Dalarna, Sweden Travel Guide

Discover Dalarna: Sweden's enchanting region of lakes, forests, and rich cultural heritage, perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Nestled in the heart of Sweden, Dalarna is a unique blend of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Known for its picturesque lakes, rolling hills, and dense forests, this region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you're looking to hike, ski, or simply relax by a serene lake, Dalarna offers an abundance of opportunities to connect with nature. Dalarna is also the cultural soul of Sweden. It is the birthplace of the famous Dala horse, a symbol of Swedish craftsmanship and tradition. Visitors can explore charming villages like Rättvik, Mora, and Leksand, where traditional Swedish wooden houses and folk art are still very much alive. The region is also famous for its vibrant Midsummer celebrations, which attract visitors from all over the world. The festivities include traditional dancing, music, and the raising of the maypole, offering a genuine glimpse into Swedish culture. In addition to its natural beauty and cultural significance, Dalarna boasts a variety of attractions for history buffs and art lovers. The Zorn Museum in Mora showcases the works of Anders Zorn, one of Sweden's most famous artists. The region is also home to the Falun Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which provides a fascinating insight into Sweden's industrial history. With its mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and historical sites, Dalarna is a destination that promises to enchant every visitor.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Dalarna.

Visit during Midsummer to experience traditional Swedish celebrations.
Explore the hiking trails around Lake Siljan for breathtaking views.
Don't miss a visit to the Zorn Museum in Mora for a dose of Swedish art.
Take a guided tour of the Falun Mine to learn about Sweden's industrial past.
Try local specialties like 'falukorv' sausage and 'knäckebröd' crispbread.
Plan a visit to a local 'fäbodvall' to see traditional summer farms in action.

Explore Dalarna: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Dalarna

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Skansen

World's oldest open-air museum blending Sweden's historic homes, Nordic wildlife, and cultural traditions across Djurgården's green hills.

4.5

Ekomuseum Bergslagen

Explore the world's largest ecomuseum: 750 km² of Sweden's iron heritage, from ancient mines to UNESCO ironworks and forest trails.

4.4

Fulufjället National Park

Discover Sweden's wild frontier: thundering waterfalls, ancient trees, and boundless mountain plateaus in Fulufjället National Park.

4.8

Santaworld

Step into Sweden's largest fantasy park: trolls, Santa, dragons, and seasonal magic await in Dalarna's enchanted forest realms.

4.5

Best landmarks in Dalarna

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Fulufjället National Park

Sweden's highest waterfall, world's oldest tree, and 140 km of trails across a lichen-clad plateau—Fulufjället delivers raw Scandinavian wilderness along the Norwegian frontier.

4.8

Siljan

Sweden's crater-born gem: a vast Dalarna lake ringed by forests, meadows, and timeless villages, where ancient impact echoes in serene waters.

4.7

Stora Sundby Castle

Sweden's calendar castle: towers for seasons, rooms for weeks, windows for days—a neo-Gothic fairy tale guarding Lake Hjälmaren's shores since the Middle Ages.

4.3

Eriksberg's Crane

A monumental gantry crane from Gothenburg’s shipbuilding era that now stands as the red‑steel landmark of Eriksberg’s waterfront.

4.6

Best restaurants in Dalarna

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Frö Restaurang

Intimate fjäll gourmet in a timbered stuga: wild-foraged tasting menus celebrating Sälen's seasonal bounty and Nordic craft.

4.8

Pitcher's

Falun's premier sports bar where live matches, juicy burgers, ice-cold beers, and late-night vibes create unforgettable gatherings with friends in a buzzing gastropub atmosphere.

4.1

Bastard Burgers

Juicy Swedish beef burgers with bold flavors and classic toppings in Falun's lively heart—pure indulgence from grill to bun.

4.0

Big Street BBQ & Bar

Sizzling steaks, smoky ribs, and an epic beer bible await at Rättvik's go-to BBQ haven on lively Storgatan.

4.3

Best bars in Dalarna

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Tandådalens Wärdshus

A classic fjällvärld inn at Stora backen — hearty food, open fires, terrace views and legendary afterski with live music.

3.7

Mackmyra Skybar i Lofsdalen

Summit sips with 360-degree alpine vistas: whiskey tastings, craft drinks, and mountain magic at 1,125 meters in Lofsdalen's sky-high retreat.

4.1

Banken Bar & Brasserie

A former bank turned brasserie on Åsgatan — solid architecture, seasonal Swedish food and a convivial bar atmosphere.

