This west Swedish fishing village draws summer visitors for its fresh seafood, coastal walking paths and local smoked fish specialties along the wooden boardwalk.
Smögen, a small island on Sweden's west coast, has a 600-meter wooden pier where you can watch fishing boats unload their morning catch, eat fresh shrimp sandwiches at historic cafes, or swim from smooth granite rocks. In summer, this fishing village of 1,500 residents becomes a coastal hotspot, filled with sailing boats, waterfront restaurants, and daily trips to the nearby Hållö lighthouse.
Getting to Smögen
The island connects to mainland Sweden via a 500-meter bridge and sits about two hours north of Gothenburg by car. If you're driving, remember that parking near the pier costs up to 50 SEK per hour during peak season. Public buses run daily from Gothenburg Central Station to Smögen, with the journey taking approximately 2.5 hours.
The Famous Smögen Pier
Walk the 600-meter wooden pier to see former fishing huts transformed into shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visit early morning to watch fishing boats bring in cod, mackerel, and shrimp. Several fish markets along the pier sell the day's catch, and you can buy fresh fish directly from the boats.
Food and Restaurants
At Skärets Krog, you can try the original shrimp sandwich, first created here in the 1930s. Musselbaren specializes in local mussels and Swedish dishes, while at Göstas Fiskekrog you can buy fresh fish to cook at home or sit down for a seafood meal. Each restaurant receives daily deliveries from local fishing boats.
Summer Activities
From June to August, Smögen's population grows from 2,000 to 30,000 people. You can join seal watching tours, go deep-sea fishing, or take a boat to Hållö island to climb its 19th-century lighthouse. Restaurants and bars along the pier stay open until midnight throughout summer.
Swimming and Nature
At Vallevik, swim from flat granite rocks or take children to the sandy beach area. Walk the marked trails in Sandön Nature Reserve for views across the archipelago's small islands and fishing villages. The northern coastline has secluded swimming spots among smooth rock formations.
Where to Stay
Book Smögens Hafvsbad, a hillside spa hotel from 1900, for sea views and modern wellness treatments. Sea Lodge Smögen has waterfront rooms, while Pensionat Bryggan sits directly on the pier. For budget options, try Makrillvikens hostel. Make reservations at least two months ahead for stays during Midsummer celebrations.
