Visby – a Swedish fairytale town on the island of Gotland

Whether you're seeking medieval ruins, Baltic Sea beaches, rich cultural heritage or simply a relaxed island atmosphere, Visby ticks every box. Located on the Swedish island of Gotland, this enchanting town is one of northern Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. With cobblestone streets, ivy-covered ruins and sea views, it’s no surprise that Visby has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, recognised for its “outstanding universal value.”

Once a powerful Hanseatic city, Visby flourished during the 12th and 13th centuries as a major trading hub in the Baltic region. Today, more than 200 historical buildings remain, including the well-preserved church ruins of St Nicolai – often used for concerts and events – and the dramatic St Karin with its soaring arches, centrally located on the town’s main square. Sankta Maria Cathedral, built in the late 12th century, still serves as an active place of worship and remains one of Visby’s most symbolic landmarks.

Visby’s iconic 3.4-kilometre-long city wall (‘ringmuren’), complete with original towers from the 1200s, encircles the inner town. It was originally built to protect against both foreign enemies and Swedish assailants from the countryside, and today it offers a scenic walk around the medieval centre.

Visby culture – from Vikings to Pippi Longstocking

Wandering the winding lanes of Visby is like stepping back in time. Over 200 medieval buildings line the streets, offering glimpses into the town’s golden age as a Hanseatic trading centre. To dig deeper, a visit to the Gotland Museum is a great place. Their Hall of Antiquities displays artefacts from the Viking era, while the Treasury holds the largest silver hoard ever found in Europe – 67 kilos of bangles, bracelets and over 14,000 coins.

Want to discover more hidden corners? Join one of the museum’s guided city walks for exclusive access to historical buildings and church ruins usually closed to the public.

Visby’s timeless charm also makes it a favourite filming location – perhaps most famously in the beloved Pippi Longstocking series. Several scenes were filmed in the old town, and the original Villa Villekulla now sits just outside Visby at Kneippbyn Resort.

Fans of Pippi – and photographers alike – won’t want to miss Fiskargränd, the narrow alley framed by low cottages and climbing roses. For a self-guided Pippi walk, pick up a free map from the local tourist office.

Gotland’s distinctive light and ancient landscapes have long inspired artists and craftspeople. In the boutiques of Visby, you’ll find locally made ceramics, regional delicacies and soft grey lambskins – natural treasures from the island’s distinctive breed of sheep, treasured in Scandinavian homes for their warmth and design appeal.

Garden blooms and day trips outdoors

Beyond its medieval charm, Visby is also known as ‘the city of roses’, thanks to its lush gardens and the abundance of roses that bloom during the sunny summer months. One of the most popular green spaces is the 2.5-hectare Botanical Garden, established in 1855. Here you'll find a wide variety of rose species, exotic trees and plants that thrive in Gotland’s mild climate. Admission is free, and visitors can also enjoy the herb garden and the peaceful Gazebo Garden.

For a refreshing dip, head to the bathing jetty along the beach promenade in central Visby. Equipped with a wheelchair ramp and bathing ladder, it’s designed to ensure accessibility for all swimmers. There are also several beaches within five kilometres of town.

Thanks to Gotland’s mostly flat terrain and short distances, Visby is an excellent starting point for day trips by bike. Head north to the Lummelunda Cave, about 13 kilometres away, for a guided tour through one of Sweden’s largest limestone caves. If you continue to Lickershamn, 25 kilometres from Visby, you’ll reach a picturesque fishing village known for Jungfrun – the island’s highest ‘rauk’, a striking limestone monolith.

Hiking is another great way to explore the surrounding landscape. A 7-kilometre walk south of Visby takes you to Högklint, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the town and sea. The trail passes through Södra Hällarna Nature Reserve, a varied landscape of steep cliffs, ivy-covered forest and rocky beaches.

For more outdoor tips around the island, visit our Gotland destination page.

The taste of Visby – from saffron pancakes to truffles

While summer is peak season in Visby, its vibrant café culture and culinary scene can be enjoyed year-round. As in the rest of Sweden, 'fika' is a cherished ritual – and here, you’ll find local coffee and tea blends paired with homemade treats, including Gotland’s traditional saffron pancake (‘saffranspannkaka’) served with berries and cream.

4 notable cafés in Visby:

• Själsö bageri: Stone-baked sourdough and irresistible cinnamon buns at a craft bakery just outside Visby. They also have a bread truck at Östercentrum in central Visby.
• Café Amalia: A long-time local favourite with two central locations, known for all-day breakfast and edible flower garnishes.
• Ett rum för resande: Small, cosy and beloved for its homemade pasta and carefully curated coffee blend.
• S:t Hans: A summertime gem set in the atmospheric S:t Hans Church ruins, perfect for garden fika.

Gotland’s lime-rich soil and mild climate support abundant local produce. In spring, asparagus features widely on menus. Autumn brings the prized Gotland truffle, celebrated in restaurants and shops alike. Lamb is another island speciality, served alongside local sausages and Baltic fish such as salmon, flounder and herring.

Local craft beer is also popular, and several of Gotland’s breweries welcome visitors. Among the best known are Gotlands Bryggeri in central Visby, Bryggeriet Mat och Malt, and Hop Shed Brew Pub just outside town.

Visby’s top restaurants

Visby is one of Sweden’s most restaurant-dense towns, with many establishments open year-round.

For traditional Swedish dishes and local flavours like Gotlandic lamb, book a table at Värdshuset Lindgården. The kitchen follows the farming calendar and serves seasonal produce in a 1960s-inspired dining room. After dinner, head upstairs to the Gin Room for a wide selection of Gotlandic, Swedish and international gin and tonic pairings.

Freshly caught seafood is another Gotland speciality, best enjoyed at Bakfickan. This small, no-frills restaurant has served classics like fried herring and fish soup for over 25 years. Another well-loved neighbourhood favourite known for its great food is G:a Masters.

Most restaurants are clustered around or near the main square, Stora torget. While some have roots in Stockholm, others, such as Surfers and Crêperi & Logi, started in Visby and have since expanded to the mainland. Visit our Gotland destination page for more tips on local drink producers and top restaurant picks beyond Visby.

Most visitors come to Visby in the lively summer months, when the island is in full bloom and the sea invites swimming. But spring and autumn offer just as much charm, minus the crowds. Winter brings peaceful streets, Christmas markets and, occasionally, a dusting of snow. Whatever the season, Visby welcomes you with timeless beauty and a storybook atmosphere.