Attractions and Places To See in Västmanland - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Västmanland include a blend of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural landscapes in central Sweden. The region is characterized by the deep forests of Bergslagen in the north and the expansive Lake Mälaren forming its southern border. Visitors can explore ancient burial grounds, industrial heritage sites, and serene natural areas. Västmanland offers diverse experiences, from historical walks through charming towns to outdoor activities around its many lakes and forests.
Best attractions and places to see in Västmanland
- The most popular attraction is Tree Tunnel in Ängsö Nature Reserve, a viewpoint that offers a beautiful view of the lake. It is a spot to rest and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Another must-see spot is Anundshög Stone Ship and Burial Mound, a historical site featuring Sweden's largest burial mound and a stone setting in the form of a Viking ship. This area is one of Sweden's most significant ancient sites, dating from 400-1050 AD.
- Visitors also love Strömsholm Palace, a royal palace situated beside the Strömsholm Canal. The palace grounds offer historical sights and gardens, blending culture with outdoor exploration.
- Västmanland is known for its historical sites, natural attractions, and cultural heritage. The region offers a variety of experiences, from exploring ancient monuments and industrial landmarks to enjoying lakeside views and forest trails.
- The attractions in Västmanland are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 25 upvotes and over 40 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Västerås Cathedral
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Kyrkbacken Historic Wooden District
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Bondtorget, Västerås
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Anundshög Burial Mound and Stone Circles
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Aseaströmmen Bronze Sculpture
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Strömsholm Palace
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Anundshög Stone Ship and Burial Mound
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Björnö Beach
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Hjälmare Docka
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The yard magazine was added in connection with the dock being built in the 1820s. There was a similar building next door but it is now demolished. Today, part of the shipyard warehouse is used as a café. There are plans to establish a visitor center in the other part of the building.
Shipyard construction: The shipyard was closed in 1963. During the last decade, many road ferries were manufactured here. Part of this shipyard building today functions as an exhibition space for Hjälmare Docka's Shipyard History Collection. A service facility with WC and shower is currently being built in the rear regions of the building.
The forge t.v. and the model workshop t.h. both were connected with the shipyard operations. Two of the canal's shipbuilders were Carl Jacob Stenström and his son Hugo David Stenström. Hundreds of boat drawings from the shipyard at Hjälmare dock are preserved in the Västerås City Archives.
Worker's housing Next to the dock there are two rows that previously housed three or four worker's apartments each. Now there is a channel office here. Nearby was the trading booth that was run by the Handelsföreningen Enighet Ger Styrka in the years 1905-1960. To the south of Slätgärdet was the poor house. These houses are today private residences.
The clapboard bridge at Hjälmare dock There used to be a floating bridge here that the area's youth used as a meeting point and dance floor. The raft bridge was eventually replaced by a Dutch bascule bridge. The old road barrier with its crank mechanism is manufactured in Örebro.
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Historic town center of Arboga
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Many houses and the striking church bear witness to great wealth, which probably arose from the processing of iron.
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Tips from the Community
Anundshög is no ordinary burial mound. With a height of nine meters and a diameter of 60 meters, it is the largest in Sweden. It is surrounded by one of the country's largest Skeppssättningar (stone ships), several stone circles, and individual menhirs from the Viking Age. The entire area is located in the Badelunda nature reserve, which holds over 200 archaeological monuments. The so-called Hålvägar (hollow ways), created by millennia of trampling by humans and animals, are still recognizable today.
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A masterpiece with a long history, good explanations and many details
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Strömsholm Slott is, a royal palace, which sits beside the Strömsholm Canal. Cycle its towpaths, enjoying waterside views. The palace grounds offer historical sights and gardens. It's a scenic destination, blending culture with outdoor exploration, a perfect rest stop on your ride.
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The beach makes a perfect spot to stop and take a break, with plenty of room to sit down or take a dip on a warm day. On a clear day you might see aircraft coming into land at the airport on the other side of the water.
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Kyrkbacken, the church hill, is a district of older wooden houses in a maze of winding streets next to Rudbeckianska High School and the cathedral. Until the 17th century, the hilly area north of the cathedral was called "Backerne" and formed the northern outer boundary of the city. The area was divided into a more middle-class part in the south and a slum area in the north. The south was inhabited by church people, teachers and priests, while the north was populated by the poor, the despised and the lowly. Although the rest of Västerås was urbanistically laid out in a regular, modern street network in the 19th century, no effort was made to change Kyrkbacken. The area therefore lives on with a charming jumble of alleys and characterful wooden houses that give us a glimpse of life here several centuries ago.
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Bondtorget is the western part of Stora torget in Västerås. Beneath the cobblestones lies an old Christian burial site from the 11th century or possibly even older. The burial site was closed in the 13th century and is built over with houses. But the cobblestones hold more secrets. One of the houses on the edge of the square burned down in 1972. Remains of an older building were found under the burnt-out ruins. In a cavity in a wall, someone had hidden a treasure: 16,232 silver coins weighing a total of eighteen kilos, which later received the name "Västerås Treasure". The most recent coins were dated to 1518, suggesting that they were hidden sometime during the Liberation War. Most of the coins were minted in Västerås and were unused. The coins most likely came from the Sala silver mine, as it had previously been decided that Sala silver could only be minted in Västerås and Stockholm.
