The Göta Canal runs right through Söderköping. The water is therefore part of the townscape and its history; its relationship with Ramunderberget and the surrounding landscape also shapes the town. Söderköping is designated an environment of national cultural interest. This includes the largely unchanged medieval street network, churches and small-scale wooden buildings. As you explore the town, you encounter not just individual sights, but also a historic townscape made up of streets, buildings and landscape.
Discover the Town’s Medieval History
In the Drothemskvarteren, low wooden houses and narrow lanes preserve Söderköping’s medieval appearance. The churches also tell the story of different stages in the town’s history. Today’s Drothems kyrka dates from the late 13th century and houses a medieval altarpiece. S:t Laurentii kyrka, also known as S:t Lars kyrka, was first mentioned in writing in 1253. The present church was built towards the end of the 13th century as a three-aisled basilica: alongside the building’s age, you can also discover a specific architectural style here.
The Franciscans founded a monastery and its associated church in Söderköping in 1235. The Söderköpings stadshistoriska museum offers another perspective on the town’s development. Its exhibition spans from the early Middle Ages to the present day. The museum is housed in the town’s oldest school building—here, history comes to life both through the exhibition and the building itself.
By the Göta Canal: Lock and Cycle Route
Söderköpings sluss was built in 1847. The original cast-iron framework remains at the upper lock gates. In Söderköping, you can also visit several original Göta Canal warehouses and other surviving canal buildings. The canal experience therefore encompasses both the history of the lock and other historic buildings in the town.
For a different perspective on exploring the canal by bike, take the Göta-kanalleden cycle route: it runs right through Söderköping and along the entire Göta Canal. Large sections are car-free and particularly suitable for families. The locks and canal buildings offer tangible sites of cultural interest, while the cycle route connects Söderköping with a longer trail along the canal.
Ramunderberget and Walking Trails
Ramunderberget rises 70 metres above sea level and forms a striking backdrop to Söderköping. A large coniferous forest with numerous trails stretches across the hill. A challenging hike leads up 318 steps to a viewpoint. This route is clearly different from the circular walks in the town centre; if you include it in your plans, bear in mind that the climb is demanding.
Hälsans stig is a 4-kilometre circular route in the town centre, suitable for walks. The Flora- och Faunaleden is about 5 kilometres long and has around 30 information boards. The 9-kilometre Borgbergsleden leads to the hillfort Ramunderborgen. The routes therefore differ not only in length but also in theme: a loop in the town centre, information about flora and fauna, or a trail with a hillfort as its destination.
Local Experiences and Getting There
Söderköpings Gästabud has been held annually since 2006. The programme includes medieval music, tournament games, a medieval market, workshops and guided tours; the lineup may vary from year to year. Creative activities are also available: Sparven offers workshops and courses in felting, Tenntrådsstickerei and watercolour painting, though availability may vary.
For a break by the Göta Canal, Smultronstället is a local spot: the establishment has around 200 seats and 60 ice cream sundaes made to order. Business details may change, so check the latest information about the offerings and seating before your visit. Söderköping is accessible by car, boat, plane and bus; train connections go via Norrköping. Check connections before setting off when planning your journey.
Discover more destinations: Sankt Anna, Söderköping, Valdemarsvik, Ödeshög, Norrköping, Vikbolandet, Linköping, Åtvidaberg.
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