Planning day trips from Borlänge by car is an easy way to discover central Sweden beyond the city. Within a comfortable driving distance, you can visit historic mining towns, peaceful lakes, wild forests, family attractions and some of Dalarna’s most distinctive cultural sites. These road trips are suitable for summer holidays, autumn weekends and winter getaways, with options for short outings and full-day adventures.
Why explore Dalarna by car from Borlänge?
Borlänge is well placed for exploring Dalarna. The city sits close to Lake Siljan, Falun and the southern edge of the Swedish mountains, while good roads connect it with smaller towns and countryside attractions. A car gives you the freedom to combine several stops, take scenic detours and travel at your own pace.
Public transport can reach many major destinations, but driving is particularly useful when you want to visit rural museums, nature reserves, traditional villages or viewpoints away from town centres. Most of these day trips can be completed in one day, although a few are best enjoyed as longer excursions with an early start.
Travel times below are approximate and depend on traffic, weather and the route you choose. Always check opening hours before setting off, especially outside the main summer season.
1. Falun and the Great Copper Mountain
Driving time: about 20 minutes each way
Falun is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Borlänge by car. The town is famous for Falu copper mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that shaped the history and economy of Sweden for centuries. The mine’s dramatic open pit, known as the Great Pit, is an impressive sight even before you join a guided tour underground.
Begin at the Falu Mine visitor centre, where exhibitions explain the work of miners and the importance of copper production. Guided tours take visitors into the older parts of the mine, although conditions can be cool and damp. After visiting the mine, drive or walk into central Falun to see colourful wooden buildings, small shops and cafés.
Falun also has an important connection with Swedish skiing. At Lugnet, just north of the centre, you can see the national sports complex and ski jump towers. In summer, the area has walking trails and viewpoints. This trip works well for families, history enthusiasts and anyone looking for a short cultural outing.
- Allow at least four hours for the mine and town centre.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to join an underground tour.
- Combine Falun with nearby Lake Runn for a longer summer day.
2. Lake Runn, Torsång and Ornässtugan
Driving time: 15 to 30 minutes each way, depending on the stops
For a relaxed outing close to Borlänge, head towards Lake Runn and the village of Torsång. The lake is one of the region’s best places for swimming, boating, paddling and waterside walks. In winter, when conditions are safe, Lake Runn can become a popular destination for ice skating and other outdoor activities.
Torsång has a peaceful waterfront, an old church and traditional buildings that reflect the region’s long history. It is a good place to stop for a coffee or a simple lunch during a scenic drive. Continue towards Ornässtugan, a historic timber building associated with Gustav Vasa. The building is linked to stories about the future king’s escape during the Swedish uprising in the 1520s.
The route is short, so it is easy to adapt to the weather. On a sunny day, bring a picnic and spend time beside the water. In cooler weather, focus on the historic buildings, cafés and countryside views. This is one of the most flexible road trips near Borlänge.
- Pack swimwear and a picnic in summer.
- Check local safety advice before going onto the ice in winter.
- Look for small roads around the lake if you want a quieter drive.
3. Leksand and the shores of Lake Siljan
Driving time: about 45 minutes each way
Leksand is a charming destination on the southern shore of Lake Siljan and one of the most popular nearby attractions in Dalarna. The town is surrounded by water, forests and traditional red cottages, making it a pleasant choice for a summer day trip.
Start with a walk through central Leksand and visit Leksand Church, a large medieval church with a long history. The area around the church offers attractive views across the lake. During the warmer months, Leksand Sommarland is a major family attraction with water slides, pools and activities for children. It normally requires several hours, so plan the rest of your itinerary accordingly.
Leksand is also known for local food traditions, including the crisp flatbread called knäckebröd. Look for regional products in farm shops and cafés. If you have extra time, follow the shoreline roads or stop at a swimming area before returning to Borlänge.
How to plan a Leksand day
- Choose Leksand Sommarland for a full family day in summer.
- Visit the church, town centre and lakeshore for a quieter itinerary.
- Allow extra time for roadside farm shops and viewpoints.
4. Rättvik, Dalhalla and Vidablick
Driving time: about 1 hour and 10 minutes each way to Rättvik
Rättvik is one of the best-known destinations around Lake Siljan. Its long pier reaches into the lake and provides wide views over the water and surrounding hills. The town has a relaxed holiday atmosphere, with cafés, craft shops and swimming areas available during the warmer months.
