Västerås is ideally placed for exploring central Sweden, with lakeside landscapes, royal estates, historic towns and peaceful nature reserves all within easy reach. Whether you are travelling by car, train or bus, these day trips from Västerås offer a varied selection of experiences for families, couples, history enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.
Why take a day trip from Västerås?
Located on the shore of Lake Mälaren, Västerås is one of Sweden’s oldest cities and an important transport hub. Stockholm is close enough for a longer excursion, while smaller destinations such as Eskilstuna, Sala and Enköping can be reached in less than an hour by car or public transport.
The area around Västerås combines several sides of Sweden. You can visit medieval churches in the morning, walk through a royal park in the afternoon and enjoy dinner beside the water before returning to the city. Many destinations are also compact, making it possible to see the main sights without spending the whole day travelling.
Below, you will find some of the best excursions from Västerås, with suggestions for what to do, how long to stay and which type of traveller each destination suits best.
1. Strömsholm Palace and the Royal Canal
Strömsholm Palace is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Västerås. The journey takes around 30 minutes by car, and the palace stands in an attractive setting beside the Kolbäcksån river and Lake Mälaren.
Built in the 17th century, Strömsholm is known for its elegant architecture, richly decorated interiors and strong connection with Swedish royal history. The palace was commissioned during the reign of King Karl XI and later became associated with Queen Lovisa Ulrika. Inside, visitors can see period rooms, paintings and decorative details that reflect the tastes of the Swedish court.
The surrounding grounds are just as appealing as the building itself. Take a walk through the formal park, follow the waterway or bring a picnic for a relaxed afternoon outdoors. Strömsholm is also famous for its equestrian tradition, and horse lovers may be able to see riding activities at the nearby Strömsholm equestrian centre.
- Travel time: approximately 30 minutes by car
- Best for: history, architecture, gardens and families
- Allow: three to five hours
Check opening hours before travelling, as the palace is generally open during the main visitor season rather than every day throughout the year.
2. Anundshög and the ancient landscapes east of Västerås
For a short excursion close to the city, visit Anundshög, Sweden’s largest burial mound. It is located only a few kilometres east of central Västerås, making it one of the most accessible attractions nearby Västerås.
The mound is believed to date from the Viking Age, although the area contains archaeological remains from an even longer period. Two large stone ships stand beside the mound, together with rune stones and other historic monuments. The site gives a vivid impression of how important this part of Västmanland was before the modern city developed.
A marked walking route connects the main monuments and takes about an hour at a gentle pace. Information boards explain the history of the site, although visitors who want a deeper understanding may prefer to join a guided tour when available.
Anundshög works well as a standalone visit or as part of a wider day around Västerås. After exploring the ancient monuments, you can return to the city for the Västerås Cathedral, the old town of Kyrkbacken or a walk along the shore of Lake Mälaren.
- Travel time: 10 to 15 minutes by car from central Västerås
- Best for: archaeology, Viking history and short walks
- Allow: one to two hours
3. Sala Silvermine
Sala Silvermine is one of the most atmospheric excursions from Västerås. The former mine is about 40 minutes away by car and offers a fascinating look at the industry that shaped the region for centuries.
Silver mining began in the medieval period and continued until the 20th century. At its height, the mine was one of Sweden’s most important sources of silver, producing material used for coins, royal objects and church treasures. Today, guided tours take visitors underground through dramatic chambers and tunnels carved into the rock.
Temperatures below ground remain cool even in summer, so bring a warm layer and wear comfortable shoes. Some tours descend considerable distances and may include stairs, which is worth considering if you are travelling with young children or anyone with limited mobility.
Above ground, the former mining area includes historic buildings, a mining museum and places to eat. The destination is particularly memorable on a rainy day, when the underground tour becomes a natural centrepiece for the visit. Adventure-focused visitors can also look for special experiences such as overnight stays in the mine or seasonal events.
- Travel time: approximately 40 minutes by car
- Best for: history, geology and unusual family activities
- Allow: four to six hours
Book an underground tour in advance during weekends and the summer season. Availability and tour lengths can change throughout the year.
