Strömstad is an excellent base for exploring the Swedish west coast and nearby Norway by car. From dramatic sea views and fishing villages to UNESCO listed rock carvings and historic towns, these day trips from Strömstad by car offer plenty of variety without requiring a long journey. Here are the best routes, attractions and practical tips for planning your drive.
Why Strömstad is a great base for road trips
Strömstad sits in northern Bohuslän, close to the Norwegian border and surrounded by a landscape of granite islands, sheltered bays and small coastal communities. The town itself is easy to reach by road, and the E6 provides a convenient route north towards Norway or south towards Gothenburg.
Many of the best nearby attractions are within an hour of the town centre. This makes it possible to combine several places in one outing, although the coastal roads are often worth taking slowly. In summer, traffic can be busy around the most popular villages, so an early start is useful.
Before setting off, check opening hours, ferry timetables and border requirements. Sweden and Norway are both in the Schengen Area, but you should still carry valid identification. If you plan to visit an island such as Koster, you can drive to the ferry terminal, but cars are generally left on the mainland for the boat journey.
1. Tanum and the Vitlycke rock carvings
Approximate driving time from Strömstad: 25 to 35 minutes
Tanum is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Strömstad by car. The area is famous for the Rock Carvings in Tanum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site containing thousands of Bronze Age images carved into the smooth granite landscape.
The most well known site is Vitlycke, where a marked trail leads between several panels. The carvings show ships, animals, people, weapons and ceremonial scenes. The Vitlycke Museum nearby provides useful context about Bronze Age life and the people who created the images more than 3,000 years ago.
What to see in Tanum
- Vitlycke rock carvings and museum
- Aspeberget, a large and atmospheric carving site
- Litsleby, known for its detailed figures
- The surrounding granite countryside and walking trails
Allow at least two to three hours for the main sites. If you enjoy archaeology and outdoor walks, you can easily spend most of the day exploring the wider Tanum area. The carvings are outdoors, so comfortable shoes and weather appropriate clothing are recommended.
2. Grebbestad and Fjällbacka
Approximate driving time from Strömstad: 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the route
A drive south along the coast brings you to two of northern Bohuslän’s most attractive seaside communities: Grebbestad and Fjällbacka. Both are popular in summer, but each has a different character and is enjoyable outside the busiest season as well.
Grebbestad
Grebbestad is known for its harbour, seafood restaurants and lively summer atmosphere. Walk along the waterfront to see fishing boats, small jetties and traditional coastal buildings. The area is particularly associated with oysters, and several local restaurants serve oysters harvested from the nearby waters.
Grebbestad is also a good place to stop for lunch before continuing south. Parking can fill quickly during July, so arriving in the morning gives you more choice and time to explore the village on foot.
Fjällbacka
Fjällbacka is built around a sheltered harbour beneath steep granite cliffs. A short but sometimes rocky walk leads up to Vetteberget, where you get broad views across the village, islands and sea. The famous Kungsklyftan gorge cuts through the rock and is one of the area’s most memorable natural landmarks.
Fjällbacka also has a literary connection with crime writer Camilla Läckberg, whose novels are set in the community. Even if you have not read the books, the village is worth visiting for its scenery, harbour walks and compact collection of shops and cafés.
3. Nordens Ark wildlife park
Approximate driving time from Strömstad: 45 to 55 minutes
Nordens Ark is a strong choice for families and anyone interested in conservation. The wildlife park works to protect endangered species and houses animals such as wolves, lynx, wolverines, snow leopards, red pandas and various birds of prey.
The park is set in a wooded and hilly landscape, with walking paths connecting the different enclosures. It is larger than a traditional small zoo, so allow several hours for a visit. Some paths include slopes, and good walking shoes are useful.
Nordens Ark can be combined with a coastal drive through Hunnebostrand or Kungshamn. Check feeding times and seasonal opening hours before travelling, since the schedule changes during the year. This is one of the more convenient nearby attractions when the weather is uncertain because much of the visit involves walking through woodland rather than spending time on a beach.
