Oskarshamn is a vibrant coastal city with a proud seafaring heritage. Walk around the picturesque harbour, explore the historic district and visit the family-friendly maritime museum. Activities like ocean kayaking, birdwatching and scenic boat tours make Oskarshamn a rewarding destination for nature lovers.
Things to do in Oskarshamn
Stroll around the picturesque harbour and watch colourful fishing boats bobbing on the swell. Brightly painted buildings frame the waterfront and give Oskarshamn postcard-perfect charm. Venture into the historic district to explore a maze of cobblestone streets lined with well-preserved wooden houses. Cafes and bistros spill onto Lilla Torget, the lively main square. It’s a great place to enjoy a coffee and nibble “kardemummabullar” cardamom-infused pastries.
Book a boat tour and explore the Swedish archipelago. Oskarshamn is a gateway to nearby islands like Blå Jungfrun, where you can explore the rocky shoreline and see birds like black guillemots. The island also features a mysterious stone labyrinth mentioned in Swedish folk tales.
Dive into the town’s seafaring heritage at Sjöfartsmuseet. The maritime museum is packed with interactive exhibits, including model ships, fishing nets and navigational instruments. Kids love the dress-up zone with its pirate, sailor and sea captain costumes.
From cosy cafes serving “kanelbulle” cinnamon buns and hot chocolate to inviting restaurants where you can enjoy ocean-fresh seafood, there are excellent dining options in Oskarshamn. Order specialties like pickled herring topped with mustard, smoked salmon sandwiches and “kraftor” crayfish cooked in a dill sauce.
Getting around Oskarshamn
Oskarshamn is compact and easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. The town is in Kalmar County, a four-hour drive from Stockholm and Gothenburg. Ferries connect Oskarshamn with nearby islands like Gotland and Öland, as well as Baltic countries like Latvia and Lithuania. Stockholm Arlanda Airport is a four-hour drive away.