Discover Scania

Scania, the southernmost region of Sweden, is a hidden gem that offers a diverse range of experiences for tourists. From its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes to its vibrant cities and culinary delights, Scania, also known as Skåne in Swedish, has something for everyone. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, a foodie, or someone looking to relax and unwind, Scania promises an unforgettable journey.

What To See And Do In Scania

50 sights, attractions and landmarks you must not miss in Scania

1. Malmöhus Castle: Sweden's oldest preserved Renaissance castle.
2. Turning Torso, Malmö: An iconic skyscraper by, Santiago Calatrava.
   
3. Lund Cathedral: One of Sweden's oldest and most impressive cathedrals.
4. Ven island: Scenic island with bike paths and Tycho Brahe museum.
5. Sofiero Castle and Gardens: Royal summer residence known for its beautiful gardens.
6. Ale Stenar: A mysterious stone circle at Kåseberga.
7. Glimmingehus: The best-preserved medieval castle in the Nordics.
8. Öresund Bridge: Connects Sweden with Denmark.
9. Fredriksdal Museums and Gardens: An open-air museum in Helsingborg.
10. Moderna museet, Malmö: An art gallery with a focus on contemporary art.
11. Kärnan, Helsingborg: A medieval tower with a fantastic view of the city.
12. Båstads Tennisarena: Known for its international tennis tournaments.
13. Wanås Konst: A sculpture park and art gallery in a scenic setting.
14. Kulturen i Lund : An open-air museum with historical buildings and exhibitions.
15. Mandelmann's Gardens: An organic farm and garden known from TV.
16. Bosjökloster: A historic monastery with beautiful gardens and a view of lake Ringsjön.
17. Christinehof: A baroque castle with a beautiful park and cultural history exhibitions.
18. The monastery in Ystad: A medieval monastery with museum and garden.
19. Landskrona Citadell: A historic fortress with beautiful surroundings, including unique .
20. Dalby Church: Sweden's oldest preserved stone church.
21. Skånes djurpark zoo, Höör: Nordic animals, family activities, scenic environment, adventure trail.
22. Hovdala Castle: A Historic castle with a beautiful park and hiker's information hub.
23. The Regional Museum in Kristianstad: Learn more about the history of Scania and enjoy exhibitions.
24. Lilla torg and Gamla Väster, Malmö: Historic buildings, cobbled streets, cozy shops and handicrafts, but also the center of Malmö night life.
25. Tosselilla Sommarland: Popular amusement park, including a water park and a mini-zoo.
26. Krapperup Castle: A beautiful castle with park and art gallery.
27. Lund botanical gardens: Beautiful gardens with diverse plant species.
28. Uppåkra: Archaeological site with ancient Iron Age artifacts.
29. Karl-Fredrik på Eklaholm: Famous florist with TV-show, a charming garden and shop.
30. Nimis: Driftwood sculptures by artist Lars Vilks, situated in the Kullaberg Nature Reserve.
31. Absolute Home: Experience the origins of Sweden's famous vodka.
32. Vellingeblomman: Large garden center with popular seasonal displays.
33. Limhamn kalkbrott: Huge limestone quarry turned nature reserve.
34. Bäckaskog castle: A historic castle with beautiful gardens and a restaurant.
35. Kivik grave: Bronze Age burial site with stone carvings.
36. Ångtåget på Österlen: Heritage steam train rides through Österlen.
37. Tykarpsgrottan: Underground limestone caves with guided tours.
38. Svaneholm castle: Historic castle with museum and park.
39. Hallands Väderö Island: Nature reserve with rich biodiversity and a population of seals.
40. Brunnby church: Medieval church with beautiful frescoes.
41. Klippans yllefabrik: Historic wool factory with quality textiles and a large shop.
42. Jakriborg: Modern village designed in medieval style.
43. Trelleborgen: Viking ring fortress with reconstructed buildings.
44. Smygehuk: Southernmost point of Sweden with cosy harbour, a lighthouse and shops.
45. Torup castle and museums: Beautiful renaissance castle with museums.
46. Foteviken: Viking village and open-air museum.
47. Malmö Opera: World-class performances in a stunning, historic venue.
48. Landskrona konsthall: Modernist art gallery with stunning exhibitions and sculpture park.
49. Malmö Live: Impressive, modern venue for concerts and home of Malmö symphony orchestra.
50. Dunkers kulturhus, Helsingborg: Cultural hub in Helsingborg with diverse exhibitions and activities.

10 nature experiences in Scania

1. Söderåsen National Park - Fantastic hiking trails and viewpoints.
2. Kullaberg nature reserve - Climbing, diving and hiking.
3. Stenshuvud National Park - Forests, beaches and viewpoints.
4. Hovs Hallar - Cliffs and coastal landscape.
5. Fyledalen - A nature reserve known for its rich bird life.
6. Vattenriket in Kristianstad - A biosphere area with rich wildlife.
7. Verkeån's valley with Brösarp's slopes, Hallamölla waterfall and Lindgren's länga - Known for its rolling slopes and beautiful nature.
8. Fulltofta nature center - Hiking and nature experiences.
9. Sweden's smallest national park, known for its spring blossoms and birdsong.
10. Drakamöllan - beautiful nature reserve known for its purple hills during the heather flowering period.

