If you’re planning a trip to Västerås, you’re probably wondering what are the hidden gems of the city that tourists miss? While Västerås is known for its popular tourist attractions, such as the Västerås Cathedral and Kokpunkten Water Park, there is a lot more to explore beyond the beaten path.
During your visit, don’t miss out on the underrated spots and lesser-known treasures that Västerås has to offer. These hidden gems will not only provide you with a unique experience but will also allow you to explore the city off the beaten path. From ancient Viking burial mounds to charming rural churches and architectural marvels, there is something for everyone to discover in this Swedish city.
Västerås Cathedral – A Majestic Landmark
When visiting Västerås, make sure to add Västerås Cathedral to your list of must-visit places. Also known as Västerås Domkyrka, this stunning Gothic building is one of the most popular tourist attractions Västerås has to offer.
The cathedral, which was built in the 13th century, boasts an impressive exterior with intricate stonework and towering spires. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking interior that features soaring vaulted ceilings, detailed stained glass windows, and ornate decorations.
Aside from its architectural beauty, Västerås Cathedral offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Over the centuries, the cathedral has served as a place of worship, coronation site for Swedish monarchs, and even a military barracks.
If you’re lucky, you may even catch a musical performance or other cultural event taking place at the cathedral. Check the schedule ahead of time to see what’s on offer during your visit.
Don’t forget to snap a photo outside the cathedral to capture its majestic beauty and add to your travel memories.
Kokpunkten Water Park – Thrills and Relaxation
If you’re looking for a unique experience in Västerås, don’t miss out on Kokpunkten Water Park. Located in a former steam power plant, this hidden treasure is one of the most thrilling tourist attractions Västerås has to offer. Kokpunkten offers a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping water slides and relaxing saunas – a must-visit place in Västerås.
Don’t let the industrial exterior fool you – once inside, you’ll be amazed by the modern and sleek interior of this water park, which is perfect for families or groups of friends. The park offers a variety of water activities, including a wave pool, tube slide and freefall slide, among others.
| Entrance Fee | Opening Hours | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Adults: SEK 315 Children (up to 16 years): SEK 195 |
Monday to Thursday (11 AM – 9 PM) Friday to Sunday (10 AM – 9 PM) |
Verkstadsgatan 13, 722 12 Västerås, Sweden |
Kokpunkten is also home to several saunas and hot tubs, giving visitors a chance to relax after their thrills. For a truly unique experience, try the 40°C rooftop hot tub, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Västerås.
Whether you’re looking for heart-pumping excitement or a day of relaxation, Kokpunkten Water Park is a hidden treasure in Västerås that should not be missed.
Anundshög – Ancient Viking Burial Mound
If you’re looking to explore Västerås’ Viking heritage, Anundshög should definitely be on your list of places to visit. This underrated spot offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and provides a unique and peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Anundshög is an ancient Viking burial mound that can be found off the beaten path and surrounded by lush green fields.
According to local legends, Anundshög is the final resting place of King Anund, one of the earliest monarchs of Sweden. Whether or not this is true, the burial mound certainly dates back to the Viking Age and is considered one of the largest in the country.
As you explore Anundshög, keep an eye out for the ancient runestones that dot the surrounding landscape. These stones feature inscriptions in the runic alphabet and provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Vikings who lived in this area centuries ago.
If you’re interested in learning more about Västerås’ Viking heritage, Anundshög is an excellent place to start. This hidden gem is one of the many underrated spots that you can discover on your trip to this charming Swedish city.
Vallby Open Air Museum – Step Back in Time
If you want to experience traditional Swedish culture, the Vallby Open Air Museum is one of Västerås’ best-kept secrets. This living museum takes you back in time to the past and recreates rural life with its historic buildings, gardens, and animal farms.
Take a stroll around the museum’s charming open-air exhibits and get a glimpse of what life was like in Sweden several centuries ago. This outdoor museum offers interactive and engaging exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about traditional Swedish customs and practices.
Don’t miss out on the chance to try your hand at traditional crafts like blacksmithing, weaving, and pottery. You can even taste traditional Swedish food at the museum’s cafe.
The Museum’s Exhibits
The Vallby Open Air Museum features various exhibits, including:
| Exhibit | Description |
|---|---|
| Houses and cottages | Historic buildings from the 17th-20th centuries showcasing traditional Swedish housing and lifestyle. |
| Gardens and orchards | A variety of gardens and orchards filled with plants and herbs, giving visitors a glimpse of rural farming life. |
| Farms and animals | The museum has several traditional farms with animals such as cows, pigs, and sheep. |
| Craftsmanship and trades | Discover traditional Swedish craftsmanship and trades, such as blacksmithing, weaving, and pottery. |
Experience the rich history and culture of Västerås by visiting the Vallby Open Air Museum, and step back in time to the simple and traditional lifestyle of rural Sweden.
