Gotland · the island right now

What to do on Gotland — right now

Guides and tips for visitors to Gotland, from Visby's medieval walls to Fårö's raukar and long sandy beaches.

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Visby now
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Gotland in a nutshell

Good to know
UNESCO

Visby — World Heritage since 1995

Visby's medieval old town with its city wall and church ruins is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Size

Sweden's largest island

Gotland is Sweden's largest island, located in the Baltic Sea south of Åland.

City wall

3.5 km medieval wall

Visby's city wall was built mainly in the 13th century and is one of the best-preserved medieval city walls in Europe.

Churches

92 medieval churches

Gotland has 92 churches from the 12th–15th centuries — more than any area of equivalent size in the Nordic countries.

Ferry

Destination Gotland

Ferries depart from Nynäshamn (south of Stockholm) and Oskarshamn. Always book ahead in summer.

Food

Saffron pancake

Gotland's signature dish is saffranspannkaka — a thick saffron pancake served with dewberry jam and whipped cream.

Raukar

Limestone sea stacks

Raukar are sculptural limestone formations along the coast — most famous on Fårö and at Langhammars.

Currency

Swedish kronor

Sweden uses SEK. Cards are accepted everywhere, but bring some cash for local markets.

Latest from the editors

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Visby Farmers Market and Local Food Guide

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History & Culture

Gotland Ghost Stories and Folklore

Gotland's medieval churches, sea stacks and ancient walls have inspired ghost stories and folklore for centuries. Here is what local legend holds.

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Gotland's Medieval Church Ruins: A Visitor's Guide

Gotland has around 92 medieval churches — and several survive only as atmospheric ruins. Here is how to explore them on your visit.

A variety of wild mushrooms in a wicker basket placed on forest ground, capturing the essence of foraging in autumn.
Nature & Activities

Foraging in Gotland: Truffles and Wild Food

Gotland's mild climate and varied landscape make it a rewarding island for foraging. Find wild mushrooms, herbs, and possibly truffles on a guided walk.

A serene black and white view of traditional wooden houses on Fårö island, Sweden.
Nature & Activities

Gotland East Coast Villages: Roma, Kräklingbo and Ljugarn

Discover Gotland's quieter east coast — Roma, Kräklingbo and Ljugarn offer medieval history, rugged coastline and village charm away from the crowds.

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Nature & Activities

Day Trips from Gotland: Exploring Fårö and Lilla Karlsö

Plan unforgettable day trips from Gotland to wild Fårö and the nature island of Lilla Karlsö. Here is what to expect on both island escapes.

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Nature & Activities

Wild Camping on Gotland: What You Need to Know

Dreaming of wild camping on Gotland? Sweden's largest island offers stunning coastline and open nature. Here's how to sleep outdoors the right way.

Serene beach scene with footprints in the sand alongside gentle shore waves.
Nature & Activities

Tofta Beach Gotland: A Guide to One of the Island's Finest Sandy Shores

Tofta beach is among Gotland's most beloved sandy stretches, with calm Baltic waters and open skies. Here's what you need to plan your visit.

A whale tail gracefully rising from the ocean, showcasing marine beauty and wildlife.
Nature & Activities

Whale and Seal Watching Around Gotland

Can you spot seals or whales around Gotland? Here is what to know about Baltic Sea wildlife watching from Sweden's largest island.

Quiet alleyway with view of Saint Mary's Cathedral in Visby, Gotland.
Travel Tips & Stay

Gotland on a Budget: How to Visit Sweden's Island Gem Without Spending a Fortune

Visiting Gotland doesn't have to be expensive. Discover free beaches, medieval churches and top tips for exploring the island on a budget.

Explore the stunning and unique rock formations along Fårö's coastline in Gotland, Sweden.
Nature & Activities

The Best Viewpoints and Photo Spots in Gotland

Discover Gotland's most breathtaking viewpoints and photo spots — from the medieval towers of Visby to the dramatic raukar of Fårö.

A vibrant red lighthouse stands against a cloudy sky in Fårösund, Sweden, with a boat nearby.
Travel Tips & Stay

Sailing to Gotland: A Guide for Boat Owners

Planning on sailing to Gotland? Here is what boat owners need to know about approaching Sweden's largest Baltic island by sea.

Practical info

Before you go

Spring on Gotland

Spring on Gotland

May is one of the best times to visit Gotland — flowers bloom, roses begin climbing the old house walls in Visby and the crowds haven't arrived yet. Perfect for cycling and peaceful walks along the city wall.

Destination Gotland ferries get busy from Easter — book early.

Summer — Gotland at its best

July and Medieval Week in August are peak season. Beaches fill up, Visby comes alive and the raukar fields on Fårö draw visitors from across the Nordic countries. Book ferry and accommodation early.

Summer is peak season — book Destination Gotland ferries well in advance, especially for July and Medieval Week.

Autumn — mushrooms, peace and golden light

September and October are Gotland's best-kept secret. Forests fill with mushrooms, the light is spectacular and the island is almost back to itself after the summer season.

Some restaurants and activities have shorter hours after peak season — check before you go.

Winter — quiet and beautiful

Gotland in winter is a different experience — the empty cobblestone streets of Visby have a special atmosphere, temperatures are mild compared to the mainland, and a handful of restaurants and cafés stay open.

Ferries run year-round but less frequently in winter. Check Destination Gotland's timetable.
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