This medieval walled city on Gotland island preserves 13th-century streets and buildings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it draws over 1 million visitors yearly.
Visby, the capital of Gotland island in Sweden, is a medieval town encircled by 13th-century stone walls. As you walk through its winding cobblestone streets, you'll see colorful cottages and striking church ruins. Explore the Gotland Museum to discover Viking-era artifacts, stroll through the fragrant DBW's Botanical Gardens, or relax on nearby sandy beaches. Taste local specialties like Gotlandic lamb in restaurants around Stora Torget (Main Square).
Visby's Medieval Walls
The 3.4-kilometer stone wall encircling Visby's old town dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries. It's one of the best-preserved medieval city walls in Northern Europe. Walk along sections of the wall and climb some of its 36 towers for views of the town and sea. Visit the Norderport (North Gate) and Österport (East Gate) to see examples of medieval defensive architecture.
Church Ruins and Visby Cathedral
Within Visby's walls, you'll find the ruins of several medieval churches. St. Nicolai and St. Karin have towering stone arches open to the sky. Visby Cathedral, dedicated to St. Mary, is the only fully intact medieval church in the town. Built in the late 12th century, it displays both Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements.
Museums in Visby
Visit the Gotland Museum to see an extensive collection of Viking-era artifacts, including the world's largest hoard of silver treasure from that period. In the museum's Fornsalen (Hall of Antiquities), you'll find items from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages. Some guided tours of the town include access to areas of ruins typically closed to the public.
Botanical Gardens and Green Spaces
Explore DBW's Botanical Gardens, free public gardens within the city walls. They contain a variety of plant species, including many roses - which is why some call Visby the "City of Roses." Outside the walls, walk the trails of Östergravar, a green area with views of the city wall's exterior.
Beaches Near Visby
Visby's western coast location puts you close to several beaches. In town, swim from a bathing jetty near the beach promenade. For wider sandy shores, go to Tofta Beach, about 20 kilometers south of Visby. The island of Fårö to the north has coastal landscapes with distinctive limestone formations called raukar.
Annual Events in Visby
During the Medieval Week in August, you'll see people in period costumes, markets, and tournaments. In early July, Almedalen Week brings Swedish politicians and citizens to Almedalen park for public debates and speeches. If you visit in November, attend truffle seminars, markets, and try special truffle menus at local restaurants.
Food and Drink in Visby
Visby's restaurants serve both traditional Swedish dishes and local Gotland specialties. Try the Gotlandic lamb, which has a distinct flavor due to the island's flora. In spring, you'll find asparagus on many menus. For local craft beer, visit Gotlands Bryggeri, which has been making brews since 1995. Many restaurants are located around Stora Torget (Main Square), ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining.
