Looking for things to do in Simrishamn? This picturesque harbour town on Sweden’s Österlen coast combines colourful old streets, fishing traditions, sandy beaches, fascinating museums and easy access to some of Skåne’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you are planning a summer day trip, a relaxed weekend or a longer stay, Simrishamn offers a rewarding mix of culture, food, nature and coastal activities.
Explore Simrishamn’s old town
One of the best ways to begin exploring Simrishamn is simply to walk through the historic centre. The town grew around its harbour and medieval church, and many of its older streets still have a distinctive character. Small, colourful houses, cobbled lanes and carefully maintained gardens create an inviting atmosphere that is especially appealing in the warmer months.
Look out for traditional half-timbered buildings, brightly painted doors and local architectural details as you wander between the central streets. Several lanes lead towards the water, giving you occasional views of fishing boats and the Baltic Sea. The compact town centre is easy to explore on foot, making a walking tour one of the simplest Simrishamn activities for visitors of all ages.
Stroll through the central squares
Simrishamn’s squares and small streets are ideal for a relaxed morning walk. Stop for coffee at a café, browse independent shops and take time to notice the town’s maritime details. During the summer season, the centre can be lively with outdoor seating, local events and visitors arriving for the coast.
The town is also known for its roses and attractive gardens. In spring and summer, flowers add colour to the old streets and make the area particularly pleasant for photography. Bring a camera, but also allow enough time to explore without a strict schedule. Some of the most memorable views are found in quiet lanes rather than at a specific landmark.
Visit Saint Nicolai Church
Saint Nicolai Church is one of the most important landmarks in Simrishamn. Its history reaches back to the medieval period, when the town was an important trading and fishing community. The church stands close to the old centre and harbour, so it is easy to include in a walking route.
The building has been changed and restored over the centuries, reflecting Simrishamn’s long history. Inside, visitors can see historic details and a calm, atmospheric interior. Check opening times before visiting, as access may vary depending on services, concerts and the season.
Even if you do not go inside, the church is worth seeing from the surrounding streets. Its position helps explain how the historic town developed around religion, commerce and the sea. For travellers interested in local history, Saint Nicolai Church is one of the most significant Simrishamn attractions.
Spend time at Simrishamn harbour
The harbour remains the heart of the town. Fishing has shaped Simrishamn for generations, and the waterfront still provides a strong connection to the Baltic Sea. Walk along the quays, watch boats arriving and departing, and enjoy the changing views across the water.
The harbour is a good place to visit at different times of day. Early mornings can feel peaceful, while summer afternoons bring more activity. In the evening, the light over the water creates a pleasant setting for a slow walk. Restaurants and cafés near the waterfront make it easy to combine sightseeing with lunch, coffee or dinner.
Try local seafood
Seafood is an important part of the food culture in Simrishamn and the wider Österlen region. Depending on the season, local menus may include fish, prawns, smoked seafood and other dishes inspired by the coast. Look for restaurants and fish shops that focus on regional ingredients.
If you are staying in self-catering accommodation, visiting a local food shop or market can be a good way to create your own picnic. Pair fresh produce with bread from a local bakery and take it to a park, beach or viewpoint outside town.
Learn about the region at Österlens Museum
Österlens Museum is a useful introduction to the history and culture of Simrishamn and the surrounding countryside. Exhibitions explore local traditions, archaeology, crafts, everyday life and the relationship between people and the landscape.
The museum is particularly helpful if you want to understand more than the town’s attractive appearance. Österlen has a strong cultural identity shaped by farming, fishing, art and seasonal tourism. Displays and local stories provide context for the villages, old farms and coastal sites you may visit during your trip.
Exhibitions and events can change throughout the year, so check the museum’s official information before planning your visit. Allow extra time to explore nearby streets afterwards, since the museum is located within easy reach of the historic centre.
