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The Nordic Nomad

Båstad, Sweden

48 hours in Båstad, Sweden

The Nordics • Insider guides • 48 hours in Båstad, Sweden

Where to stay, eat, shop and play in Båstad

Want to make the most of your weekend in Båstad? Båstad is where the Swedish art of living well plays out year-round – with sea swims, strong coffee and slow dinners never out of season. Tucked between the Kattegat and the cultivated hills of the Bjäre Peninsula in the Skåne region, this once-sleepy bathing town now mixes tennis courts and cold bathhouses with design studios, small vineyards and seriously good food. It’s sociable in summer, yes – but even when the crowds thin and the wind picks up, the rituals remain. Explore our curated 48-hour guide for where to stay, eat, shop and play in Båstad.

Top photography courtesy of Hotel Skansen

Day 01

15.00

It’s check-in time

Hotel Skansen is located in the heart of Båstad, a small but affluent and quietly luxurious town in the north-west of Skåne. One of its more surprising claims to fame is that, back in 1995, Richard Gere was spotted skinny-dipping here with a local girl. On one side of the hotel lies the beach – quite literally on its doorstep – and on the other, the Swedish Open’s centre court. The 15 buildings form a substantial yet welcoming ensemble, housing restaurants, bars, a spa, open-water swimming facilities and trainer-led fitness classes, all under one roof. The rooms are compact, cleverly planned, and styled in a moody, rich palette – a striking departure from the typical, light-toned Scandi look.

Read the full article on Hotel Skansen.

Hotel Skansen
Kyrkogatan 2
Båstad
Sweden

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Photography courtesy of Hotel Skansen

15.30

Cold dip, hot steam, clear head

In Båstad, bathing is more than a habit – it’s heritage. The cold bathhouse, first built in 1848, juts into the Kattegat like a quiet dare. Even midwinter, when sea ice rims the edges, the ritual holds: plunge, sauna, breathe. It’s raw, rhythmic, alive. Hotel Skansen carries the tradition into the present, offering day passes for anyone drawn to the contrast (or free of charge for hotel guests). After the sea, climb to the rooftop for a 38°C (100°F) soak with gulls overhead and sky all around. Below, steam rooms, plunge pools and hushed corners offer another kind of retreat. This is where Swedish bathing culture reveals its depth – not just wellness, but something elemental.

Kallbadhuset
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Hotel Skansen

18.00

Drinks with salt in the air

For a sunset drink in Båstad, Pepe’s Bodega and Papas are go-to spots by the harbour. Pepe’s is lively and loud, especially in summer, with three levels that include restaurants, bars and a nightclub. It’s been a local fixture since the early ’90s, drawing a crowd for its energetic vibe and long evenings. Just a few steps away, Papas is more laid-back, with a large terrace and a Mediterranean-inspired menu. It’s a solid choice for a cocktail at golden hour, with views out over the marina. Both places are ideal for people-watching, especially during peak season when the town buzzes with tennis fans and summer regulars.

Papas
Hamngatan 6
Båstad
Sweden

Pepes Bodega
Hamngatan 6
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Hotel Skansen

19.00

Dinner where the sea’s on your plate

For dinner, head to Restaurant Sand, where seasonal, locally sourced ingredients lead the menu. It offers both set menus and a la carte options. At dinner, you might find butter-poached cod with dill hollandaise or venison with pickled chanterelles. The service is warm and effortless – attentive, knowledgeable, and just chatty enough to feel personal. There’s also a well-stocked wine cellar with over 1,000 labels and sommeliers are on hand for recommendations. We made things easy by opting for a bottle of Minuty rosé, which rarely disappoints.

Sand
Kyrkogatan 2
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Hotel Skansen

Day 02

9.00

Fuel up with coffee and carbs

Ham on Rye in Båstad is a small bakery and eatery known for its focus on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients and known for serving a lovely breakfast. Run by baker and sommelier Marlene Davidsson and chef Moa Johansson, the menu centres around bread and changes with the seasons. Dishes include the namesake ’Ham on Rye’ sandwich and more inventive options like smoked mackerel with wild garlic.

Ham on Rye
Stationstorget 2
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Hotel Skansen

10.00

Coastline, countryside, two wheels

Rentbike Båstad offers easy access to bikes for exploring the Bjäre Peninsula, with city bikes, e-bikes, mountain bikes and children’s options available. Rentals can be arranged from one day to two weeks, with delivery offered across the region. It’s a practical choice for discovering local routes like the Kattegattleden coastal trail or the scenic climb up Hallandsåsen. For gentler rides, head past vineyards and open farmland towards Torekov or along the shoreline to Hovs Hallar. Or just head over to Norrvikens botanical gardens. Riding a bike in the area is a smart way to take in the area’s landscape at your own pace, without relying on a car.

Rentbike Båstad
Ängalagsvägen 222
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Alexsandra Boguslawska and Visit Skåne

11.00

Art on the edge of the forest

Ravinen Kulturhus, situated a mere stone’s throw from Norrviken’s Gardens in Båstad, is a contemporary cultural centre that integrates art, architecture and nature. Designed by Möller Arkitekter and opened in 2021, the venue features three exhibition halls showcasing contemporary art and design, including works by its founders, Ulla and Gustav Kraitz. The Birgit Nilsson Hall, named after the renowned soprano, hosts a variety of performances, from chamber music to theatre and dance. While you are there, you can also enjoy the Café & Bistro, offering seasonal dishes with views over Laholm Bay, and a well-curated design shop.

