Visby Ferries

The port of Visby plays a key role in the ferry network of Sweden, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 1 ferry routes operated by - ferry companies, Visby serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Visby, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include - connecting Visby with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as - run regular services from Visby, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Visby offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Ferries to Visby operate regularly from mainland Sweden, with Nynäshamn (near Stockholm) and Oskarshamn being the primary departure points, with crossings taking approximately 3-3.5 hours. For international travelers, flying into Stockholm Arlanda Airport and then taking a connecting flight to Visby Airport or continuing to the ferry terminal at Nynäshamn is the most common route. From Visby's ferry terminal, the picturesque city center is just a 15-minute walk, though taxis and seasonal shuttle buses are readily available. If arriving by car, secure parking is available at the ferry terminal, though advance booking is recommended during summer months.

Nestled on the western coast of Gotland island, Visby stands as one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Scandinavia. This UNESCO World Heritage site seamlessly blends ancient stone walls with vibrant modern life, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and lively. As a key ferry destination in the Baltic Sea, Visby offers visitors the perfect gateway to explore both the historic treasures within its walls and the natural beauty of Gotland island.

Visby enjoys a relatively mild climate thanks to its Baltic Sea location, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F) and winters hovering around freezing. The prime time to visit is between June and August when the weather is warmest, daylight hours are long, and the city pulses with energy. Medieval Week in early August transforms Visby into a living history book with tournaments, markets, and costumed revelry. Ferry services run more frequently during summer, though the shoulder months of May and September offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Winter visits reveal a quieter, more intimate side of Visby, though some attractions operate on reduced hours.

Visby serves as an excellent base for exploring the Baltic region by sea. From here, ferries connect to Nynäshamn near Stockholm (3.5 hours), offering access to Sweden's vibrant capital and its archipelago. The journey to Oskarshamn (3 hours) provides a gateway to southern Sweden's coastal attractions and forests. During summer, special ferry services may connect to Fårö island (1.5 hours), known for its distinctive limestone formations called 'raukar' and connection to filmmaker Ingmar Bergman. The ferry routes from Visby often provide spectacular views of the Baltic coastline, with opportunities to spot seabirds and occasionally seals along the journey.

Walking the 3.5km medieval city wall with its 27 preserved towers offers unparalleled views and a journey through history unlike anywhere else in Scandinavia. The ruins of St. Nicolai Church and Visby Cathedral stand as haunting reminders of the city's powerful past, while the Gotland Museum houses treasures including the world's largest collection of Viking silver. For culinary adventures, try saffranspannkaka (saffron pancake with dewberry jam and whipped cream) or sample local Gotlandic lamb at restaurants along Stora Torget square. Just outside the walls, the botanical gardens burst with color during summer, offering a peaceful retreat from exploring the cobblestone streets of the Hanseatic old town.

Visby's impressive 3.5km ring wall was built in the 13th century and remains the strongest and most completely preserved medieval city wall in Scandinavia. The city once served as the main center of the Hanseatic League in the Baltic region, with its wealth coming from the control of trade routes rather than natural resources. Local legend claims that the 'White Lady' ghost haunts one of the towers along the city wall, said to be a maiden who was walled in alive for falling in love with a Danish merchant. Visby's distinctive 'picture stones' predate the Viking era and feature some of the earliest depictions of Norse ships, providing unique insights into ancient seafaring traditions.