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Bengt-Göran Broström's bronze sculpture "Aseaströmmen" on Stora Torget depicts cyclists. Work began in 1985 and the sculpture was inaugurated in 1989. It features eight cyclists cast in bronze riding on a polished, twelve-meter-long granite wall that serves as a pedestal. At the end of the pedestal sits a conductor looking out at the cyclists, who also cycle through time, as their clothing shows: it ranges from models from the 1930s to the 1950s.
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Västerås Cathedral, now a five-aisled cathedral, was originally built in the 13th century on the site of a presumably wooden predecessor church and consecrated on August 16, 1271. A number of extensions followed until 1517. The tower and outer roof were given their current appearance when rebuilt after a fire in the 1690s. The exterior in general and the interior are largely influenced by reconstruction and remodeling carried out in 1856-1861, 1896-1898 and 1958-1961. The Swedish King Erik XIV, who reigned from 1560 to 1568, is buried in the church. The cathedral is the tallest building in Västerås at 91.8 metres; the church is the 16th tallest building in Sweden.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Västmanland?
Västmanland is rich in history. You can visit Anundshög Stone Ship and Burial Mound, one of Sweden's most significant ancient sites with the country's largest burial mound. The Västerås Cathedral, dating back to the 13th century, is another prominent historical landmark. Don't miss the UNESCO World Heritage site, Engelsberg Ironworks, a well-preserved example of a 17th-19th century Swedish ironworking estate, or the historic Sala Silver Mine.
Are there any castles or palaces to visit in the region?
Yes, Västmanland features several impressive historical residences. Strömsholm Palace is a royal palace situated beside the Strömsholm Canal, offering historical sights and beautiful gardens. Another notable castle is Ängsö Castle, known for its picturesque setting and intriguing ghost stories.
What natural attractions and viewpoints are there in Västmanland?
The region offers diverse natural beauty. The Tree Tunnel in Ängsö Nature Reserve provides a beautiful view of the lake and is a great spot to relax. Lake Mälaren, Sweden's third-largest lake, forms the southern border of Västmanland and offers scenic views and outdoor experiences. The northern parts of Västmanland are characterized by the deep forests of Bergslagen, with hilly terrain and numerous small lakes.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Västmanland?
Many attractions in Västmanland are suitable for families. The Anundshög Stone Ship and Burial Mound offers an educational historical experience. Strömsholm Palace with its large parks is also a great family outing. For a more relaxed day, Björnö Beach is a perfect spot for families to enjoy the lake. The Vallby Open Air Museum in Västerås is another excellent family-friendly option, depicting 19th-century life.
Where can I find charming old towns or districts to explore?
Västmanland has several charming historical areas. The Kyrkbacken Historic Wooden District in Västerås features older wooden houses in winding streets near the cathedral, perfect for a historical walk. The Historic town center of Arboga, dating back to the 13th century, also boasts old houses and a striking church along the Arbogaån river.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Västmanland offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore the Strömsholm Canal and Hjälmare Canal for nature and adventure. The Bergslagen region in the north is ideal for hiking and cycling. For specific routes, you can find numerous options for hiking, gravel biking, and road cycling throughout the county.
Are there hiking trails near the attractions in Västmanland?
Yes, Västmanland is excellent for hiking. The Bruksleden Trail is a 250-kilometer path that takes you along lakes and through meadows and forests. Landsberget Hill, south of Fagersta, is another popular hiking destination. You can find detailed routes and guides for hiking in Västmanland, including trails like the Utörundan Loop and the Landsberg Triangle Trail.
What is the best time to visit Västmanland for attractions and outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Västmanland largely depends on your interests. For outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and enjoying the lakes, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and natural attractions are at their most vibrant. Historical sites and museums are generally accessible year-round, though some may have reduced hours in the off-season.
Are there any attractions that are wheelchair accessible?
While accessibility can vary, some attractions offer better access. The Aseaströmmen Bronze Sculpture is noted as wheelchair accessible. For other sites, it's advisable to check specific accessibility details directly with the attraction or on their official websites to ensure a comfortable visit.
Where can I go for wild swimming or birdwatching?
Svartådalen, known for its river and wetlands, is a popular spot for both wild swimming and birdwatching. It attracts a variety of species, including sea eagles and barn owls. Lake Mälaren also offers numerous opportunities for swimming and enjoying the lakeside environment.
What do visitors enjoy most about Västmanland?
Visitors frequently praise Västmanland for its unique blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The komoot community particularly appreciates the serene views from spots like the Tree Tunnel in Ängsö Nature Reserve and the rich history found at sites like Anundshög Stone Ship and Burial Mound. The combination of cultural exploration and opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling along the Strömsholm Canal is also highly valued.
Are there any unique cultural experiences in Västmanland?
Beyond the major historical sites, Västmanland offers unique cultural insights. Frösåkers Brygga is an open-air museum that interprets a Viking settlement, providing a glimpse into Swedish history with a longhouse, ship museum, and traditional activities. The Västmanland County Museum in Västerås also offers a deeper understanding of the region's cultural heritage and traditions.
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Most popular attractions in Västmanland
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