4. Eskilstuna: museums, design and family attractions
Eskilstuna is a lively city about 45 minutes from Västerås by car or train. It is an excellent choice when you want a mixture of culture, shopping and family-friendly attractions rather than a quiet countryside visit.
The city has a long industrial history, especially connected with metalworking. At the Munktell Museum, you can learn about machinery, engineering and the development of Swedish industry. The museum’s large collection includes tractors, engines and other historic equipment, making it a popular stop for children as well as adults.
Eskilstuna Stadsmuseum is located in the old industrial district beside the Eskilstunaån river. The historic buildings, small exhibitions and riverside setting make the area enjoyable to explore on foot. Keep an eye out for local design shops and cafés in the city centre.
Families may prefer a full day at Parken Zoo, which combines a zoo with amusement rides and other activities. If you visit during warmer months, leave time for a walk through the parks along the river. Eskilstuna is also a practical destination without a car because trains connect it with Västerås.
- Travel time: around 45 minutes by car or train
- Best for: families, museums, shopping and urban culture
- Allow: a full day
5. Enköping and its garden parks
Enköping is a small, attractive town roughly 30 minutes from Västerås by car. It is particularly well known for its public parks, which make the town a pleasant destination from late spring to early autumn.
The garden parks are spread around the town and have different themes, planting styles and seasonal displays. A walking route links several of them, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxed tour through green spaces, flower beds and carefully designed landscapes. The parks are free to visit and do not require a full day, so Enköping can easily be combined with another attraction in the surrounding area.
The town centre contains historic streets, cafés and small shops. Enköping Church, with origins in the medieval period, is another worthwhile stop. The compact centre is easy to explore on foot, and the destination has a calm atmosphere that suits travellers looking for a slower pace.
- Travel time: about 30 minutes by car
- Best for: gardens, photography, cafés and gentle walking
- Allow: three to five hours
The parks change considerably with the seasons. Late spring and summer are usually the best times for flowers, while early autumn brings warm colours and a quieter atmosphere.
6. Taxinge Castle and the shores of Lake Mälaren
Taxinge Castle is one of the more leisurely day trips from Västerås, especially for visitors who enjoy historic houses, gardens and traditional Swedish baking. The castle is located on a peninsula in Lake Mälaren, approximately one hour from Västerås by car, depending on the route.
The estate is famous for its café and generous selection of cakes. A visit often revolves around choosing from the dessert counter, but the castle grounds deserve time as well. Walk through the park, admire the waterfront views and explore the historic setting before settling down for coffee.
The castle has a connection with Swedish industrial history through its former owners, and the interiors and exhibitions provide an insight into estate life. The surrounding roads pass through attractive countryside, making the drive part of the experience.
Taxinge is best suited to a relaxed itinerary rather than a packed schedule. Combine it with a stop at another Lake Mälaren attraction if you are travelling by car, but allow enough time to enjoy the café without rushing.
- Travel time: approximately one hour by car
- Best for: castles, gardens, cafés and scenic drives
- Allow: three to five hours
7. Stockholm for a full day of culture
Stockholm is one of the most popular longer day trips from Västerås. Fast trains can take roughly an hour and a quarter, while driving may take between one and one and a half hours depending on traffic. An early start gives you enough time to experience one or two central districts before returning in the evening.
Gamla Stan, the historic old town, is a natural starting point. Its narrow streets lead to the Royal Palace, Stockholm Cathedral, small museums and cafés. From there, you can walk to Skeppsholmen, take a ferry across the water or continue towards the shopping streets around Norrmalm.
For museums, Djurgården is hard to beat. The Vasa Museum displays a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship, while the Nordic Museum, ABBA The Museum and the open-air museum Skansen offer different perspectives on Swedish culture. Families may also enjoy Junibacken or Gröna Lund when open.
Stockholm is too large to see in one day, so choose a clear focus. A history-based itinerary could include Gamla Stan and the Vasa Museum. A family day might centre on Djurgården, while food lovers can explore markets and restaurants in Södermalm or Östermalm.
