Discover Västerås

Our tips on what to do in Västerås

Västerås is a city rich in history and culture, from cobbled streets and historic buildings to modern shopping and a lively night scene.

This is what reception tends to recommend. We keep the lists ourselves and update them when something new opens — ask at reception if you would like a suggestion that fits your visit.

Eating

Restaurants we recommend

Beyond our own restaurant there is no shortage of places to eat in Västerås. These are a few we happily send our guests to.

NOM Baren

A restaurant where everyone is welcome, focused on meat and wine. In summer there is outdoor seating over the Svartån river.

Visit website

Gideonsbergsgrillen

Known for its juicy burgers and generous portions.

Gideonsberg, Västerås

Restaurang Limone

An Italian restaurant in a calm, romantic setting in Officershuset in central Västerås. Established in 1996 and mentioned in the White Guide no fewer than seven times.

Officershuset, centrala Västerås

Boca

A restaurant with a lounge and cocktail bars, serving small plates with inspiration from kitchens around the world.

Visit website

Choys Garden

A long-established restaurant with 30 years behind it. Food from across Asia in a generous buffet, and à la carte.

Visit website

To see

Sights in Västerås

Kyrkbacken

The preserved quarter of low wooden houses and cobbled lanes around the cathedral. One of the oldest parts of Västerås and a short walk through the city's history.

A few minutes on foot

Anundshög

Sweden's largest burial mound, surrounded by stone ship settings and a rune stone. One of the country's more significant ancient sites, just outside the city.

A short drive from the centre

Djäkneberget

A park hill in central Västerås with winding paths and hundreds of carved memorial stones. Good views over the city from the top.

Within walking distance

Västerås domkyrka

Dating back to the 13th century, the cathedral carries stars in the Guide Michelin. Inside are medieval altarpieces, the grave of King Erik XIV, epitaphs from Sweden's age of greatness and a treasury. Open daily 9am–5pm.

Walking distance from the hotel

Botaniska trädgården

Sweden's oldest school garden, laid out in the 1700s for teaching. Next to the cathedral.

Walking distance from the hotel

Vallby friluftsmuseum

An open-air museum showing the region's cultural history, with living collections of plants and animals, archaeological remains and relocated buildings. Nature trails, restaurants, shops and recurring events.

To do

Activities for all ages

Björnön

A nature reserve in Lake Mälaren with swimming spots, walking trails and woodland. A popular day trip in summer.

A short drive from the centre

Östra hamnen

The harbour area on Lake Mälaren, with a waterfront promenade, boats and restaurants. Tour boats leave for the archipelago here during the summer months.

A short walk or bus ride

Vasaparken

A central city park with lawns, a playground and places to sit. An easy breathing space in the middle of town.

A few minutes on foot

Kokpunkten Actionbad

Sweden's first action bath, housed in a former power station with attractions across eight floors.

Prison Island

Escape room adventures and laser games. Open daily 10am–5pm.

Jumpyard

A trampoline park of more than 4,000 m² with a Sky Rider, climbing, a ninja course and arcade games. Café on site. Ages 4 and up.

Aktivt Uteliv Björnegården

An outdoor centre renting sports equipment and running courses, with mountain bike trails and ice skating in winter. The Wåffelbaren restaurant is on site.

Shopping

Shopping in Västerås

Stora Gatan

Västerås' pedestrian street and main shopping stretch, lined with shops, cafés and restaurants.

A few minutes on foot

Punkt

More than 30 shops, five restaurants and cafés, plus a Friskis & Svettis gym. Open Mon–Fri 10–19, Sat 10–17, Sun 11–16.

Igor

More than 30 shops and five restaurants across four floors. Open Mon–Fri 10–19, Sat 10–17, Sun 11–16.

Erikslund Shopping Center

Over 80 shops, a food court and an IKEA restaurant. Open Mon–Fri 10–20, Sat–Sun 10–18.

Everything within walking distance

Stay in the middle of it

Everything within walking distance

Hotell Arkad is at Östermalmsgatan 25, a five-minute walk from the central station. Book direct for the best available rate.