Ystad is one of southern Sweden’s most rewarding bases for exploring Skåne. Within an easy drive or bus ride, you can reach dramatic coastlines, medieval castles, lively harbour towns, national park landscapes and even a nearby Danish island. Whether you have one extra day or several, these day trips from Ystad make it easy to experience the varied scenery and history of the region.
Why Ystad is a great base for day trips
Ystad sits on the southern coast of Skåne, surrounded by the landscapes of Österlen. The town itself is known for its timber-framed buildings, cobbled streets, medieval church and harbour, but its location is just as appealing. Several of the area’s most popular attractions are within 15 to 60 minutes of the centre.
Nearby Ystad, you can find long sandy beaches, rolling farmland, ancient monuments and small villages with galleries, cafés and farm shops. Travelling by car gives you the greatest flexibility, especially if you want to combine several stops in one day. Public transport is also useful for major destinations such as Simrishamn, Malmö and Lund, although rural connections can be less frequent outside the summer season.
The best excursions from Ystad depend on your interests. Kåseberga and Ales Stenar are ideal for coastal scenery and history, while Glimmingehus suits visitors interested in medieval architecture. Stenshuvud offers some of the best hiking in Skåne, and a ferry trip to Bornholm adds an international element to your itinerary.
Kåseberga and Ales Stenar
One of the easiest and most popular day trips from Ystad is to Kåseberga, a small fishing village on the coast about 17 kilometres east of town. The village has a picturesque harbour, seafood restaurants and a pleasant walking route leading up to the famous monument of Ales Stenar.
Ales Stenar is a large ship-shaped stone setting positioned on a grassy headland above the Baltic Sea. The monument consists of 59 stones and is often described as Sweden’s answer to Stonehenge, although its exact age and purpose remain subjects of debate. Some theories connect it with a burial site, while others suggest a ceremonial or astronomical function.
The setting is the real highlight. From the clifftop, you can look across the sea and along the open coastline. Wind can be strong here, even on a sunny day, so bring a jacket and wear shoes suitable for uneven grass and paths. The walk from Kåseberga harbour to Ales Stenar is short, but many visitors extend the outing by following the coastal path in either direction.
How to plan a Kåseberga visit
- Allow at least three hours for the monument, harbour and a meal.
- Arrive early in summer if you want easier parking and a quieter experience.
- Check restaurant opening hours outside the main season.
- Combine Kåseberga with a stop at Sandhammaren or Löderup Strand.
Sandhammaren and the southeastern coast
Sandhammaren is one of the finest beach destinations in Skåne and a natural choice for a summer excursion from Ystad. The beach is known for pale sand, dunes and broad views of the Baltic coastline. It is located around 20 kilometres east of Ystad, close to the eastern tip of the province.
A lighthouse stands near the beach, and the surrounding area includes walking trails through pine forest and dunes. The coastline is especially attractive on clear days, but the beach is worth visiting in cooler weather too, when the empty shore and sea air create a peaceful atmosphere.
Swimming conditions can vary, and currents may be present, so follow local safety information. The dunes are fragile, and visitors should stay on marked paths where possible. A visit to Sandhammaren works well with Kåseberga, Löderup and the small village of Borrby, creating a full day of coastal stops.
Best for
- Swimming and beach walks in summer
- Photography and birdwatching
- A relaxed coastal day away from busy towns
- Combining nature with nearby villages and cafés
Glimmingehus and Österlen villages
Glimmingehus is the best-preserved medieval castle in Sweden and one of the most interesting historical attractions near Ystad. Built in the late 15th century, the stone fortress has thick walls, defensive features and an atmosphere that makes its history easy to imagine.
Inside, exhibitions and guided activities explain how the castle was used and how people lived during the Middle Ages. Families often enjoy the storytelling and demonstrations, while architecture enthusiasts will appreciate details such as the staircases, fireplaces and defensive design.
Glimmingehus is around 20 kilometres from Ystad and can be visited in a few hours. To turn it into a longer day trip, continue towards Simrishamn or explore the surrounding villages of Österlen. This part of Skåne is known for its independent galleries, farm shops, cider producers and seasonal cafés.