- Travel time: approximately 75 to 90 minutes by train or car
- Best for: museums, shopping, architecture and restaurants
- Allow: a full day
Travelling by train is often the least stressful option, especially on weekdays when roads into Stockholm can be busy. Check return times in advance so that you do not have to leave a museum or restaurant earlier than planned.
8. Mälaren islands and Birka
For a more distinctive Lake Mälaren experience, consider a boat excursion to Birka, the Viking Age trading centre on the island of Björkö. Boat departures are seasonal and may not operate every day, so this trip requires more planning than destinations reached by road.
Birka is recognised as one of Sweden’s most important archaeological sites. More than a thousand years ago, merchants, craftspeople and travellers arrived here from different parts of the Baltic region and beyond. Today, visitors can walk through the island landscape, visit the museum and learn about Viking life through guided activities and reconstructed buildings.
The boat journey is part of the attraction, offering views across Lake Mälaren and a different perspective on the region’s geography. Bring water, comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for changing weather. The island has limited services compared with a city, so check whether meals are included or pack your own provisions.
- Travel time: varies according to departure point and boat schedule
- Best for: Viking history, archaeology and lake scenery
- Allow: most of the day
Birka is best booked as soon as you know your travel dates. If boat services are not running, consider visiting Anundshög instead for a shorter Viking history experience near Västerås.
9. Tiveden National Park for a nature-focused escape
Tiveden National Park is farther away than most destinations on this list, but it is a rewarding choice for experienced hikers and anyone looking for a full day in the forest. The drive from Västerås takes around two hours, making an early start essential.
The park is known for rugged terrain, moss-covered rocks, old-growth woodland and clear lakes. Marked trails range from short walks to longer hikes, with narrow paths, steep sections and uneven ground in several areas. The landscape feels wild and remote despite being accessible by road.
One of the most popular areas is Stenkällerundan, where trails pass dramatic rock formations and dense forest. Other routes lead towards viewpoints and swimming spots. Conditions can be slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is important.
Tiveden suits travellers who prefer an active day rather than a sightseeing schedule. Pack lunch, snacks and enough water, and download a map before arrival because mobile coverage may be limited in parts of the park.
- Travel time: around two hours by car
- Best for: hiking, swimming, photography and quiet nature
- Allow: a full day
How to choose between these day trips from Västerås
Your choice will depend on transport, interests and the season. If you do not have a car, Eskilstuna, Enköping and Stockholm are among the easiest excursions from Västerås by train or bus. For Strömsholm, Sala Silvermine, Taxinge and Tiveden, driving provides much greater flexibility.
- For royal history: choose Strömsholm Palace or Taxinge Castle.
- For Viking history: visit Anundshög or plan a boat trip to Birka.
- For families: consider Eskilstuna, Sala Silvermine or Stockholm’s Djurgården.
- For gardens and a quiet pace: choose Enköping.
- For hiking: make time for Tiveden National Park.
- For museums and restaurants: spend the day in Stockholm.
Practical tips for excursions from Västerås
Always check opening hours, public transport timetables and seasonal boat schedules before leaving. Several attractions operate with reduced hours outside summer, and some guided tours must be booked in advance. This is especially important for Sala Silvermine, Birka and royal palaces.
Swedish weather can change quickly, even during the warmer months. Pack a waterproof layer, comfortable walking shoes and a small bottle of water. If you are visiting parks, archaeological sites or national parks, bring food or confirm that a café will be open.
Public transport is reliable between the larger towns, but rural attractions may require a connecting bus, taxi or long walk. A rental car is useful if you want to combine several places in one day. Even so, avoid planning too many stops. A slower itinerary usually leaves more time to enjoy the landscape, museums and cafés that make the area around Västerås special.
With destinations ranging from ancient monuments and underground mines to royal estates and forest trails, there is no shortage of places to explore. The best day trips from Västerås are often the ones that match your pace, whether that means a short historic outing nearby Västerås or a full-day adventure across the wider Lake Mälaren region.