Helsingborg – a fusion of history, innovation and coastal beauty

A city of compelling contrast, the southern Sweden city of Helsingborg is steeped in history while it’s also celebrated for its innovation-driven spirit – so much so that it won second prize in the European Capital of Innovation Awards 2020. Also known as “iCapital”, this annual prize is awarded to the European city best able to demonstrate its ability to harness innovation to improve the lives of its residents – something Helsingborg excels at.

In a joint effort, academia, businesses and associations have come together with residents to develop smart, sustainable solutions, resulting in projects targeting everything from food waste and loneliness to integration, equality and eco transport – such as electric, zero-emission ferries from Helsingborg to Helsingör.

There’s a lot more to Helsingborg than innovation, though. This charming city, located on the west coast of Sweden in the idyllic province of Skåne – right across the Öresund strait from Denmark – has a fascinating past, much of which is immortalised in its remarkably well-preserved old town. Add to that a wealth of culture and magnificent coastal nature and you have a dream destination offering something for everyone.

Helsingborg’s must-see historic architecture

Helsingborg’s status as a town was first recorded in 1085 and due to its political and military importance, it rose to prominence in the Middle Ages. Wandering the picturesque streets of the city’s old town, you’ll come across a string of significant buildings, including the medieval Kärnan tower. This fascinating edifice is the only remains of Helsingborg Castle, which was built under Danish rule at the beginning of the 14th century. On the opposite side of Öresund stands the fortress of Kronborg, and these two historic landmarks guarded the entrance between Kattegat and Öresund. Discover Kärnan from the inside by climbing the spiral staircase all the way to the roof terrace, where spectacular views across the cityscape and sea await.

A stone’s throw from Kärnan nestles another architectural highlight – Mariakyrkan (St. Mary’s Church). Dating back to the 12th century, it was later rebuilt in gothic style. The neo-Gothic Town Hall – inaugurated in 1897 – is hard to miss with its decorative façade, beautiful stained glass windows and tall clock tower.

Helsingborg’s cultural top spots

Helsingborg has a distinctive cultural identity and this is celebrated to the full at Dunkers Kulturhus (Dunker’s culture centre). Named after local industrialist Henry Dunker, this museum and art centre charts the history of the city from the Ice Age to the modern day and puts on all manner of exhibitions and events. The building, designed by Danish modernist Kim Utzon, is worth a visit in its own right.

A short walk from the city centre you’ll find the Fredriksdal museum and gardens. The biggest of its kind in Sweden, it will have you immersed in local agriculture and historic villages via authentic experiences and genuine environments – complete with farmyard animals and performers sharing stories of historic characters’ everyday lives.

Fifteen minutes by car or one hour’s walk from Fredriksdal, you’ll find Sofiero Castle and Gardens, with panoramic views of the Öresund strait. Built in 1864, and a former royal summer residence, its garden was voted the most beautiful garden in 2010.

North-West Skåne is known as Sweden’s ceramics district, home to a talented community of potters, sculptors and craftsmen using clay as their medium. Keramiskt Center Höganäs and Mölle Krukmakeri are among the most famous and both are well worth a visit, but also consider Wallåkra Stoneware Factory that has been making pottery on-site for over a century and invites you to witness the process and buy their wares. All potteries are reached by car in 20-40 minutes from Helsingborg.

A taste of Helsingborg – where to eat and drink

Helsingborg’s culinary culture focuses on local, seasonal produce. Restaurant Bara Vara bases its diverse menu on the ingredients available at any given time – think local lamb, freshly caught mussels and a medley of vegetables – and it’s a popular spot for a drink in the evening.

Perched on an elevated position at Landborgen with spectacular views across the water, with Denmark visible in the distance, Möllebacken Restaurang & Café is one of Helsingborg’s most cherished restaurants – and has been since 1912, when it served up its first waffle.

If you have a sweet tooth, make sure not to miss the award-winning pralines of Chocolatte chocolate factory, in central Helsingborg, and the premium liquorice of Lakritsfabriken, 2 kilometres from the city centre.

Don’t leave Helsingborg without sampling the local specialty “bulle med bulle” (bun with bun). This delightfully quirky snack consists of a bread roll stuffed with an oat-based chocolate ball – a much-loved Swedish treat. Ever the innovator, Helsingborg has never shied away from trying something new. This eccentric custom dates back to the 1930s.