About Karlstad
Located in southwest Sweden, near the Norwegian border, on the river delta where Klaralven River runs into Vanern Lake, Karlstad is a modern city that dates back to medieval times. The city was home to the Vikings throughout history and was heavily damaged by major fires. The last fire in 1865 did the most damage, destroying almost the entire city. However, the city was rebuilt to today’s “modern medieval city” that stands before us. Karlstad is the largest city of the Varmland province. Its location on the shores of Sweden’s largest lake provides Karlstad with great advantages; one of them is the fact that it is home to Sweden’s second largest lake port. In addition, Sweden’s longest river, Klaralven runs through the city.
The city features dozens of historic bridges that cross over the water; the Old Stonebridge, also known as the Eastern Bridge, with its many arches, is particularly beautiful. Karlstad is filled with beautiful, Scandinavian-style villas, mansions, and churches. The Karlstad Airport itself, located 16 km from the city center, resembles a Scandinavian-style cottage. Other places worth seeing in and around the city and things to do include visiting the State of Sola i Karlstad, Varmland Museum, Alster manor, Mariebergsskogen, which is a small city park and enjoying various watersports activities on the lake.