5 Days in Linköping: Culture, Nature & Cuisine

Discover a charming blend of history, innovation, and natural beauty in Linköping, Sweden.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Linköping, Sweden, promises to be a memorable one with the city's rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes to explore. From the stunning Göta Canal to the Linköping Cathedral, the city emits an old-world charm with modern amenities. Visit the open-air museum, Gamla Linköping, to experience life as it was in the past or enjoy shopping and dining at the city center.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploring Linköping's Old Town

  • Check into Elite Stora Hotellet, a stunning building that dates back to 1852.
  • Take a stroll through Linköping's picturesque Old Town, featuring charming, colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.
  • Visit the Linköping Cathedral, one of the tallest churches in Sweden, and take in its impressive Gothic architecture.
  • Stop by Gamla Linköping Open-Air Museum, showcasing traditional Swedish buildings and crafts.
  • Grab a bite at Familjen, a cozy café serving up delicious pastries and hearty sandwiches.
Day 2

Discovering Linköping's History and Science

  • Explore Linköping Castle, the ruins of a 13th-century fortress filled with history and stunning views of the city.
  • Visit the Östergötland Museum, home to fascinating exhibits on local history and culture.
  • Experience the Tekniska-Industriella Museum, an interactive science museum where you can learn about everything from airplanes to robots.
  • Enjoy a leisurely picnic in the beautiful Stångebro Nature Reserve.
  • Dine at Restaurang Svartå Slott, a stunning dining experience in a castle dating back to the 16th century.
Day 3

A Day in the Nearby Countryside

  • Take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside, passing by quaint villages and picturesque farmland.
  • Visit the stunning Göta Canal, where you can take a boat tour or bike ride along the waterway.
  • Explore the Vadstena Castle and Kloster, a beautifully preserved Renaissance castle and convent.
  • Stop by Motala Strömman, a picturesque waterfall where you can go fishing or simply take in the scenic views.
  • Grab a meal at Båtmanska Krog och Café, a cozy restaurant serving up traditional Swedish fare.
Day 4

Admiring Art and Architecture

  • Visit the Moderna Museet i Stockholm, a branch of the renowned museum showcasing contemporary Swedish and international art.
  • Take in the stunning architecture of the Linköping University Campus, designed by a range of celebrated architects.
  • Admire the colorful street art adorning the walls of Linköping's city center.
  • Check out the Linköping Konsthall, a gallery showcasing a range of contemporary and traditional art.
  • Try some traditional Swedish meatballs at the cozy and charming Valla Folkhögskolas Café.
Day 5

Relaxation and Goodbyes

  • Spend the morning enjoying the local parks and nature reserves, such as Bergs slussar and Tinnerö Eklandskap.
  • Head to the Linköping City Library, a stunning modern building housing countless books and an impressive art collection.
  • Eat your final Swedish meal at Pinchos, a lively bar and restaurant serving up delicious tapas-style dishes.
  • Take a final stroll through Linköping's charming streets, soaking up the atmosphere and taking in the sights.
  • Pack up your bags and head home, with memories of a charming Swedish city and the warmth of its people.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Linköping, Sweden by plane is to fly into Stockholm Arlanda Airport and take a connecting flight or train to Linköping City Airport.

Car

If you plan to drive to Linköping, the best way is to take the E4 highway from Stockholm and follow the signs to Linköping.

Train

If you prefer to travel by train, the best option is to take SJ trains from Stockholm Centralstation to Linköping Centralstation.

Boat

As Linköping is located inland, there are no direct boat connections. However, there are ferry services available from Germany and Poland to neighboring cities such as Karlskrona, and from there you can take a train or bus to Linköping.

Bus

For those traveling by bus, the best option is to take the Flixbus from Stockholm Cityterminalen to Linköping Busstation.

More travel plans

A Fun-Filled Weekend in Linköping, Sweden

A trip to Linköping, Sweden offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the medieval cathedral, stroll through the charming Old Town, and learn about the region's Viking heritage at the nearby Viking Site. The city also boasts a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it the perfect destination for a relaxed and enjoyable vacation.

Linköping on a Budget: 2 Days of Family Fun!

Linköping, Sweden offers a wonderful family friendly trip with its abundance of attractions and activities. Explore the fascinating exhibits at the interactive and kid-friendly Linköping Museum, where children can learn about history and science through interactive displays. Take a stroll through the picturesque Gamla Linköping open-air museum, featuring historic buildings, charming shops, and friendly farm animals, ensuring an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Escape for a romantic long weekend in Linköping

Linköping, Sweden is a charming city that offers a romantic getaway experience filled with historic landmarks, picturesque views, and exciting activities. Visitors can explore the medieval castle ruins of Linköping Castle, go for a romantic walk in the stunning Tinnerö Eklandskap nature reserve, and indulge in the city's vibrant culinary scene featuring local specialties like smoked salmon and lingonberry jam. The city also has a great selection of cozy hotels and spas, making it the perfect destination for a romantic trip.

Linköping, Sweden: Fun, Family Adventures on a Budget!

A family trip to Linköping, Sweden promises to be a delightful experience with plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. Explore the rich history of the city by visiting the stunning Linköping Castle and the fascinating open-air museum, Gamla Linköping. Kids will be thrilled to visit the renowned Swedish Air Force Museum, where they can see and even climb into historic aircraft.