Experience the Best of Västerås on a Budget

Discover Sweden's hidden gem without breaking the bank in Västerås.

21 June 2023

Visitors on a limited budget can experience the rich history and culture of Västerås by exploring the numerous free museums and local landmarks. A stroll through the picturesque downtown area offers a variety of affordable eateries and cafes serving traditional Swedish cuisine. For a nature enthusiast, a trip to the nearby Lake Mälaren and scenic parks is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring Västerås on a Budget

  • Start the day with a visit to Västerås Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 13th century.
  • Next, take a stroll through Kokpunkten, an old steam power station turned into a unique water park with slides plunging into giant tanks.
  • For lunch, head to Öster Mälarstrand, a picturesque waterfront promenade lined with casual restaurants and cafes, serving traditional Swedish dishes such as meatballs and smoked salmon.
  • After lunch, hit the Västerås Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of contemporary Swedish art, including works by Anders Zorn, Carl Larsson and Mamma Andersson.
  • End the day with a walk along Hemlingby trail, a scenic path bordering the shores of Lake Mälaren, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding countryside. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery.
  • Bon Appétit!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Västerås by plane is to fly into Stockholm Arlanda Airport and then take a train or bus to Västerås. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Car

The best way to get to Västerås by car is to take the E18 highway from Stockholm. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Train

There is a direct train from Stockholm to Västerås. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. You can take the train from Stockholm Central station.

Boat

There are no direct routes to Västerås by boat, but you can take a ferry from Helsinki, Finland to Stockholm and then take a train or bus to Västerås. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by ferry and another 1 hour and 15 minutes to Västerås.

Bus

The best way to get to Västerås by bus is to take the Flygbussarna bus from Stockholm Arlanda Airport to Västerås. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. You can also take the local bus from Eskilstuna or Uppsala.

More travel plans

Västerås on a Budget: A 4 Day Adventure

Västerås, a mid-sized city in Sweden, offers plenty of activities for visitors on a limited budget. Explore the city's beautiful parks and lakes, or visit the Vasteras Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in the country. Make sure to try some traditional Swedish cuisine, such as meatballs and lingonberry jam, at affordable local restaurants.

Escape for a 4-Day Romantic Adventure in Västerås

Västerås is a picturesque and charming city located in the heart of Sweden. With its medieval architecture, lush gardens, and stunning waterfront views, it's the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. From exploring the city's rich history and culture to relaxing in its quiet parks, Västerås offers something for every couple looking to escape and reconnect.

Romance in Västerås: A Stunning Day Trip

Västerås, Sweden is the perfect place for a romantic getaway. Take a stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and admire the historic architecture. Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the cozy restaurants or cafes and end the evening by watching the sunset over the city from the top of the Västerås Cathedral.

Västerås, Sweden: 4 Days of Family Fun and Adventure!

Västerås, Sweden offers a delightful family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the stunning Västerås Cathedral, one of the oldest in the country, and take a walk through the charming streets of Gamla Väster, filled with colorful wooden houses and quaint shops. Enjoy a fun-filled day at Vallby Open Air Museum, where children can interact with farm animals and experience rural life, or immerse yourselves in the stunning natural beauty of the nearby Lake Mälaren, perfect for picnics and boat trips.