From Rättvik, you can continue to Dalhalla, an open-air concert venue built in a former limestone quarry. The natural rock walls create remarkable acoustics, and the venue hosts concerts during the summer season. Even when there is no performance, the site may offer tours or scheduled visits, so check the calendar before travelling.
Another worthwhile stop is Vidablick, a lookout tower in the hills above Rättvik. From the viewpoint, you can see Lake Siljan and the surrounding countryside. The combination of the pier, quarry and lookout makes this a varied full-day route with scenery, culture and outdoor experiences.
- Book Dalhalla events well in advance during the busiest summer dates.
- Bring a jacket for the lookout, as it can be windy above the lake.
- Allow a full day if you want to include several stops around Rättvik.
5. Nusnäs and the village of Mora
Driving time: about 1 hour and 35 minutes each way to Mora
Mora is a longer but very rewarding choice for day trips from Borlänge by car. The town lies between Lake Siljan and Lake Orsasjön and is closely connected with the culture and landscapes of Dalarna. Mora is also the finish point of the famous Vasaloppet cross-country ski race.
On the way, stop in Nusnäs, the traditional home of Dala horse production. Local workshops show how the brightly painted wooden horses are carved and decorated. You can often buy a horse directly from a workshop, and some places offer demonstrations or activities for children.
In Mora, visit the Zorn Museum, dedicated to the celebrated Swedish artist Anders Zorn. His former home and garden, Zorngården, provide additional insight into his life and work. The town centre has cafés and shops, while the lakeshore is a pleasant place for a walk.
This route is especially suitable for visitors interested in art, Swedish traditions and local crafts. Leave early if you want to visit both Nusnäs and the museums in Mora without rushing.
6. Säter and Säterdalen
Driving time: about 35 minutes each way
Säter is a small historic town south of Borlänge, known for its wooden buildings and nearby nature. The old town centre is compact and easy to explore on foot, with colourful façades and a quieter atmosphere than the larger towns in the region.
Just outside the town, Säterdalen offers walking paths through a green valley with wooded slopes, streams and open areas. It is a good destination for a short hike, a picnic or a family outing. Several trails vary in length, so you can choose a route suited to the season and your level of fitness.
Säter is a useful option when you want nearby attractions without spending most of the day in the car. In summer, combine the old town with a walk in the valley. In autumn, the changing leaves make the wooded paths especially attractive.
- Wear shoes suitable for uneven and sometimes muddy paths.
- Bring food and water if you plan to spend several hours in Säterdalen.
- Check local information about trail conditions after heavy rain.
7. Gagnef and Djurås
Driving time: about 30 minutes each way
Gagnef and nearby Djurås offer an easy introduction to the quieter countryside of Dalarna. The area is shaped by rivers, farmland and forest, with traditional villages scattered between the waterways. It is a good choice for travellers who prefer local landscapes to major tourist attractions.
Visit Gagnef Church, walk beside the river and explore small roads through the surrounding villages. During the summer, local events and traditional celebrations may take place, including activities connected with folk culture and regional dress. The exact programme changes from year to year, so check local listings before your visit.
This is one of the simplest road trips for a half-day excursion. Pack a picnic, bring binoculars for birdwatching and allow time to stop when you find an attractive view. The route can also be combined with a visit to Leksand if you want a longer day.
8. Tällberg and the northern Lake Siljan landscape
Driving time: about 1 hour and 15 minutes each way
Tällberg is a picturesque village on the eastern shore of Lake Siljan. Traditional wooden houses, flower-filled gardens and elevated lake views have made it one of the most recognisable destinations in Dalarna. The village is particularly attractive in summer, but the snowy landscape can be beautiful during winter.
Spend time walking along the village roads, browsing local craft shops and enjoying a meal or fika with a view. Several hotels and restaurants are located on the hillside, and some offer panoramic views across Lake Siljan. Tällberg is more about atmosphere than a long list of individual sights, so it suits a slow day with plenty of time outdoors.
From Tällberg, you can continue around the lake towards Rättvik, creating a longer circular drive. Be aware that many businesses have seasonal opening hours, especially outside the summer months.
9. Älvdalen and the route towards the mountains
Driving time: about 2 hours each way to Älvdalen
Älvdalen is a more ambitious destination, but it gives you a taste of the northern landscapes that lead towards the Swedish mountains. The journey passes forests, lakes and open countryside, with plenty of opportunities for short stops along the way.
