Kalmar County

Kalmar County, located on Sweden’s southeast coast, blends medieval history and island charm. Visitors can explore Kalmar’s cobbled old town and Renaissance castle before crossing the bridge to Öland, a UNESCO-listed agricultural landscape with limestone plains, windmills and beaches.

Reasons to Visit

• Wander through Kalmar Castle and the cobblestone streets of the old town
• Drive or cycle across the six‑kilometre Öland Bridge to discover windmills and beaches on Öland island
• Explore the UNESCO Agricultural Landscape of Southern Öland with its limestone plateau and ancient villages
• Birdwatch at Ottenby Nature Reserve and hike along coastal cliffs
• Sample seafood and Öland potatoes at local restaurants and farm shops

Things to Avoid

• Underestimating island winds – pack layers and windproof clothing
• Trespassing on private farmland or disturbing grazing animals on Öland
• Expecting extensive nightlife in small villages

Local Transportation Tips

Trains connect Kalmar city with Stockholm and Copenhagen. Buses run to small towns and over the Öland Bridge. A car or bike offers flexibility for exploring the island’s villages, nature reserves and beaches.

Travel Etiquette

• Greet people with a polite “Hej” and respect personal space
• Remove shoes when entering private homes or small guesthouses
• Follow marked trails and respect farmers’ property
• Wait your turn when boarding ferries or buses

Did You Know?

• Öland has more than 400 historic windmills scattered across its limestone plains
• Kalmar Castle was the site where the Kalmar Union was formed in 1397, uniting Sweden, Denmark and Norway
• The Öland Bridge stretches about six kilometres and is one of Sweden’s longest bridges

Cool Stats

• Kalmar County has over 15 nature reserves and two national parks
• The island of Öland is around 137 kilometres long and just 16 kilometres wide at its widest point
• Kalmar is home to some of Sweden’s sunniest summer days

Recommended Age Group

Kalmar County is most suitable for Adults, Teens and Seniors due to its mix of history, cycling routes and gentle landscapes.

• Babies (0-2 years) – Not recommended: cobblestone streets and long cycling routes make travel challenging
• Kids (3-12 years) – Recommended: castles, beaches and windmills are engaging for children
• Teens (13-19 years) – Highly recommended: cycling, birdwatching and exploring heritage sites
• Adults (20-64 years) – Highly recommended: blend of history, nature and culinary experiences
• Seniors (65+ years) – Recommended: gentle walks and cultural attractions are accessible

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Kalmar city streets and public buildings offer ramps and lifts, but castle towers and island trails may have steep steps
• Accessible rooms are available in hotels if booked in advance
• Buses and trains generally have low floors, but some rural stops are uneven
• Visit tourist offices for information on accessible beaches and trails