Port Guide | Sweden | Dive Deep

Sundsvall

Author Image for James Ireton

James Ireton | Editor

Published on 2025-04-09

Congratulations-you've successfully docked in Sundsvall, the lovably offbeat sibling among Sweden's northern cities, whose greatest claim to fame (besides being nearly burned to the ground four times-seriously, Sundsvall, where's your smoke alarm?) is transforming tragedy into triumph through sheer stubborn charm and exquisite architecture. Step off your residential palace to find yourself instantly dazzled by the ornate stone buildings, a bold statement from locals who, tired of rebuilding in timber, said, "Bring it on, fire-we've got granite now." Situated cozily between forested hills and the clear blue embrace of the Gulf of Bothnia, Sundsvall offers indie festivals, laid-back cafes, and never-ending daylight in summertime-perfect for wandering aimlessly yet purposefully. Shake off your sea legs at the bustling Stenstan district (literally "Stone City," because irony has limits), fuel up with fika (Sweden's legally mandated coffee-and-pastry break), or hike the leafy trails of nearby Norra Berget for postcard-worthy viewpoints that make your Instagram followers politely jealous. Welcome to Sundsvall: quirky, scenic, and just odd enough to make your next few days delightfully memorable.

Sweden has 7 Travel Advisories

Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.

Get the Full Report

Notes from the Editor

Sundsvall is renowned for its beautiful architecture and scenic nature, making it ideal for exploration. Travelers should consider local events, festivals, and seasonal activities during summer.


Where do cruise ships dock in Sundsvall?

Port Name Sundsvall

Country Sweden

Region Northern Europe

Ship Terminal Sundsvall Cruise Terminal

Port Type Dedicated cruise port

Accessibility The cruise terminal is located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the city center, accessible by foot or local transport.

What's the weather like in Sundsvall?

Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)

Climate Temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters.

Weather Notes The summer months are generally mild, but occasional rain showers can occur. Ideal for outdoor activities but prepare for variable weather.

Temperature Range 55F to 75F (13C to 24C)

High Temp 83F

Low Temp 14F

Average Temp 48F

What do I need to know about Sundsvall?

Language Swedish

Currency Swedish Krona (SEK)

Card Widely Accepted 1

Population 94,756

Timezone CET (UTC+1)

How do I get around Sundsvall?

Buses, taxis, and rental cars available in the vicinity.


What are The Best Things to do in Sundsvall?

Discover what you should do while you're in Sundsvall.


Historical and cultural landmarks

Stone City Exploration

Stenstaden, Sundsvall

Wander through Europe's northern-most stone architecture city.

Distance from Terminal: 0.6 miles

Self-Guided Urban Architecture Walking-Distance Touristy Photo Op

Norra Berget

Norra Stadsberget, Sundsvall

Outdoor museum showcasing northern traditions and fantastic views.

Distance from Terminal: 1.9 miles

Outdoors Nature Free Museum Walking-Distance Photo Op

Historic Logging Camps of Medelpad

Vattjom, Matfors

Relive the area's historic logging past in preserved camps.

Distance from Terminal: 17.8 miles

Self-Guided Tour Rural Photo Op

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Kayaking in the Gulf of Bothnia

Kvissleby Bay

Kayak along Northern European archipelagos, experiencing the serene nature.

Distance from Terminal: 9.9 miles

Active Outdoors Nature Water Rural Remote Bucket-List

Fishing in Ljungan River

Ljungan River

Try authentic salmon fishing in a Northern European setting.

Distance from Terminal: 15.5 miles

Active Outdoors Nature Water Rural Bucket-List Car Needed

Polar Plunge at Sidsjon Lake

Sidsjon Lake, Sundsvall

Experience an exhilarating jump in pristine cold waters, even in summer!

Distance from Terminal: 3.1 miles

Active Adrenaline Outdoors Nature Water Bucket-List Photo Op

Horseback Riding in Northern Forests

Skottsundsbacken, Sundsvall

Ride horses through serene Northern European terrain.

Distance from Terminal: 7.5 miles

Active Outdoors Nature Rural Photo Op

Orienteering Challenge

Sodra Berget hills

Navigate challenging terrain with traditional Scandinavian sport.

Distance from Terminal: 2.9 miles

Accessible Active Outdoors Nature Rural Car Needed

Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere

Stornaset Birdwatching

Stornaset Nature Reserve

Experience exotic northern birds in their natural habitat.

Distance from Terminal: 7.5 miles

Outdoors Nature Remote Wildlife Walking-Distance

Traditional Northern Sauna Experience

Hotell Sodra Berget, Sundsvall

Relax in a uniquely Northern European sauna tradition.

Distance from Terminal: 2.5 miles

Accessible Relaxing Workshop Indoors Walking-Distance

Midnight Sun Photography Session

Alnon Island

Capture stunning images under the extraordinary midnight light.

Distance from Terminal: 12.4 miles

Active Outdoors Nature Bucket-List Photo Op

Swedish Fika Culinary Experience

Charm Cafe

Indulge in Swedens beloved traditional coffee break ritual.

Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles

Relaxing Urban Food Tour Walking-Distance

Sundsvall Ghost Walk

Central Sundsvall, N/A

Explore spooky legends and haunted locations around the town.

Distance from Terminal: 0.7 miles

Performance Tour Urban Spiritual Walking-Distance Photo Op

Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path

Graffiti Tour along Selanger Creek

Selanger Creek

Find colorful street art hidden along a picturesque creek.

Distance from Terminal: 1.8 miles

Self-Guided Tour Urban Street Food Walking-Distance Photo Op

Sundsvall Chocolate Factory Tour

Chokladfabriken, N/A

Discover local chocolate delicacies in a unique northern factory.

Distance from Terminal: 1.7 miles

Tour Indoors Budget Food Tour Walking-Distance Photo Op

Timra Forest Bathing Experience

Timra forest trails, N/A

Connect deeply with nature in traditional Scandinavian style.

Distance from Terminal: 8 miles

Relaxing Outdoors Nature Rural

Visit an Elven themed village

N/A

Step into a fantasy elvish settlement, a quirky Northern European attraction.

Distance from Terminal: 30 miles

Theme Park Car Needed Touristy Photo Op

A Little Extra

Birsta City Shopping Centre Tour

Gesallvagen 1, Sundsvall

Shop in one of Northern Europe's largest shopping destinations.

Distance from Terminal: 5.6 miles

Crowded Tour Indoors Urban Car Needed

Overnight Trips

High Coastal Hiking Trail

The High Coast Trail

Hike spectacular terrains where land rises faster than anywhere else.

Distance from Terminal: 50.3 miles

Active Outdoors Nature Rural Remote Bucket-List Car Needed Photo Op

Whisky Tasting at Box Distillery

Box Whisky, Bjartra

Taste whisky from one of the world's northernmost distilleries.

Distance from Terminal: 75 miles

Active Workshop Tour Rural Reservations Needed Expensive Bucket-List Car Needed

Sweden Regional Tip

Lighting Fires Outdoors Without Permit Heavy fines or legal action, as open fires are strictly regulated due to forest fire risks.

Get the Full Report