This calm coastal town on the Bothnian Bay has been a trade center since 1621. With 22,000 residents, it serves as an educational and cultural hub in northern Sweden.
Härnösand sits on Sweden's northern coast, spread across several islands and mainland areas near the High Coast UNESCO site. Walk through the 18th-century cathedral to see its 17-meter rainbow carpet, or visit the Art Hall to view an original Matissé painting. Swim at Smitingen beach, explore limestone caves, and join local events like the world's largest airsoft gathering in summer. In winter, glide along cross-country ski trails or skate on frozen lakes.
Getting Around Härnösand's Islands
You can explore Härnösand by walking or sailing between its four islands: Härnön, Mellanholmen, Kronholmen, and Bockholmen. Three guest marinas - Kanaludden, Nattviken's boatsheds, and Skeppsbron pier - have 65 berths for boats. Stone bridges and land connections link the islands, making it easy to walk between different neighborhoods.
Museums and Cultural Sites
Walk through the Västernorrland Regional Museum to learn about local life through the centuries, then step outside to explore one of Sweden's largest open-air museum areas. The Härnösand Car Museum houses more than 200 vehicles, including vintage cars, steam trains, engines, motorcycles, and fire trucks. At the Maritime Museum, you'll see a collection of boats that tell the story of Swedish recreational sailing.
City Center Architecture
The pink-faced Town Hall from 1791 rises above the street with its white columns and neoclassical design. Walk through Östanbäcken quarter to see wooden houses built in the 1700s and 1800s. Inside the neoclassical cathedral, look up at the vaulted ceiling and down at the 17-meter rainbow-colored carpet running through the nave.
Summer Activities at Smitingen
Cool off in the calm waters at Smitingen beach or hike along marked trails to see geological formations. North of the beach, you'll find paths leading to limestone stacks and cobble fields. When north winds blow, surfers catch waves off the beach. Several hiking paths give you clear views of the coastline.
Winter Sports and Recreation
Skate at the local ice rinks or ski on maintained cross-country trails throughout winter. Watch local curling teams practice at the arena - the same facility where Olympic gold medalists Team Anette Norberg trained. You'll find downhill skiing slopes within driving distance of the town center.
Modern Härnösand
In 1885, Härnösand became Sweden's first town with electric street lighting, powered by the Gådeå station. The port now handles both cargo ships and passenger ferries, with indoor and outdoor storage facilities. The harbor's cranes can lift loads up to 300 tons, supporting maritime trade in the region.
