Best 20 things to do in Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås, where even the most avid traveler can enjoy a symphony of delightful activities. Marvel at the impressive gothic-style Västerås Cathedral, making it a great spot for architecture aficionados and, well, pigeons. For the more adventurous souls seeking thrills, why not visit Kokpunkten Water Park? Dance with water slides, and embrace the screams of pure joy that will make your heart do more somersaults than an Olympic gymnast. And we cannot forget about the noble art of shopping – indulge yourself in a retail frenzy at Erikslund Shopping Center, where you'll be forever tempted to squeeze into a shopping cart and race around like a deranged speed demon.

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1. Västerås Sightsafari

Welcome to Västerås, where embarking on the Västerås Sightsafari is like embarking on an adventurous quest full of historical treasures and delightful surprises! Brace yourself for a delightful encounter with the towering Västerås Cathedral, where you can marvel at its majestic presence and pretend to join in a choir rendition of your favorite ABBA song. And why not take a detour to the Anundshög Mound, where you can try your hand at solving the ancient Viking puzzle of whether the massive stones were arranged by a professional stonemason or a group of particularly skilled trolls!

2. Aros Congress Center

4 (541)

Kopparbergsvägen 10, 722 12 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Aros Congress Center, where meetings become surprisingly pleasant and not at all like the awkward family reunion you're trying to avoid. Nestled in the charming city of Västerås, this center boasts a magnificent view of the lake – perfect for pretending to be deep in thought while actually daydreaming about the post-meeting fika. With its sleek design, natural light flooding through the windows, and enough meeting rooms to make you feel like you're wrangling herds of co-workers, Aros Congress Center is the place where ideas are born…and where you'll find out who snores during PowerPoint presentations.

www.acc.se

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3. Västerås Central Station

3.7 (193)

Södra Ringvägen, 722 12 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås Central Station, where the swanky historical charm meets the kind of chaos that's both baffling and endearing. Picture yourself strolling through this bustling hub, a melting pot of travellers, bewildered tourists, and locals who are always in a hurry (unless it's time for a fika break). As you navigate through the labyrinth of platforms, you might stumble upon the infamous "lost and found" counter, where forgotten items make their home amidst a collection of mismatched gloves and long-lost umbrellas, waiting for their owners to appreciate their newfound singlehood.

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4. Mälardalen University

3.9 (68)

Universitetsplan 1, 722 20 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Mälardalen University in Västerås, where students embark on an educational odyssey, armed with textbooks and an unusual amount of fika breaks. As you wander through the vibrant campus, you might stumble upon students fiercely debating the existence of a mythical exam question that curses those who dare to find it. For those seeking a truly immersive experience, make sure to try the local delicacy known as the "Java Jolt," a potent concoction of coffee and energy drinks, guaranteed to keep you awake during those never-ending lectures.

www.mdu.se

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5. Västerås Golf Club

4.2 (207)

Bjärby, 724 80 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås Golf Club, where you can swing your cares away amidst the picturesque landscapes of Västerås. Meandering through the undulating fairways, golfers will feel like pros (or at least try their best) while enjoying the occasional leafy obstacle course, also known as the rough. And fear not, as there is a guarantee of fresh air, coupled with the friendly competition of trying to find your lost balls in the thickets—truly, an adventure for any golfer, and a forest safari for your Titleist!

vasterasgk.se

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6. Salbohed Church

5 (1)

Kopparbergsvägen 16, 722 13 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Salbohed Church in Västerås, where time seems to have stopped, but thankfully, the clock still works! Step inside this charming little church nestled in the Swedish countryside, and be prepared to be awed by its unpretentious yet striking interior. Decorated with a delightful mishmash of mismatched pews, a curious assortment of stained glass windows, and an incredibly ancient wooden pulpit, you'll feel like you've stumbled upon the world's quirkiest antique shop rather than a place of worship.

soschurchvasteras.se

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7. Västerås Art Museum

4.6 (14)

