Umeå
Temperature
-1°
Time
8:30 AM
Umeå
The town of silver birches does not only offer top-class culture. Some of the very best restaurants in northern Sweden are also found here, and they serve local culinary delicacies with singular precision. Add to that, an exceptional outdoor life, and you will understand why tens of thousands of students feel so at home in Umeå.Find your trip
A trip with a dog team, wrapped up in warm blankets under the northern lights, is a superb way of experiencing the countryside of Norrland. There's a good chance you’ll encounter an elk or a reindeer, too. There are four companies that offer dog sledding tours: Hedlunda Husky (www.hedlundahusky.se), Granö Beckasin (granobeckasin.com), River Lake Huskies (www.teamissa.se) and Aurora Borealis Adventures (auroraborealis.nu).
Umeå brothers Samuel and Michael Åhdén possess one of the world’s largest privately owned collections of guitars. In 2014, the whole world got a chance to see it. You can visit the experience-based, interactive exhibition of electric guitars, basses, amps and music accessories at Umeå Guitar Museum. The museum houses about 500 exhibits altogether. Alongside the permanent exhibition, the museum arranges lectures, temporary exhibitions and presentations of new developments. World stars will also visit the museum during the year and hold ‘clinics’ — open guitar lessons.
In recent years, Bildmuseet has established itself as one of the country’s leading museums for photography and the visual arts. Painting, sculpture, drawings, graffiti, video and installations, but also photojournalism, design, architecture and the world of scientific images are presented in about 15 exhibitions per year. The museum's new seven-story building enjoys phenomenal views. Along with its shop and café the museum is by the Ume river.
The permanent exhibitions at the Västerbotten Museum delve into the county's ancient history, cultural heritage, settler life and reindeer husbandry. It also houses a remarkable photographic collection of Sune Jonsson, capturing the essence of the Norrland agricultural landscape. In the summer, the outdoor museum at Gammlia buzzes with activity. Historical buildings, relocated from various parts of the county, together with period-costumed cottage hosts and farm animals, create an authentic atmosphere. Three different Sami settlements have been recreated at Gammlia. In the winter, visitors can explore the permanent exhibitions and wander through the grounds.
Skulpturparken, which is located in the former hospital compound in Umedalen, is considered to be one of Europe’s most distinguished sculpture parks and is also one of Västerbottens most visited sites in the summer. More than 150 Swedish and international artists has since the start in 1994 exhibited their works in Umedalen Skulptur, an exhibition that is organized every summer. Today there are also 26 permanent works in the park. Skulpturparken also has a garden landscape in connection with the IKSU Spa, Umeå’s so-called cultural spa. The garden is created by one of Sweden’s famous landscaping artists, Ulf Nordfjell.
The Women's History Museum is the only one of its kind in Sweden. This museum aims to bring up the role of women in historical narratives, highlighting structures and ideas surrounding masculinity and femininity. It's set to be a dynamic museum that encourages repeat visits. The Women's History Museum seeks to surprise, challenge perspectives, and offer a fresh take on various issues. It's a space for action, laughter and debate!
Elk House in Bjurholm, a mere 45 minutes from Umeå, offers the unique opportunity to get up close with the 'king of the forest'. Ever thought about petting or feeding an elk? Here's your chance. The farm also produces elk cheese, which is, of course, available for purchase. Bookings are required in winter.
Ume River Valley, with roads and trails following the Ume River, forms a popular excursion route that winds through a beautiful cultural landscape. Enjoy the rushing waters, lush forests, stunning views, and a wealth of attractions rich in history, art, and culture. Whether you're on a bike, on foot, or in a car, there's plenty to marvel at.
A trip with a dog team, wrapped up in warm blankets under the northern lights, is a superb way of experiencing the countryside of Norrland. There's a good chance you’ll encounter an elk or a reindeer, too. There are four companies that offer dog sledding tours: Hedlunda Husky (www.hedlundahusky.se), Granö Beckasin (granobeckasin.com), River Lake Huskies (www.teamissa.se) and Aurora Borealis Adventures (auroraborealis.nu).
Umeå brothers Samuel and Michael Åhdén possess one of the world’s largest privately owned collections of guitars. In 2014, the whole world got a chance to see it. You can visit the experience-based, interactive exhibition of electric guitars, basses, amps and music accessories at Umeå Guitar Museum. The museum houses about 500 exhibits altogether. Alongside the permanent exhibition, the museum arranges lectures, temporary exhibitions and presentations of new developments. World stars will also visit the museum during the year and hold ‘clinics’ — open guitar lessons.
Returbutiken stands out as one of Norrland's largest second-hand stores, offering an eclectic array of items for home and leisure at remarkably affordable prices. From carefully selected electronics to a diverse range of clothes, home decor, and used sports equipment, the store is a treasure trove for bargain hunters. Praised for the quality and value of its goods, Returbutiken is a must-visit for those seeking unique finds and sustainable shopping options.
