When planning a trip to Skellefteå, you can choose from several themes: cultural history, timber construction, riverside routes and a science centre. Hälsans Stig is seven kilometres long; Exploratoriet has 800 square metres of exhibition space spread over three floors. There are also event venues, historic buildings and products from local producers. You can start by deciding whether to shape your stay around cultural sites, a walk or specific event dates.

Cultural History, Timber Construction and Science

Bonnstan dates back to the 17th century. The site comprises 116 church cottages with a total of 392 chambers. The number of houses and the number of chambers refer to two different units within the site. Each year, it hosts a church weekend, a market and a traditional Midsummer celebration. If you would like to plan your trip around one of these events, check the dates in advance.

The history of the Nordanå cultural and open-air area near the centre of Skellefteå dates back to the 14th century. Today, the area is used for festivals, summer theatre and a Christmas market, among other things. Sara Kulturhus, in the heart of Skellefteå, is one of the tallest timber buildings in the world. Lejonströmsbron was built in 1737 and is Sweden’s oldest and longest wooden bridge still in use. The two structures showcase timber construction in different ways: the bridge is notable for its year of construction and continued use, while Sara Kulturhus stands out for its height by global standards.

Exploratoriet is a science centre in Skellefteå, with 800 square metres of exhibition space spread over three floors. It adds a different focus to the historical and architectural themes. The size of the space and its layout across three floors give you a clear sense of what to expect when planning your visit.

Routes with Different Points of Reference

The seven-kilometre Hälsans Stig walking route runs through the centre of Skellefteå along the riverbank, from Älvsbackabron in the east to Lejonströmsbron in the west. The two bridges mark the route’s endpoints; the western one is also an important historic structure. This means you can describe the walking route both by its riverside course and by its two named landmarks.

Mineralleden starts at the illuminated Vitberget ski trail and continues from there towards Skellefteå AdventurePark and Varuträsk Vildmarksgruva. Hälsans Stig is defined by its length, riverside location and bridges; Mineralleden is defined by its starting point and the directions to the two places named above. These differences can help you choose which route to include in your plans based on the point of reference that suits you best.

Local Products and Getting There

A 2025 city guide lists Matverket, within Skellefteå’s city limits, as a place where products from local producers are brought together. These include jams, honey, cheese and cured meats. The selection may change, so if you are looking for a particular product, check what is available before your visit.

Skellefteå is accessible via the Norrland coast with good bus and train connections, or by air through the fossil-free airport. Transport services may change, so check connections and timetables before you travel. This lets you plan your journey as a separate part of your stay, alongside cultural sites, events and routes.

Discover more destinations: Jörn, Österjörn, Kåge, Byske, Bygdsiljum, Lövånger, Bureå, Burträsk

Go to the main travel overview: Skellefteå.