Day-trips and Attractions in Karlstad
With First Camp Skutberget as your base, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy the best of Karlstad, the beautiful surroundings of Lake Vänern and some of Värmland’s most popular attractions. Discover art, culture and local history, spend a fun-filled day with the family at Mariebergsskogen or simply soak up summer by the water. For even more inspiration, visit Visit Karlstad – and don’t forget to ask our reception team for their favourite local tips.
Skutberget Outdoor Recreation Area
Step outside the campsite and straight into Skutberget Outdoor Recreation Area, one of Karlstad’s favourite spots for swimming, exercise and outdoor adventures by Lake Vänern. Follow the walking and running trails, head down to the water or simply enjoy some time surrounded by nature. It’s an easy and refreshing day trip that starts right on your doorstep.
Mariebergsskogen
Mariebergsskogen is Karlstad’s beautiful city park and a favourite day trip for families. With plenty of space to play, explore and enjoy the outdoors, it’s an easy place to spend anything from a few hours to a full day. The park is open all year round and admission is free, making it a great addition to any Karlstad holiday.
Sandgrund Lars Lerin
In the heart of Karlstad, on scenic Sandgrundsudden, you’ll find Sandgrund Lars Lerin – an art gallery dedicated to one of Scandinavia’s most celebrated watercolour artists. Discover Lars Lerin’s atmospheric and beautifully detailed works alongside changing exhibitions by guest artists. There’s also a shop and café, making it easy to linger a little longer after exploring the art.
Värmlands Museum
Set on beautiful Sandgrundsudden, Värmlands Museum brings the region’s fascinating history to life through art, photography, cultural heritage and changing exhibitions. Visit the museum on its own or combine it with nearby Sandgrund Lars Lerin for a culture-filled day in Karlstad. It’s also an excellent choice when the weather calls for an inspiring day indoors.
Inre Hamn and Central Karlstad
Head into Karlstad and spend a few hours exploring the city centre and lively Inre Hamn harbour district. During summer, the waterfront comes alive with restaurants, cafés, jetties and a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere. Shops and many of Karlstad’s attractions are within easy walking distance, and you can even continue your adventure aboard one of the city’s boat buses.
Boat Buses and Lake Vänern
Discover Karlstad from the water and turn the journey itself into part of the adventure. During summer, boat buses depart from Inre Hamn and travel along Karlstad’s waterways towards Hammarö and other destinations around Lake Vänern. Some routes can be combined with swimming or hiking, making this a lovely way to create your own full-day summer adventure.
Hammarö Sydspets and Skage Lighthouse
Enjoy sweeping views across beautiful Lake Vänern at Hammarö Sydspets, where rocky shores, archipelago scenery and scenic walking trails create the perfect setting for a peaceful escape. From the car park, it’s around an 800-metre walk to the southern tip and Skage Lighthouse. The area is also popular with birdwatchers, so pack a picnic and settle down by the water to relax and enjoy the view.
Mårbacka
Take a longer day trip to Mårbacka near Sunne, the childhood home of Nobel Prize-winning author Selma Lagerlöf and one of Värmland’s most treasured cultural landmarks. The estate played an important role in both her life and writing and has been carefully preserved in her memory. It’s a wonderful destination for anyone interested in literature, history and the beautiful landscapes of the Fryksdalen region.
Alsters herrgård
Visit Alsters Herrgård, the birthplace and memorial estate of beloved Swedish poet Gustaf Fröding, beautifully situated overlooking Lake Vänern. Explore exhibitions, galleries and small shops, stop for coffee or take a peaceful walk along the surrounding nature trails. During the summer season, guided tours offer an even closer look at Fröding’s life, work and connection to Värmland.
Brigadmuseum
Step into Sweden’s Cold War history at Brigadmuseum, where the whole family can discover life between 1945 and 1991. The exhibitions combine military history and world events with recreated environments and stories of everyday life. It’s an engaging indoor experience and a great alternative when the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor adventures.
Naturum Värmland
Located in the heart of Mariebergsskogen, Naturum Värmland is a great place to discover more about the landscapes, wildlife and natural wonders of Värmland. Combine your visit with a walk, playtime or other activities around the city park and easily turn it into a half- or full-day trip. It’s an enjoyable stop for curious children and adults alike.
Haga and Central Karlstad
Round off your stay with a classic day trip to central Karlstad. Start at Stora Torget, stroll past Karlstad Cathedral and continue towards Haga, one of the city’s older and most charming neighbourhoods. Browse second-hand, vintage and retro shops, stop for lunch or coffee and enjoy discovering more of Karlstad – the “City of Sunshine” – at your own pace.