Relax at Tobisvik beach
Tobisvik is one of the easiest places to enjoy the coast near Simrishamn. The beach is located just north of the town and offers a wide stretch of sand, open sea views and space for walking. It is a popular choice in summer, when visitors come to swim, sunbathe and enjoy the long daylight hours.
On cooler days, Tobisvik is still worth visiting. A walk along the shoreline can be refreshing in spring or autumn, and the changing weather often gives the coast a dramatic atmosphere. Bring a jacket outside the summer season, as coastal winds can make the temperature feel lower than expected.
Families should check local conditions before swimming, particularly when waves or currents are strong. Facilities and services may also vary depending on the season. Tobisvik is close enough to Simrishamn for a walk or short bicycle ride, making it an easy addition to a town itinerary.
Walk along the coast and follow Skåneleden
Walking is one of the best Simrishamn activities for visitors who want to experience the landscape at a slower pace. Coastal paths around the town connect beaches, rocky sections, meadows and small harbours. Some routes are gentle and suitable for a relaxed outing, while longer sections require comfortable footwear and planning.
The Skåneleden trail network passes through the region and offers opportunities for longer walks along the coast. Route conditions can vary, and some paths may be uneven or exposed to wind. Bring water, especially during warm weather, and use an up-to-date map or official trail information.
Walk towards Vik and Prästens badkar
The coastal area between Simrishamn and Vik is known for attractive scenery and distinctive geological features. Near Vik, Prästens badkar is a well-known stone formation in the sea. Its name means “the priest’s bathtub”, and the formation has become a popular stop for photographers and coastal walkers.
Visit during calm weather and take care near the water and on slippery rocks. The coast is beautiful in every season, but conditions can change quickly. A walk here is especially rewarding when combined with views over the open Baltic and the small village atmosphere of Vik.
Take a day trip to Stenshuvud National Park
Stenshuvud National Park is one of the most impressive nature attractions near Simrishamn. Located south of the town, the park combines forest, meadows, beaches and rocky viewpoints. Its highest hill provides broad views over the surrounding coastline and countryside.
Several walking paths lead through the park, allowing visitors to choose a route that suits their time and fitness level. You may see beech forest, coastal plants and open grassland, depending on the trail. The area is attractive in every season, although spring flowers and summer greenery are particularly popular.
Stenshuvud can be reached by car, bicycle or local transport depending on the time of year and your starting point. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to climb to the viewpoints, and follow signs designed to protect sensitive habitats. Avoid picking plants and keep dogs under control where required.
Discover the village of Kivik
Kivik is a short journey from Simrishamn and makes an excellent day trip. The village is famous for its apple orchards, coastal setting and connection to the region’s food and farming traditions. In autumn, the apple harvest brings extra activity, but Kivik is worth visiting throughout the year.
One of the area’s best-known attractions is the Kivik art of burial, also called Kiviksgraven. This Bronze Age site contains a stone cist with carved images and provides an insight into the region’s ancient history. The site has been interpreted and protected for modern visitors, although its original purpose and full story remain subjects of archaeological interest.
Kivik also offers cafés, farm shops and local producers. Combine a visit with a walk along the coast or a stop at Stenshuvud National Park. This combination is a good choice if you want to experience several sides of Österlen in one day.
See Glimmingehus, Sweden’s best-preserved medieval castle
Glimmingehus is located inland from Simrishamn and is one of the most fascinating historical attractions in the area. Built in the late fifteenth century, the fortified stone building is often described as Sweden’s best-preserved medieval castle. Its thick walls, defensive features and historic interior make it very different from the open coastal landscapes nearby.
Guided tours and seasonal activities can help bring the site to life. Exhibitions explain how the castle was built and how people lived in a fortified residence during the late Middle Ages. Families may particularly enjoy the stories of defence, daily routines and medieval life.
Glimmingehus is easiest to visit by car, although cycling is possible for experienced riders who are comfortable with rural roads. Check current opening hours and tour schedules before travelling, especially outside the main summer season.
