Attractions and Places To See in Södermanland - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Södermanland, a historical province in southeastern Sweden, include a blend of medieval castles, charming towns, and expansive natural areas. Located south of Stockholm, the region is characterized by its numerous lakes, extensive forests, and a Baltic Sea coastline. Södermanland offers diverse landscapes and cultural experiences, from ancient runestones to royal palaces.
Best attractions and places to see in Södermanland
- The most popular attractions is Stendörren Nature Reserve, a natural monument located along the Baltic Sea coast. This reserve offers barbecue areas and is considered a wonderful place for exploration.
- Another must-see spot is Suspension bridge over the Stendörren Strait, a bridge offering views within the Stendörren Nature Reserve. Visitors can experience walking across the suspension bridges, which provide a unique perspective of the coastal environment.
- Visitors also love Gripsholm Castle, a 16th-century castle situated by Lake Mälaren in Mariefred. This royal residence houses an internationally renowned portrait collection and features a historic palace theater.
- Södermanland is known for its historical sites, natural reserves, and cultural landmarks. The region offers a variety of attractions, including medieval castles, picturesque towns, and extensive natural areas like the Södermanland Archipelago and Lake Mälaren.
- The attractions in Södermanland are appreciated by the komoot community, with 11 upvotes and 23 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Ånhammar Manor and Surroundings
Highlight • Historical Site
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Sigurd Carving
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Grave of Kurt Tucholsky
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Gripsholm Castle
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Rademachersmedjorna
Highlight • Historical Site
The first forges were completed in 1659 and formed part of Carl Gustaf's Stad's ironworks, built and named after King Karl X Gustav. The factory in Eskilstuna was Sweden's first blacksmith factory. The business was state-owned and had exclusive rights to the manufacture of a wide range of forged products. Scissors, awls, knives, locks, veining irons, gun barrels, fittings and much more were manufactured here.
In every blacksmith household, in addition to the master blacksmith and his family, there were also journeymen and apprentices. Two households lived in each forge. This meant that it could get quite crowded in the homes. Working in the forge was dirty and sometimes hot, sometimes very cold. Of the blacksmith families who came to Eskilstuna together with Rademacher, about half were immigrants, mainly from Germany. Since the manufactory was state owned, the blacksmiths did not own their tools or the products they made. All goods were handed in to the superintendent. It was determined how much each blacksmith would make each week to receive his wages. However, many sold their goods on the side, secretly.
At the beginning of the 18th century, the manufactory passed into private ownership. In 1771, the area became part of Eskilstuna Fristad, where blacksmiths were allowed to run businesses without guild compulsion and customs fees. The name alludes to the idea of a sanctuary for blacksmiths and arose as a reaction to the lack of business freedom that prevailed in Sweden and to the fact that the manufactories were unprofitable. During the latter part of the 19th century, the remaining forges were used as premises for some of Eskilstuna's many rapidly growing industries. The small, individual companies were merged into larger workshops.
Of the original 20 forges, six remain today. In addition to the forges from the 17th century, there are some houses in the area that were built or moved to the site later. In 1906, Eskilstuna's first museum opened in one of the forges. In 1959, as part of the city's 300th anniversary, the remaining forges were turned into a cultural reserve where history and tradition are kept alive. Traditional crafts are still performed here today by self-employed people and associations.
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Sundvägen Beach, Nynäs Nature Reserve
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Suspension bridge over the Stendörren Strait
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Drunnviken - Stendörren Nature Reserve
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Stendörren Nature Reserve
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Sundbyholm Castle
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Today it is a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️hotel and conference center.
sundbyholms-slott.se/en
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Tips from the Community
Truly a highlight in a dreamlike setting
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The walk across the suspension bridges is an experience. It rocks and shakes, but it holds! Only two people at a time, and keep your distance!
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Amazing! The best hiking boots I've had in Sweden so far. A wonderful place!
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A “No Camping” sign has now been put up on the beach.
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The "Theatre King" Gustav III, who had the theatre built in the castle, even wrote his own plays and sometimes even took on a role himself
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The Mariefred Cemetery contains the grave of Kurt Tucholsky, who emigrated from Germany to Sweden in 1929. This was preceded by a five-month stay near Mariefred in the summer of 1929, where he found the material for his "summer story" Gripsholm Castle, published in 1931. Also in the cemetery is an "Estonia Bell," a memorial to the sinking of the ferry "Estonia" in 1994. (from Wikipedia)
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A very well-signposted tour. It's best to wear sturdy shoes, as it's easy to twist your ankle. If the weather's nice, don't forget your swimsuit and barbecue gear, as there are many beautiful spots where you can grill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I explore in Södermanland?