Scania's 5 largest cities

1. Malmö - Scania's largest city and an important cultural and economic hub.
2. Helsingborg - A busy hub with ferry connections to Denmark.
3. Lund - The country's oldest university city, with a cathedral and museums.
4. Kristianstad - Skåne's northernmost city, with an impressive church and beautiful park.
5. Landskrona - A coastal town with a beautiful citadel, unique colonial area and ferry connection to the popular island of Ven.

10 cozy small towns and villages in Scania

1. Ystad - Known for its half-timbered houses and charming streets.
2. Båstad - Known for its tennis weeks and beautiful beaches.
3. Mölle - A charming village by Kullaberg.
4. Simrishamn - A picturesque coastal town in Österlen.
5. Arild - A small village with a beautiful view of Skälderviken.
6. Kivik - Known for its apple orchards and foundries.
7. Åhus - Known for its medieval city center and Absolut Vodka.
8. Limhamn - Picturesque Malmö district that mixes fishing traditions with industrial history.
9. Skillinge - Charming coastal village with picturesque harbor and community.
10. Brantevik - Historic fishing village known for scenic views.

10 fantastic beaches in Scania

1. Sandhammaren - One of Sweden's finest beaches with white sand.
2. Skanör-Falsterbo - White sandy beaches and clear water.
3. Knäbäckshusen's Beach - A paradise beach in Österlen.
4. Haväng - A scenic beach on Österlen.
5. Yngsjö Havsbad - A calm and beautiful beach near Åhus.
6. Farhult Havsbad - A hidden gem in Kullabygden.
7. Josefinelust - A hidden pebble beach among Kullaber's cliffs.
8. Vombsjön's swimming area - Insjö beach with exotic lush greenery.
9. Ribersborgs Strand - A popular beach in Malmö.
10. Tropical Beach - A beach with palm trees in Helsingborg.

Skåne: A Gem in Southern Sweden

History and Culture

Skåne, the southernmost region of Sweden, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Its rich past stretches back to the Viking Age, with numerous historical landmarks and museums that tell the story of its Danish and Swedish heritage. One of the most iconic historical sites is Ale's Stones, a megalithic monument resembling a ship, dating back to the early Iron Age. Another must-visit is Lund Cathedral, an imposing Romanesque structure that has stood since the 12th century.

The region is dotted with castles and manors, such as Glimmingehus, Sweden's best-preserved medieval stronghold. Skåne's museums, like Kulturen in Lund, offer a deep dive into the region's history, from Viking artifacts to contemporary art. The annual Konstrundan art tour, where local artists open their studios to the public, is a testament to Skåne's vibrant arts scene.

Nature and Outdoors

Skåne's natural beauty is equally captivating. The region boasts a diverse landscape, from sandy beaches and rolling hills to dense forests and serene lakes. Söderåsen National Park is a haven for hikers, with its dramatic cliffs and lush valleys. The Skåneleden Trail, a network of long-distance hiking paths, offers an immersive way to explore the countryside.

The coastline, with its picturesque fishing villages and sandy shores, is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Kullaberg Nature Reserve is another highlight, known for its rugged cliffs and panoramic views of the Öresund Strait.

Culinary Delights

Skåne's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional and modern flavors. The region is famous for its hearty dishes, such as äggakaka, a thick pancake served with fried pork and lingonberries. Spettekaka, a unique cake made by slowly rotating layers of batter over an open flame, is a must-try dessert. Kalops, a traditional beef stew, and lerpottasill, a creamy herring dish, are other local favorites.

For dessert, skånsk äpplekaka (Skåne apple cake) is a delicious treat made with layers of apples, breadcrumbs, and cinnamon. The region is also known for its apple cider, produced from the abundant orchards in the area.

Souvenirs and Local Crafts

When it comes to souvenirs, Skåne offers a variety of locally made products that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Handmade ceramics or Höganäs porcelain are popular choices, known for their quality and craftsmanship. Klippans Yllefabrik produces beautiful wool textiles, including blankets and scarves, that make for cozy keepsakes.

Painted wooden clogs are another traditional item, often decorated with intricate designs. For food lovers, locally produced apple cider, sweets, and delicacies are perfect gifts. The region's markets and shops are filled with artisanal products, from cheeses and jams to chocolates and pastries.

Getting There and Around

Skåne is easily accessible from both within Sweden and neighboring countries. The Malmö Airport and Copenhagen Airport just across the Öresund Bridge are the main gateways for international travelers. From Copenhagen, it's a short train ride across the bridge to Malmö, the largest city in Skåne.

Once in Skåne, getting around is convenient with a well-connected public transport system. Trains and buses run frequently between major towns and cities, making it easy to explore the region. Renting a car is also a good option for those who prefer to travel at their own pace and visit more remote areas.

Skåne is a region that offers something for every traveler. Its rich history and culture, stunning natural landscapes, delicious cuisine, and unique local crafts make it a destination worth exploring. Whether you're wandering through ancient castles, hiking in national parks, savoring traditional dishes, or shopping for handmade souvenirs, Skåne promises an unforgettable experience.