4. Halden and Fredriksten Fortress in Norway
Approximate driving time from Strömstad to Halden: 35 to 45 minutes
For an international change of scenery, drive north across the border to Halden in Norway. The town is dominated by Fredriksten Fortress, an impressive hilltop complex with stone walls, gateways and panoramic views over Halden and the surrounding countryside.
Fredriksten was built to defend Norway against Sweden and played an important role in the history of both countries. You can walk through the fortress grounds, explore its defensive structures and follow trails around the ramparts. Some sections are uneven, but the main areas are accessible on foot.
Things to do in Halden
- Explore Fredriksten Fortress and its viewpoints
- Walk along the Tista river and harbour
- Visit the town centre for cafés and shops
- See the historic bridges and canals around the harbour area
Halden works well as a half day trip. If you want a longer route, continue inland to see parts of the Halden Canal, or return to Sweden via a scenic road rather than using the same route in both directions. Remember that Norway is generally more expensive than Sweden, particularly for restaurant meals and fuel.
5. The Svinesund border area
Approximate driving time from Strömstad: 20 to 30 minutes
The Svinesund area is close enough for a short outing and offers a combination of history, views and modern engineering. The old Svinesund Bridge crosses the fjord between Sweden and Norway, while the newer bridge carries the E6 across the same dramatic landscape.
Stop at the viewpoints around the old bridge to admire the water and surrounding cliffs. The area is also connected with the history of the border between the two countries, and information boards explain the importance of the crossing.
Svinesund is a practical option if you only have a few hours or want to combine a short drive with shopping. The Nordby Shoppingcenter is located close to the border and attracts visitors from both Sweden and Norway. For a more scenic experience, spend less time in the commercial area and follow local roads near the coast and fjord.
6. Koster Islands from Strömstad
Travel time to the ferry terminal: A short drive or walk within Strömstad, followed by a ferry journey
Koster is not a car destination, but it is too important to leave out of a guide to day trips from Strömstad by car. Drive to Strömstad, leave your vehicle in a designated parking area and take the passenger ferry to South Koster or North Koster.
The Koster Islands are known for clear water, rocky shores, beaches and walking trails. Kosterhavet National Park surrounds the islands and protects one of Sweden’s richest marine environments. On land, you can rent a bicycle, walk between small settlements or find a quiet place for a picnic.
Planning a Koster visit
- Check the ferry timetable before leaving your accommodation
- Allow a full day if you want to explore at a relaxed pace
- Bring water, sun protection and suitable footwear
- Book popular restaurants or guided activities in advance during summer
Ferry services vary by season and weather. A Koster trip requires more planning than a normal drive, but it is one of the best ways to experience the coastal landscape around Strömstad.
7. Lysekil and the coast south of Strömstad
Approximate driving time from Strömstad to Lysekil: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the route and ferry connection
Lysekil makes a longer but rewarding coastal road trip. The town is located on the edge of the Gullmarsfjord and has a strong maritime identity, rocky viewpoints and several attractions.
Visit the Havets Hus aquarium to learn about marine life in the waters around Bohuslän. The aquarium is particularly suitable for families and rainy days. Outside, walk along the waterfront or explore the Stångehuvud nature reserve, where pink and grey granite rocks meet the sea.
Stångehuvud is one of the most distinctive landscapes on the Swedish west coast. Marked paths pass through smooth rocks and low vegetation, with frequent views of the open sea. Bring sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery after rain.
Because of the distance, Lysekil is best treated as a full day trip. The journey itself is part of the experience, with coastal roads, small villages and changing views along the way. Check the car ferry schedule if your chosen route uses the Gullmarsleden ferry.
8. Kungshamn, Smögen and Hunnebostrand
Approximate driving time from Strömstad to Smögen: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
The coastal communities around Kungshamn and Smögen are among the most recognisable nearby attractions in Bohuslän. Smögen is famous for its long wooden quayside, colourful fishing huts and lively summer atmosphere.
Walk along Smögenbryggan to browse small shops, galleries and cafés. At the far end, the views open towards the sea and scattered islands. The town can become very busy in July and August, so consider visiting early or travelling during spring and early autumn.
