
Gamla Stan Kalmar
Step back in time in Kalmar's charming Gamla Stan, a picturesque district of 18th-century wooden houses and cobblestone streets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Flowers in bloom, pleasant weather

Gamla Stan Kalmar
Best Time
Flowers in bloom, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Kalmar's charming Gamla Stan, a picturesque district of 18th-century wooden houses and cobblestone streets.
"Captivated by all the old buildings. They are so beautiful. "

📸 Photowalk Paradise
Capture the beauty of blooming hollyhocks and roses during a photowalk through Gamla Stan. :camerawithflash:
☕ Cozy Cafes
Discover hidden gems like Augustas Folksalong for a unique cafe experience with vegan options. :coffee:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Charming Wooden Houses
Throughout Gamla Stan
Wander through narrow streets lined with beautifully preserved 18th-century wooden houses, each with its own unique character.

Historical Ambiance
Gamla Stan
Immerse yourself in the past with a stroll that evokes a bygone era, a truly captivating experience for history enthusiasts.

Proximity to Kalmar Castle
Adjacent to Kalmar Castle
Easily combine your visit to the Old Town with the magnificent Kalmar Castle, just a short walk away.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Kalmar's Old Town
Beyond the Cobblestones
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photowalk Paradise
Capture the beauty of blooming hollyhocks and roses during a photowalk through Gamla Stan. :camerawithflash:
☕ Cozy Cafes
Discover hidden gems like Augustas Folksalong for a unique cafe experience with vegan options. :coffee:
🏡 Unique Stays
Consider booking a stay in a historic Airbnb for an immersive cultural experience. :housewithgarden:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond
Don't miss the Old Cemetery next door for a complete historical perspective. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photowalk Paradise
Capture the beauty of blooming hollyhocks and roses during a photowalk through Gamla Stan. :camerawithflash:
☕ Cozy Cafes
Discover hidden gems like Augustas Folksalong for a unique cafe experience with vegan options. :coffee:
🏡 Unique Stays
Consider booking a stay in a historic Airbnb for an immersive cultural experience. :housewithgarden:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond
Don't miss the Old Cemetery next door for a complete historical perspective. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Gamla Stan Kalmar to be a small but incredibly charming historical district with beautifully preserved wooden houses. Its proximity to Kalmar Castle makes it an easy and worthwhile addition to any itinerary. While some note its size, the captivating atmosphere and picturesque streets are consistently praised.
"Very small section of the profile town of Kalmar with some cute wooden houses.
There’s more to see and do in the ‘new’ side from the 1700’s."
Pam Gray
"Beautiful Old Town of Stockholm! So worth the trip. Easy to navigate and see in a day. See the Royal Palace, beautiful church, Nobel Prize Museum, beautiful cafes, shops and more!"
Kristen Mullinax
"Old"
siri Lundberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gamla Stan Kalmar is conveniently located a stone's throw from Kalmar Castle. You can easily walk between the two attractions. If arriving by car, there are parking facilities near the castle and the city center.
Yes, Kalmar city center is well-served by public transport. Buses stop frequently near the castle and the old town area, making it easy to reach. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! Gamla Stan Kalmar is best explored on foot. The streets are charming and relatively flat, making it a pleasant walking experience.
While Gamla Stan itself is pedestrian-friendly, there are parking lots available near Kalmar Castle and in the surrounding city center, providing convenient access for visitors arriving by car.
The best way to experience Gamla Stan Kalmar is to take your time, wander through the streets, and imagine life in the 18th century. Combine it with a visit to Kalmar Castle for a comprehensive historical tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Gamla Stan Kalmar is a public area and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore its charming streets and admire the architecture.
There are no entrance fees to walk around Gamla Stan Kalmar. It's a free public space for everyone to enjoy.
Gamla Stan Kalmar is always open as it's a residential and public area. You can visit at any time of day or night, though daytime is best for photography and exploring.
Yes, Gamla Stan Kalmar can be visited year-round. Each season offers a different charm, from blooming flowers in summer to a quiet, snow-dusted atmosphere in winter.
While official guided tours specifically for Gamla Stan might be limited, local historical societies or Kalmar Castle may offer tours that include or touch upon the old town's history. It's worth checking their schedules.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire area is photogenic! Focus on the charming wooden houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and in summer, the blooming hollyhocks and roses. Look for unique architectural details and quiet corners.
Gamla Stan Kalmar is very photogenic. The natural light and picturesque scenery make it easy to capture beautiful shots. Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can offer particularly lovely light.
Generally, there are no restrictions on photography in public areas like Gamla Stan Kalmar. However, always be respectful of residents and private property.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the streets and houses, while a prime lens can be useful for details. Even a smartphone camera can capture the charm of Gamla Stan Kalmar.
Early mornings or late afternoons (golden hour) offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While Gamla Stan Kalmar itself is primarily residential, you'll find charming cafes and restaurants nearby in Kalmar city center. Augustas Folksalong is a notable cafe within the old town area with vegan options.
Near Gamla Stan Kalmar, you can find a variety of Swedish cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern interpretations. Cafes offer pastries, coffee, and light meals.
Yes, at least one cafe, Augustas Folksalong, is known to offer vegan options, catering to diverse dietary needs.
While there aren't designated picnic areas within the narrow streets, you could find a quiet bench or a spot near the adjacent park areas for a picnic. However, it's more common to dine at nearby cafes or restaurants.
Explore the restaurants and cafes in Kalmar city center for a wide range of dining experiences. Augustas Folksalong is a unique spot within the old town itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Kalmar Castle, which often has family-friendly activities and exhibits. Look for cafes that offer kid-friendly treats, and encourage them to spot interesting details on the old houses. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a stress-free outing for parents and children alike.
🚶♀️ History Buffs
Don't forget to explore the adjacent Old Cemetery for a deeper historical context. Consider researching the history of the area beforehand or looking for local historical information to enrich your understanding. The proximity to Kalmar Castle also makes it easy to create a comprehensive historical itinerary for your visit.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to capture both the grand streetscapes and intricate architectural details. Look for unique textures, colors, and the interplay of light and shadow. The relaxed atmosphere allows ample time to compose your shots without feeling rushed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Walk Through History
While the 'new' side of Kalmar, developed from the 1700s onwards, offers more in terms of modern amenities and a larger urban experience, Gamla Stan provides a concentrated dose of historical charm. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the architectural heritage and the stories embedded within the old buildings. Many of these houses are still inhabited, adding a living dimension to the historical setting.
Archaeological investigations have also revealed historical layers beneath the surface, with findings like 17th-century cellars shedding light on the area's past uses. This adds another fascinating dimension for those interested in the deeper history of Kalmar. A visit here is a delightful detour for anyone seeking a more intimate historical experience.
Experiencing Gamla Stan Kalmar
Beyond just sightseeing, there are opportunities to engage with the local culture. Cafes like Augustas Folksalong offer a cozy respite, providing a taste of local life and even vegan-friendly options. For those looking for a unique accommodation experience, consider staying in a historic Airbnb within the old town itself, immersing yourself fully in the cultural milieu.
Art and creativity also find a home here, with galleries and studios showcasing local talent. Matz Nordell's ceramic creations, for instance, offer a glimpse into imaginative artistry within the old town's ambiance. This blend of history, local life, and artistic expression makes Gamla Stan Kalmar a multifaceted destination.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit