Strömstad is an excellent base for exploring Sweden’s Bohuslän coast and the nearby Norwegian borderlands. Within a short drive, ferry ride or train journey, you can find car free islands, fishing villages, ancient rock carvings, lively summer resorts and peaceful nature reserves. This guide to day trips from Strömstad covers the best places to visit, how to reach them and what to do when you arrive.
Why Strömstad is a great base for day trips
Strömstad sits in northern Bohuslän, close to the Norwegian border and surrounded by a landscape of smooth granite rocks, saltwater inlets and scattered islands. The town itself is known for its harbour, seafood restaurants, shopping streets and access to the Koster Islands. Its location makes it easy to combine a relaxed coastal holiday with excursions from Strömstad into both Sweden and Norway.
Many of the most attractive places are between 20 minutes and 90 minutes away by car. Public transport is also useful, especially for destinations connected by train or ferry. In summer, boat services and local buses make it possible to plan several car free outings, although timetables can change with the season.
1. Koster Islands
The Koster Islands are among the most popular day trips from Strömstad, and for good reason. The islands are home to Kosterhavet National Park, Sweden’s first marine national park, with clear waters, rocky beaches and a rich marine environment. South Koster has roads, shops, cafés and several places to rent bicycles, while North Koster is quieter and more rugged.
Passenger ferries leave from Strömstad and usually reach the islands in around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the service and destination. Once there, cycling is one of the best ways to explore. Follow quiet lanes to viewpoints, small swimming spots and harbours such as Ekenäs and Kläpphagen. You can also walk along coastal trails and stop for a picnic beside the sea.
What to do on Koster
- Cycle between the island villages and beaches.
- Swim from the smooth rocks or a sheltered sandy beach.
- Join a guided boat tour or seal safari.
- Visit the Naturum Kosterhavet visitor centre in South Koster.
- Enjoy a seafood lunch at a seasonal restaurant.
Book ferry tickets and bicycle rental in advance during July and early August. A day on Koster can easily fill from morning to evening, so check the return boat carefully before setting out.
2. Tjärnö and the marine research centre
Tjärnö is one of the most interesting places nearby Strömstad for visitors who want to understand the sea around Bohuslän. The island is home to the University of Gothenburg’s marine research station and the Kristineberg and Tjärnö marine science facilities. The area offers a different experience from the busier Koster Islands, with quiet roads, coastal paths and excellent opportunities to observe marine life.
Families can visit the Kosterhavet information areas and learn about local habitats, while walkers can explore the shoreline and small coves. Tjärnö is connected to the mainland by bridge, so it is easy to reach by car. Bring a packed lunch because food options are limited outside the high season.
3. Tanum rock carvings
The Tanum rock carvings are one of Sweden’s most important prehistoric attractions and a rewarding cultural excursion from Strömstad. The carvings were made during the Bronze Age, approximately 3,000 years ago, and depict ships, people, animals, weapons and ceremonial scenes. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Vitlycke Museum is the best place to begin. Its exhibitions explain the lives and beliefs of Bronze Age communities, and a reconstructed prehistoric farm gives the site a more tangible atmosphere. Several carved rock panels are located nearby, including the famous Vitlycke panel. Marked paths connect the main sites, although good walking shoes are useful because the terrain can be uneven.
Planning a visit to Tanum
- Allow at least two to three hours for the museum and main walking trails.
- Visit early or late in the day during the busiest summer weeks.
- Wear shoes with good grip, especially after rain.
- Look closely at the carvings, as some figures are easier to see in low sunlight.
Tanum is around 30 minutes south of Strömstad by car. It can also be combined with a visit to Grebbestad or Fjällbacka.
4. Fjällbacka
Fjällbacka is a picturesque fishing village surrounded by granite cliffs and small islands. Its waterfront is lined with colourful buildings, cafés and restaurants, making it one of the most attractive day trips from Strömstad for a relaxed coastal outing.
The main landmark is Vetteberget, the large rock above the village. A path leads up through Kungsklyftan, a dramatic cleft between towering rock walls. From the top, you get wide views across the archipelago and the village rooftops. The climb is not especially long, but some sections are steep and may be slippery.
After the walk, explore the harbour, browse local shops and enjoy fresh prawns or other seafood. Fjällbacka is also associated with Swedish crime writer Camilla Läckberg, whose novels are set in the area. Boat trips to nearby islands are available in the warmer months, subject to weather and schedule.
