Karlshamn

Archipelago adventures, small town charm and memorable experiences

Karlshamn is a charming little coastal town less than an hour from Karlskrona. It may be small, but there is plenty to discover. Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend away or a holiday filled with days out and adventures, Karlshamn has plenty to offer.

Karlshamn’s history dates back to the 17th century. Originally known as Bodekull, the town was granted its charter in 1664 after Blekinge became part of Sweden. Two years later, it was renamed Karlshamn after King Karl X Gustav. With its sheltered location and deep harbour, the town soon became an important centre for trade and shipping.

You can still see traces of this history today. Take a stroll through Kulturkvarteret, the town’s historic quarter, with its charming wooden houses and cobbled streets. While you are there, visit Karlshamn Museum, the Punsch Museum and Skottsbergska gården.

Then continue towards the waterfront and the Emigrant Monument. The statue depicts Karl Oskar and Kristina from the book series Utvandrarna and commemorates the many Swedes who left their homeland to begin a new life in America. Nearby, you will find the sea, harbour and scenic walking routes. Perfect when you simply want to enjoy the day at your own pace.

Explore the archipelago and go island hopping

The Karlshamn archipelago, also known as the Hällaryd archipelago, is made up of around 500 islands and skerries. Hop on an archipelago vessel in central Karlshamn and it will not be long before the streets of the town give way to rocky shores, sheltered swimming spots, leafy woodland and open sea.

Tärnö is one of the islands well worth exploring. Go hiking, enjoy a swim or make your way up Drakaberget for views across much of the Blekinge coastline. The island is also home to Sweden’s oldest wooden lighthouse that is still in operation.

Or head to Tjärö, an idyllic island with walking trails, swimming spots and plenty of ways to get active. Paddle a kayak or canoe, try stand up paddleboarding or simply find your own spot on the rocks and do as little as possible. You can even stay overnight if you would like more time to enjoy island life.

You do not have to travel far to find nature either. Just a short distance from the town centre is Boön, where you can follow an approximately 3 km walking trail along the coast. Rocky landscapes and beautiful sea views sit alongside fascinating reminders of Karlshamn’s past.

Wildlife encounters and new discoveries

Fancy swapping the archipelago for something completely different? Just outside Karlshamn you will find Eriksberg, a large nature reserve and safari park where European bison, deer, mouflon sheep and wild boar roam across wide natural landscapes. It is an exciting day out for visitors of all ages.

Families can also discover Kreativum Science Center. With more than 170 interactive stations, experiments, challenges and activities, there are plenty of opportunities for children and adults to explore, experiment and learn together.

And then there is the Mörrum river. This world famous river is one of Sweden’s best known destinations for salmon and sea trout fishing, attracting anglers from around the world. But you do not need to be an angler to enjoy the area. Follow the paths beside the flowing water, take in the natural surroundings or visit Laxens Hus to discover more about salmon and the area’s long fishing heritage.

Close to everything. Close to nature.

One of the best things about Karlshamn is its contrasts. One moment you can be strolling past historic houses and relaxing at a café. The next, you can be standing on a rock with the sea stretching out in front of you. Explore the archipelago, walk beside the Mörrum river, discover the town’s history or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll along the waterfront.

Whether you come for the nature, the history, family adventures or simply a change of scenery, it is easy to discover your own Karlshamn.