Visit Autoseum for a change of pace
Autoseum is a popular museum in Simrishamn for anyone interested in cars, motorcycles and transport history. Its collection includes historic vehicles and displays connected with motoring culture. The museum provides an indoor activity, which can be useful on a rainy day or when you want a break from beaches and walking trails.
The exhibits appeal to both dedicated enthusiasts and casual visitors. Families can often find plenty to look at, while the variety of vehicles makes the museum a good choice for a mixed-age group. Allow more time than you might expect if you enjoy reading the information panels and examining the details of older machines.
Cycle through Österlen’s countryside
Cycling is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the area around Simrishamn. Quiet country roads connect the town with small villages, farms, beaches and coastal viewpoints. The terrain is generally manageable for recreational cyclists, although wind and distance can make a route more demanding than it first appears.
Popular cycling ideas include riding north towards Brantevik, heading south towards Vik and Kivik, or following inland roads through fields and orchards. Brantevik is a charming former fishing village with traditional houses and a strong maritime identity. It is close enough for a shorter outing and can be combined with a coastal walk.
Plan your route in advance and check where you can stop for food, water and bicycle repairs. Rural services may have limited opening hours outside summer. A bicycle with reliable brakes, lights and puncture protection is useful, particularly if you are travelling on mixed surfaces.
Explore Brantevik and the fishing villages
Brantevik lies just south of Simrishamn and is one of the most atmospheric villages on the coast. Its older houses, narrow lanes and harbour reflect the importance of fishing to the local community. A visit here feels quieter than a day in the main town, making it a good option for travellers who enjoy photography and slow exploration.
Walk around the harbour, follow the shoreline and look for information about the village’s maritime past. The surrounding coast offers open views and a refreshing setting for a picnic. Other villages in the region, including Skillinge and Vik, offer similar opportunities to see the varied character of the Österlen coastline.
Plan a food and art day in Österlen
Österlen is known for its concentration of artists, galleries, farm shops and small food producers. Many studios and seasonal exhibitions are found in the countryside around Simrishamn. Some are open only during particular periods, so check individual websites or local tourist information before setting out.
A food and art route can include a morning in Simrishamn, lunch at a farm café, a gallery visit and an afternoon walk by the sea. Apple juice, locally grown vegetables, cheeses, bread and pastries are among the regional products you may encounter. The exact selection depends on the season, but local produce is part of the area’s appeal throughout the year.
Practical tips for visiting Simrishamn
- Best time to visit: Summer offers the warmest weather, the longest days and the widest choice of open cafés and attractions. Spring and early autumn are quieter and excellent for walking.
- Getting around: The centre is easy to explore on foot. A bicycle or car gives you more flexibility for visiting beaches, villages, museums and national parks outside town.
- Weather: Coastal weather can change quickly. Bring a light waterproof layer and comfortable shoes, even during summer.
- Booking ahead: Reserve accommodation and popular restaurant tables early for July and August. Check opening times for museums, galleries and historic sites before travelling.
- Swimming: Use designated areas where possible and pay attention to local signs, weather conditions and water safety advice.
- Local transport: Bus services connect Simrishamn with other parts of Österlen, but schedules can be less frequent outside the high season.
How to spend one, two or three days in Simrishamn
One day in Simrishamn
Start with a walk through the old town and a visit to Saint Nicolai Church. Continue to the harbour for lunch, then spend the afternoon at Tobisvik beach or in Österlens Museum. If you have a car, finish the day with a short drive to Brantevik for coastal views.
A weekend in Simrishamn
On the first day, explore the town, harbour and museum before enjoying dinner featuring local produce. On the second day, choose a trip to Stenshuvud National Park, Kivik or Glimmingehus. Add a coastal walk near Vik or a cycling trip through the surrounding countryside if the weather is suitable.
Three days or more
With extra time, combine the main Simrishamn attractions with several villages and nature areas. Visit Brantevik and Skillinge, explore galleries and farm shops, walk a longer section of Skåneleden and set aside time for Kivik and Stenshuvud. This slower approach lets you experience the landscape without rushing between stops.