Gävle - Discovering Sweden

Travelling to Gävle

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Gävle, a pretty good destination in Sweden (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Gävle and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Gävle, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sweden, here's everything to know about Gävle for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Gävle

Gävle is a city located in the north part of Sweden, in the province of Gästrikland. It's situated on the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia and has a population of around 100,000 people. Gävle is known for its beautiful old town, Gävle Goat (an enormous Christmas goat sculpture made of straw), and the University of Gävle. The city is also a hub of industry, with a strong focus on engineering, information technology, and logistics. Visitors can enjoy cultural events, trade fairs, and several museums, as well as outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and fishing nearby.

What to visit in Gävle

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Gävle, Sweden: 1) Gävle Goat: One of the most iconic attractions in Gävle is the Gävle Goat or Gävlebocken, a giant straw goat that has been constructed annually since 1966 at the beginning of Advent. It usually stands in the Slottstorget square in the city center and is illuminated throughout the holiday season. Visitors can take photos with the goat and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
2) Furuvik Zoo and Amusement Park: Furuvik is a combination of a zoo and amusement park located just outside of Gävle. The park is open from May to August and is a great place to spend a fun-filled day with family and friends. The park has a wide range of attractions including rides, animal exhibits, and shows.
3) Gävle Konserthus: Gävle Konserthus is a concert hall located in the heart of Gävle. It regularly hosts concerts, performances, and other cultural events. The building itself is a stunning mix of modern and art nouveau architecture and is worth a visit even if you're not attending a show.
4) Old Town: Gävle's Old Town or Gamla Gefle is a well-preserved section of the city that dates back to the 1800s. The area is a popular spot for tourists to stroll around and take in the charming atmosphere. It's home to several museums, cafés, and shops.
5) Boulognerskogen Nature Reserve: Boulognerskogen is a beautiful nature reserve just outside of Gävle that offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, bird watching, and fishing. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.
6) Hemlingby Recreation Centre: Hemlingby is a recreational park located in the outskirts of Gävle. It has a variety of activities for visitors including cross-country skiing, swimming, hiking, and cycling. The park also has a café and restaurant on site.
7) Joe Hill Museum: The Joe Hill Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Joe Hill, a famous labor activist and songwriter who spent time in Gävle. The museum houses artifacts and exhibits related to his life and is a great place to learn more about this important figure in labor history.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sweden, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Gävle.

When to go on holiday to Gävle

The best time to visit Gävle is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild, and the days are long with almost 24 hours of daylight. Temperatures during these months usually range from 15 to 22 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, if you are interested in seeing the famous Gävle Goat, which is only put up during Christmas time, then you may want to plan your trip accordingly. Just keep in mind that winters in Gävle can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -20 degrees Celsius.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Gävle

There are several ways to get to Gävle, Sweden. Here are some options: 1. By train: Gävle has a train station with regular services to and from Stockholm, Uppsala, and other nearby cities.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate services to and from Gävle, including Swebus and Flixbus.
3. By car: Gävle is located on the E4 motorway, which connects Stockholm and Sundsvall. The drive from Stockholm takes around 2 hours.
4. By plane: Gävle does not have its own airport, but the closest airport is Stockholm Arlanda Airport, which is around 1.5 hours' drive away. From the airport, you can take a train or bus to Gävle.
Overall, the best way to get to Gävle will depend on your starting point and personal preferences.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Gävle, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Gävle

Here are some typical foods from Gävle, Sweden: 1. Gävle sausage - Also known as Gavlekorv, this is a traditional sausage made from pork and beef. It has a distinctive flavor from its spices, which can include allspice, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Rårakor - These are potato pancakes that are a common Swedish dish. They are made from grated potatoes mixed with onion and flour, then fried until crispy.
3. Knäckebröd - This is a type of crispbread made from rye flour. It is a staple food in Sweden and is often eaten with butter and cheese.
4. Kalops - This is a meat stew made from beef, potatoes, onions, and spices. It has a rich, hearty flavor and is often served with boiled potatoes and lingonberry jam.
5. Pepparkakor - These are gingerbread cookies that are a traditional Swedish Christmas treat. They are flavored with ginger, cinnamon, and cloves and often shaped into festive designs.
6. Lingonberries - These tart berries are a common ingredient in Swedish cuisine. They are often served with meat dishes such as meatballs and stews, and can also be used to make jam and sauce.
7. Blåmusselsoppa - This is a creamy soup made from blue mussels, cream, and vegetables such as leeks and carrots. It is a popular seafood dish in Gävle and along the Swedish coast.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sweden here.

