Exploring the Medieval Charm of Visby with My Spouse

First Impressions of Visby

After months of anticipation, Lena and I finally touched down in Visby! The journey from Berlin, with a layover in Stockholm, felt long, but the excitement of exploring this UNESCO World Heritage city kept our spirits high. Visby, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere, immediately captivated us. I'm eager to share our first day's adventure, filled with historical explorations and culinary delights.


Our first stop was the iconic Visby Town Wall, a magnificent structure that encircles the city. As a software developer, I'm usually more at home with lines of code than ancient stonework, but the sheer scale and craftsmanship of the wall were truly impressive. Lena, with her keen eye for design, was fascinated by the different towers and gates, each telling a story of Visby's rich history. We walked a significant portion of the wall, enjoying panoramic views of the city and the Baltic Sea. The sun was shining, and the fresh sea air invigorated us after our long journey.


Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at the Visby Town Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a highlight of Gotland's medieval heritage.

Sometimes, the best way to understand the present is to walk in the footsteps of the past.

After our walk along the wall, we were ready for a hearty breakfast. Based on a recommendation, we headed to Ett Rum För Resande Café. This cozy café was a delightful find. I opted for their shrimp pasta, while Lena enjoyed a chicken sandwich. The coffee was excellent, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect start to our culinary journey in Visby.


Discover Ett Rum För Resande Café in Visby - where delectable pastries meet hearty pasta dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Next on our itinerary was the Gotland Museum. As someone with a keen interest in history, I was eager to delve into the island's past. The museum did not disappoint. We explored exhibits ranging from the Stone Age to the Viking era and the medieval period. Lena was particularly fascinated by the silver hoards and medieval wood carvings. The museum provided a comprehensive overview of Gotland's cultural heritage, and we spent several hours immersed in its exhibits. I was excited to learn that the museum recently opened a new exhibit, “Midgård – Gotlands Vikingar,” which offered an immersive look into Viking Age life on the island.


Explore the rich history and culture of Gotland Island at the acclaimed Gotland Museum in Visby, a must-visit for every traveler.

Leaving the museum, we strolled through the charming streets of Visby Centrum, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. We popped into a few shops, admiring the local handicrafts and souvenirs. Lena, always on the lookout for unique finds, purchased a beautiful hand-painted ceramic piece. I picked up a travel guidebook, realizing I had forgotten to pack mine. It’s moments like these that remind me of our shared passion for exploration and discovery.


Discover the charm of Visby Centrum, a vibrant shopping mall in the heart of Visby, blending local culture with shopping and dining experiences.

For lunch, we decided to try Bakfickan, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh and flavorful dishes. We shared the fried herring with spring onion butter and the fish soup, both of which were absolutely delicious. The restaurant had a cozy, home-like atmosphere, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect spot to refuel after a morning of sightseeing.


Discover Bakfickan in Visby – where fresh seafood meets traditional Swedish flavors in a charming coastal setting.

In the afternoon, we visited the St. Nicolai Ruin, a striking historical landmark that dates back to the 12th century. The ruins of this once-grand church now serve as an evocative reminder of Visby's medieval past. We wandered through the towering walls, imagining what life must have been like during the Hanseatic League era. The site was peaceful and serene, offering a moment of reflection amidst the bustling city. The transformation of St. Nicolai from a church to a ruin is probably the result of natural degradation over time.


Explore the enchanting St. Nicolai Ruin in Visby, a stunning historical landmark that transports you back to Sweden's medieval past amidst captivating architecture.

As evening approached, we made our way to Gamla Masters for dinner. This restaurant is known for its traditional Swedish cuisine and cozy atmosphere. I ordered the local specialty, Gotlandic lamb, while Lena enjoyed a vegetarian dish. The food was hearty and satisfying, and the service was friendly and attentive. The slogan of Gamla Masters is “Like home, but better.” We finished our meal with a shared dessert, savoring the last moments of our first day in Visby.


Experience authentic Swedish cuisine at Gamla Masters – where tradition meets modern dining in the heart of Visby.

To cap off the evening, we decided to experience Visby's nightlife at Black Sheep Arms, a traditional British pub. Despite being in Sweden, we felt right at home in this cozy establishment. I enjoyed a local craft beer, while Lena sipped on a glass of wine. The pub had a lively atmosphere, and we chatted with some friendly locals, learning more about the island and its culture. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Black Sheep Arms is known for its vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Black Sheep Arms, a British pub in Visby known for live music, delicious food, and a cozy ambiance.

As we walked back to Hotell Repet, our family-friendly apartment in the heart of Visby, we reflected on our first day in this enchanting city. We had seen so much and experienced so much in just a few hours. Lena and I are both looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to visit the Botaniska Trädgården, Visby Cathedral, and Almedalen. I'm particularly excited about the Botaniska Trädgården, as I enjoy photography, and I think I will have the opportunity to capture some beautiful images. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding – the chance to immerse ourselves in a new culture, explore historical landmarks, and create lasting memories together. I'm already eager to share more of our adventures in Visby!


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 are planning to have breakfast at Fiket i Visby AB and dinner at Volare Vinbar. I’ve heard great things about both of these establishments, and I’m excited to try them out. We also plan to do some shopping at Wisby Vintage & Design, as Lena is always on the lookout for unique vintage pieces. I’m sure we’ll find some interesting items there. After that, we will probably head to Vinäger for a drink.


Tonight, as I write this blog post, I realize that I forgot to pack travel adapters. It seems I’ll need to find a shop that sells them tomorrow. Despite this small oversight, I couldn't be happier with how our trip has started. Visby has already exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.