For all history lovers

Öland is the island where you can constantly experience the wings of history. Ancient castles, burials, agricultural landscapes, buildings and above all the windmills, which are perhaps the most characteristic cultural heritage that Öland can offer. Around the island, different types of historical cultural heritage are made available through more or less organized experiences. If you're aiming for a holiday with historical and cultural overtones, you've come to the right place.  

 

World Heritage Site Southern Öland

From Karlevi in the west to Gårdby in the east and then all the way south, a beautiful landscape and a unique cultural area stretches. This area was included in 2000 on UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites. The reason is that South Öland's agricultural landscape is fundamentally different from other places on earth. Read more about the World Heritage Site Southern Öland. 

The island of the burghers

Eketorps Borg

On 8 June 2024, it will be the premiere of the exhibition Borgarnas ö. Explore the mystery and history behind Öland's ancient castles in this eight-year exhibition series created in collaboration with Stockholm University and Linnaeus University. Kalmar County Museum invites you to an eight-year experience through Öland's fascinating archaeological landscape. Borgarnas ö is a long-term exhibition series that extends over eight years, where each year offers new content and different themes. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore Öland's ancient castles and gain a deeper understanding of the life of the people of Öland during the Iron Age. 

Read more about the exhibition here!

Guided tours & excursions

Join us on a tour and discover the best of Öland with local experts. Learn more about the culinary Öland, the island's ancient animals or about flowers and insects. Whatever you choose, we are sure that you will experience a memorable guided tour of the island. 

Take part of current excursions and guided tours in the calendar or read more about the operators that offer excursions and guided tours during the year here.

See all guided tours

Openings, exhibitions and art tours

 

Questions and answers about culture & history

What are some historical places to visit on Öland?

Öland is full of traces of people who have lived here for thousands of years. Here you can visit ancient castles, castle ruins, lighthouses, churches and old fishing villages, visit places such as Borgholm Castle, Eketorp Castle and Ottenby and discover the stories that have shaped life on Öland through generations.

Are there museums on Öland?

Yes, around Öland there are several museums and cultural environments where you can learn more about life on the island, where stories are told about everything from shipping and agriculture to art, crafts and life by the sea.

Can you experience culture on Öland all year round?

Yes, the culture on Öland is alive all year round. Summer offers concerts, art exhibitions and events around the island, while autumn, winter and spring are often about quieter experiences, open studios and historical environments. See events

Is there art and crafts on Öland?

Yes, Öland has a rich cultural life with many artists, ceramicists, designers and craftsmen. Around the island you will find small studios, galleries and farm shops where you can meet the creators and take part in their work.