Skellefteå travel guide

Photo of City view of Skelleftea in Sweden by Skellefteå kommun
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Introduction to Skellefteå

Bonnstan, Lejonströmsbron, and Skellefteå Landsförsamling have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Skellefteå, Sweden. Skellefteå has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. This urban area in Skellefteå Municipality, Sweden is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 36.4 thousand people, the city of Skellefteå is truly one of the main highlights of Sweden.

Easily accessible from Skellefteå airport, Skellefteå is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Sweden any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Skellefteå as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Skellefteå is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Skellefteå below!

History of Skellefteå

Skellefteå, located in the Västerbotten County, has a rich history dating back to the Stone Age.

Known as a 'Gold Town' due to its massive gold and mineral resources, Skellefteå became an industrial hub in the 17th century with the discovery of the Boliden gold deposit. It was officially recognized as a city in 1845, although it had been a significant trading post for centuries.

Skellefteå's cultural history is deeply rooted in the Sami people, the region's indigenous inhabitants. Today, the Sami influence is visible in local traditions, arts, and cuisine.

The city is renowned for its well-preserved wooden city architecture, a testament to its rich timber industry. Skellefteå is also home to Sweden's oldest and largest wooden church, the 18th-century Bonnstan.

In recent years, Skellefteå has emerged as a leading destination for sustainable tourism, combining its historical heritage with innovative environmental practices.

Top services in Skellefteå

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Skellefteå, Sweden. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 267 airlines that fly to Sweden. Compare the rates and services of the 3 types of places to stay in Skellefteå and the 3 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Skellefteå.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Skellefteå, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Skellefteå on your vacation in Sweden.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Skellefteå from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Skellefteå!

Best time to visit Skellefteå

The best time to explore Skellefteå, Sweden largely depends on the experiences you're seeking. If you're interested in witnessing the magical Northern Lights, the ideal time to visit is between October and March when the nights are long and dark. However, the temperatures during these months can be quite chilly, often falling below freezing. On the other hand, if you prefer milder weather and extended daylight hours, plan your visit between June and August. This period coincides with the Swedish summer when the famous Midnight Sun phenomenon occurs, offering 24 hours of daylight and making it a unique time for various outdoor activities. During these months, Skellefteå also hosts numerous festivals and events, such as the City Festival in July, enhancing the overall tourist experience. In terms of crowd levels, Skellefteå tends to be less crowded outside these peak summer months, so if you prefer a quieter, more tranquil visit, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October).

Weather in Skellefteå

Skellefteå, Sweden experiences a subarctic climate, characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Winter months, from late November to early March, can see temperatures dropping to -20°C or lower, with heavy snowfall, providing ideal conditions for winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding. However, dress warmly and be prepared for shorter daylight hours.

Summers, usually between June and August, are mild and enjoyable, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The city experiences the Midnight Sun phenomenon during this time, where the sun does not set for several weeks, offering extended daylight hours. Autumn, from September to October, is cool and damp, with temperatures ranging between 5°C and 15°C. Spring, from April to May, is relatively short with temperatures gradually rising from winter lows to summer highs.

Rainfall in Skellefteå is moderate and spread evenly throughout the year. Travelers should always check the weather forecast in advance and pack accordingly to enjoy their visit to Skellefteå, regardless of the season.

Local tip for visiting Skellefteå

For an insider tip when visiting Skellefteå, consider stepping out of the city center and partake in the local tradition of berry picking. This quaint town is surrounded by dense forests filled with wild berries, particularly cloudberries, blueberries, and lingonberries. During summer and early autumn months, locals flock to the forests to pick these natural treasures, a practice deeply rooted in Swedish culture. It provides a serene way to engage with nature and the local lifestyle while also enjoying the delicious fruits of your labor. Remember, it's a Swedish right to roam (Allemansrätten) to pick berries, even on private property, as long as you respect the nature and don't disturb the landowners. So, grab a basket and start gathering these wild delights. This insider tip is a sure way to elevate your travel experience in Skellefteå, giving you memories of both delicious tastes and beautiful forest landscapes.

Learn more about Sweden

There are many reasons to visit the city of Skellefteå, but a trip to Sweden needs no explanation.

Exploring Sweden, which spans 528,861 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Sweden offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Bonnstan, Lejonströmsbron, and the Skellefteå Landsförsamling, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Sweden.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Sweden.

What to see in Skellefteå

Skellefteå has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Skellefteå.

Top attractions in Skellefteå

Home to plenty of top attractions, Skellefteå is more than just a wonderful city in Sweden. Skellefteå is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Sweden.

One fascinating sight in Skellefteå is the unforgettable Bonnstan. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Skellefteå.