Södermanland offers a diverse range of natural landscapes, from the extensive Stendörren Nature Reserve along the Baltic Sea coast to thousands of islands in the Södermanland Archipelago. The region is also characterized by over 800 lakes, vast forests, and significant natural reserves like Marvikarna and Krampan, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
Are there good hiking opportunities in Södermanland?
Yes, Södermanland is home to the Sörmlandsleden, one of Sweden's longest and most idyllic treks, spanning over 1,000 kilometers through varied terrain. You can also find excellent hiking trails within nature reserves like Stendörren Nature Reserve, which offers well-signposted routes. For more specific hiking routes, you can explore komoot's guides for MTB Trails in Södermanland, which also includes some multi-use paths.
Where can I experience the coastal nature of Södermanland?
The Stendörren Nature Reserve is a prime location to experience the coastal nature of Södermanland, featuring suspension bridges over the strait and beautiful views. The Södermanland Archipelago also offers thousands of islands and skerries along the Baltic Sea coast, perfect for kayaking and exploring marine environments. Another coastal gem is the Nynäs Castle and Nature Reserve, which combines cultural heritage with natural beauty.
What historical sites and castles can I visit in Södermanland?
Södermanland is rich in history. You can visit the 16th-century Gripsholm Castle in Mariefred, known for its portrait collection and historic palace theater. Other notable historical sites include the ruins of Nyköping Castle, Tullgarn Palace, and Sundbyholm Castle. The impressive Strängnäs Cathedral is also a significant historical and architectural landmark.
Are there any significant cultural attractions or museums?
Beyond castles, Södermanland offers several cultural attractions. Rademachersmedjorna in Eskilstuna is a well-preserved 17th-century environment showcasing metalworking heritage. Julita Manor is a former country estate and one of the world's largest open-air museums. Nyköping Art Museum and Södermanland's Museum also feature impressive art and cultural exhibits.
Which towns are worth visiting for their charm or history?
Several charming towns in Södermanland are worth exploring. Mariefred, home to Gripsholm Castle, is picturesque on Lake Mälaren. Trosa is a popular, picturesque waterside spot. Strängnäs offers a charming small-town atmosphere with beautiful lakeside views and historical architecture, including its cathedral. Nyköping, the county seat, also boasts historical significance.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Södermanland?
Yes, many attractions in Södermanland are suitable for families. Gripsholm Castle and Sundbyholm Castle are great for exploring history. Nature reserves like Stendörren Nature Reserve and Drunnviken offer easy trails, barbecue areas, and opportunities for children to explore coastal environments. The open-air museum at Julita Manor is also a fantastic family destination.
What is the best time of year to visit Södermanland for outdoor activities?
The warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September), are ideal for outdoor activities in Södermanland. During this period, the weather is pleasant for hiking, cycling, kayaking, and exploring nature reserves and the archipelago. The region's lakes and forests are particularly inviting during summer.
Can I find places for cycling in Södermanland?
Absolutely. Södermanland offers numerous routes for cycling. You can find various options for different types of cycling, including touring and road cycling. Check out komoot's guides for Cycling in Södermanland and Road Cycling Routes in Södermanland to discover routes like the Näckrosleden and Cykelspåret.
Where can I see ancient runestones in Södermanland?
Södermanland has a high number of ancient runestones, offering a glimpse into its Viking past. The Gripsholm Runestone, located near Gripsholm Castle, is a significant example. Many other runestones are scattered throughout the province, telling tales of its rich history.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Södermanland?
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and historical depth of Södermanland. The Stendörren Nature Reserve is often highlighted for its stunning coastal views and well-maintained trails, with many enjoying the barbecue areas. The experience of walking across the Suspension bridge over the Stendörren Strait is also a popular highlight. Historical sites like Gripsholm Castle are appreciated for their impressive architecture and rich history.
Are there places to spot wildlife in Södermanland?
Yes, Södermanland's extensive natural areas provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Hjorthagen Nature Reserve, located near Gripsholm Castle, is specifically known for its free-roaming deer. The numerous forests and nature reserves throughout the region also support diverse birdlife and other local fauna.
Most popular routes in Södermanland
Most popular attractions in Södermanland
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