Port Guide | Sweden | Worth a Wander
Lysekil
August C. W. | Editor
Published on 2025-11-28
Congratulations-you've successfully docked in Lysekil, the impossibly picturesque Swedish coastal town that somehow manages to be both quietly charming and delightfully eccentric. While this postcard-perfect chunk of western Sweden once made its fortune shipping sardines and quarrying granite, today its main exports appear to be Instagram sunsets, seafood platters big enough to hurt yourself, and unapologetically fresh air. Sure, this peaceful Scandi gem isn't exactly Ibiza, but trust me, you'll be glad it isn't-especially after you've tasted your first absurdly fresh crayfish sandwich or spent an afternoon puttering through the Kosterhavet National Park archipelago, where seals outnumber tourists and gulls are judging you mercilessly. You've got two to five days: just enough time to savor Lysekil's understated charm, snap a few jealousy-inducing landscape shots, and fully appreciate why Vikings decided-against all odds-that this rugged coastline was worth sticking around for.
Sweden has 7 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Lysekil is known for its beautiful coastal scenery, seafood restaurants, and proximity to the Kosterhavet National Park. Visitors should sample local seafood and explore the natural beauty of the archipelago.
Where do cruise ships dock in Lysekil?
Port Name Lysekil
Country Sweden
Region Scandinavia
Ship Terminal Lysekil Cruise Terminal
Port Type Tender Port
Accessibility The terminal is located within walking distance (approximately 1 mile) of the city center, with easy access to public transport options.
What's the weather like in Lysekil?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)
Climate Temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters.
Weather Notes Summer typically brings pleasant weather, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.
Temperature Range 60F to 75F (15C to 24C)
High Temp 75F
Low Temp 30F
Average Temp 55F
What do I need to know about Lysekil?
Language Swedish
Currency Swedish Krona (SEK)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 8,000
Timezone CET (UTC+1)
How do I get around Lysekil?
Local buses, taxis, and bike rentals are available. Some tour operators provide shuttle services from the port to nearby attractions.
What are The Best Things to do in Lysekil?
Discover what you should do while you're in Lysekil.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Lysekil Havets Hus Aquarium
Strandvagen 9, 453 30 Lysekil
Explore marine life native to Scandinavian waters, including sharks and rays.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Mussels Adventure in Lysekil
N/A
Harvest fresh mussels directly from the clear Scandinavian waters.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Swedish Midsummer Celebration
Various locations in Lysekil
Participate in traditional Swedish midsummer celebrations, dancing around maypoles, enjoying herring and snaps.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Gullmarsfjorden Night Dive Experience
N/A
Dive at night in Gullmarsfjorden-the only threshold fjord in Sweden-to discover unique marine species.
Distance from Terminal: 4.5 miles
Traditional Swedish Sauna by the Sea
Fiskebackskil, Lysekil
Relax in an authentic Swedish sauna followed by a refreshing swim in the chilly Scandinavian water.
Distance from Terminal: 3.4 miles
Seafood Culinary Tour
Various Locations in Lysekil
Experience Lysekil's unique seafood dishes, freshly caught from the surrounding sea.
Distance from Terminal: 0.7 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Vikarvet Museum
Strandvagen 7, 453 30 Lysekil
A maritime museum showcasing Lysekil's fishing and boating heritage.
Distance from Terminal: 0.6 miles
Carl Wilhelmson's Artist Trail
Starting Point: Strandvagen
Walk a scenic path inspired by local artist Carl Wilhelmson's paintings.
Distance from Terminal: 0.8 miles
Hallristningar Petroglyphs in Backa
Backa, Brastad
View ancient petroglyphs carved into stone, depicting life thousands of years ago.
Distance from Terminal: 9.9 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Seal Safari with LL 627 Atlantic
Sodrahamnen, 453 30 Lysekil
Experience exotic Scandinavian wildlife by spotting seals in their natural habitat.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Climbing at Stangehuvud Nature Reserve
N/A
Rock climbing on the unique pink granite cliffs characteristic of Bohuslan.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Nordens Ark Wildlife Park
Nordens Ark, Åby sateri, 456 93 Hunnebostrand
A conservation park featuring Nordic animals including wolves, lynx, and rare birds.
Distance from Terminal: 18.6 miles
Kayaking Among Bohuslan Islands
N/A
Enjoy tranquil kayaking between beautiful granite islands along the coast.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Island Hopping Cycling Tour
Starting in Lysekil Harbor
Cycle between islands using local ferries, experiencing beautiful Scandinavian landscapes and architecture.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Overnight Trips
Overnight Stay in a Cottage by the Sea
Gullmarsfjorden area
Spend the night Scandinavian-style in a traditional seaside cottage.
Distance from Terminal: 5.2 miles
A Little Extra
Traditional Scandinavian Weaving Workshop
Central Lysekil Cultural House
Learn traditional Swedish weaving techniques at a local workshop offering authentic cultural experiences.
Distance from Terminal: 0.9 miles
Sweden Regional Tip
Be punctual Attending meetings, dinners, or social gatherings exactly at the stated time is important and seen as a sign of respect.