Summary
Located on Sweden’s west coast, Halmstad is a meticulously maintained city that attracts a significant number of visitors during the peak summer months of July and August. These tourists are drawn to its temperate climate, renowned golf courses, and expansive sandy beaches. Among all of them, Tylösand Strand stands out with its impressive seven kilometers of pristine white sand, accompanied by a vibrant resort area that offers a wealth of summertime activities. The city center features an array of dining and drinking establishments along Storgatan, a lively pedestrian thoroughfare.
Halmstad’s rich history is another appealing aspect, as it was under Danish dominion until the 17th century. Several monuments hark back to this period, including the castle, Nikolai Kyrka, and remnants of the ancient city walls.
Let us delve into the top attractions in Halmstad:
1. Nissan River
The splendid Nissan River is integral to Halmstad’s character, flowing northward towards the coastline. This river delineates the boundary between the historic west bank and the newer neighborhoods on the east, where industrial buildings have been replaced by striking glass apartments and office spaces.
Both joggers and casual strollers can always find solace along the riverbanks in Halmstad. A series of parks line the eastern shore, such as Picassoparken, Kapsylparken, and Filtparken, while the western side is bustling with bars and restaurants. Continue northward until reaching Laxön (Salmon Island), a popular fishing locale offering coffee and live entertainment during the summer months.
2. Galgberget
Situated on the northern outskirts of Halmstad, this tranquil green space can be reached within a few minutes on foot from the city center. This beautiful park, established on a hill, has a rather somber history, having served as the site for Halmstad’s gallows until the 19th century. However, in the mid-1800s, beech trees were planted, and in 1897 a viewing tower was constructed at the summit, characterized by its Romantic castle design. This 13-meter tall structure boasts an observation platform open during the summer.
3. Hallandsgården
Adjacent to Galgberget lies Hallandsgården, a charming open-air museum established in 1925. Here, a collection of historic buildings from across the Halland province has been meticulously relocated. The site offers picturesque views of the city, resembling a quaint rural enclave complete with a farmhouse, windmill, sawmill, summer cottage, traditional sauna, schoolhouse, and more. During the months of May through September, children will find delight in the museum’s playground and farm animals.
4. Tylösand Strand
On pristine summer days, Tylösand Strand offers an unparalleled experience, located just west of the city. This beach is adorned with seven kilometers of soft white sands, bordered by dunes and caressed by the gentle waves of the North Sea. While the northern section of the beach is tranquil and family-friendly, the livelier southern stretch attracts a younger crowd, including teenagers and young adults. At the very southern end, a quaint resort is nestled around a cove known as Tjuvahålan (Thieves’ Hole), historically frequented by smugglers until the late 19th century, where calm waters provide refuge from the wind and North Sea currents.
5. Mjellby Art Museum
Located just a few minutes west of Halmstad, across from the airport, stands the Mjellby Art Museum, dedicated to the Halmstadgruppen. This collective of artists thrived on cubism and surrealism during the 1920s and 1930s, many residing and creating in Halmstad’s Söndrum area. Established in 1980 by the daughter of one of the group members, the museum features rotating exhibitions focusing on this artistic circle, in addition to contemporary exhibitions showcasing both Swedish and international artists. Moreover, children can enjoy a creative workshop within the galleries.
6. Halmstad Castle
Halmstad Castle was constructed beside the Nissan River at the close of the 16th century while the city was still under Danish control. Initially intended as a residence for King Kristian IV, the castle was designed more for leisure than for defense. Over the centuries, the structure has undergone several modifications, such as the addition of its distinctive mansard roof in the 18th century. Despite these changes, the castle has retained its original layout, along with the slender, copper-clad tower. Currently, the building houses administrative offices, yet visitors can access the passageway leading into the courtyard for photography opportunities.
7. Storgatan
Connecting Stora Torg and Norre Port, this prominent thoroughfare merits a visit, particularly its pedestrianized northern end. Within this section, Storgatan is lined with shops, restaurants, pubs, and cafes, complete with a row of sheltered terraces that enhance the street’s ambiance. At the north end lies Norre Port, one of the few remaining historical city gates in Sweden, constructed during King Kristian IV’s reign in 1601 as part of a citadel that encircled Halmstad’s center and the adjacent castle.
