.
Smaller, rural medieval churches across the island are delightful hidden gems. Active country churches (e.g., Dalhem, Grötlingbo, Fröjel) often have unique frescoes, sculptures, and architecture, offering a quiet glimpse into history without crowds.
Offers a quieter, more rugged experience. Remote seaside scenery, charming small villages, and scattered raukar fields (like Holmhällar). A tranquil escape from busier northern parts of the island.
Raukar fields at sunrise/sunset enhance dramatic shapes. Visby's cobbled alleys in the first part of morning light have a magical atmosphere. Coastal views from Högklint are spectacular.
Enjoy clear, turquoise waters in a former limestone quarry in the northern part of Gotland.
Check out a local apple farm in southern Gotland for produce and a cozy café.
Consider renting a bicycle to reach places off main bus routes for quiet exploration.
For easy booking of tours and activities at Gotland's attractions, consider GetYourGuide.
Gotland's size allows for a blend of city and rural exploration. Plan your days to group attractions geographically.
Visby can take 1-2 full days to explore its wall, ruins, and museums. Allocate separate days for northern, central, and southern Gotland for nature and countryside churches.
While Visby is walkable, exploring the rest of Gotland needs transport.
Gotland's attractions are woven into its rich past.
Gotland offers much to see beyond its main highlights.
From the stark beauty of Fårö to the coastal charm of Klintehamn and the popular beaches of Ljugarn, each part of Gotland has its unique character.
Wander through the narrow, cobbled alleys within the city wall for an immersive step back in time.
Seek out the charming rural medieval churches for a quieter glimpse into Gotland's profound past.
Book a variety of attraction tickets, guided tours, and unique experiences for Gotland and beyond.
Explore Tours on GetYourGuideLook for guided walks of Visby's city wall, visits to Viking sites, or tours of the medieval churches. Many options on GetYourGuide.
Find Historical ToursBook boat trips to Stora Karlsö for birdwatching or seal safaris. Find them listed on GetYourGuide for convenient planning.
Discover Nature ExperiencesCheck for special tours or events around Medieval Week or the Gotland Truffle Festival. GetYourGuide may have listings for these seasonal offerings.
Explore Festival EventsUse GetYourGuide to build a personalized itinerary of attractions that match your interests and schedule.
Create Your ItineraryThe Gotland Museum offers a comprehensive journey through the island's history.
Capture memorable photos at Gotland's most stunning viewpoints.
For several attractions, especially during peak season, booking your tickets online in advance helps you save time and ensure entry. Websites like GetYourGuide are good for this.
This approach avoids queues and potential sell-outs, allowing more time for exploration.
Gotland's appeal reaches to its lesser-known, equally charming spots.
Discover the quiet beauty of Gotland's countryside.
Find tranquility in Gotland's diverse natural settings.
Visit Visby outside of summer for a different experience.
Note that some tourist-oriented places may be closed.
Fårö island offers unique landscapes and a unique feel.
A day trip or an overnight stay is recommended to experience its stark beauty.
Explore Storsudret for a quieter, more rugged experience.
A great choice for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
The local tourist information center in Visby has maps, brochures, and advice on attractions.
Websites focused on Gotlplus tourism often have updated information on opening hours and events.
Look for any local apps that highlight attractions or walking tours for convenience.
