
Strömstad – complete travel guide
Strömstad, the charming coastal town on Sweden’s west coast, is a gem for nature lovers and adventurous travelers alike. With its proximity to the Koster Islands, the archipelago, and the Norwegian border, Strömstad offers a unique combination of seaside activities, great food, and relaxing accommodations. In this travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the city’s attractions, activities, transportation, and accommodations – including reviews from travelers who’ve already experienced the magic of Strömstad!
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Attractions and activities in Stromstad
1. Koster Islands – A paradise for nature lovers
Just outside Strömstad lies the Koster Islands, Sweden's only marine national park. Here you can hike through untouched nature, rent a bike or kayak in the crystal clear waters. The Koster boats leave regularly from Strömstad, and a day trip here is a must!
💬 Traveler review:
"I've traveled all over Sweden, but the Koster Islands are something very special. Cycling along the car-free roads and swimming off the cliffs is pure magic!" - Lina, Gothenburg
2. Strömstad archipelago and boat trips
For those who want to explore more of Bohuslän's fantastic archipelago, there are plenty of boat trips from Strömstad. A popular route goes to Ursholmen, Sweden's westernmost inhabited island, where you can visit the old lighthouse and enjoy spectacular sea views.
3. Spa and relaxation by the sea
Strömstad Spa & Resort is one of the most popular destinations for those looking for luxury. With sea views from the sauna and spa treatments inspired by the sea, you can truly relax here.
💬 Traveler review:
“I booked a weekend at Strömstad Spa and was completely sold. Perfect for a romantic getaway!” – Erik, Stockholm
4. Saltö Nature Reserve
For those who want to hike and enjoy untouched nature, a visit to Saltö nature reserve. Here you will find magnificent cliffs, beautiful sandy beaches and a fantastic view of the sea. Perfect for a picnic!
5. Shopping and restaurants at the harbor
Strömstad has a wide range of restaurants, from fresh seafood platters at Rökeriet to cozy cafes like Kaffedoppet. Don't miss out on shopping in the small shops by the harbor.
Accommodation in Strömstad – From luxury hotels to camping
Strömstad has accommodation options for all tastes and budgets, whether you are looking for a luxurious hotel stay, a cozy hostel or a camping experience close to nature.
Hotels in Stromstad
🛎️ Strömstad Spa & Resort – Luxury hotel with spa and sea view
💰 Price: Search for prices and available rooms here.
📍 Location: Just outside the city center
🛏️ Facilities: Pool, spa, restaurant, gym
💬 Traveler review:
“One of the best spa experiences I've had! Perfect for a relaxing weekend.” – Sofia, Malmö
🛎️ Scandic Laholmen – Comfortable hotel by the water
💰 Price: Search for prices and available rooms here.
📍 Location: Central Strömstad
🛏️ Facilities: Restaurant, bar, conference room
💬 Traveler review:
“The location is fantastic, right by the harbor! The breakfast was also really good.” – Peter, Oslo
Hostels and budget accommodation
🏠 Hostel Rowing Boat – Affordable and central
💰 Price: Search for prices and available rooms here.
📍 Location: Near Strömstad station
🛏️ Facilities: Shared kitchen, free WiFi
💬 Traveler review:
“Simple but cozy! Perfect for a budget trip.” – Hanna, Uppsala
Camping and cabins
🏕️ Lagunen Camping & Cottages – For those who love the outdoors
💰 Price: Search for prices and available rooms here.
📍 Location: 4 km from the city center
🛏️ Facilities: Cabins, tent sites, kayak rentals
💬 Traveler review:
“Waking up by the sea and taking a morning swim was one of the highlights of the trip!” – Jens, Västerås
🏕️ Daftö Resort – Family-friendly camping with activities
💰 Price: Search for prices and available rooms here
📍 Location: 5 km south of Strömstad
🛏️ Facilities: Pool, playground, adventure park
💬 Traveler review:
“The children loved Daftöland and we adults enjoyed the tranquility by the water.” – Maria, Linköping
How to get to Strömstad
🚆 Train:
The train from Gothenburg to Strömstad takes about 2.5 hours and goes through Bohuslän's beautiful coastal landscape.
🚌 Bus:
Flixbus. Bus4you and Western traffic offers buses from both Gothenburg and Oslo.
🚗 Car:
Drive the E6 from Gothenburg or Oslo. Strömstad is right on the border with Norway, making it a popular destination for Norwegians.
🚢 Boat:
From Sandefjord in Norway you can take the ferry to Strömstad, which is a popular option for cross-border trade.
Best tips for booking accommodation
✔ Book in good time! Strömstad is a popular destination, especially during the summer. Accommodations fill up quickly, so book at least a couple of months in advance.