5. Grebbestad
Grebbestad is a lively seaside town about 30 minutes south of Strömstad. It is especially well known for oysters, seafood and a busy summer harbour. The town is a good choice when you want a simple day by the water with plenty of places to eat.
Take a walk along the harbour, browse small boutiques and stop at a seafood restaurant for local oysters or shellfish. During summer, boat excursions run through the archipelago and may include oyster tasting or visits to nearby islands. Grebbestad also has several swimming spots and rocky areas where you can sit beside the sea.
For a quieter experience, visit outside the peak holiday period. The town becomes calmer in spring and early autumn, while many restaurants and shops still operate on selected days.
6. Hamburgsund and the Hamburgö island
Hamburgsund is a small coastal community south of Strömstad, known for its narrow sound and easy access to Hamburgö. A short cable ferry connects the mainland with the island, creating a memorable part of the journey. The crossing is free for pedestrians and generally takes only a few minutes, although you should allow extra time at busy periods.
Hamburgö is ideal for a peaceful walk, a swim from the rocks or a picnic with views across the water. The island has a more relaxed feel than larger summer resorts. It is a useful stop for travellers looking for less crowded excursions from Strömstad, especially in the morning or outside July.
7. Resö and Galtö
Resö and Galtö offer a quieter view of the Bohuslän coast. These small coastal communities are known for traditional houses, fishing surroundings and access to open landscapes. Galtö is also associated with a nature reserve where you may see coastal birds, deer and other wildlife.
The area is best explored by car, with time set aside for short walks and spontaneous stops. Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching. The shoreline changes from open rocks to sheltered bays, and the light can be particularly beautiful in the early morning or evening. There are fewer services here than in Strömstad, so carry water and food for the day.
8. Nordby Shoppingcenter and Svinesund
For a practical and entertaining day out, travel north from Strömstad to Nordby Shoppingcenter near the Norwegian border. The shopping centre is one of the largest in the region and attracts visitors from both Sweden and Norway. You will find supermarkets, clothing stores, cafés, restaurants and speciality shops under one roof.
Combine shopping with a visit to Svinesund, where the Iddefjord forms the border between Sweden and Norway. The old Svinesund Bridge offers attractive views over the water, while the surrounding area has short walks and viewpoints. Check current border and shopping regulations if you are travelling with large quantities of food or alcohol.
This is one of the easiest day trips from Strömstad in poor weather because much of the time can be spent indoors. It is also convenient for families and visitors who want to stock up before continuing their journey.
9. Halden, Norway
Halden lies just across the border in Norway and makes an excellent international day trip from Strömstad. The town’s most prominent attraction is Fredriksten Fortress, which rises above the centre. The fortress has impressive walls, viewpoints and historic buildings, and you can spend several hours exploring its grounds.
Halden also has a pleasant harbour, a compact town centre and cafés around the main streets. The fortress is connected to the centre by walking routes, but the uphill sections can be demanding. By car, the journey from Strömstad usually takes around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the border route.
Sweden and Norway are both in the Schengen Area, but travellers should still carry valid identification and check current entry requirements. Currency also differs, so confirm whether your card is accepted and be aware of exchange rates.
10. Fredrikstad, Norway
Fredrikstad is farther away, but it is one of the most rewarding excursions from Strömstad for history and architecture. The Old Town, or Gamlebyen, is one of the best preserved fortified towns in Scandinavia. Its star-shaped fortifications surround cobbled streets, galleries, cafés, independent shops and museums.
Spend time walking along the ramparts and crossing the small bridges around the old town. During summer, a free ferry connects parts of the city across the Glomma River, making it easy to add a short boat ride to your visit. Fredrikstad is around an hour from Strömstad by car, although traffic and border conditions can affect the journey.
Because of the distance, plan to leave early and check opening hours before travelling. Fredrikstad works particularly well as a full day trip rather than a short stop.
11. Nordens Ark wildlife park
Nordens Ark is a conservation park near Hunnebostrand, south of Strömstad. It focuses on endangered and threatened animals from around the world, including Nordic species and animals adapted to colder climates. The park has spacious enclosures set among woodland and rocky terrain.
A visit usually takes several hours because the walking route covers a large area. It is a strong option for families, nature lovers and anyone looking for an activity beyond the coast. The park’s programme and animal availability can vary, so check the official website before your visit. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the paths include hills.
