Plizio Visual Lab

Borgholm Castle

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Borgholm Castle, often called 'Scandinavia's most beautiful castle ruin,' towers majestically over the town of Borgholm on Öland island. Its current appearance dates back to its conversion into a Baroque palace under King Charles X Gustav in the 17th century. Following a devastating fire in 1806, only the massive limestone shell remained, which, with its high walls and empty window sockets, creates an almost mystical atmosphere. In the immediate vicinity lies Solliden Palace, the private summer residence of the Swedish Royal Family. While Solliden is known for its magnificent gardens, the Borgholm ruin serves as a spectacular backdrop for exhibitions on the castle's history and for large open-air concerts by Swedish and international stars. From the walls, visitors have a wide view over the Kalmar Sound. The surrounding area is part of Stora Alvaret, a unique limestone plain that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the ruin on their own or join guided tours to learn about Öland's strategic importance during the wars between Sweden and Denmark. A well-maintained hiking path connects the town of Borgholm with the castle grounds. The ruin is a year-round magnet for photographers and history buffs.

Location: Sweden
Top sights: Stenhallen · Glasgalleri · Galleri Olssons Rum
Nearby: Rockneby (20 km)
Population: ~4.344 (2017)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-1	-1	1	6	11	15	18	17	13	8	4	1
Rain mm	45	39	34	32	46	60	83	68	49	66	66	52

📋 Practical info

🚪

Visiting

The castle ruin is open to visitors; you can explore the exterior grounds freely and enter the preserved inner chambers during opening hours. Guided tours are available in summer.

🕒

Typical hours

The site is typically open daily from May to September, with shorter hours in spring and autumn. Exact times vary, so check the official website before visiting.

📷

Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the castle grounds and inside the ruin. Tripods may require a permit for special events.

⏱️

Time needed

Plan around 1.5 to 2 hours to walk the ramparts, visit the small museum, and enjoy panoramic views over the Baltic Sea.

➕

Combine with

Combine your visit with other sights on Öland, such as the royal Solliden Palace or the ancient Alvaret landscape, both within a short drive.

🧭

Getting there

Reach Borgholm by car via the Öland Bridge from Kalmar (about 30 minutes), or take a bus from Kalmar to Borgholm town. The castle is a short walk from the town center.

💡

Insider tip

Aim to visit during the Borgholm Castle concert series in July for live music in a spectacular setting.