Exploring the Medieval Charm of Visby with My Spouse

Stepping Back in Time in Visby

Today was a day of exploration and immersion into the medieval heart of Visby. Lena and I set out to discover the historical landmarks and vibrant culture that this UNESCO World Heritage site has to offer. From ancient towers to bustling squares, every corner of Visby seemed to whisper tales of centuries past.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kanjanas Thairestaurant & catering. It might seem odd to start a day of Swedish medieval exploration with Thai food, but hey, variety is the spice of life! And the reviews were promising. I opted for a classic Pad Thai, while Lena went for a green curry. Energized, we were ready to tackle the day's adventures.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Kanjanas Thairestaurant & Catering in Visby - where every dish tells a story.

Our first stop was the Kajsar Tower. As we approached, the tower loomed impressively, a stoic sentinel of Visby's ancient city wall. Climbing the weathered stone steps, I couldn't help but imagine the countless guards who had stood watch here centuries ago. The view from the top was breathtaking – a panoramic sweep of Visby's red-tiled roofs, church spires, and the shimmering Baltic Sea beyond. It was easy to see why this location was so strategically important throughout history.


Explore Kajsar Tower, a medieval marvel in Visby, offering rich history and breathtaking views of Gotland's stunning landscape.

“To walk through Visby is to walk through the pages of history, each stone a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of this Hanseatic town.”

The Kajsar Tower, also known as Kajsartornet, is the oldest tower in the eastern part of Visby's city wall. Built at the same time as the wall itself, it has served many purposes over the centuries. From 1681 to 1859, it was used as the town's prison, and today it functions as a prison museum under the direction of the Gotland Museum. Inside, we explored exhibits detailing medieval punishments and prison life, offering a glimpse into the darker side of Visby's past. It was a sobering reminder of the stark realities of life in those times.

Leaving the Kajsar Tower, we strolled towards Stora Torget, Visby's main square. As we approached, the atmosphere shifted palpably. The square was alive with activity, a vibrant hub of locals and tourists mingling amidst the historic architecture. I noticed a stage being set up, and a buzz of anticipation filled the air. Apparently, there was a concert with KMH-kören (The Royal College of Music Choir) scheduled for later in the day. It seems that Stora Torget frequently hosts events, adding a contemporary layer to its historical charm.


Discover the medieval charm and vibrant culture of Stora Torget in Visby, Sweden, a historical square rich with local flavors and sights.

Stora Torget has been the heart of Visby since medieval times. Surrounded by colorful buildings and historic landmarks, it's easy to imagine the bustling marketplace that once thrived here. Today, the square is home to numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. We paused for a moment to soak in the atmosphere, watching as people bustled about, enjoying the beautiful spring weather.

For lunch, we decided on Crêperie & Logi, drawn in by the promise of traditional Swedish crepes. The restaurant is housed in a charming building dating back to the 1700s, adding to the overall ambiance. Lena opted for a savory galette with mushrooms and spinach, while I chose a classic crepe with ham and cheese. As we savored our crepes, we watched the world go by, feeling completely immersed in the Visby experience.


Experience authentic French crêpes with Swedish flair at Crêperie & Logi in picturesque Visby.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of Hansestaden Visby, the Hanseatic city of Visby. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Visby is renowned for its well-preserved ruins, ancient walls, and cobblestone streets. As we wandered through the narrow alleyways, I felt like we had stepped back in time, transported to the Middle Ages. The architecture was stunning, a testament to the wealth and influence of the Hanseatic League during its height in the 13th century.


Experience the medieval magic of Hansestaden Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history, culture, and stunning scenery meet on Gotland Island.

We walked along the 3.4 km long town wall, marveling at its impressive structure. The wall, which encircles the town center, is one of the most notable historical remains in Visby. Built in two stages during the 13th and 14th centuries, it is the strongest, most extensive, and best-preserved medieval city wall in Scandinavia. I was particularly fascinated by the Kajsar Tower, the oldest tower in the eastern part of the wall, which we had visited earlier in the day.

As evening approached, we made our way to Munkkällaren, a bar housed in a 12th-century vaulted cellar. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. We settled into a quiet corner, ordered a couple of local beers, and reflected on our experiences of the day.


Experience the lively ambiance of Munkkällaren, where delicious cuisine meets vibrant nightlife in the heart of Visby.

For dinner, we had reservations at Surfers Visby, a Sichuan Chinese restaurant known for its vegan-friendly options. We started with edamame beans in Sichuan pepper, ginger, and salt, followed by mung bean jelly with jasmine tea, coriander, chili, and crispy noodles. For our main courses, Lena chose the ginger tofu, while I opted for the radish salad. The food was absolutely delicious, a flavorful and exciting culinary experience.


Discover Surfers Visby: A vibrant restaurant and club offering delicious Sichuan cuisine paired with an exciting nightlife experience in beautiful Visby.

Before heading back to Hotell Repet, we decided to take one last stroll through Stora Torget. The concert had just ended, and the square was filled with music and laughter. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day in Visby. As we walked hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this magical place with Lena.


Experience the charm of Visby at Hotell Repet, a family-friendly apartment perfect for group travelers, with modern amenities and a central location.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Lummelunda Cave and Visby Harbour. I'm particularly excited about visiting Lummelunda Cave, as I've heard it's an incredible natural wonder. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure.

I feel like I'm getting a better sense of the place, and I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. It's days like these that make me appreciate the beauty and wonder of travel. I think Lena is enjoying it too!

There is also the The Day of the Hansa in the Hanseatic Cathedral with Music and pilgrimage in the spirit of the Hansa. Maybe next time we can plan the visit in August to experience the Medeltidsveckan på Gotland.