Kungshamn has a more local feel and is connected to Smögen by a bridge. Hunnebostrand, further north, is another pleasant stop with a harbour, rocky shoreline and restaurants. These places are easy to combine into one of the classic road trips from Strömstad, although you should allow extra time for parking and summer traffic.
A good route for the day
- Drive south from Strömstad towards Hunnebostrand
- Continue to Kungshamn and Smögen
- Walk along the harbour and have lunch by the water
- Return via a different inland or coastal route if time allows
9. Gothenburg for a longer city day trip
Approximate driving time from Strömstad to Gothenburg: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
Gothenburg is farther away than most destinations on this list, but it is possible to visit on a full day trip. The E6 provides a direct route south, although summer traffic can extend the journey.
Once in the city, choose a small number of attractions rather than trying to see everything. The Haga district is known for historic wooden buildings, independent shops and cafés. The Gothenburg Museum of Art, the Feskekörka fish market building and the central canals are also popular choices. Families may prefer Universeum, a science centre and indoor rainforest, or Liseberg when the amusement park is open.
Parking is easier if you use a garage outside the busiest central streets and continue on foot or by tram. Leave early if you want a full day in the city, and check current road conditions before returning north.
10. Dalsland and the countryside east of Strömstad
Approximate driving time to selected Dalsland destinations: 1 to 2 hours
If you want a break from the coast, head east towards Dalsland. The landscape changes to forests, lakes and quiet rural roads. This is a good option for travellers who enjoy canoeing, hiking, photography and peaceful scenery more than busy seaside resorts.
Åmål, Bengtsfors and the Dalsland Canal are possible destinations, although the exact driving time depends on where you go. The canal area is known for locks, lakes and historic waterways. In summer, you may be able to join a boat excursion or rent a canoe for a few hours.
Pack a picnic because services can be limited outside the main towns. A Dalsland route is especially attractive in late spring, summer and early autumn, when the forests and lakes provide a different experience from the exposed coastal rocks.
How to plan day trips from Strömstad by car
Choose one main destination
The distances may look short on a map, but coastal roads are slower than motorways and popular villages require time for parking. Select one main destination and add one or two brief stops rather than creating an overpacked schedule.
Check seasonal conditions
Summer brings the best chance of warm weather, but it also brings the largest crowds. Some restaurants, museums and ferry services operate on reduced schedules outside the main season. Always check official websites before departure, especially for Koster ferries, Nordens Ark and attractions in Norway.
Bring suitable equipment
- Comfortable shoes for granite trails and fortress paths
- A waterproof jacket for changeable coastal weather
- Water and snacks for nature reserves and rural routes
- A payment card suitable for both Sweden and Norway
- Offline maps or a downloaded route for areas with weak mobile coverage
Allow time for stops
The best road trips around Strömstad are not only about reaching the destination. Pull over at safe viewpoints, explore small harbours and leave time for an unplanned coffee stop. Never park on narrow roads or private land, and follow local signs in protected natural areas.
Suggested itineraries
Short cultural day
Visit Vitlycke in the morning, explore more rock carving sites around Tanum, then have lunch in Grebbestad or Fjällbacka. This route combines archaeology, coastal scenery and good food without a long drive.
Border and history day
Start at the Svinesund viewpoints, continue to Halden and spend several hours at Fredriksten Fortress. Return to Strömstad through the border area, stopping for a meal or coffee along the way.
Classic Bohuslän coast day
Drive south to Hunnebostrand, Kungshamn and Smögen. Walk along the quayside, enjoy a seafood lunch and take time for viewpoints near the coast. Start early during the summer season.
Island and sea day
Leave the car in Strömstad and take the ferry to Koster. Spend the day walking or cycling around the islands, with time for a swim or picnic before returning on the afternoon or evening boat.
Finding the right trip for your visit
For history, choose Tanum or Halden. For classic west coast scenery, drive to Fjällbacka, Smögen or Lysekil. Families may prefer Nordens Ark, Havets Hus or Gothenburg, while visitors looking for quiet nature should consider Koster or Dalsland.
With a car, Strömstad gives you easy access to both sides of the Swedish Norwegian border and a wide range of coastal and inland landscapes. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, these routes make it simple to explore beyond the town and experience the nearby attractions that make northern Bohuslän so distinctive.