Make a full day of it
- Visit Glimmingehus in the morning.
- Stop at a farm shop or café in the surrounding countryside.
- Continue to Simrishamn for a harbour walk and dinner.
- Check opening dates before travelling, especially from autumn to spring.
Simrishamn and the Österlen coast
Simrishamn is a colourful harbour town approximately 40 kilometres northeast of Ystad. Its historic centre is filled with low, brightly painted houses, narrow streets and small courtyards. The town has long been connected with fishing, and the harbour remains central to its identity.
A walk through the old town can easily fill an hour or two. Look for the distinctive local architecture, visit the church of St Nicolai and follow the waterfront before stopping at a café or restaurant. In summer, Simrishamn has a lively atmosphere, with visitors arriving to explore the coast and the cultural attractions of Österlen.
Simrishamn is also a useful starting point for other excursions. From here, you can travel south towards Brantevik or north towards Kivik and Stenshuvud. If you are using public transport, Simrishamn is one of the more convenient destinations on this list, with train and bus connections from Ystad depending on the timetable.
What to see in Simrishamn
- The historic streets around St Nicolai Church
- The harbour and fishing boats
- Local galleries, shops and seasonal markets
- The coastal path towards nearby villages
Stenshuvud National Park
Stenshuvud National Park is one of the most scenic nature destinations in southeastern Sweden. It lies near Kivik, around 50 kilometres from Ystad, and protects beaches, deciduous woodland, meadows and the distinctive hill of Stenshuvud.
Several marked trails lead through the park. The climb to the viewpoints on Stenshuvud is manageable for most active visitors, although the paths can be uneven and slippery after rain. From the higher points, you can see the Baltic Sea, the surrounding countryside and, on clear days, a long stretch of the coast.
Below the hill, the landscape changes to forest and open meadow. In spring, the woodland can be filled with flowers, while summer is a good time for combining a hike with a visit to the beach. Autumn brings colourful leaves and a quieter atmosphere.
Tips for visiting Stenshuvud
- Wear sturdy shoes, particularly if you plan to climb to the viewpoints.
- Bring water and a packed lunch, as services inside the park are limited.
- Keep dogs on a lead and follow national park regulations.
- Combine the park with Kivik, a nearby apple-growing area known for cider and orchards.
Kivik, apple orchards and the eastern coast
Kivik is a charming coastal village and one of the most distinctive places to visit near Ystad. The area is famous for its apple orchards, local food producers and views across the Hanöbukten bay. During the autumn harvest season, the village and surrounding countryside are particularly attractive.
One notable attraction is the Kivik Art Centre, where contemporary art installations are placed in the landscape. Opening times vary by season, so check in advance. You can also visit local cider producers, although tastings and tours may require advance booking.
Kivik works well as part of a full-day route that includes Stenshuvud National Park and Simrishamn. The distance from Ystad is greater than the journey to Kåseberga, but the combination of nature, food and culture makes it one of the most rewarding excursions from Ystad.
Malmö: city life, museums and modern architecture
For a change from coastal villages and rural scenery, take a day trip from Ystad to Malmö. The journey takes roughly one hour by train, depending on the connection, making Malmö one of the easiest larger-city outings in the region.
Malmö offers a lively contrast to Ystad. You can explore the old streets around Lilla Torg and Stortorget, visit Malmöhus Castle and its museums, or walk through the parks near the city centre. The Western Harbour is known for modern architecture and views towards the Öresund Bridge, while Möllevången has a multicultural food scene and independent shops.
Families may enjoy the city’s museums and parks, while design and architecture enthusiasts can spend time around the Turning Torso area. Malmö is compact enough to explore on foot, although local buses and bicycles make it easy to reach attractions outside the centre.
A simple Malmö day itinerary
- Start with breakfast or coffee in the old town.
- Visit Malmöhus Castle and its museum complex.
- Have lunch near Lilla Torg or Möllevången.
- Walk through the Western Harbour before returning to Ystad.