Bonnstan is open for visitors at any time of the day and is located at Kyrkstadsvägen 15, 931 33 Skellefteå, Sweden.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Sweden, check out our list of top attractions in Skellefteå below. Discover the best places to visit in Skellefteå, including the fascinating Bonnstan, Lejonströmsbron, Skellefteå Landsförsamling, and Strandpromenaden i Skellefteå.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Skellefteå.

Things to do in Skellefteå

Enrich your travel experience in Skellefteå by joining tours and activities. Skellefteå offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Skellefteå below.

Search for things to do in Skellefteå

Discover the best things to do in Skellefteå.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Skellefteå. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Skellefteå

Skellefteå, located in northern Sweden, offers a remarkable culinary experience shaped by its rich cultural heritage and proximity to the sea. The city is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly the herring and salmon dishes, which are a must-try for any food enthusiast. The best places to eat in Skellefteå range from quaint street food stalls to high-end restaurants. For an authentic taste of Skellefteå, visit Bryggargatan offering traditional Swedish cuisine with a modern twist. Another top-notch dining venue is the rustic Stiftsgården Restaurant, set in a 19th-century building, which serves traditional dishes such as reindeer, elk, and Arctic char. For those seeking more casual dining, Skellefteå's food markets are a feast for the senses, with local vendors serving everything from smoked fish to Swedish fika - a beloved tradition involving coffee and pastries. Be sure to also try Surströmming, a fermented herring dish, which is a local delicacy. Skellefteå's culinary scene is truly a gastronomic delight that combines traditional flavors with innovative Nordic cuisine.

Nightlife in Skellefteå

Skellefteå, a charming city in northern Sweden, offers a vibrant nightlife scene that perfectly encapsulates the Swedish spirit of 'lagom,' where balance and moderation are key. The best area for bars in Skellefteå is the city center, where establishments like The Bishop Arms and Bryggargatan offer an authentic Swedish experience. The Bishop Arms is a Victorian-style pub with a wide selection of international and Swedish beers, while Bryggargatan provides a more contemporary ambiance with its craft cocktails and gourmet food.

The unique night culture of Skellefteå is perfectly embodied in Verandan, a nightclub thumping with the beats of the latest Swedish pop music and international hits, making it a must-visit establishment. For a more relaxed evening, head to Sara Kulturhus, a cultural hub with an array of performances, from concerts to theater. Finally, remember that Sweden practices 'Systembolaget,' state-controlled alcohol sales, with limited hours, so plan your night accordingly. Whether you're a party lover or a culture enthusiast, Skellefteå's nightlife has something for everyone.

Best shopping in Skellefteå

Skellefteå, a vibrant city in northern Sweden, offers a unique shopping experience for tourists. The city centre is the best place to go shopping in Skellefteå, where you'll find a mix of local boutique stores and major Swedish retail chains. Citykompaniet and Nordstan malls are perfect for those looking for a wide variety of options under one roof. As the city is known for its distinct fashion, don't miss out on visiting shops like 'Levinsky', a local favourite for Scandinavian-style clothing. If you're interested in local craftsmanship, 'Hemslojd' offers a range of handmade textiles, ceramics, and wooden crafts.

Storgatan, the main shopping street, is lined with numerous shops and cafes, offering a delightful shopping experience. The Farmers Market, held every Saturday, is a must-visit for food lovers. Here, you can buy fresh, locally-sourced produce, and sample traditional Swedish delicacies. For souvenir hunters, 'Lappstaden' offers Sami handcrafted items that make perfect keepsakes or gifts. Remember that shops in Skellefteå generally open at 10 am and close around 6 pm, with extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays. Cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to carry some cash for smaller shops and markets.

Best Free Things to Do in Skellefteå

Discover the best free things to do in Skellefteå, an enchanting city in Sweden that offers an array of no-cost attractions. Begin your exploration with the Skellefteå River Walk, a scenic pathway that meanders along the Skellefte River, offering stunning views and peaceful spots for a picnic. Don't miss the historic Bonnstan, an old church town with charming 19th-century wooden houses, a testament to the region's rich history. For nature lovers, the Vitberget area offers extensive trails for hiking and biking, encapsulated by breathtaking Nordic landscapes. Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting Nordanå, Skellefteå's cultural heart, where you can enjoy free outdoor concerts during summer. And when the sun sets, nothing beats a leisurely stroll on the city's beautiful beaches, watching the mesmerizing Northern Lights dance across the skies. Remember, the best experiences don’t always come with a price tag. Explore, experience and enjoy the best free things to do in Skellefteå, and you're sure to leave with priceless memories.

Vacation packages in Skellefteå

The best and easiest way to visit Skellefteå is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Sweden.

Booking a vacation package to Skellefteå means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Skellefteå to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Skellefteå is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Skellefteå, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Skellefteå.

