Simrishamn

A quaint fishing village on the southeast coast known for its colorful boats, fresh seafood, and artistic community. The town offers authentic coastal charm, excellent restaurants, and serves as a gateway to the scenic Ale's Stenar and surrounding cliffs.

Things to do

• Explore Ale's Stenar — Visit this Bronze Age burial ground featuring 59 standing stones arranged in the shape of a ship, located about 4 km north of Simrishamn with sweeping coastal views.
• Stroll the Harbor — Walk along Simrishamn's working fishing harbor to admire the brightly painted boats and watch the daily catch being unloaded.
• Visit Simrishamn Art Museum — Explore contemporary Swedish art and local artists' work in this museum dedicated to the town's thriving creative community.
• Hike along the Österlen Cliffs — Trek the scenic coastal trails offering dramatic white chalk cliffs, pristine beaches, and panoramic Baltic Sea views.
• Tour Local Fish Smokehouses — Visit traditional smokehouses where local fishermen prepare smoked fish using age-old techniques passed down through generations.
• Relax at Simrishamn Beach — Enjoy the sandy beach adjacent to the harbor, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and observing maritime activity.

Food to try

• Fresh Smoked Herring — Locally caught herring smoked over birch wood at harbor-side smokehouses, a signature Simrishamn delicacy best enjoyed with rye bread and mustard.
• Fried Plaice (Stekt Slätvar) — This locally caught flatfish is pan-fried and typically served with lemon, potatoes, and fresh vegetables at waterfront restaurants.
• Seafood Platter — A curated selection of the day's catch including mussels, prawns, crab, and local fish, prepared fresh by harbor restaurants.
• Gravlax — Cured Swedish salmon prepared locally with dill and served as an appetizer or light lunch at traditional coastal eateries.
• Fish Soup (Fiskoppa) — A creamy soup made from fresh white fish, shellfish, and seafood stock, warming and authentic to Sweden's southeast coast.
• Köttbullar with Lingonberry — Swedish meatballs served with traditional lingonberry sauce and creamed potatoes, available at local restaurants and casual dining spots.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Fishing Traditions — The town's identity centers on its fishing heritage; be mindful when photographing working boats and fishermen, and support local fishmongers and restaurants.
• Visit During Summer Festivals — Simrishamn hosts vibrant summer events and art exhibitions; plan your visit for warmer months to experience the town's cultural calendar and outdoor dining scene.
• Learn Swedish Coastal Etiquette — Swedes value quiet respect for nature; stick to marked hiking trails around Ale's Stenar and the cliffs, and leave no trace.
• Support Local Artists and Artisans — The town has a strong creative community; browse local galleries, studios, and craft shops to purchase authentic handmade goods and support independent makers.