4.2

Dog Bar

Falun's go-to dog-friendly bar: beers, bites, and boundless pup play in a vibrant, pet-loving haven open till the wee hours.

3.6

Best nightclubs in Dalarna

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Torp

A large retro-styled dance hall, bar and restaurant in Krylbo — dining by day, retro disco and live events by night.

4.4

Kristall

A compact Kungsgatan venue that mixes a sit-down restaurant and bar with a late-night club pulse — urban, intimate and changeable through the night.

3.0

Lilla Helfvetet

Intimate industrial rock club in Mora with live bands, a late-night bar and a music-first, no-frills atmosphere.

4.3

Mannes loge

A timber dance hall in Svärdsjö where seasonal live music, dancing and local tradition come together beneath a warm wooden roof.

4.8

Best shops in Dalarna

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Grannas A Olssons Hemslöjd AB

Discover the birthplace of the Dala horse at Sweden's oldest workshop, where handcrafted folk art traditions thrive in the forests of Nusnäs since 1922.

4.4

Kupolen Borlänge

Borlänge's domed shopping haven: endless stores, eateries, and everyday essentials under one expansive roof in central Dalarna.

4.0

Dala Shop

A compact Gamla Stan workshop-shop devoted to handcrafted Dala horses, local makers and authentic Swedish keepsakes.

4.7

Morakniv Concept Store

A tidy flagship shop in Mora that showcases Morakniv’s full range of knives and the town’s long blade-making tradition.

4.7

Explore Dalarna on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Dalarna, mapped for you.

Dalarna Essentials

Dalarna is located in central Sweden, making it accessible from several major cities. The closest international airports are Stockholm Arlanda Airport and Gothenburg Landvetter Airport. From these airports, you can take either a domestic flight to Dala Airport in Borlänge or travel by train or bus. The SJ and Tågkompaniet train services offer routes to Borlänge, Falun, and Mora, which are key towns in Dalarna. Buses by companies like Swebus and FlixBus also connect these towns to other parts of Sweden.
Public transportation within Dalarna is well-developed, with buses and trains covering most areas. Dalatrafik operates the local bus services connecting towns and villages. Renting a car is a good option for exploring remote areas and natural attractions. Taxis are available but can be expensive, so it's advisable to use them sparingly. Bicycles can be rented in several towns, providing a scenic and eco-friendly way to explore the region.
The official currency in Sweden is the Swedish Krona (SEK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even for small transactions. Mobile payment options like Swish are popular among locals. ATMs are readily available in towns and cities, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for use in rural areas or small establishments that may not accept cards.
Dalarna is generally a very safe destination with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables visible in parked cars and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire services, or medical emergency teams. Hospitals and clinics are available in major towns like Borlänge and Falun. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health issues. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual and practical clothing is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches. Remove your hat and speak quietly. Public Transport: Do be punctual; Swedish public transport runs on a tight schedule. Don't talk loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hej' (hello). A handshake is common for formal introductions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'falu rågrut' (crispbread) and 'gravlax' (cured salmon). Don't leave food on your plate, as it is considered wasteful.
To experience Dalarna like a local, visit during one of the traditional festivals such as Midsummer or the Rättvik Market. These events offer a glimpse into local culture and traditions. For outdoor enthusiasts, the region is ideal for hiking, cycling, and skiing. Engage with locals at cafes or markets; they are usually friendly and happy to share stories about the area's rich history and culture. Don't miss visiting the UNESCO-listed Falun Copper Mine and the picturesque village of Tällberg by Lake Siljan.

When is the best time to visit Dalarna?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Dalarna

