Things to do in Sundsvall: Norra Berget and Kulturmagasinet
Things to do in Sundsvall: the Norra Berget open-air museum and view, and Kulturmagasinet in the city centre.
Sundsvall is an easy place to mix a city walk with a trip into the hills. Start with the old buildings and view at Norra Berget, then head to Kulturmagasinet and the stone-built centre. If you have more time, add a lakeside walk, forest trails or a swim. Here are six places to help you choose.
1. Norra Berget open-air museum
Come up to Norra Berget for old Medelpad buildings, heritage farm animals and a view back towards Sundsvall. The museum grounds give you more to do than simply reach a viewpoint, with space for children to play and places to stop along the way. It is worth making this a proper outing rather than a quick photo stop.
Good to know
- The grounds are open every day, year-round; check individual businesses separately.
- You can walk up the stairs from the start of Baldersvägen, or use the signed parking areas if driving.
- Parking is free in marked spaces.
- The warming room in Skyttepaviljongen has seating and a microwave for your own food; check current opening hours on norraberget.se.
2. Kulturmagasinet and Sundsvalls museum
Make Kulturmagasinet your indoor starting point in the centre. Sundsvalls museum gives you exhibitions to explore without an admission charge, and you can check what is on before deciding how long to stay. It is an easy cultural counterpoint to the historic buildings on Norra Berget.
Good to know
- Find the museum at Packhusgatan 4. Admission is free.
- Normally open every day, including Mondays; weekend hours are shorter than weekday hours.
- Check the municipality’s holiday calendar and current exhibitions before visiting.
3. Stenstan
Look up as you walk through central Sundsvall. After the fire of 1888, the centre was rebuilt in stone, leaving streets of elaborate façades and decorative details. A slow wander here is a good way to get your bearings before stopping at a café.
Good to know
- Make this a self-guided outdoor walk, with no exhibition ticket needed.
- Keep it alongside your Kulturmagasinet visit: both belong in the central part of your day.
- Cafés and restaurants give you options for a break; check individual hours rather than expecting every business to be open.
4. Södra Berget outdoor centre
Head to Södra Berget when you want the forest side of Sundsvall. The outdoor centre has exercise trails, cycling routes and winter ski tracks, so the outing can change with the season. Choose one activity rather than treating every facility as part of the same visit.
Good to know
- The outdoor centre is about three kilometres from Stenstan.
- Use the official trail information to choose a route suited to your activity.
- In winter, check grooming status and current ski-pass requirements before setting out.
5. Sidsjön
For a simpler outdoor outing, follow the edge of Sidsjön. The lakeside circuit gives you a clear route without planning a longer forest trip. It is a good choice when you want a walk and a packed lunch rather than another exhibition.
Good to know
- The circuit is 3.1 km, and the outdoor area is about three kilometres southwest of the city centre.
- You can reach the area on foot, by bicycle or by bus; plan the return journey too.
- In winter, the walking track beside the ski track is not gritted. The municipality recommends traction aids when it is slippery.
6. Himlabadet
Swap sightseeing for swimming at Himlabadet. The indoor adventure pool, exercise swimming and relaxation area let you choose between a lively visit and a quieter one. It is a useful change of pace if you are travelling with children or simply want time in the water.
Good to know
- Find it at Universitetsallén 13.
- Check the daily calendar: adventure swimming, exercise swimming and the relaxation area have different hours.
- Check current admission options for the area you want to use; do not assume one ticket covers everything.
Quick tips
- Give Norra Berget its own part of the day, then pair Kulturmagasinet with a walk through Stenstan.
- Choose Sidsjön for a clearly defined lakeside circuit, or Södra Berget for a trail-based outing.
- Keep Himlabadet as a separate activity and check its daily swimming timetable first.
- Want company? Check upcoming events in Sundsvall on Socroo below and find someone to go with.