Naturkompaniet offers an extensive selection of gear for outdoor enthusiasts, from backpacks, shoes and clothing to sleeping bags and tents. The store is also well-equipped for winter activities, featuring cross-country skiing and skating equipment. With its attractive decor and array of knives and axes, it's also a great spot for finding unique Swedish gifts.
The Red Cross shop in Umeå specialises in a carefully curated collection of fashion and design. This shop is a treasure trove for those seekers of unique, quirky clothing and decorative items. With its well-organised layout and friendly, accommodating staff, it offers a pleasant shopping experience in a charming, compact setting. Despite its smaller size, the shop boasts a diverse selection of pre-loved clothing, making it an ideal stop for budget-friendly fashion finds.
Pryl 1900 in central Umeå offers an intriguing array of items from all eras, blending antiques, retro, and newer designs under one roof. It's more than just a shop; it's a treasure trove of quality finds and curiosities. Known for its helpful, friendly service, this store is a must-visit for those who appreciate the charm and quality of unique pieces, all available at great prices.
The MVG shopping centre features numerous shops across three floors: from McDonald’s on the ground floor to the well-stocked Clas Ohlsson covering the entire upper level. MVG houses well-known store names such as Gina Tricot, Hemtex, Coop, KappAhl, Akademibokhandeln, Kicks, Teknikmagasinet, Kjell & Company.
Located in central Umeå, the Sagagallerian shopping centre offers a pleasant mix of shops, including fashion, toys, hair care, handicrafts, home decor, a café and more. Among the stores you'll find Handelsgården and Sagolika Ting.
Situated alongside the Ume River, Strömpilen shopping centre offers a comprehensive shopping experience with a selection of large stores, including the well-stocked ICA supermarket. This destination caters to a wide range of needs, from home and garden essentials to clothes, toys, cosmetics, and more. Convenience is key, with a cafeteria on-site and ample parking space. Adjacent to the supermarket, shoppers will find Systembolaget and Apotek Hjärtat pharmacy, along with several other retail outlets.
Norrland's hottest city mall offers something for every sense and taste, with a little extra of everything. Utopia is a modern shopping centre offering shops for clothing, accessories & beauty products, as well as a great food court with casual eateries.
Returbutiken stands out as one of Norrland's largest second-hand stores, offering an eclectic array of items for home and leisure at remarkably affordable prices. From carefully selected electronics to a diverse range of clothes, home decor, and used sports equipment, the store is a treasure trove for bargain hunters. Praised for the quality and value of its goods, Returbutiken is a must-visit for those seeking unique finds and sustainable shopping options.
Naturkompaniet offers an extensive selection of gear for outdoor enthusiasts, from backpacks, shoes and clothing to sleeping bags and tents. The store is also well-equipped for winter activities, featuring cross-country skiing and skating equipment. With its attractive decor and array of knives and axes, it's also a great spot for finding unique Swedish gifts.
Sweden can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
There are extensive skiing opportunities in the region, so those looking to go skiing on their trip to Umeå should plan their trip for the snowy winter months. The period from May to September tends to be the most pleasant temperature-wise, and many events take place during the summer months. The Swedish Midsummer celebration around summer solstice is the main event.
The centre of Umeå is about 4 kilometres from the airport. The airport bus #80 departs from the front of the station building about 10 minutes after arrival from Stockholm. There are taxis waiting outside the station hall on arrival and it takes only 10 minutes to travel to the city centre. If there are no cars, there are direct telephones to the taxis between the entrance doors.
Within the centre of Umeå, most places are just a short walk away. For journeys to different parts of the city, the local transport system, Ultra, is available. The county's public transportation network is well-developed, a necessity in a region characterized by miles of dense forests, rushing rivers, and wilderness that separates towns and villages. The Västerbotten County Public Transport Authority (Länstrafiken) is responsible for all bus public transport in Västerbotten and operates services between villages.
Taxis in Umeå are reliable and use fare meters. It can sometimes be difficult to find a car on the street, even in the centre. Umeå Taxi umeataxi.se +46 90 77 00 00 Taxi Direkt taxidirekt.se +46 90 100100 eco TAXI ecotaxi.se +46 90 911 911
There are no post offices in Sweden. Stamps are available for purchase at most kiosks, newsstands and convenience stores. Postboxes can usually be found nearby. For packages and big parcels, look for "Postombud", a designated area in grocery stores or corner stores.
The Swedish word for pharmacy is apoteket. They are typically open Monday through Friday from around 9 am until 7 pm. Some are also open on the weekends with reduced opening hours. Kronans Apotek is centrally located. The chemists at the Norrlands University Hospital is open until 8 pm and is open on Sundays as well.
Country code: +46 Area code: 90
Sweden can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
There are extensive skiing opportunities in the region, so those looking to go skiing on their trip to Umeå should plan their trip for the snowy winter months. The period from May to September tends to be the most pleasant temperature-wise, and many events take place during the summer months. The Swedish Midsummer celebration around summer solstice is the main event.
