The 10th-century cathedral in this small town in Västra Götaland County is just part of the reason so many visitors flock here each year.
Skara may be one of the oldest cities in Sweden, but it’s not at all stuck in the past. After visiting Skara’s impressive historical attractions, head straight to its fun amusement park or relax on the shores of the largest lake in Sweden.
First of all, visit the provincial Västergötland Museum to learn all about the early Norse history of this region, which has been traced until at least the 11th century. Afterwards, browse the atmospheric streets of the Fornbyn Open-Air Museum to get an idea of how the town looked in medieval times.
Next door, step inside the Skara Domkyrka (Skara Cathedral) to admire its gothic-style bell towers and medieval interior. The diocese of Skara is the oldest one in Sweden and the crypt of the cathedral dates back to the 10th century. Many baroque elements you can see today were added in the 18th century.
Some may want to visit the Veterinarmuseet, dedicated to Peter Hernquist. This 18th-century local founded Sweden's first veterinary school. The building itself is known as the Brogården and sits on the still-visible ruins of an old Franciscan monastery.
Lake Vänern lies just to the northwest of Skara and is great for hiking, fishing or kayaking on a sunny day. Or, take a trip to Skara Sommerland. This waterpark with heated pools and amusement rides is just a 10-minute drive out of town. You can stay all day and have a picnic on the lawn or treat the kids to a fast-food meal in the restaurant.
Another fun family activity is the heritage locomotive ride from Skara. The return journey takes about 1.5 hours, including a coffee or ice cream break at the old Lundsbrunn Station.
Skara is located in south-central Sweden, in the län (county) of Västra Götaland. The county’s capital is the port city of Gothenburg, which is less than 2 hours away by car. Consider staying the night in Skara at the modern Jula Hotell, which doubles as a conference venue and art museum. To spot deer, beavers, kingfishers and badgers in the wild, head to the River Flian after dinner.
