Just a quick train ride from Copenhagen, the charming town of Lund in Sweden awaits, and it’s the perfect spot for a day trip! Rather than stopping in bustling Malmö, we decided to take a detour to Lund, a quaint, history-filled town centered around one of Sweden’s oldest universities. With cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and a welcoming vibe, Lund felt like stepping back in time, and I couldn’t wait to see what it had in store!
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1 Day in Lund:
Getting to Lund
The train from Copenhagen to Lund takes about an hour and is a super easy ride, making Lund a convenient escape for anyone wanting to experience a slower pace than the big city. Even though Malmö is just a 12-minute train stop before Lund, I was drawn to Lund’s historic charm over Malmö’s metropolitan vibe—and I was not disappointed!
Things to Do in Lund
Exploring Lund University Campus
One of my first stops in Lund was Lund University, and wow, did it live up to the hype! Founded in 1666, the university is not just one of Sweden’s oldest institutions—it’s also one of the most prestigious in all of Scandinavia. Walking around the campus, I could feel the history in the air. There’s this ivy-covered library that’s straight out of a postcard; its walls are lush and green in summer, turning a fiery red in autumn. I’d recommend going into university library if you have the time (we missed it by just a few minutes). The library, with its beautiful architecture and towering bookshelves, is a true hidden gem. Just imagine the stories held in those walls!
And get this—Lund University isn’t just about serious academics. Every four years, students host the Lundakarnevalen (Lund Carnival), a quirky, over-the-top festival that transforms the whole campus with music, parades, and colorful performances. I just missed it, but it sounds like such a fun tradition that really brings out the university’s unique spirit!
Lund Botanical Garden (Botaniska Trädgården)
Our next stop was the beautiful Botanical Garden, or “Botaniska Trädgården.” Even though it was October, the garden was still full of life. Bright flowers bloomed alongside the autumn leaves, creating a colorful contrast. Established in the 17th century, this garden is home to over 7,000 plant species, and today it’s not only a research hub but also a perfect spot to unwind. I’d suggest grabbing a coffee or snack at Café Botan within the garden and finding a cozy spot for a little picnic—it’s such a peaceful way to take in the beauty around you!
Lund Cathedral – Sweden’s Most Visited Church
Then, I headed to Lund Cathedral, which is truly the heart of this city. Completed back in 1145, the cathedral has witnessed nearly a thousand years of Swedish history, and it’s still as grand as ever. Those twin towers, known as the “Twin Spires,” are impossible to miss—they seem to watch over the whole town.
Inside, one of the most fascinating details is the astrological clock, Horologium Mirabile Lundense. Built around 1425, it chimes twice a day at noon and 3 PM, and little wooden figures of the Three Wise Men come out to pay homage to the Virgin Mary. I felt like I’d stumbled into a medieval storybook watching it! The clock doesn’t just tell time, either; it shows the date, the moon’s phases, and even the zodiac, which makes it so unique.
And of course, I couldn’t leave without checking out the crypt below. It’s dark and mysterious, and even dates back to 1123! The crypt is filled with intricately carved pillars, including one that has a carved figure of Finn the Giant. According to legend, Finn was hired to build the cathedral but threatened to destroy it when he didn’t get paid. Thankfully, he was outwitted and, as the story goes, turned to stone. You can still see “Finn” on one of the crypt’s columns, which was such a cool, quirky surprise!
Strolling Through Lund’s Old Town
After my time at the university and cathedral, I couldn’t resist wandering through Lund’s Old Town. I felt like I’d walked straight into a Scandinavian fairy tale! The entire area has this dreamy, old-world charm, with winding cobblestone streets that lead you past rows of pastel-colored buildings, each one more picturesque than the last.
As I strolled along, I learned that many of these houses date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, each with its own history. Lund is actually one of Sweden’s oldest cities, founded around 990 AD, and you can feel its age and character in every street corner and alleyway. While bigger Swedish cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg have modernized, Lund has somehow managed to keep its quaint charm intact. The locals take a lot of pride in their homes, which I could tell from the meticulous little details everywhere—doors painted in shades of blue, red, and green, and flower boxes spilling over with blooms.
Every street seemed to have its own little slice of magic. One of my favorite things was spotting all the colorful front doors! I’d heard about Lund’s obsession with flowers, but it wasn’t until I saw roses, ivy, and geraniums framing doorways and winding up stone walls that I realized how stunning it was in person. The flowers add so much to the already colorful houses, making it feel like each building has its own personality. One of my favorite streets to photograph is Adelgatan!
Where to Stay in Lund
I stayed at Forenom Aparthotel Lund, which was cozy, budget-friendly, and even had a small kitchenette for added convenience. Right across the street was a grocery store, making it easy to grab snacks or breakfast items. If you’re looking for something with a little more history, The Grand Hotel in the heart of Lund is a fantastic option, with charming, century-old rooms.
Lund turned out to be a gem that I didn’t want to leave! It was the perfect mix of history, beauty, and laid-back vibes. Whether you’re there to stroll through the gardens, learn about its university’s history, or simply lose yourself in the magic of its cobblestone streets, Lund will make you feel right at home.
Exploring Scandinavia: My Journey Through Copenhagen, Stockholm, Abisko, and Beyond
After a wonderful day exploring Lund, I couldn’t help but reflect on how this charming town was just one gem among many in my bigger Scandinavia trip! From the bustling canals of Copenhagen to the cultural treasures of Stockholm, each stop had its own magic. And, of course, the adventure wouldn’t have been complete without journeying north to Abisko, where I chased the breathtaking northern lights. To top it all off, I even had a little detour to London, mixing things up with iconic landmarks and evening strolls along the Thames.
If you’re curious about these other stops, I’ve got guides on each of them! Head over to my blog to check out the highlights and tips for a Scandinavian adventure with a mix of city life, natural wonders, and a few surprises along the way. ✨
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