Helsingborg: two countries, one destination

From sandy beaches to vibrant nightlife, Helsingborg on Sweden’s south coast blends the best of city life and country charm. Think rich history, culinary hotspots and activities steeped in local nature – all easily discovered by foot or bike. What’s more, you can pop by Denmark’s city Elsinore via a short, 20-minute ferry ride. How’s that for two in one?

”Helsingborg is one of the oldest cities in Sweden, which you can tell when looking at the architecture and the entire identity of this place,” explains Evelina Castro, marketing strategist at Visit Helsingborg. “The city has plenty of historical sites and buildings and our city centre was voted best in class in 2022. It’s riddled with old, beautiful buildings that host exciting shops and top-class eateries, worthy of a big city but within easy reach of a small town.”

Say hello to Denmark

Helsingborg sits in Skåne (the southernmost province of Sweden) and, when looking at a map, you will realise how close to the city of Elsinore in neighbouring Denmark it really is. A quick 20-minute ferry ride across the strait will allow visitors to explore a different culture as a part of a day or weekend visit to Helsingborg.

”It’s quite special being able to see two countries, their cultures and quirks, within such a short distance. Elsinore is another beautiful seaside town and the possibility of combining the two is an added plus when you visit this part of Sweden – you can bring the car or go by foot with the ferry to Elsinore, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kronborgs Castle and try the Danish smørrebrød for lunch, and be back in Helsingborg in time for an afternoon fika with a freshly baked cinnamon bun,” says Castro.

One castle, two castles

Once you have visited Kronborgs Castle on the Danish side of the pond, head to Sofiero Palace, five kilometres north of Helsingborg. Previously a summer residence to the royal family, this stunning castle is open to visitors all year round. Many visitors come to see the palace garden’s impressive collection of rhododendron bushes in bloom. No wonder, as the garden transforms into a beautiful explosion of colour from mid-May to mid-June. Then, when hunger hits, there is also Sofiero Slottsrestaurang where you can dine royally with Sofiero Palace as your backdrop. Worth noting is that you can actually see Denmark’s Kronborg Castle from Sofiero, that is how close the two destinations are.

Nature on your doorstep

The province of Skåne is famous for its billowing rapeseed fields and many farm shops, and the countryside outside of Helsingborg is no different. Easily reached by bike, the nearby village Vallåkra offers travellers a delightful combination of food, drink, art and interior design, all surrounded by stunning nature.

”Lottenlund’s Vineyard, Kullaberg’s Vineyard and Arild’s Vineyard are three popular picks even if there are plenty more to see – we suggest renting a bike to explore this area and to soak up the environment to the fullest,” says Castro.

Additionally, the close proximity to the sea has made swimming a popular activity in Helsingborg, regardless of season. Winter bathing is an activity deeply rooted in local culture and thanks to the saunas of the city’s three public cold bath houses, it is easy to warm up before and after the dip, giving you no excuse but to take the big plunge.

Tastebud-pleasing eateries

Nature aside, there is plenty to explore for foodies too. ”Helsingborg has developed over the last few years and has turned into a fantastic destination with culinary experiences dotted around; it’s transformed into something of a gastronomic mecca with several restaurants listed in the prestigious White Guide,” says Castro.

”Helsingborg really is the perfect destination for a bit of everything: nature, food, wine, culture, history. And of course, a little taste of Denmark too,” Castro concludes.

Web: www.visithelsingborg.com
Facebook: visithelsingborg
Instagram: @visithelsingborg

Three restaurant picks:

Drottninggatan 35: Relaxed neighbourhood restaurant with flavours from all over the world.
Anjo Wine & Dine: Homely eatery with great service and exciting wine list.
Pålsjö Krog: Seafront restaurant where classic dishes meet innovative flavours.

Three must-try bars:

Benchwarmers Taproom: Serves a big selection of its own beers paired with amazing pizza.
Barski: A welcoming taproom in downtown Helsingborg with great beer and smash burgers.
The Rooftop Bar: Voted one of Scandinavia’s best rooftop bars, serving delicious cocktails and glorious views.

Getting to Helsingborg:
By air: Ängelholm Helsingborg Airport (34 kilometres), Copenhagen Airport (97 kilometres), Malmö Airport (87 kilometres)
By car: Highways E6 and E4 By train: Skånetrafiken and SJ