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Sweden
Östergötland

Söderköpings kommun

Attractions and Places To See around Söderköpings kommun - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Söderköpings kommun include a rich blend of historical landmarks, diverse natural landscapes, and cultural experiences. The region features the Göta Canal, a significant waterway, alongside the Sankt Anna Archipelago, known for its coastal environment. Visitors can explore ancient sites, extensive forest areas, and valuable wooded pastures. This area offers a variety of experiences, from historical exploration to natural recreation.

Best attractions and places to see around Söderköpings kommun

  • The most popular attractions is Mem Lock, an other man-made structure that was built in 1831/32 as the last lock on the Göta Canal. It marks the beginning or end of the Göta Canal's passage through its 58 locks.
  • Another must-see spot is Motala Ström waterfalls in Norrköping, a waterfall and historical site. The river was historically important for powering mills and factories, with rapids overcome by boats since the Viking Age.
  • Visitors also love Himmelstalund Petroglyphs, easily accessible petroglyphs with several hundred depictions of ships. These Bronze Age rock carvings are among the most important in Sweden, with over 1,660 figures found in the area.
  • Söderköpings kommun is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from the Göta Canal to the Sankt Anna Archipelago and ancient rock carvings.
  • The attractions around Söderköpings kommun are appreciated by the komoot community, with 10 upvotes and 46 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: June 22, 2026

Himmelstalund Petroglyphs

Highlight • Historical Site

easily accessible petroglyphs with several hundred depictions of ships

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The cycle path here takes you across the lake by boat.
gotakanal.se/en/book/to-do/2626994/bicycle-boat-aspl%C3%A5ngen-g%C3%B6ta-canal/showdetails


Bicycle boat operating times in 2024:

Pre- and post-season: May 7th - June 12th and August 16th - September 28th Saturday and Sunday 12pm - 4pm

High season: June 13th - August 15th Daily 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

This year it costs 100 kroner for 1 adult, 50 kr for children up to 12.

Outside of boating times, definitely take the route south of the lake (unfortunately it doesn't lead along a country road that is so nice), a section of the route to the north is now private and completely closed off, i.e. you can't get through (even if Komoot/OpenStreetMap still shows it differently)

Alternative route outside of boating times: gotakanal.se/de/tour/alternative-route-rund-um-asplaangensee-braadtom-snoeveltorp_804288624

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The river was of great importance in Norrköping, as it had been used to power mills and other factories since the Middle Ages. Since the Viking Age, the rapids in the river had been overcome by towing boats through them with the help of horses. This practice is documented in rock carvings found near the river.

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Lillkyrka Church

Highlight • Religious Site

Lillkyrka Church is a stone church believed to have been built in the 12th and 13th centuries. But there was probably a wooden church here as early as 1000. The stone church has been renovated and rebuilt several times, the nave and the north wall of the chancel have been preserved from the original church.

More: svenskakyrkan.se/akerbo/lillkyrka

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Mem Lock

Highlight • Structure

The lock was built in 1831/32 as the last lock on the canal. Here the Göta Canal was inaugurated on September 26, 1832 in the presence of King Karl XIV Johan. Here is the first of the 58 locks of the Göta Canal

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Popular around Söderköpings kommun

Cycling Sweden’s Blue Ribbon – Göta Canal Trail

Cycling around Söderköpings kommun

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Cycling Sweden’s Blue Ribbon – Göta Canal Trail

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Francesco | Cyclo Ergo Sum

Tips from the Community

vdMeeren
August 23, 2025, Bicycle Boat Across Lake Asplången

Nice trip across Asplången with a very friendly skipper.

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one of the rotating bridges on the canal

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Waterfall in the middle of the city

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A beautiful place at the end of the canal.

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The cycle path here takes you across the lake by boat. https://www.gotakanal.se/en/book/to-do/2626994/bicycle-boat-aspl%C3%A5ngen-g%C3%B6ta-canal/showdetails Bicycle boat operating times in 2024: Pre- and post-season: May 7th - June 12th and August 16th - September 28th Saturday and Sunday 12pm - 4pm High season: June 13th - August 15th Daily 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This year it costs 100 kroner for 1 adult, 50 kr for children up to 12. Outside of boating times, definitely take the route south of the lake (unfortunately it doesn't lead along a country road that is so nice), a section of the route to the north is now private and completely closed off, i.e. you can't get through (even if Komoot/OpenStreetMap still shows it differently) Alternative route outside of boating times: https://www.gotakanal.se/de/tour/alternative-route-rund-um-asplaangensee-braadtom-snoeveltorp_804288624

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Since the Viking Age, the rapids of the Motala Ström have been overcome by towing boats through them with the help of horses. This practice is documented in rock carvings.

Translated by Google

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The river was of great importance in Norrköping, as it had been used to power mills and other factories since the Middle Ages. Since the Viking Age, the rapids in the river had been overcome by towing boats through them with the help of horses. This practice is documented in rock carvings found near the river.