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Dalarna. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHej
  [hay]
- GoodbyeHej då
  [hay daw]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNej
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeSnälla/Tack så mycket
  [snel-lah/tahk soh myek]
- Thank youTack
  [tahk]
- Excuse me/SorryFörlåt
  [fur-loht]
- How are you?Hur mår du?
  [hur mohr doo]
- Fine. And you?Bra. Och du?
  [bra. ohk doo]
- Do you speak English?Talar du engelska?
  [tah-lar doo eng-el-skah]
- I don't understandJag förstår inte
  [yahg fur-stor in-teh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJag skulle vilja se menyn, snälla
  [yahg skool-leh vil-yah seh meh-nyun, snel-lah]
- I don't eat meatJag äter inte kött
  [yahg eh-ter in-teh yurt]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skawl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJag skulle vilja betala, snälla
  [yahg skool-leh vil-yah beh-tah-lah, snel-lah]
- Help!Hjälp!
  [yelp]
- Go away!Gå bort!
  [gaw bort]
- Call the Police!Ring polisen!
  [ring po-lee-sen]
- Call a doctor!Ring en läkare!
  [ring en leh-kah-reh]
- I'm lostJag är vilse
  [yahg air vil-seh]
- I'm illJag är sjuk
  [yahg air shook]
- I'd like to buy...Jag skulle vilja köpa...
  [yahg skool-leh vil-yah shur-pah]
- I'm just lookingJag tittar bara
  [yahg teet-ar bar-ah]
- How much is it?Hur mycket kostar det?
  [hur myek-ket kos-tar deh]
- That's too expensiveDet är för dyrt
  [deht air fur deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du sänka priset?
  [kan doo sen-kah pree-set]
- What time is it?Vad är klockan?
  [vahd air kloh-kahn]
- It's one o'clockDet är ett
  [deht air eht]
- Half past (10)Halv efter (10)
  [halv ef-ter (ten)]
- MorningMorgon
  [mor-gon]
- AfternoonEftermiddag
  [ef-ter-meed-dahg]
- EveningKväll
  [kvel]
- YesterdayIgår
  [ee-gor]
- TodayIdag
  [ee-dahg]
- TomorrowImorgon
  [ee-mor-gon]
- 1Ett
  [eht]
- 2Två
  [tvaw]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Fyra
  [fee-rah]
- 5Fem
  [fem]
- 6Sex
  [sex]
- 7Sju
  [shoo]
- 8Åtta
  [aw-tah]
- 9Nio
  [nee-oh]
- 10Tio
  [tee-oh]
- Where's a/the...?Var ligger en...?
  [var lig-er en]
- What's the address?Vad är adressen?
  [vahd air ah-dress-en]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du visa mig (på kartan)?
  [kan doo vee-sah may (paw kar-tahn)]
- When's the next (bus)?När går nästa (buss)?
  [nair gor nes-tah (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)En biljett (till ....)
  [en bee-yett (til)]

History of Dalarna

The Dalecarlian Rebellion, also known as the Swedish War of Liberation, was a significant uprising led by Gustav Vasa. The people of Dalarna played a crucial role in this rebellion against the Danish King Christian II, which ultimately led to Sweden's independence from the Kalmar Union. The rebellion began in 1521 and culminated in Gustav Vasa being elected King of Sweden in 1523.
The Falun Mine, also known as the Great Copper Mountain, was one of the world's most important mining centers for centuries. From the 10th century until the early 1990s, this mine produced a significant portion of the world's copper. The mine's rich history is intertwined with the economic and social development of Dalarna and Sweden as a whole. Today, the site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.
The Battle of Brunnbäck Ferry took place in April 1521 during the Swedish War of Liberation. The battle was fought near the village of Brunnbäck in Dalarna and resulted in a decisive victory for the Swedish forces led by Gustav Vasa. This victory was instrumental in boosting the morale of the Swedish troops and furthering their cause for independence.
The Dala Horse (Dalecarlian Horse) is a traditional carved, painted wooden statue originating from the Dalarna region. These horses have been crafted by local artisans for centuries and have become a symbol of Swedish culture. The tradition dates back to the 17th century when woodworkers in the region began carving and painting these horses during the long winter months. Today, the Dala Horse is a popular souvenir and a cherished emblem of Swedish heritage.
Midsummer is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Sweden, with Dalarna being known for its particularly vibrant festivities. Rooted in ancient pagan traditions, Midsummer in Dalarna involves raising and dancing around a maypole, singing traditional songs, and enjoying local foods. The celebrations are a significant part of the region's cultural heritage and attract visitors from around the world.
The Vasaloppet is the oldest and longest cross-country ski race in the world, beginning in 1922. The race covers a distance of 90 kilometers from Sälen to Mora in Dalarna. The event commemorates the historic journey of Gustav Vasa, who skied the same route while fleeing from Danish troops in 1521. Today, the Vasaloppet is a major sporting event that draws thousands of participants and spectators each year, celebrating both athleticism and local history.
The Zorn Museum in Mora is dedicated to the works of Anders Zorn, one of Sweden's most famous artists. Born in Mora in 1860, Zorn gained international acclaim for his portraits, etchings, and watercolors. The museum showcases his extensive body of work and offers insights into his life and the cultural history of the region. Adjacent to the museum is Gammelgården, an open-air museum that preserves traditional Dalarna farmhouses and offers a glimpse into rural life in the past.