Named for the 17th-century King Charles X Gustav, Karlshamn is a quaint town with a rich history. Scenic surrounding terrain and salmon fisheries are among the main attractions for visitors. Take boat trips in summer to some of the nearby islands to appreciate their natural beauty.
Cycle around the pleasant town centre as you view the sights. Among the highlights is the Carl Gustaf Church, which dates back to the 17th century. Inspect the historic baptismal font made from brass and browse the religious relics.
A couple of blocks north are the galleries and museums of the Karlshamns Kulturkvarter. Appreciate wrought ironwork in the Stenhuset and browse the tobacco museum in the Tobaksladen. Visit the Karlshamns Museum to get an insight into the town’s development through intriguing exhibits.
Look to the future in the Kreativum Science Centre in the town’s northern limits. Bring your kids to use the interactive exhibits teaching them about our planet and the human race.
Head a little south of the port entrance for the Karlshamns Castle, an impressive island citadel. See the old well and dungeon and visit the neighboring church where weddings often take place in modern times.
Facing the islet from the mainland is the Utvandrar-Monumentet, a statue comprising the characters of Karl-Oskar and Kristina from a famous novel called The Emigrants. Consider the symbolism of the sculpture, which represents the conflicted feelings of those facing new lives abroad.
Change the scenery with a safari trip in the Eriksberg Nature Reserve. Wander through oak forests and spot a variety of deer, bison and birds among the wildlife.
The town is part of Blekinge County, in the southeastern part of Sweden. Rent a car in Karlskrona and drive west for 35 miles (56 kilometres) to get here in less than 1 hour. Make sure to visit surrounding towns such as Kristianstad and Malmö.
Museums and a citadel bring history to life in the quaint town of Karlshamn.