The town is known for its distinctive local culture, outdoor activities and connection with the Swedish wilderness. Depending on the season, you can go hiking, fishing, cycling or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The area is also associated with a local dialect and traditions that differ from those in southern parts of Dalarna.
Because the drive takes several hours in total, start early and check the weather forecast carefully. This route is best for travellers who enjoy driving through scenic countryside and do not mind a full day on the road. In winter, daylight is limited and road conditions can change quickly.
10. Fulufjället National Park and Njupeskär Waterfall
Driving time: around 2 hours and 45 minutes each way to the park entrance
For an unforgettable nature-focused excursion, consider Fulufjället National Park. The park is home to Njupeskär, one of Sweden’s highest waterfalls, which drops through a rugged landscape of cliffs, forest and open mountain terrain.
The walk to the waterfall is well known, but you should allow enough time for the full route, rest stops and changing weather. Conditions can be wet and cool even in summer, so bring waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear. The park also contains ancient trees and extensive hiking areas for visitors who want to explore beyond the waterfall.
This is a long day trip, and it may be more comfortable as an overnight stay if you want to hike further. However, experienced drivers and hikers can make the journey from Borlänge with an early departure. Check park information before leaving, particularly during spring thaw, autumn storms and winter.
- Take water, food, rainwear and a charged mobile phone.
- Stay on marked paths and follow signs about changing conditions.
- Consider an overnight stay if you want to explore more than the waterfall trail.
11. Bjursås and the countryside north of Falun
Driving time: about 35 minutes each way
Bjursås is a convenient destination for outdoor activities in every season. In winter, Bjursås Berg & Sjö offers skiing and snow activities. During summer, the hills and lakes are suited to walking, cycling, fishing and relaxed picnics.
The route from Borlänge passes through forested countryside and small settlements. You can make the outing as active or as easygoing as you like, with a short scenic drive or a full day on the trails. Families may appreciate the combination of outdoor space and accessible facilities, while hikers can use Bjursås as a starting point for exploring the surrounding landscape.
Always check lift operations, trail conditions and equipment rental availability before setting out. Winter driving in rural Dalarna requires extra care, particularly after snowfall or freezing rain.
12. Lake Siljan scenic loop
Driving time: a full day, depending on stops
If you want to combine several nearby attractions, create a scenic loop around Lake Siljan. A typical route can include Leksand, Tällberg, Rättvik, Nusnäs and Mora, although visiting every stop in one day may feel rushed. Choose two or three locations and leave time for lakeside walks, meals and unplanned viewpoints.
Each destination has a different character. Leksand is family friendly and relaxed, Tällberg is known for traditional village scenery, Rättvik offers a lively lakeside setting, Nusnäs focuses on crafts and Mora has museums and cultural attractions. The roads around the lake make the journey as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.
A practical route plan
- Start in Leksand for breakfast or an early walk.
- Continue to Tällberg for views and a traditional fika.
- Stop in Rättvik for the pier and lunch.
- Visit Nusnäs or Mora in the afternoon, depending on your schedule.
- Return to Borlänge before sunset when driving in spring or autumn.
Tips for planning day trips from Borlänge by car
Choose the right season
Summer offers long daylight hours, open museums, swimming and outdoor events. Autumn is excellent for forest colours and quieter roads. Winter brings skiing, Christmas markets and snowy scenery, but daylight is limited and road conditions require more planning. Spring can be beautiful, although some attractions and trails may still have seasonal restrictions.
Plan fuel, food and charging stops
Fuel stations are easy to find in larger towns, but they are less frequent in remote areas. Fill the tank before heading into the countryside, and bring snacks and water for longer routes. If you drive an electric car, check charging locations in advance and allow extra time during busy holiday periods.
Expect changing weather
Dalarna’s weather can change quickly, especially near lakes and higher ground. Carry a warm layer and rainwear even on a sunny morning. In winter, use proper tyres, clear all snow from the car and allow additional time for the journey.
Respect nature and local communities
Use marked parking areas, keep dogs under control where required and take rubbish with you. Avoid blocking narrow village roads or private entrances. Sweden’s right of public access allows people to enjoy nature, but it also comes with responsibilities towards landowners, wildlife and other visitors.
With good planning, the area around Borlänge offers an impressive variety of experiences within a single day. Whether you prefer historic mines, lakeside villages, local crafts, family attractions or quiet forest trails, these nearby attractions make central Dalarna ideal for independent road trips.