Ravinen Kulturhus
Kattviksvägen 231
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Ravinen Kulturhus

13.00

A slow lunch with sea views

After browsing art, enjoying the sea views and windswept coastline and admiring the architecture, there’s lunch to be had. Ravinen Café & Bistro, run by Head Chef John Moberg with Pastry Chef Eva Mattsson and Chef Petter Bratt, draws on Båstad’s growers, producers and even winemakers, leaning seasonal and unfussy. It’s a plate-by-plate reflection of the landscape outside – artfully done, without overreaching and most importantly, very delicious.

Ravinen Café & Bistro
Kattviksvägen 231
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Ravinen Café & Bistro

14.30

Walk through clipped hedges and wild paths

Formal and informal at the same time, Norrviken’s botanical gardens are an impressive feat, created by Rudolf Abelin in the early 20th century. Braving the northern European climate, his vision was realised, benefiting from the different microclimates in the area. Abelin designed a series of themed gardens – Baroque, Renaissance, Japanese and more – each reflecting his travels and horticultural philosophy. In 1920, he opened Norrviken to the public, establishing it as a living museum of garden art. Today, the estate continues to evolve, hosting exhibitions, concerts and seasonal events. Villa Abelin, the original residence, now houses a restaurant and gallery.

Norrvikens Trädgårdar
Kattviksvägen 233
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Norrvikens Trädgårdar

16.30

Skåne in a glass

Set on a south-facing slope south of Båstad, Ljungbyholms Vingård is a small, family-run vineyard producing white, rosé and red wines in limited batches. Established in 2019 by Annika and Joakim Palm, the vineyard grows over 5,000 vines, including Solaris, Phönix, Riesel, Souvignier Gris, Rondo and Regent. Their Solaris white is crisp and aromatic, while the rosé and red wines offer a fresh, Nordic expression. Tastings are informal and personal, served with cheese and charcuterie either indoors or out, depending on the weather. It’s a relaxed rural detour if you’re curious about Swedish wine. Bookings are required and made directly through the vineyard’s website.

Ljungbyholms Vingård
Ljungbyholmsvägen 231
Förslöv
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Hanna Franzén och Ljungbyholms Vingård

19.00

Share small plates and a good bottle

Ferdinand Vinbar in Båstad offers an informal dining experience, typical to Båstad, without losing any refinement. Chef and sommelier Martin Brag presents a menu of elegant small plates paired with thoughtfully selected wines. The menu features dishes like fresh potatoes with Kalix vendace roe, tartar of Fjällko beef and gnocchi with browned butter and kale. The wine list includes a variety of options by the glass, such as Lottenlund Estate’s Solaris and Thora Vingård’s Pinot Noir, as well as selections from international producers. The ambiance is inviting, with a Scandinavian touch, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a meal accompanied by well-chosen wines.

Ferdinand Vinbar
Köpmansgatan 15
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Ferdinand Vinbar

Day 03

9.00

Ease into the day with a seaside brunch

A few steps from the beach, Hotel Riviera Strand serves a generous breakfast that easily stretches into a late-morning ritual. Whether you are a guest at the hotel or just visiting, you can enjoy a well-stocked buffet featuring warm dishes, freshly baked bread, local cheeses, fruit, yoghurt and pastries. Eggs are prepared to order, and the coffee is strong – best enjoyed slowly with views over Laholmsbukten. While technically breakfast, the spread feels more like a relaxed Scandinavian brunch, perfect if you’re not rushing to be anywhere. Non-guests should book in advance.

Hotel Riviera Strand
Rivieravägen 33
Båstad
Sweden

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Photography courtesy of Hotel Rivera Strand

10.30

Pick up a little something to take home

Start with the edible essentials. At Båstad Fromagerie, shelves are lined with regional cheeses, preserves and provisions worth packing. A short hop away, Båstad Seafood stocks smoked shrimp, pickled herring and local delicacies perfect for your next summer table. Then swing past Lindegrens – a regenerative farm with its own butcher and bistro – for pasture-raised meats and clever pantry goods. From there, head into town and slow the pace. Bjäre Bokhandel is a classic indie bookshop with a strong local selection. Around the corner, Studio J curates garments, ceramics and seasonal pieces with Scandinavian edge. A well-balanced bag to bring home.

Lindegrens
Sinarpsvägen 164
Båstad
Sweden

Båstad Seafood
Stenhusvägen 11B
Båstad
Sweden

Båstad Fromagerie
Ängelholmsvägen 28
Båstad
Sweden

Bjäre Bokhandel
Köpmansgatan 12
Båstad
Sweden

Studio J
Köpmansgatan 18
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Lindegrens and Studio J

11.30

Step inside a working world of woven art

In Båstad, the Märta Måås-Fjetterström studio offers a unique glimpse into Sweden’s textile heritage. Founded in 1919 by Märta Måås-Fjetterström, the atelier has produced handwoven rugs and tapestries that blend traditional Nordic motifs with modernist design. If you’re into craftsmanship and textile design, you can explore the studio where artisans continue to craft pieces based on Måås-Fjetterström’s original sketches, maintaining techniques passed down through generations. The studio houses an extensive archive of over 700 designs by one of Sweden’s most influential textile designers. To schedule a visit, contact the studio directly.

Märta Måås-Fjetterström
Agardhsgatan 9
Båstad
Sweden

Photography courtesy of Märta Måås-Fjetterström

13.00

Have your final Båstad lunch by the water

Set along Båstad’s harbour, The Boathouse offers a laid back dining experience and great people watching. This Swedish brasserie serves a menu featuring dishes like the Boathouse burger, pizzas and classic Wallenbergare. With both indoor and outdoor seating, you can enjoy the views of the marina while enjoying your meal. The restaurant also houses its own stone oven bakery, providing freshly baked goods throughout the day. Open from early morning until late evening it caters to various dining preferences.