Find vacation packages in Skellefteå

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Skellefteå.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Skellefteå get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Sweden. Your customized holiday package to Skellefteå is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Skellefteå

To get to the city of Skellefteå the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Sweden can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Skellefteå by booking flights with any of the 3 airlines that offer direct flights to Skellefteå airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Skellefteå airport are SAS, JetBlue Airways, Air China, Delta Air Lines, and Ryanair. Go to this page to compare all flights to Skellefteå.

To reach the city of Skellefteå, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Skellefteå airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Skellefteå, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Skellefteå airport and Skellefteå below.

Find cheap flights to Skellefteå

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Skellefteå, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Sweden. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Skellefteå, Sweden, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Skellefteå costs around 47 EUR and is offered by the airline Ryanair.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Skellefteå cost approximately 103 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on June 22 and the return flight is scheduled on June 30. The flight time is around 4 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Kiruna.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Sweden and the city of Skellefteå from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Skellefteå

Travelers visiting Skellefteå in Sweden can fly to Skellefteå airport directly from 948 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Skellefteå airport and the city of Skellefteå in Sweden depart from Skellefteå airport in Skellefteå, Sweden, Sydney airport in Sydney, Australia, and Keflavík International airport in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Travelers can fly to Sweden by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Skellefteå; from 2 weekly flight(s) from Sydney; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Reykjavik.

The airline that operates most flights to Sweden is Cambodia Airways. Cambodia Airways offers 8 scheduled flight routes to Sweden.

Discover the most popular flights to Skellefteå below. Click to view flights to Skellefteå, Sweden from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Skellefteå

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Skellefteå is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Skellefteå usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Skellefteå offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Skellefteå and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Skellefteå planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Skellefteå, you'll find 3 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Sweden can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Skellefteå. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Skellefteå.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Skellefteå in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Skellefteå

A trip to the fascinating Skellefteå, Sweden, means opportunities to relax at any of the 3 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 27 hotels, 1 bed & breakfast and 1 cottage. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Skellefteå provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, The Wood Hotel by Elite is one of the top picks of travelers in Skellefteå.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Skellefteå. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Skellefteå, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Bed & Breakfast "Granden". For approximately 65 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Double Room at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 3 different types of places to stay in Skellefteå. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Skellefteå

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Skellefteå for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 29 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Skellefteå provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Skellefteå are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Skellefteå.

If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out The Wood Hotel by Elite, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Skellefteå, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Hotel Victoria, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Skellefteå. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Skellefteå

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Skellefteå on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Skellefteå that match the information provided.

Car rental in Skellefteå

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Skellefteå. Skellefteå has 3 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Skellefteå start from 56.22 EUR per day or 393.57 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Peugeot 3008.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Skellefteå, starting from 61.09 EUR per day or 427.66 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Seat Ibiza 1.2.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Skellefteå, Sweden, below.

Popular types of car rental in Skellefteå

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Skellefteå to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Skellefteå can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Sweden at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Skellefteå is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Skellefteå is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Skellefteå.

Check out all options available in Skellefteå and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Sweden below.

Search for car rental in Skellefteå

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Skellefteå. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Skellefteå, Sweden, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Skellefteå

Getting around Skellefteå, Sweden is straightforward thanks to its efficient and varied modes of transportation. Public transit is a popular choice, with the local bus network, operated by Länstrafiken, providing regular services throughout the city and its surrounding areas.

For more flexible travel, taxis are readily available and can be easily booked via local companies such as Taxi Skellefteå. If you prefer to drive, there are several rental car companies, including well-known brands such as Hertz and Europcar, offering a wide range of vehicles for hire.

A unique way to explore the city is by bike, as Skellefteå has an extensive network of cycling paths that provide a scenic and environmentally friendly travel option. In the winter, snowmobiles are also a popular mode of transport. Whether you're getting around by bus, taxi, rental car, bike, or snowmobile, Skellefteå offers a variety of efficient and enjoyable transportation experiences.

Popular destinations to visit after Skellefteå

The city of Skellefteå is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Sweden. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Sweden has it all.

Sweden is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Sweden that are as magical as the city of Skellefteå. The most popular travel destinations in Sweden are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Sweden

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Sweden. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Skellefteå

A taste of Sweden through a visit to Skellefteå can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Skellefteå to another remarkable destination in Sweden.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Skellefteå to other spectacular locations in Sweden, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Skellefteå

Travelers in Sweden can catch flights to domestic airports in Sundsvall, Stockholm, Växjö, Malmö, and Luleå. Domestic flights in Sweden are operated by 4 airlines: SAS, Ryanair, Braathens Regional Aviation, and Lufthansa. There are around 18 scheduled flight routes operating to Skellefteå on a weekly basis.

From Skellefteå, travelers can book scheduled flights to 15 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Skellefteå depart to many top-rated destinations in Sweden and are offered by SAS, Ryanair, and Braathens Regional Aviation.

Search domestic flights from Skellefteå

Traveling to another city or region in Sweden? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Skellefteå to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Sweden on the selected dates.

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