12. Lysekil and the Gullmarsfjord
Lysekil is a larger coastal town located farther south along the Bohuslän coast. It is known for its harbour, swimming areas, seafood restaurants and access to the Gullmarsfjord, Sweden’s first marine conservation area. The journey is longer than many other places on this list, but it is possible as a full day trip by car.
Visit the Havets Hus aquarium to learn about marine life in the waters around western Sweden. You can also walk along the coastal paths, explore the old town and enjoy views over the fjord. In summer, boat tours provide another way to see the coastline and surrounding islands.
Lysekil is best for travellers who want to combine a town visit with marine experiences. Leave plenty of time for the drive and avoid trying to include too many other destinations on the same day.
13. Smögen and the Smögenbryggan
Smögen is one of the most recognisable summer destinations on Sweden’s west coast. Its long wooden boardwalk, Smögenbryggan, passes colourful harbour buildings, restaurants, cafés and small shops. The village is lively in summer and offers a classic Bohuslän atmosphere of boats, seafood and granite islands.
Walk along the harbour, sample local seafood and continue towards the rocky coastline for open sea views. Smögen is more than an hour from Strömstad, so it is best treated as a full day outing. Parking can be difficult during the busiest weeks, and arriving early is helpful.
14. Blomsholm nature and history area
Blomsholm is a peaceful historical area north of Strömstad, close to the Norwegian border. It combines woodland, farmland and archaeological remains, including ancient stone formations and burial sites. The site is a good choice when you want a short, quiet outing without a packed tourist schedule.
Marked paths lead through the landscape, and information boards explain the local history. Blomsholm can be visited in a couple of hours and paired with a trip to Nordby or Svinesund. Wear suitable shoes, particularly after wet weather, and remember that facilities are limited.
15. Strömstad’s own archipelago and harbour
Not every adventure needs to take you far from town. Strömstad itself has enough coastal scenery and boat connections for a flexible day out. Walk around the harbour, visit the local museum and follow the shoreline towards Laholmen for views over the water. Several bathing places are available within or close to town during summer.
Short boat trips may operate to nearby islands and coastal locations, depending on the season. Ask at the tourist information office about current departures, guided tours and swimming spots. This option is especially useful on a day when the weather is uncertain or when you want to avoid driving.
How to plan day trips from Strömstad
Choose the right transport
A car gives you the greatest flexibility, particularly for Tanum, Tjärnö, Nordens Ark and the smaller coastal villages. Public transport works well for journeys to Gothenburg, Halden and some larger towns, while ferries are essential for Koster and useful for island excursions. During summer, book popular ferry journeys and check whether bicycles need a separate reservation.
Think about the season
July and early August bring the warmest weather and the fullest range of boat trips, but they also bring traffic, queues and limited parking. May, June, September and early October can be excellent times to explore. Many restaurants remain open, coastal paths are quieter and the landscape still offers plenty of light for sightseeing.
Pack for changeable coastal weather
Weather on the west coast can change quickly. Bring a waterproof layer, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection and extra clothing for windy ferry crossings. A refillable water bottle and a small picnic are useful on islands and in nature reserves where shops may be closed.
Check opening hours and ferry times
Seasonal attractions often operate reduced hours outside summer. Check museum, aquarium, park and restaurant opening times before leaving Strömstad. For island trips, note the final return ferry and allow extra time to reach the harbour. Windy weather can also affect boat services, so have a backup plan for the day.
Choosing the best excursion for your interests
- For islands and swimming: choose the Koster Islands, Tjärnö or Hamburgö.
- For history: visit Tanum rock carvings, Blomsholm, Halden or Fredrikstad.
- For seafood and village atmosphere: plan a day in Fjällbacka, Grebbestad or Smögen.
- For families: consider Nordens Ark, Kosterhavet visitor facilities or Havets Hus.
- For shopping: travel to Nordby and combine it with Svinesund.
- For quiet nature: explore Resö, Galtö or the less busy coastal paths around Tjärnö.
With so many options close by, Strömstad works equally well for a weekend break and a longer coastal holiday. You can spend one day on a ferry to Koster, another among ancient rock carvings and a third crossing the border to Norway. The variety of landscapes and experiences is what makes day trips from Strömstad so appealing throughout the year.