Karlsgatan 2, 722 14 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås Art Museum, where they put the "art" in "Västerås." This quirky little gem is a place where creativity and chaos collide, creating an experience that will leave you questioning the boundaries of modern art—or at least wondering if that painting of a potato is worth the hefty entrance fee. So grab your abstract thinking cap and prepare to feast your eyes on a collection that is both inspiring and unpredictable, just like the weather in Sweden.

vasteraskonstmuseum.se

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8. Engsö Castle

4.2 (548)

Engsö Slott, 725 98 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Engsö Castle, where history meets quirkiness in Västerås! This picturesque castle boasts stunning architecture, gardens galore, and a surprising secret: its very own moat-dwelling flamingos! Indulge in a whimsical journey through time as you explore the castle's nooks and crannies, but don't forget to keep an eye out for those feathery residents, ready to photobomb your Instagram shots!

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9. Västerås Castle

3.8 (322)

Slottet 1, 722 11 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås Castle, a fortress fit for both royalty and... well, occasional invading tourists. Nestled in the charming city of Västerås, this architectural wonder offers a unique blend of ancient grandeur and a slightly confused identity crisis. Marvel at its sturdy stone walls that have withstood centuries of seiges, and discover why this castle manages to be simultaneously imposing and endearingly quirky.

www.vasteras-slott.se

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10. Skantzoholm Manor

3.8 (1325)

Pilgatan 33, 721 30 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Skantzoholm Manor, a delightful slice of history nestled in the charming city of Västerås. This esteemed manor dates back to the 17th century, where it proudly stands, exuding an air of elegance and mystery. Prepare to be whisked away into a bygone era as you stroll through its picturesque grounds and imagine yourself as the protagonist of a period drama. Don't forget to keep an eye out for resident ghosts, who supposedly haunt the halls – the perfect way to test your bravery while exploring the quirkiest corners of this intriguing manor.

www.scandichotels.com

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11. Västerås City Hall

4.2 (118)

Fiskartorget, 721 29 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås City Hall, the charming architectural masterpiece that locals fondly refer to as "The Castle of Oops, We Forgot the Moat." The majestic red-brick exterior with its towering clock tower is sure to make you nostalgic for a time when people wore powdered wigs and thought leeches were the pinnacle of modern medicine. Step inside and marvel at the opulent halls adorned with golden accents that scream, "We weren't sure if we were building a city hall or a Vegas casino!" Once you've recovered from the beauty-induced swooning, don't miss the chance to explore the various rooms that serve as a delightful tribute to Swedish confusion. From the "Where Did This Random Suit of Armor Come From?" to the "We Swear We Didn't Misplace the Furniture, It's Just an Art Installation," every corner will leave you wondering if the architects secretly moonlighted as chaos-loving stand-up comedians. As you make your way to the rooftop terrace, be prepared for a jaw-dropping panoramic view that rewards your bravery for climbing the spookily narrow staircase. Don't worry, though, the breathtaking view of Västerås and its tranquil lake will make you forget about the possibility of getting stuck up there forever. Just remember, if the ghosts of occasional wobbly stairs don't entice you, the City Hall's unique blend of historic charm and architectural bewilderment certainly will.

www.vasteras.se

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12. Västerås Aviation Museum

4.6 (298)

Hässlögatan 16, 721 31 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås Aviation Museum, where you can embark on a thrilling journey through the quirky world of flying contraptions! Discover the vast collection of aircraft from ancient ducks with wings to the more modern flying machines, which, believe it or not, have no feathers whatsoever. Marvel at the innovative designs that attempted to merge a pogo stick with a helicopter, leaving visitors wondering if the inventor was aiming for the skies or the circus. So, buckle up your seatbelts (or imaginary ones) and get ready for some high-flying history in this museum that won't take you alti-turd high but will definitely give you plenty of laugh-gas...I mean, altitude!

www.flygmuseum.com

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13. Kokpunkten Water Park

4.1 (3807)

