Frequently asked questions about Strömstad

Visitor information

Where can I find Strömstad Infocenter?

The location and opening hours of Strömstad Infocenter vary throughout the year. Visit our visitor service page for current opening hours, contact details and information about where to find us.

Our team can help you with local recommendations, events, day trips, walking and cycling routes, maps and brochures.

What is an InfoPoint?

InfoPoints are convenient visitor information locations found at hotels, attractions, campsites and other places around Strömstad municipality. Staff can answer common questions, provide local advice and help you find maps and brochures.

Each InfoPoint follows the opening hours of the place where it is located.

Find an InfoPoint in Strömstad.

Where can I find maps and brochures?

You can download visitor guides, maps and brochures before your trip or while you are here.

Printed copies are also available from Strömstad Infocenter when it is open and from InfoPoints around the municipality.

Explore maps and brochures for Strömstad, Koster and Bohuslän.

Food and accommodation

Where can I eat in Strömstad?

Strömstad has a wide range of cafés and restaurants, many of them within easy walking distance of the town centre. You will find everything from relaxed cafés and traditional Swedish fika to fresh seafood, local flavours and international cuisine.

There are also several places to eat on the Koster Islands, particularly during the summer. Opening hours may vary with the season, so it is always a good idea to check with the restaurant before your visit.

Discover restaurants and cafés in Strömstad.

Where can I stay in Strömstad?

There is accommodation to suit many different kinds of trips, whether you would like to stay in the centre of town, close to the sea, in the countryside or on the Koster Islands.

Choose from hotels, bed and breakfasts, campsites, cabins, hostels, holiday villages and self-catering accommodation.

Find accommodation in Strömstad.

Things to see and do

What should I not miss in Strömstad?

The Koster Islands and Kosterhavet National Park are two of Strömstad’s most memorable experiences, with beautiful coastal landscapes, inviting swimming spots and plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling and kayaking.

You can also step back in time at Blomsholm, where one of Sweden’s largest stone ship settings forms part of a fascinating ancient landscape. At the Svinesund Bridges, you can enjoy views across the dramatic border landscape between Sweden and Norway.

If you enjoy hiking, follow a section of the Bohusleden trail or explore one of the many coastal paths and nature reserves around Strömstad.

Discover more things to see and do in Strömstad.

Can I explore Strömstad town on my own?

Yes. Strömstad is easy to explore on foot, and many of its sights are close to the town centre.

Our self-guided town walk introduces you to local art, historic buildings, cultural landmarks and some of the stories that have shaped Strömstad. Follow the route on your phone or use the map to explore at your own pace.

Explore Strömstad town.

The Koster Islands

How do I get to the Koster Islands?

Passenger ferries run from Strömstad’s northern harbour to North Koster and South Koster throughout the year. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on which ferry and landing you choose.

For current timetables, tickets, ferry landings and practical travel information, visit our guide to travelling to the Koster Islands.

Should I visit North Koster or South Koster?

Both islands offer beautiful scenery, peaceful surroundings and excellent opportunities to experience the coast, but they have slightly different characters.

South Koster is the larger and flatter of the two islands. Its network of roads and paths makes it ideal for exploring by bike or on foot. Along the way, you will pass small villages, farmland, beaches and rocky shores. Do not miss the view from Valfjäll, the highest point on South Koster.

Explore walking and cycling on South Koster.

North Koster is smaller, hillier and best explored on foot. Its walking trails lead across open heathland, through small forests and along a dramatic rocky coastline shaped by the Ice Age.

Discover walking trails on North Koster.

If you have enough time, visiting both islands will give you the best sense of Koster’s varied landscapes.

Can I bring a bicycle on the ferry?

Yes, bicycles can be taken on board the Koster ferry for an additional fee, subject to available space. Space may be limited during the busy summer season.

Bicycles can also be hired at several locations on South Koster during the warmer months. Availability and opening periods may vary, so check the latest information before travelling.

Where can I find more information about Koster?

Our Koster Islands guide brings together inspiration and information about walking, cycling, swimming, places to visit and other island experiences.

For answers about ferry landings, services, nature reserves, travelling with a dog and other practical matters, visit our frequently asked questions about the Koster Islands.

Kosterhavet National Park

What is Kosterhavet National Park?

Kosterhavet is Sweden’s first marine national park. It protects a remarkably rich marine environment as well as islands, skerries and coastal landscapes both around Koster and along the mainland.

There are many ways to experience the national park. You can go walking, swimming, snorkelling, kayaking or diving, join a boat trip or simply find a quiet place by the sea and enjoy the view.

Discover Kosterhavet National Park.

Is there a visitor centre?

Yes, naturum Kosterhavet is located beside the Ekenäs ferry landing on South Koster and is an excellent place to begin your visit.

Explore interactive exhibitions, watch short films, learn about life above and below the surface and meet some of Kosterhavet’s marine creatures in the aquarium and touch tank. The knowledgeable staff can also suggest places to visit and help you learn more about the national park. Admission is free.

Can I rent a kayak?

Yes. Kayaks are available to hire at several locations in and around Strömstad and on the Koster Islands. Local guides also offer tours for different levels of experience.

A guided tour is a good choice if you are new to sea kayaking or would like to learn more about the archipelago and its marine environment.

Find kayak hire and guided tours.

You can also read more about kayaking in Kosterhavet and find maps and advice for responsible visits on the Sustainable Archipelago website.

Are there special rules in the national park?

Yes. Kosterhavet and the surrounding nature reserves contain sensitive environments and protected wildlife. Rules may apply to camping, fires, dogs, anchoring and access to bird and seal protection areas.

Check the frequently asked questions about Kosterhavet National Park before your visit and always follow local signs.

Still have questions?

We are happy to help you make the most of your time in Strömstad and Kosterhavet.

Visit our visitor service page for current opening hours, contact details and information about where to find us. We look forward to welcoming you to Strömstad!