This Simrishamn travel guide covers the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and practical tips for exploring one of southern Sweden’s most charming coastal towns. Located on the Baltic Sea in Skåne, Simrishamn is an excellent base for discovering fishing villages, sandy beaches, apple orchards, historic sites, and the beautiful Österlen countryside.
Why visit Simrishamn?
Simrishamn is a small port town with a relaxed atmosphere, colourful historic buildings, and a strong connection to the sea. It is less hectic than many larger Swedish destinations, yet it offers plenty to see during a weekend or a longer stay. The town is especially appealing in spring and summer, when the harbour is busy, outdoor cafés open their terraces, and the surrounding countryside fills with flowers.
Visiting Simrishamn also gives you easy access to some of Skåne’s most memorable landscapes. Within a short drive or bus journey, you can reach the beaches of Österlen, the forests of Stenshuvud National Park, the medieval fortress of Glimmingehus, and the apple-growing district around Kivik.
Simrishamn tourism is built around a combination of coastal scenery, local food, art, history, and outdoor activities. You can spend a morning walking through the old town, an afternoon swimming or visiting a museum, and an evening enjoying freshly caught fish at the harbour.
Best things to do in Simrishamn
Explore the old town
The historic centre is one of the main reasons to visit Simrishamn. Narrow streets lead between pastel-coloured houses, small gardens, and traditional half-timbered buildings. Many homes date from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, when Simrishamn was an important fishing and trading town.
Take time to walk without a fixed route. Stora Norregatan and the streets around the church are particularly attractive, with carefully maintained façades and quiet corners. Look for colourful doors, wooden details, and small galleries selling local crafts. The town centre is compact, so most sights can be explored on foot.
Visit St Nicolai Church
St Nicolai Church stands close to the centre of Simrishamn and has served the local community for centuries. Its medieval origins reflect the town’s long history as a settlement connected to fishing and Baltic trade. The church is a useful starting point for understanding how the town developed around its harbour.
When the church is open, step inside to see the historic interior and learn more about the region’s religious heritage. Opening times can vary, particularly outside the main summer season, so check locally before making a special trip.
Walk along the harbour
Simrishamn’s harbour is the natural heart of the town. Fishing boats, pleasure craft, and small tour vessels create a lively scene during the warmer months. The waterfront is also a good place to pause for coffee, ice cream, or a meal featuring seafood from the surrounding coast.
A walk beside the water is enjoyable at any time of day, but early morning and evening have a special atmosphere. The light is often beautiful, and the harbour becomes noticeably quieter once the day trippers have left. From the waterfront, you can also follow paths along the coast for wider views of the Baltic Sea.
Learn about local history at the town museum
Simrishamn’s museums offer insight into the area’s maritime past, local customs, and everyday life. Exhibitions may cover fishing, shipping, agriculture, historic interiors, and the development of Österlen as a cultural destination. The exact programme changes, so check current listings during your stay.
A museum visit is particularly useful on a rainy day or when travelling with children. It also adds context to the historic streets and harbour that you see while walking around town.
Beaches and coastal walks near Simrishamn
The coastline around Simrishamn includes sandy beaches, rocky stretches, small coves, and open viewpoints. Some beaches are easily reached from town, while others are best explored by bicycle or car. Water temperatures can be cool even in summer, but swimming is popular during warm weather.
Simrishamn beach
The beach closest to the town centre is convenient for a quick swim or a relaxed afternoon beside the sea. It is a good option if you are staying in Simrishamn without a car. Bring a towel, water, and something to sit on, as facilities can be limited outside the main summer period.
Ribersborg and neighbouring coastal areas
Several beaches and coastal recreation areas lie north and south of Simrishamn. Local buses serve some locations, but cycling gives you greater flexibility and lets you stop at viewpoints, cafés, and small villages along the way. The coastline can be windy, so pack an extra layer even on sunny days.
Stenshuvud National Park
Stenshuvud National Park is one of the best day trips from Simrishamn. The park combines deciduous woodland, open meadows, rocky hills, and a long sandy beach. Trails lead through varied terrain, making the area suitable for both short walks and longer hikes.
The highest hill provides a wide view over the coast and surrounding countryside. On a clear day, the combination of forest, fields, and Baltic water is especially impressive. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the hill trails, as some sections can be uneven or slippery after rain.
Stenshuvud is also known for its wildlife and plant life. In spring, woodland flowers appear beneath the trees, while summer brings butterflies and birds to the open areas. Follow marked paths and avoid disturbing animals, particularly during nesting periods.
Day trips from Simrishamn
Kivik and the apple-growing region
Kivik is one of the most popular places to visit near Simrishamn. The village is known for its apple orchards, coastal setting, farm shops, and relaxed atmosphere. In autumn, the area becomes especially lively during the apple harvest, while spring brings blossom to the orchards.
One of the area’s best known attractions is Kivik’s Apple House, where visitors can learn about local apple cultivation and taste regional products. The nearby Kivik Art Centre combines contemporary art with the rural landscape and offers a distinctive cultural experience.
Kivik is also close to beaches and scenic walking routes. You can combine a visit to the village with a stop at Stenshuvud National Park, although seeing both in one day is easier with a car or careful planning of bus connections.
Brantevik
Brantevik is a former fishing village south of Simrishamn. Its white houses, small lanes, and sea views make it a rewarding stop for anyone interested in the traditional character of Österlen. The village is compact and easy to explore on foot.
Look for the old harbour areas and the local maritime history connected to the village’s fishing families. Brantevik is also a pleasant place to enjoy a quiet coastal walk, especially outside the busiest summer hours.