Kraftverksgatan 11, 721 31 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Kokpunkten Water Park in Västerås, the place where water slides and laughter meet! Dive into a world where wet and wild adventures await you at every corner. With twists, turns, and drops that will make your stomach do somersaults, this water park is not for the faint of heart. Prepare to have your hair completely soaked, your swimsuit tested for durability, and your sense of adventure pushed to the limits. So put on your bravest face, grab your trusty rubber duck, and get ready to encounter a watery wonderland like no other!

kokpunkten.se

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14. Västerås Cathedral

4.5 (935)

Västra Kyrkogatan 6, 722 15 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås Cathedral, where history and holy hilarity meet! This majestic masterpiece, located in the heart of Västerås, has been standing tall since the 13th century, giving you a chance to feel positively youthful in its ancient presence. Embark on a journey inside to witness stunning stained glass windows that are sure to make your jaw drop, and be prepared to whisper your prayers, because this place is so quiet it'll make even the most chatty tourist feel like they've found the world's greatest soundproof booth.

www.svenskakyrkan.se

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15. Färnebofjärden National Park

4.6 (271)

Granövägen, 740 45 Tärnsjö, Sweden

Welcome to Färnebofjärden National Park, where nature puts on a show so grand that even the squirrels are selling tickets! This enchanting park in Västerås is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with more feathered species than a nightclub during a hen party. With its winding rivers and lush forests, Färnebofjärden National Park is like Mother Nature's version of a hidden gem – just don't forget your map, or you might end up picnicking with the elk instead of the ducks!

www.sverigesnationalparker.se

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16. Anundshög

4.5 (1678)

Anundshög 5, 725 96 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Anundshög in quaint Västerås, where locals boast about having more history than an ancient museum! This is not your typical pile of dirt though — oh no! Get ready to marvel at a massive burial mound rising from the ground like a misplaced igloo, which redefines the term "resting in peace." As you wander around, keep an eye out for Viking ghosts who might convince you that horned helmets are the latest fashion trend.

www.anundshog.se

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17. Västerås Concert Hall

4.3 (718)

Kopparbergsvägen 1, 722 13 Västerås, Sweden

Located in the delightful Swedish city of Västerås, the Västerås Concert Hall is a musical marvel that will leave you humming a delightful tune. Step inside this architectural gem and be prepared to have your eardrums tickled with melodious bliss. With its state-of-the-art acoustics and impressive line-up of talented artists, this concert hall promises to make your heart sing and your funny bone giggle (in a socially acceptable, quiet manner, of course).

vasteraskonserthus.se

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18. Västerås Observatory

4.7 (11)

Åkesta gård 5, 730 50 Skultuna, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås Observatory, where the stars twinkle brighter than your uncle's jokes at Christmas. This quirky observatory is known for its celestial charm and enchanting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for stargazing enthusiasts and those who simply refuse to let go of their childhood dream of becoming an astronaut. So grab your telescope and prepare for a galactic adventure that's out of this world (quite literally)!

varf.se

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19. Västerås Harbor Church

4.5 (935)

Västra Kyrkogatan 6, 722 15 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås Harbor Church, where land meets sea and serenity meets seagulls! This quirky little church, nestled amongst the picturesque docks, offers a divine blend of heavenly architecture and a gentle reminder that even saints occasionally need a lighthouse. So, grab your compass and cross, and prepare to embark on a spiritual voyage filled with divine inspiration and the occasional salty sea breeze.

www.svenskakyrkan.se

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20. Västerås Harbor

4.3 (42)

Södra Seglargatan 3, 721 32 Västerås, Sweden

Welcome to Västerås Harbor, the place where boats come to dock and people come to flock! Nestled in the charming city of Västerås, this harbor offers a delightful combination of maritime marvels and friendly locals. Prepare to be swept off your feet with a harbor so vibrant, even the seagulls are practicing their synchronized swimming routine!

www.malarhamnar.se

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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.

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