_JPG.jpg)
Ultimate Guide to Umeå - A Nordic Haven for Food & Nature Lovers
- Eveline | Rail Voyage
- Apr 3
- 4 min read
Looking for a destination that feels like a hidden gem — where exquisite cuisine, rich culture and unforgettable nature experiences intertwine? Umeå is calling.
From engaging museums to award-winning restaurants, this vibrant city is the perfect escape for those who crave something extraordinary.
—
This article is sponsored by Visit Umeå.
This article contains affiliate links and Rail Voyage may make a small profit when you book something through these links. This is what makes it possible for us to create guides like these!
—
Table of contents
How to go to Umeå
I'll always opt for the train & taking a Rail Voyage. From Stockholm you can board a night train in the evening and arrive in the morning. If you book first class you even get a shower, toilet and breakfast in the morning.
Top tip - buy some snacks, bring a book or download a movie and transform transportation into a cosy part of the experience! You can also book a day train which takes about 6 hours. Book tickets at sj.se
When to go to Umeå
Umeå, the largest city in North of Sweden offers everything for each season. Here's what you can expect from the different seasons.
Winter & spring are perfect for skiing, great food, and unique stays—plus there might even be a chance to see the Northern Lights. Summer (June–August) brings the city to life with riverside bars, forest hikes and sea swims. Autumn is all about vibrant colors and harvesting wild berries and mushrooms.
Where to stay in Umeå
We stayed at Stora Hotellet Umeå, a historic gem once home to 19th-century sailors. Now beautifully restored, it blends vintage charm with modern comfort, celebrating its 130-year legacy through carefully preserved details. With a strong focus on sustainability, the hotel partners with local producers, uses renewable energy and prioritizes eco-friendly practices.
Looking for a one-of-a-kind stay with a dreamy vintage vibe? This is it — one of the most unique hotels I’ve experienced.
Umeå Top Restaurants - With a Green Focus
Umeå’s food scene is thriving, with restaurants recognized for their creativity and sustainability. Each spot in this guide focuses on local, seasonal or organic ingredients, making it easy to enjoy a weekend of unforgettable dining.
Bodegan – A stylish wine bar with a wide selection of wines and shareable small plates. The perfect place to start your evening.
Lilla Krogen – Tucked inside a historic building, this cozy gem focuses on seasonal, organic ingredients, with passion and creativity in every dish.
Köksbaren – A laid-back spot serving inventive, high-quality seasonal dishes. The Mediterranean-inspired interior adds to the charm.
Gotthards Krog – Named one of the coolest restaurants in the world by The Guardian and awarded for its sustainability in White Guide, this is a must-visit.
Tonka Strandgatan – Set in a sleek riverside building, Tonka delivers vibrant, high-quality cuisine in a stylish yet relaxed setting.
Umeå Best Cafés & Bars
Nya konditoriet: A true Umeå classic! Open since 1927, and the oldest in Umeå - this café is a nostalgic gem where locals have enjoyed coffee and pastries for generations. Step inside for a taste of history and a perfect Swedish fika.
Costas of Sweden - Coffee roastery: One of Sweden’s first coffee roasteries and a must-visit for true coffee lovers. This unique café and concept store celebrates high-quality brews from around the world.
Kulturbageriet: Enjoy a classic Swedish fika in this charming bakery, housed in a historic building that once served as a horse stable.
Frukthörnan: A cozy little shop offering Swedish chocolate and handpicked European treats — a dream for chocolate lovers.
Bar Facit: In the heart of Umeå you’ll find this creative cocktail bar. Here, innovative cocktails and dishes are crafted using only Swedish ingredients.. Sustainability is key, from local produce and spirits to furniture and art. Additionally,
an award-winning bar putting Umeå on the global gastronomic map.
Brasserie NOR: The highest bar in Umeå, offering breathtaking river views alongside delicious drinks. The perfect spot for a sunset aperitif!
Top Things to do in Umeå
World-class museums, nature experiences, local deli stores & excquisite food - here are some things not to miss when in Umeå!
Bildmuseet
Bildmuseet is one of Sweden’s top contemporary art museums, located at the Umeå University of Arts—home to the world’s best design school for nine years in a row. Talk about a track record!
Umeå Kallbad
What started as a small community idea has become a beloved tradition. Every Sunday, over 100 people gather for Söndagsdoppet at Umeå Kallbad, an ice bath in the river’s near-freezing waters.
For the full experience, book a package with a guide, sauna, and Swedish fika — just like we did & at the same time support this ideal organisation. With expert coaching, we even stayed in for over three minutes. One of the coolest things I’ve done — literally!
Guitars - The Museum
Step into one of the world’s first guitar museums, home to legendary instruments played by some of the greatest musicians in history. The passionate founders will share fascinating stories behind these iconic guitars.
Deli stores
For the best local produce and gourmet treats, visit DUÅ and Gårdshem. Gårdshem specializes in Northern Swedish cheeses and delicacies, while DUÅ has everything for the perfect snack night.
Biovino - Themed Dinner & Cinema Combined
Every Thursday, Biovino blends wine and cinema into a cultural night out. Start with dinner at Gotthards Krog, then head to Folkets Bio for a film — where the food is inspired by the screening. We watched a Danish film, celebrated at dinner with a smørrebrød, a Danish traditional dish! A unique and creative evening awaits!
Kulturhuset Väven
A cozy hub where award-winning architecture meets culture, food and local charm. Explore the bakery, restaurant, deli and fresh flowers — all under one roof at Väven. A must-visit for food lovers!
–
Hopefully now you feel ready to explore Umeå! The food capital of the North!
If you liked this article - make sure to follow @therailvoyage on instagram, tiktok or facebook for more slow travel guides.
Enjoy!
Comments