8. Stora Torg
This square, located at the southern conclusion of Storgatan’s pedestrian precinct, ranks as the largest in the city and plays a vital role in daily communal life, frequently hosting markets. On its northwest corner, a branch of the well-known Swedish department store Åhléns can be found, while a variety of food trucks provide an array of dining options throughout the square. Notably, the fountain Europa och Tjuren (Europe and the Bull), designed by the esteemed 20th-century sculptor Carl Milles, draws attention, although its nude Triton statues initially stirred some controversy when unveiled in 1926. Additionally, on the southern edge of the square lies a historic half-timbered mill house dating back to the 1700s, which now operates as a restaurant.
9. Sankt Nikolai Kyrka
Situated on the southern side of Stora Torg is one of Halmstad’s few surviving medieval structures, which withstood the devastating fire that consumed much of the city in 1619. First documented in 1432, the church’s origins may date back over a century earlier. The yellow brick facade seen today was the result of restoration efforts in the 1870s, while the interior underwent renovations in the 1930s and 40s. Noteworthy features include the prominent circular brick columns characteristic of Danish Renaissance churches from the 1500s. A brief tour of the church reveals historical elements such as medieval ledger stones embedded in the floor, an elaborately carved Renaissance pulpit from the early 1600s, and a baptismal font dating to 1474.
10. Halmstads Stadsbibliotek
There are undoubtedly days when inclement weather may thwart outdoor plans. For those who find solace in reading, the modern city library presents an inviting alternative. This striking glass and metal structure is prominently located along the eastern riverbank, nestled between Kapsylparken and Filtparken.
The library offers a wide selection of English language titles, magazines, and newspapers, complemented by comfortable seating areas for relaxation. Additionally, patrons can benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi and an onsite café, where visitors can participate in the cherished Swedish tradition of “fika”: enjoying coffee, pastries, and pleasant conversation with friends.
11. Garnisonsmuseet Halmstad
Also situated at Galgberget is a military museum that chronicles the history of Halmstad from a military perspective. Known as the “91:an Museet,” this attraction is open from June to August and features artifacts from the Västergötland and Halland regiments, both of which were stationed in Halmstad. Exhibits include uniforms, medals, antique musical instruments, gramophone records, and even a wedding dress crafted from parachute silk during the rationing period of World War II. In addition, Galgberget serves as Halmstad’s main air defense site, where modern anti-aircraft weapons and communications units can be observed at Skedalahed.
12. Hallands Konstmuseum
As of 2017, the regional art museum was undergoing renovations with plans to reopen in 2019. Nevertheless, it typically serves as one of the primary cultural destinations in the city. The museum is housed within a striking structure by the Nissan River, designed by the renowned 20th-century architect Ragnar Hjorth. The collection features numerous works by the Halmstadgruppen, alongside pieces from notable 20th-century artists such as the painter Torsten Billman and sculptor Edvin Öhrström. Visitors can also explore folk art from the Halland region, along with Bonadsmålning, a traditional style of hand-painted fabric dating from the late Middle Ages to the 19th century.
13. Danska Fall
For a captivating excursion into the countryside east of Halmstad, visitors can explore the scenic waterfalls at the southern end of Brearedssjön. Nestled within a beech forest, the Fylleån River descends 35 meters in a short distance, creating a stunning cascade over rocky terrain. The name “Danska Fall” is derived from a purported incident that occurred here after the Battle of Halmstad in 1676, when a group of retreating Danish soldiers tragically fell to their deaths. The long-distance Hallandsleden trail traverses the surrounding nature reserve, which features a blend of beech, oak, and pine woodlands; informational panels provide insights into the area’s history and ecology.
14. Halmstad Arena Bad
On days where rain may deter outdoor activities, Halmstad Arena Bad presents an excellent alternative as one of southern Sweden’s largest water parks. The majority of its facilities are located indoors; however, there is also an outdoor pool, ideal for sunny summer days. Attractions include water slides, play pools, rapids, and whirlpools for children. Adults can enjoy tranquil exercise in the training pool and gym, followed by relaxation in the sauna. Furthermore, a newly added section caters to younger visitors, featuring water umbrellas and floating toys.
15. Golf
Halmstad proudly holds the title of Sweden’s golf capital, attributed to its lush greenery and scenic landscapes. The city is home to ten golf clubs, all within a short driving distance, benefiting from a climate that keeps the fairways and greens thriving. For avid golfers willing to invest in quality, Halmstad Golfklubb is noteworthy; its “north course” frequently ranks among the nation’s top five. Located along the coast at Tylösand, Halmstad Golfklubb features two 18-hole courses nestled in dense woodlands and challenges players with numerous water hazards. Conversely, Vilshärads Golfbana, situated north of Tylösand, offers a welcoming nine-hole pitch and putt with captivating sea views. In the height of summer, golf enthusiasts can even play until 22:00 after a day at the beach.