Is Gävle an expensive destination for tourists?

Gävle, like many other cities in Sweden, can be expensive for tourists. However, the cost of a trip depends on several factors such as the time of year you plan to visit, your accommodation options, transportation, and the activities you choose to do. In general, the high season (summer) tend to be more expensive than the low season (winter), and prices may also be lower on weekdays than on weekends. Still, it's always a good idea to budget for higher prices, especially when it comes to food and beverages, transportation, and accommodation. But don't let the cost discourage you from visiting - Gävle has a lot to offer and is well worth the trip!

Where to find accomodation in Gävle

Some of the best areas to find accommodation in Gävle, Sweden are: - The city center: This area is filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops, and also has easy access to many of the city's top attractions.
- Boulognerskogen: This is a beautiful park just outside of the city center, with walking trails and plenty of green space.
- Söder: Located south of the city center, this area has a more residential feel and is known for its old, charming houses.
- Brynäs: This neighborhood is located just east of the city center and is primarily residential, with some small shops and cafes. It's also home to Gävle's ice hockey team and their arena, Gavlerinken.
You can check hotel prices at Gävle here:
Booking.com

Is Gävle a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Gävle is generally a safe place for tourists. Sweden is known for its low crime rates, and Gävle is no exception. However, as with any destination, it's always wise to take basic safety precautions like being aware of your surroundings, keeping an eye on your belongings, and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night. In case of emergency, you can call the police by dialing 112.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sweden here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Gävle.

What type of travelers will enjoy Gävle the most?

Gävle, Sweden has something to offer all types of travelers. Couples will enjoy the romantic and charming atmosphere of the city. The city's beautiful landscapes and architecture make it easy for couples to find activities that they can enjoy together such as strolling through the botanical gardens, visiting the cultural landmarks or enjoying dinner at one of the city's cozy restaurants.
Young people who are looking for fun will find plenty of exciting things to do in Gävle. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene with lots of bars, clubs and pubs. Additionally, the city has several music festivals and cultural events that young people are sure to enjoy.
Families will love the city's numerous parks, museums and kid-friendly attractions. The city's zoo and amusement park are always popular with kids. Meanwhile, the museums and cultural landmarks are great for families to learn together and discover the city's rich cultural heritage.
Overall, Gävle is a great travel destination for all types of travelers who are looking to escape into a beautiful and charming city with plenty of culture and charm.

How to get around Gävle

In Gävle, there are several transportation options to move around, including buses, trains, taxis, and bicycles. The local bus network is well developed and covers most areas of the city. Gävle also has a train station that offers convenient transportation to nearby cities. Taxis are available for those who prefer to get around the city more comfortably or rapidly. Finally, travelers who enjoy cycling can access a bike-sharing system, called City Bike Gävle, to explore the city and its surroundings on two wheels.

What to see around Gävle

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Gävle, Sweden: 1. Furuvik Zoo - a great place to see a variety of animals including bears, tigers, and monkeys.
2. Mackmyra Bruk - a unique distillery where you can taste and buy high-quality Swedish whisky. 3. Högbo Bruk - a historic ironworks village with cafes, a museum, and a beautiful surrounding forest. 4. Gysinge Bruk - a preserved ironworks village dating back to the 17th century, offering guided tours and a cafe. 5. Wij Gardens - a beautiful and peaceful garden with a collection of international plants spread across 7 hectares.
6. Årsunda Viking Village - an interesting place to learn about Viking culture, dress up as a Viking, and enjoy a meal in the Viking way. I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Sweden you can click here.

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