Glimmingehus
Glimmingehus is one of Scandinavia’s best preserved medieval fortresses and a fascinating excursion from Simrishamn. Built in the late fifteenth century, the stone fortress was designed for defence and includes thick walls, narrow openings, and historic features that show how a noble household once lived.
Guided tours and seasonal activities can make the site more engaging for families. Check the official visitor information for current opening times, admission fees, and events. The fortress is located in the countryside, so public transport options are more limited than in Simrishamn itself.
Ales Stenar at Kåseberga
Further west along the coast, near Kåseberga, you can see Ales Stenar, a large stone ship formation overlooking the sea. The arrangement consists of standing stones set on a coastal ridge and is one of southern Sweden’s most striking archaeological sites.
The surrounding cliffs and open fields make the walk to the stones worthwhile even before you reach the monument. Kåseberga also has a small harbour and places to eat, including restaurants and cafés that often focus on fish and local ingredients.
Food and drink in Simrishamn
Food is an important part of the Simrishamn experience. The town’s coastal location means that fish and seafood are common on restaurant menus, while the fertile countryside provides vegetables, berries, dairy products, and apples. Look for daily specials based on the local catch and seasonal produce.
Smoked fish, pickled herring, prawns, and fish soup are popular choices, but you will also find modern Swedish cooking and international options. During summer, outdoor seating makes it easy to enjoy a long lunch or an evening meal by the harbour.
For a casual break, visit a bakery or café for coffee and a sweet pastry. Swedish fika is a natural part of a day in Simrishamn, especially when exploring the old town. Farm shops around Österlen sell cider, apple juice, preserves, cheeses, and other products that make good souvenirs.
Restaurant opening hours can change considerably between seasons. In July and August, booking ahead is sensible, particularly for popular waterfront restaurants. Outside summer, some businesses open only on selected days, so check before travelling to a specific venue.
Where to stay in Simrishamn
Simrishamn has accommodation for different budgets and travel styles. Staying in the town centre puts you close to restaurants, shops, the harbour, and local transport. This is the most convenient choice if you are visiting Simrishamn without a car.
Hotels and guesthouses in historic buildings often provide a more personal experience, while self-catering apartments work well for families or longer stays. Bed and breakfasts in the surrounding countryside offer a peaceful setting and may include local breakfast products.
Demand is highest during summer, public holidays, and major local events. Reserve well in advance if you want a particular property or plan to travel during July. Spring and early autumn can provide better availability, quieter streets, and pleasant conditions for walking and cycling.
Getting to Simrishamn
Simrishamn is located in southeastern Skåne, on the Österlen coast. The easiest public transport route usually involves travelling by train to Ystad and continuing by the regional Pågatåg service to Simrishamn. Travel times and connections depend on your starting point, so check the current timetable before setting out.
Buses connect Simrishamn with nearby villages and attractions, although services can be less frequent outside the summer season. A bicycle is useful for shorter trips along the coast, while a car gives you the most freedom to visit rural attractions such as Glimmingehus and smaller farm shops.
If you drive, allow extra time during July and August. Popular beaches and attractions can have limited parking, and narrow country roads are shared with cyclists, walkers, and agricultural vehicles. Download or save directions before leaving town because mobile coverage can vary in rural areas.
When to visit Simrishamn
Summer is the most popular season for Simrishamn tourism. From June to August, many cafés, restaurants, galleries, and attractions are open, and the long daylight hours are ideal for coastal walks. July usually brings the greatest number of visitors, so expect higher accommodation prices and busier beaches.
Late spring is a beautiful time to visit. Apple orchards and gardens begin to bloom, temperatures are comfortable for walking, and the countryside feels peaceful. Early autumn is another excellent option, especially if you are interested in apples, local food, and changing colours in the forests.
Winter is quieter and atmospheric, but some attractions and restaurants operate reduced hours. The coast can be windy and cold, while the shorter days limit outdoor sightseeing. If you enjoy peaceful walks and cosy cafés, however, an off-season trip can be rewarding.
Practical tips for visiting Simrishamn
- Wear comfortable shoes because the old town has uneven streets and many coastal paths are unpaved.
- Bring a light waterproof jacket, even in summer. Weather can change quickly along the coast.
- Book accommodation and popular restaurants early for July and August.
- Check public transport timetables before planning trips to villages and countryside attractions.
- Carry a reusable water bottle and sunscreen when walking in exposed coastal areas.
- Respect private gardens, farmland, wildlife, and marked paths when exploring the countryside.
- Use Sweden’s right of public access responsibly. Leave no litter and avoid entering cultivated land or private areas.
- Keep some Swedish kronor or a payment card available for small cafés, markets, and seasonal stalls, although card payments are widely accepted.
A simple two day Simrishamn itinerary
On your first day, explore the old town and St Nicolai Church before walking to the harbour. Have lunch near the waterfront, then spend the afternoon visiting a local museum or following the coastal path south of town. Finish with dinner featuring seafood or ingredients from the Österlen region.
On your second day, choose a countryside excursion. Stenshuvud National Park and Kivik make a good combination for nature, beaches, orchards, and local food. Alternatively, visit Glimmingehus for medieval history and continue to Brantevik for a coastal walk. With a car, you can add more stops, but public transport and bicycles are enough for a slower, more focused itinerary.
The best Simrishamn travel guide advice is to leave space in your schedule. The appeal of the area lies not only in its major attractions but also in unplanned stops at a bakery, harbour, farm shop, viewpoint, or quiet beach. Take your time, follow the coast, and let the landscape shape your visit.