Discover Strömstad’s Culture and History
"Spring Festival in Bohuslän" with a focus on culture and local food
In and around Strömstad there is much to see and a rich history to explore. For those interested in culture and local traditions, the period from 17–26 April is recommended. During this time, Bohuslän celebrates culture and locally produced food through various events and experiences.Vårfest i Bohuslän med fokus på kultur och lokal mat
Accommodation package with a two-course dinner
During this period, it is possible to book an accommodation package at Daftö including a hotel room, cottage or camping pitch and a 2-course dinner. Daftö serves as a convenient base for discovering Strömstad’s cultural attractions.
Price per night
- Pirate Hotel: Double room, 2 persons: from 2,443 SEK. Family room, 3 persons: from 3,082 SEK. Family room, 4 persons: from 3,511 SEK.
- Cottage: 1,720 SEK for two persons. Price per additional person: 429 SEK. For more than 4 persons, an additional charge applies for a cottage upgrade.
- Campsite pitch: 1,168 SEK for two persons. Price per additional person: 429 SEK.
The privateers of Bohuslän
Privateering under the Swedish Crown has long been associated with the waters outside Strömstad. In autumn 2019, marine archaeologists made an exciting discovery just outside the guest harbour at Daftö – a find that strengthens the theory that privateers once operated in this area. The discovery consisted of a wreck from one of King Charles XII’s warships dating back to the 18th century. Preserved parts and artefacts indicate that the ship had been involved in combat and was later deliberately sunk by its own crew to prevent it from falling into enemy hands.
Art walk in Strömstad
Strömstad municipality offers several locations featuring outdoor public art. Visitors can explore the artworks independently using information available via the link, including a downloadable art guide and a digital map showing the locations of each piece.
Spring smuggling trip in the archipelago
Experience Kustevent's boat trip where you meet spring in the archipelago – and the king of smugglers himself appears, completely legally this time. The adventure begins in the center of Strömstad where the shadow of the king of smugglers still rests over the quay. Soon he steps aboard and takes us to a world of secrets, creative shortcuts and laws that were interpreted with great imagination. During the trip we hear stories from the adventures of the smugglers during the Norwegian prohibition period of 1919–1928. With food, views and tales, we follow in their footsteps through the Bohuslän archipelago. And maybe, if we're lucky, the king of smugglers will reveal one of his secret vices – a treasure he only shares with us.
Blomsholm Ancient Monuments Area
Blomsholm is one of Bohuslän’s finest cultural landscapes, rich in historical remains from the Stone Age through to the Middle Ages. The area features Bohuslän’s largest stone circle and one of Sweden’s largest ship settings, as well as several Iron Age burial grounds and the large burial mound Grönehög. A signposted cultural trail begins at the parking area and leads through the site.
The Svinesund Bridges
A well-known landmark for both Swedes and Norwegians, the Svinesund bridges are an important connection between the two countries. In addition to their function, the area offers beautiful views. The outlook from the old stone bridge is particularly worth visiting.
Rock Carvings in Strömstad and Tanum
Experience history through the rock carvings found in the surrounding area. In Strömstad, carvings can be found at Massleberg and Jörlov, and in Tanum at the Vitlycke Museum. Travel back 3,000 years in time through engaging exhibitions and unique environments that offer insight into daily life during the Bronze Age. Thousands of rock carvings in the area are also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Alaska – A cultural garden with personal history
Alaska is located in the archipelago of Strömstad and was created by Hilma Svedal in the late 1920s, when she was over 60 years old. After around 30 years in America, where she worked as a gold prospector among other things, she returned to her home region. Alaska is a miniature paradise of stone and flowers, inspired by landscapes she experienced in the United States and Canada.
Strömstad Museum
Located in the centre of Strömstad in a beautiful 19th-century mill warehouse, Strömstad Museum offers engaging exhibitions and activities, including experiences designed for children.
Lokstallet Art Hall
Discover art at Lokstallet Art Hall, a unique cultural venue in Strömstad. The exhibition programme features rotating shows by national, international and local artists, with a broad interpretation of contemporary art. Exhibitions may include visual art, design, architecture, crafts and socially engaged projects. The art hall is housed in a carefully renovated former locomotive workshop, retaining architectural elements from its industrial past. Bright interiors, large windows and generous natural light create a distinctive atmosphere, making the venue well worth a visit. Lokstallet is wheelchair accessible, offers nearby parking and is located just a five-minute walk from the train station.
The Stonecutters’ Community of Krokstrand
From the late 19th century through the early 20th century, Krokstrand was an important centre for the stone industry. Large quantities of paving stones were shipped from here by steamship. The main products were cobblestones and kerbstones. Although the industry has since ceased, remnants remain, including Bohuslän’s oldest People’s House building and traces of the large stone quarries.
Cinema in Strömstad
For cinema screenings in Strömstad, visit the restaurant cinema Park. A selection of films is available for both younger and older movie enthusiasts.
