12 small Swedish towns perfect for a spring motorhome holiday

Writer: Helena Bergström

Spring is a great time to head out with a motorhome in Sweden. The light returns, nature awakens and the small towns feel extra alive after the stillness of winter. In addition, the pace is calmer than in high summer, which makes it easier to find both nice pitches and those small, genuine experiences.

Here are twelve small towns that are perfect stops on a spring motorhome holiday. Have we left our motorhome yet? No, but we can't wait to!

1. Lysekil - cliffs on the west coast

Lysekil offers one of the most dramatic coastlines on the west coast, where smooth granite cliffs meet open sea. In spring, the air is clear and the paths around Stångehuvud are especially nice to walk, without the summer crowds. The town has a lively harbour and several cosy cafés that open up when the sun comes out. The combination of sea, small town and nature makes Lysekil an obvious stop on a motorhome holiday.

• What to do: Take a walk in Stångehuvud, visit Havets Hus and have a coffee in the harbour.
• Living with a motorhome: Motorhome site Lysekil harbour, Siviks Camping or Gullmarsbadens camping.

2. Hjo - the wooden town by Lake Vättern

Hjo is one of Sweden's best preserved wooden towns and the feeling is both warm and genuine. The low wooden houses, cobbled streets and proximity to Lake Vättern create an almost nostalgic atmosphere. In spring, the city park fills with greenery and the harbour comes to life again. It's a perfect place to slow down and just enjoy small-town life.

• What to do: Stroll in the wooden town, walk along Lake Vättern and visit Hjo city park.
• Living with a motorhome: Hjo Camping or the Lokstallet car park.

3. Vadstena - a historical journey

Vadstena combines history and tranquillity in a way that few other small towns do. Here you are greeted by the castle on the waterfront, the abbey church and a charming town centre with small shops and cafés. The spring light over Lake Vättern gives the place a special calming feeling. It's a destination that's perfect for a quiet and reflective break on your journey.

• What to do: Visit Vadstena Castle, the abbey church and walk along the seafront.
• Living with a motorhome: Vadstena caravan park by the castle or Vadstena Camping.

4. Söderköping - colourful small town idyll

Söderköping is a classic small town along the Göta Canal, where boats and bridges set the tone. In spring it is much quieter than in high summer, which makes it extra pleasant to walk along the water. The small alleys and colourful houses give an almost fairytale feel. It's a place that's perfect for a relaxed day of both nature and small-town life.

• What to do: Stroll along the Göta Canal, eat ice cream at Smultronstället and discover the small streets of the city.
• Living with a motorhome: Söderköping caravan park by the Göta Canal or Korskullens Camping.

5. Trosa - for peaceful river walks

Trosa is small in size but big on charm, with the Trosa River meandering through the town. The houses are low and colourful, and the pace is pleasantly slow. In spring, the outdoor cafés open up and the town feels both vibrant and tranquil at the same time. It's a perfect destination for a weekend where the focus is on relaxation.

• What to do: Walk along the Trosaån river, visit the harbour and have a coffee by the water.
• Living with a motorhome: Pitches in Trosa guest harbour or Trosa Havsbad & Camping.

6. Strängnäs - history and small town life

Strängnäs is beautifully situated on Lake Mälaren and has a nice mix of history and small town life. The cathedral rises above the city and provides a clear silhouette, while the harbour area invites you to take a leisurely stroll. In spring, it's easy to find a spot in the sun by the water. Its proximity to Stockholm also makes it an easy stop on the way.

• What to do: Visit the cathedral, walk along Lake Mälaren and explore the city centre.
• Living with a motorhome: Strängnäs car park in the guest harbour or Mälarbadens Camping.

7. Mariestad - the pearl of Lake Vänern

Mariestad is often called the Pearl of Lake Vänern and it's easy to understand why. The old town centre with its wooden houses is well preserved and gives a genuine feeling. The location by Lake Vänern means that the light and views of the water are always present. In spring, it is a peaceful and beautiful place to stop.

• What to do: Explore the old town, walk in the harbour and enjoy the view of Lake Vänern.
• Living with a motorhome: Mariestads guest harbour car park or Ekuddens Camping.

8. Motala - the gateway to the Göta Canal

Motala is located on the banks of Lake Vättern and is known as the gateway to the Göta Canal. The city has an open and airy feel, with plenty of space for walking along the water. In spring, it's perfect for combining city life with bike rides in the surrounding area. It is also a good starting point for exploring more places around Lake Vättern.

• What to do: Visit the Göta Canal, cycle along Lake Vättern and stroll in the harbour.
• Living with a motorhome: Motala caravan park at the guest harbour, Borentshults caravan park Glasskiosken or Varamobaden Camping.

9. Trollhättan - industrial landscape and locks

Trollhättan It's a bit different from the classic small towns, but that's what makes it interesting. Here, the water and the industrial landscape take centre stage, with mighty locks and waterfalls. In spring, the area around the falls is particularly lively when the water flow is high. It's a stop that adds variety to the journey.

• What to do: See the Trollhätte Falls, visit the locks and walk along the canal.
• Living with a motorhome: Real motorhome parking Trollhättan lock area, Ursand Resort & Camping.

10. Nora - the wooden town in Bergslagen

Nora is a small wooden town in Bergslagen with a clear historical character. The square, the low houses and the proximity to Lake Norasjön create a calm and harmonious environment. In spring, it's quiet and perfect for a break from busier destinations. It's a place where you can really take it at your own pace.

• What to do: Walk around Lake Norasjön, stroll in the city centre and have a coffee in a classic café.
• Living with a motorhome: Real motorway service station Nora on Skojarbacken or First Camp Nora-Bergslagen.

11. Härnösand - small town charm close to nature

Härnösand is beautifully situated on the coast and acts as a gateway to the High Coast. The town has a distinctly small-town feel, while nature is always close by. In spring, the light along the coast is particularly beautiful and provides great views of the sea. It's a perfect stop for those who want to combine city and nature.

• What to do: Explore the city centre, take a walk along the coast and make excursions to the High Coast.
• Living with a motorhome: Härnösand caravan park at Södra Sundet or Smitingens Havsbad Camping.

12. Piteå - northern charm

Piteå is a coastal town in Norrbotten with a relaxed and welcoming feel. The old town centre, Öjebyn, adds a historical dimension to the visit. When spring arrives, the sea begins to open up and the days quickly become brighter. This makes Piteå a great destination for a longer trip north.

• What to do: Visit Pite Havsbad, take a walk in Öjebyn and enjoy the coastal landscape.
• Living with a motorhome: Pite Havsbad Camping or pitches in Västra Kajen Camping & Guest Harbour.

READ MORE: 7 motorhome holidays we're dreaming of right now

Where are you travelling this spring?

Do you have a motorhome, or are you travelling by other means? Where are you travelling this spring? Please tell us!