Västerås Harbor – A Picturesque Waterfront
When visiting Västerås, make sure not to miss the overlooked attraction of Västerås Harbor. The harbor is located along the stunning Lake Mälaren, offering picturesque views for a relaxing walk. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you stroll along the waterfront, and take in the dreamy scenery. The harbor has lots of nearby cafes and restaurants where you can indulge in delicious food and drinks while enjoying the views.
Arosvallen Park – Serenity in the City
When it comes to escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, Arosvallen Park is one of the underrated spots in Västerås that provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. This hidden gem is perfect for those who seek a relaxing and serene experience away from tourist crowds and busy streets.
The park features beautiful greenery, winding paths, and various benches where you can sit, relax and watch local life happening around you. It is the perfect place to take a leisurely walk, read a book, or indulge in a picnic with friends and family.
Arosvallen Park is not only a great spot for solo travelers or couples looking for a romantic getaway, but also for families with children. The playground area is a favorite among kids and parents alike, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for children to play.
In summary, Arosvallen Park is one of the must-visit places in Västerås, offering a peaceful and relaxing retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Make sure to take some time and explore this hidden treasure during your visit to Västerås.
The Kopparberg Church – Charming Rural Beauty
Take a scenic drive to the countryside surrounding Västerås and discover the hidden treasure of the Kopparberg Church. This rural church is the epitome of charming simplicity and beautiful architecture. The peaceful setting provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Step inside to appreciate the traditional design, wooden pews, and intricate details lining the interior walls. You’ll find yourself surrounded by a serene atmosphere, providing a moment of respite from the busy city.
If you’re lucky enough to visit on a sunny day, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the idyllic countryside surrounding the church grounds. Take in the fresh air and stunning views, while basking in the peaceful surroundings.
Why Visit the Kopparberg Church?
The Kopparberg Church is one of the must-visit places in Västerås. This hidden treasure provides a scenic and peaceful escape from the city, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Swedish countryside. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply looking for a tranquil setting to relax in, the Kopparberg Church is not to be missed.
Västerås City Library – Architectural Marvel
If you’re a fan of reading or architecture, the Västerås City Library is a hidden gem you don’t want to miss. This lesser-known attraction is a stunning architectural marvel, with a design that will leave you in awe. The library not only houses an extensive collection of books but also hosts various cultural and educational events.
The Västerås City Library was built in 2012 and designed by Aros Architects. Its unique design features an all-glass façade that allows natural light to flood the interior, creating a bright and inviting space to read and learn. The library’s modern and visually striking appearance makes it a great spot for photography and sightseeing.
Aside from its beauty, the library also offers a wide range of books in various genres and languages, including Swedish, English, and Spanish. They also have audiobooks, e-books, and access to digital resources, making it a great place for research or leisure reading.
Mälardrottningen Hotel – Stay on a Floating Castle
If you’re looking for a truly unique accommodation experience in Västerås, look no further than the Mälardrottningen Hotel. This hidden treasure is one of Västerås’ best-kept secrets, offering an unparalleled stay in a floating castle.
The hotel boasts beautifully furnished rooms with breathtaking views of Lake Mälaren, available at affordable rates. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family or friends, or on a romantic getaway, the Mälardrottningen Hotel is the perfect choice for those seeking a one-of-a-kind stay in Västerås.
With its exceptional service and world-class amenities, this hidden gem should not be missed. Book your stay at the Mälardrottningen Hotel today and experience Västerås’ best kept secrets.
Johannisberg Park – Natural Beauty in the City
If you are looking for a serene escape to nature, Johannisberg Park is an underrated spot worth visiting in Västerås. This off the beaten path attraction boasts picturesque views of Västerås and showcases the city’s natural beauty. You can explore the park’s lush greenery, walk along winding paths, breathe in the fresh air, and unwind in its peaceful ambiance.
Take your time admiring the panoramic views of the city from the park. You can sit on one of the many benches available and soak up the stunning scenery around you. Johannisberg Park is the perfect place for a tranquil picnic or to enjoy a leisurely stroll.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture beautiful shots of the city in the background. This hidden gem is a great spot for nature photographers looking to add some stunning shots to their portfolio.
Johannisberg Park is open to the public all year round and offers free admission. It is a lesser-known attraction that is definitely worth a visit to get a glimpse of Västerås’ natural beauty.
Conclusion
Now that you have explored Västerås’ hidden gems, you have a unique perspective of the city that many tourists overlook. You have discovered historical landmarks like Västerås Cathedral and Anundshög, thrilling experiences at Kokpunkten Water Park, and charming rural beauty at the Kopparberg Church. You have stepped back in time at Vallby Open Air Museum, enjoyed picturesque views of Lake Mälaren at Västerås Harbor, and found serenity in the city at Arosvallen Park.
Remember that Västerås has so much more to offer beyond its popular tourist attractions. Keep these underrated spots and lesser-known treasures in mind on your next visit, and you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy exploring the hidden gems of Västerås and creating unforgettable memories!