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Three thousand years ago, people in the Bronze Age carved patterns and figures into the smooth rock slabs that are found here on the headland between the sea and the large inland lake. Most of the figures carved into the rocks in Norkoping are located in Himmelstalung, around 1,660 have been found. You can see more than 600 ships and other drawings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore in Söderköpings kommun?

Söderköpings kommun is rich in history. You can visit the ancient Himmelstalund Petroglyphs, which feature hundreds of Bronze Age ship depictions. Explore the medieval past in Drothemskvarteren with its narrow alleys and historic church, or delve into the region's history at the Söderköpings Stadshistoriska museum. Don't miss the impressive Stegeborgs Slottsruin, a significant castle ruin, and the historic S:t Laurentii Kyrka, which dates back to 1497.

Are there any natural attractions or scenic viewpoints in the area?

Absolutely. The Sankt Anna Archipelago is a major natural highlight, perfect for kayaking and exploring its unique coastal environment. For panoramic views, head to Ramunderberget, which rises 70 meters above Söderköping and offers vistas including the archipelago. The region also boasts diverse landscapes with extensive forests and nature reserves like Hälla and Käringbergens, providing ample opportunities to experience local flora and fauna.

What outdoor activities are popular around Söderköpings kommun?

The area offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can cycle along the historic Göta Canal, which is part of a national cycle path. Hiking is popular, with trails like Östgötaleden and routes within nature reserves such as Ramunderberget. Kayaking in the Sankt Anna Archipelago is a fantastic way to explore the coast. For more specific routes, check out the hiking guide, road cycling routes, and MTB trails in the region.

What is the Göta Canal's significance in Söderköping?

The Göta Canal is a central feature of Söderköping, running directly through the town. It was completed in 1832 and is famous for its locks, including the historic Mem Lock, which marks the beginning or end of the canal's passage. Visitors can walk along its banks, watch boats navigate the locks, or take boat tours. The Lock Keeper Sculpture in Söderköping also pays tribute to the workers who built and maintained this engineering marvel.

Are there family-friendly attractions in Söderköpings kommun?

Yes, Söderköpings kommun has several family-friendly options. The Göta Canal offers boat trips and pleasant walks. The Himmelstalund Petroglyphs are easily accessible and fascinating for all ages. During winter, Ramunderberget offers ski tracks and a tobogganing slope. The annual Söderköpings Gästabud, a medieval festival, is also a popular family event with jesters, music, and jousting.

Where can I find unique cultural experiences in Söderköpings kommun?

For unique cultural experiences, consider visiting the Sankt Anna Skärgårdsmuseum in Tyrislöt, which showcases the historical living conditions of archipelago residents. The annual Söderköpings Gästabud, one of Sweden's largest medieval festivals, offers a vibrant cultural immersion. You can also explore the Drothemskvarteren to experience the town's medieval layout and architecture, or visit Stinsen, a cultural venue hosting various exhibitions and programs.

What are some unique local specialties or points of interest in Söderköping town?

Söderköping is renowned as Östergötland's 'ice cream capital,' with many places to enjoy ice cream, including Smultronstället by the canal and Jolla's garden café. The town also served as a filming location for popular Swedish movies, and you can explore the older parts of town to see these sites. Don't miss Skvallertorget, the smallest square in Söderköping, which features an art garden.

Can I cycle along the Göta Canal, and are there any special cycling experiences?

Yes, cycling along the Göta Canal is a popular activity, forming part of the national Göta Canal cycle path. A unique experience is the Bicycle Boat Across Lake Asplången, which transports cyclists across the lake, allowing you to continue your journey without interruption. This service operates seasonally, so it's advisable to check its schedule in advance.

What is there to see near Norrköping, within the broader Söderköpings kommun region?

Near Norrköping, within the broader region, you can visit the impressive Motala Ström waterfalls in Norrköping. This historical site was crucial for powering mills and factories since the Middle Ages, and its rapids have been navigated by boats since the Viking Age. It's a great spot for a walk along the river.

What is the best time to visit Söderköpings kommun for outdoor activities and cultural events?

The warmer months, particularly late spring to early autumn (May to September), are ideal for outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and kayaking in the Sankt Anna Archipelago. The Göta Canal boat services also operate during this period. If you're interested in cultural events, the annual Söderköpings Gästabud, a medieval festival, typically takes place on the last weekend of August.

Are there opportunities for hiking in nature reserves around Söderköpings kommun?

Yes, Söderköpings kommun features several nature reserves perfect for hiking. Ramunderberget is a popular choice with jogging tracks and scenic views. Other reserves like Hälla, Käringbergens, Dyhults, and Nedre Lagnö offer various trails to explore the local flora and fauna, including valuable oak and noble deciduous tree environments. You can find more detailed routes in the hiking guide for Söderköpings kommun.

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