Lund: cathedral, history and student culture
Lund is another excellent urban day trip from Ystad. The historic university city is approximately an hour away by train, with connections usually involving a change in Malmö. Lund is known for its Romanesque cathedral, cobbled streets, museums and lively student atmosphere.
Lund Cathedral is the city’s most famous landmark. Inside, visitors can see impressive medieval architecture and the astronomical clock, which performs at set times during the day. The surrounding streets lead to small squares, cafés and historic university buildings.
The Kulturen open-air museum is another highlight. Its historic houses and exhibitions introduce visitors to Swedish life across different periods. Lund is easy to explore without a car, making it a practical option when the weather is uncertain or when you prefer a cultural day rather than a nature outing.
Plan your visit around the train timetable, and allow extra time if you want to combine the cathedral, Kulturen and the Botanical Garden. The city’s cafés and restaurants also make it a good choice outside the peak summer season.
Bornholm: a Danish island day trip
If you want a more ambitious adventure, consider travelling by ferry from Ystad to Bornholm. The Danish island is located in the Baltic Sea and is known for rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, medieval ruins, smokehouses and picturesque villages. The ferry crossing to Rønne takes around one and a half hours, although schedules and journey times can vary.
Bornholm is larger than many visitors expect, so a day trip requires careful planning. You can stay in Rønne and explore the town, travel to nearby attractions or bring a bicycle if the ferry service and conditions allow. Popular places include the medieval Hammershus fortress, the fishing village of Gudhjem and the round churches found in several parts of the island.
Book ferry tickets in advance during the busy season and check the latest travel requirements. Depending on your nationality and the current regulations, you may need valid identification or a passport. It is also important to check the return sailing before planning stops far from Rønne.
When Bornholm is the right choice
- Choose Bornholm if you want a memorable full-day trip with an international feel.
- Prioritise one area of the island instead of trying to see everything.
- Allow time for boarding and possible delays at the port.
- Check seasonal ferry schedules before committing to the itinerary.
Practical advice for day trips from Ystad
Summer is the busiest period for travel in Österlen, particularly around beaches, Kåseberga and Stenshuvud. Early mornings are often the best time for popular attractions. Spring and early autumn can be excellent for walking, with milder temperatures and fewer visitors, while some restaurants and attractions operate limited hours outside summer.
A car is useful for combining several rural locations, but it is not essential for every trip. Trains connect Ystad with Malmö, Lund and Simrishamn, while regional buses serve many coastal villages. Always check the latest timetable before setting out, as services can be less frequent on weekends and during the off-season.
Weather conditions can change quickly along the coast. Pack layers, waterproof clothing and comfortable footwear, even when the forecast looks promising. Some beaches and nature trails have limited facilities, so carry water and snacks. If you are visiting a farm shop, gallery or small café, verify opening hours in advance.
Choosing the right excursion
- For dramatic scenery: choose Kåseberga, Ales Stenar or Stenshuvud.
- For beaches: visit Sandhammaren or the coast near Stenshuvud.
- For history: select Glimmingehus, Lund or Bornholm’s Hammershus.
- For food and villages: explore Simrishamn, Kivik and the Österlen countryside.
- For museums and shopping: plan a day in Malmö or Lund.
Suggested itineraries from Ystad
One relaxed coastal day
Begin in Kåseberga with a walk to Ales Stenar, then have lunch near the harbour. Continue east to Sandhammaren for a beach walk before returning to Ystad. This route is best by car and offers a good balance of history, scenery and time outdoors.
One culture and food day
Visit Glimmingehus in the morning, stop at a local farm shop or café, and spend the afternoon in Simrishamn. If time allows, continue along the coast towards Brantevik before returning to Ystad.
One nature-focused day
Travel to Stenshuvud National Park early in the day, hike to the viewpoints and explore the beach. Finish in Kivik with a meal or a visit to a local producer. This itinerary is particularly enjoyable from late spring through early autumn.
One city day
Take the train to Malmö or Lund and focus on one city rather than attempting both. Malmö is better for larger museums, modern architecture and varied restaurants. Lund is ideal for medieval history, intimate streets and a compact centre.