Sights and activities in Umeå
Guitars – The Museum – explore an impressive private collection of hundreds of electric guitars from the 1950s and 1960s. Housed in a former schoolhouse, the display includes guitars of the same type as those played by rock legends.
Västerbottens Museum – discover local culture and history through traditional Sami houses, historic timber buildings painted in classic Swedish red, a farmstead and even an ancient ski at this fascinating museum.
Bildmuseet – immerse yourself in contemporary international art at the striking riverside museum, celebrated for its architecture and beautiful views over the Ume River. Near the museum, you can find a fun sculpture of a massive clothes peg, perfect for photo opportunities.
Curiosum – if you’re visiting Umeå with kids, make sure to stop by the Curiosum science centre, where you can explore interactive science and technology through exciting hands-on experiments.
Väven – visit the modern cultural hub, combining Umeå’s city library, the Museum of Women’s History, hotels, cafés, restaurants and cinemas within a striking architectural landmark.
Umedalen Sculpture Park – wander through one of Europe’s most prominent sculpture parks, featuring more than 40 sculptures from notable Swedish and international artists, set on former hospital grounds.
Umeå City Church – appreciate the serene atmosphere and neo-Gothic architecture of this late-19th-century city church overlooking the river.
Umeå Folkets Hus – the lively cultural and event hub hosts concerts, theatre performances, comedy shows and major festivals such as Umefolk, House of Metal and the Jazz Festival.
Strandpromenaden – stroll along the Ume River on this promenade and admire the scenic views.
Bölesholmarna – if you walk far enough on the Strandpromenaden and cross a bridge, you will reach this natural area consisting of two islets. Marvel at the beautiful nature, enjoy a sandy beach that’s perfect for swimming or have a barbecue.
Lake Nydalasjön – enjoy lakeside relaxation only about 4 kilometres from the city centre, with walking trails, beaches, playgrounds, a waterpark and opportunities for swimming, kayaking or SUP.
Things to see and do near Umeå
Arboretum Norr – stroll among diverse tree species and natural landscapes in this peaceful arboretum, ideal for nature lovers. You can get there from Umeå in about 20 minutes by car or 40 minutes by bus.
Holmön Island – discover one of Sweden’s sunniest islands. Enjoy lovely beaches, scenic walks and discover the island’s heritage in the traditional fishing village. You can get to Holmön by taking a free ferry from Norrfjärden, north of Umeå.
Grössjön Nature Reserve – wander through wetland trails and forested paths in the calm sanctuary located just a short drive from the city. It’s also an excellent location for bird-watching. You can reach the reserve from Umeå in about 15 minutes by car or 20 minutes by bus.
Tuvan Nature Reserve – a small but highly regarded nature reserve featuring wetlands, birdlife and serene walking paths for peaceful escapes into nature. You can get there from Umeå in about 20 minutes by car or 30 minutes by bus.
Norrmjöle Beach – one of the region’s largest sandy beaches, perfect for a beautiful beach day. Enjoy a wide open shoreline and the cafeteria that is open during the summer. The beach is about a 25-minute car ride and an hour’s bus ride away from Umeå.
Bettnessands Beach – another beautiful beach south of Umeå, offering long sandy stretches and volleyball courts, ideal for seaside relaxation. You can reach the beach in about 25 minutes by car or an hour by bus from Umeå.