✔ Compare prices on booking sites like Booking.com, Hotels.com and Airbnb to find the best deals.
✔ Check out the reviews! Always read reviews from previous guests to get a fair idea of the accommodation.
Is Strömstad worth a visit?
Absolutely! Strömstad has something for everyone – from relaxing spa experiences to adventurous excursions in the archipelago. Whether you want to enjoy fresh seafood by the harbor, hike in beautiful nature or just relax by the sea, you will find something to suit you.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and discover Strömstad! 🌊✨Which part of Strömstad attracts you the most? 😊
Travel suggestions – Daily schedule to follow for the best experiences in Strömstad
Three days in Strömstad – Perfect family adventure on the coast! 🌊🏕️🎡
Strömstad is a fantastic destination for families with children! With its scenic archipelago, child-friendly activities and good food options, there is something for both young and old explorers. Here is a detailed 3-day family adventure which combines play, nature and relaxation.
🗓 Day 1 – Discover Strömstad & Daftöland 🎢
Morning: Welcome to Strömstad & harbor promenade
🚗 Arrival in Strömstad – If you come by car, train or ferry, start the day with a short walk along the harbor. Strömstad has a cozy city center with small shops and cafes.
🍩 Coffee at Kaffedoppet – Start the trip with a classic Swedish fika. The kids love their cinnamon rolls and smoothies!
Afternoon: Daftöland – Pirates' Paradise 🏴☠️
🎡 Visit Daftöland – One of Sweden's best adventure parks for children, inspired by pirates! There are rides, a play area, theater shows and treasure hunts.
🍔 Lunch at Daftöland – Try their burgers and child-friendly menus.
🎠 Continue with activities – Children can jump on trampolines, ride carousels and play in pirate ships.
Evening: Family dinner & cozy time at camping/hotel
🍕 Dinner at Backlunds Bakery & Café – Cozy place with pizzas and child-friendly dishes.
🏕️ Accommodation at Daftö Resort or Lagunen Camping – Perfect for families who want to be close to activities and the sea!
🗓 Day 2 – Coastal adventure & swimming at Basteviken 🏖️
Morning: Excursion to the Koster Islands 🚢
🥐 Breakfast at the hotel or campsite
⛴ Take the boat to the Koster Islands – A 40-minute boat trip from Strömstad takes you to one of Sweden's most unique islands.
🚲 Rent bikes and discover Sydkoster – Child-friendly cycle paths take you through idyllic fishing villages and nature reserves.
🦀 Crab fishing and swimming – Stop at a beach and let the children try catching crabs with a bucket and string.
Afternoon: Lunch & more adventure
🥪 Picnic at Koster – Bring lunch or buy fresh shrimp sandwiches at Kosters Trädgårdar.
🌊 Snorkel in the crystal clear water – At Ekenäs there is an underwater path where children can snorkel and discover marine life!
Evening: Back to Strömstad & quiet family evening
⛴ Return trip to Strömstad
🍝 Dinner at the Smokehouse – Perfect for families, with both fish and meat dishes and a children's menu.
🛏 Evening walk & early bedtime – After an active day, a quiet evening at the hotel or campsite is a good idea.
🗓 Day 3 – Nature & relaxation 🏕️
Morning: Hiking and playing in Saltö Nature Reserve 🌿
🥐 Breakfast & packed lunch
🚗 Excursion to Saltö (10 min drive from Strömstad)
👣 Child-friendly walk along the sea – Short and easy trail with magical views!
🏖 Swimming and sandcastles on Saltö beach
Afternoon: Mini golf & ice cream in Strömstad 🍦
🎯 Mini golf at Strömstad Golf Club – Perfect end to the trip!
🍦 Ice cream break at Lejonet & Björnen
🚗 Homecoming – full of new memories!
🌟 Summary:
✔ Day 1: Strömstad & Daftöland 🎢
✔ Day 2: Koster Islands & snorkeling 🦀
✔ Day 3: Nature, swimming & mini golf 🌿
Perfect for families with children who want a fun and relaxing trip! 🚀
Which day looks the most fun to you? 😃
Nearby communities in Southern Bohuslän
Uddevalla, Lyckorna, Stenungssund, Pond, Orust, Käringön, Gullholmen, Klädesholmen, Åstol, Animal Island, Skärhamn. Harmenskär, Marstrand, Kungalv, Gothenburg
Nearby communities in Northern Bohuslän
Buy board games before the trip
Bring games and other activity equipment from home. A popular board game that is suitable to bring with you is games in which you have to solve various riddles and puzzles. You can use these when it suits you during your stay. For example, on a rainy summer day or to gather the family for something together. Read more about these games here. Or, click on the game that you find interesting.
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