This coastal Swedish city, 100km from Stockholm, has a compact center with historic buildings, parks, and lively summer nightlife. It's a gateway to nearby lakes and forests.
Nyköping, a coastal town in Södermanland County, Sweden, sits about 100 kilometers southwest of Stockholm. Visitors can explore the medieval Nyköpingshus Castle, walk along the Nyköping River, and enjoy the Baltic Sea coastline. The town's proximity to Stockholm Skavsta Airport makes it easily accessible for international travelers. In Nyköping's center, you'll see well-preserved buildings from the 18th century, while the surrounding area offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing spots.
Nyköping's Historical Center
As you walk through Nyköping's compact town center, you'll notice colorful 18th-century buildings housing shops and cafes around the Market Square (Stora Torget). Many of these structures date back to the town's reconstruction after a fire in 1719. The streets reveal Nyköping's distinctive character through their well-preserved architecture.
Nyköpingshus Castle
Nyköpingshus Castle, built in the 13th century, played a crucial role in Swedish history. It was the site of the infamous Nyköping Banquet in 1317. Today, you can explore the castle ruins, climb the restored tower for views of the town, and visit the on-site museum. The exhibits display artifacts and tell stories from the castle's eventful past.
St. Nicolai Church
Near the town center, you'll find St. Nicolai Church. While much of the current structure dates from after the 1719 fire, the church's origins trace back to the 13th century. Inside, you'll see a simple white interior, complemented by a richly decorated altar, pulpit, and organ façade from the early 18th century.
Along the Nyköping River
The Nyköping River flows through the heart of the town. You can follow riverside paths to discover historic buildings, cross pedestrian bridges, and relax in landscaped areas. The river path is suitable for a leisurely stroll or picnic. As you approach the Baltic Sea, you'll reach a harbor area with shops and restaurants. From here, you can take boat trips into the archipelago.
Nature and Wildlife
Nyköping's coastal location makes it a good starting point for nature experiences. The surrounding area has hiking trails and beaches. You can go kayaking or canoeing along the coast. Birdwatchers will see a variety of avian life in the nearby wetlands and coastal areas. For a unique experience, take a guided wildlife tour to spot elk, red deer, and other local fauna in their natural habitats.
Local Cuisine and Dining
Nyköping's restaurants reflect its coastal location and Swedish traditions. You can taste fresh seafood caught in the Baltic Sea, as well as traditional Swedish dishes. Try local specialties like gravlax (cured salmon) or Swedish meatballs. For an authentic experience, join a "fika" - the Swedish coffee break tradition - at one of the town's cafes.
Getting to and Around Nyköping
Stockholm Skavsta Airport is located just 7 kilometers from Nyköping's center and serves several European destinations. Regular train and bus services connect Nyköping to Stockholm and other major Swedish cities. Once in town, you can walk to most places of interest, but local buses are available for longer trips. Renting a bike is also a popular option for exploring the town and its surroundings.
Day Trips from Nyköping
Nyköping's location allows for easy exploration of the region. Kolmården Wildlife Park, Scandinavia's largest, is a short drive away and houses a variety of animals. You can take boat trips to the Stockholm archipelago from Nyköping's harbor. If you're interested in Swedish history and architecture, visit several castles and manor houses in the surrounding countryside.
