Why You Should Visit Lund, Sweden: A Hidden Gem Just Outside Copenhagen
Looking for an easy, charming day trip or overnight stop from Copenhagen?
Let me introduce you to Lund, Sweden—a storybook town packed with history, character, and cozy Scandinavian charm. Just a short train ride across the Øresund Bridge, Lund is the kind of place that makes you instantly slow down and smile.
While most travelers head straight to Malmö, we decided to take the road (or rail) less traveled and spend a night in Lund instead—and I’m so glad we did. Wandering its cobblestone streets, admiring the colorful historic buildings, and soaking in the laid-back university town vibes was one of the unexpected highlights of our trip through Scandinavia.
Lund might be small, but it’s full of soul. Home to one of Sweden’s oldest universities, the town blends youthful energy with centuries-old traditions in a way that feels both vibrant and timeless. It was the perfect breather between busy Copenhagen and bustling Stockholm—a place where we could experience a more authentic, everyday side of Swedish life.
If you’re looking for a destination that’s easy to reach, rich in culture, and refreshingly off the typical tourist trail, Lund is 100% worth the detour. Let me take you through everything we loved and why it deserves a spot on your itinerary.
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1 Day in Lund Itinerary :
Getting to Lund from Copenhagen
Planning 1 Day in Lund? Getting there couldn’t be easier. The train ride from Copenhagen to Lund takes just about an hour and offers a scenic, stress-free way to cross into Sweden. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and with no need to book in advance, it’s a spontaneous traveler’s dream.
Many people hop off at Malmö (just 12 minutes before Lund), but I was drawn to something quieter and more historic—and Lund delivered. The moment I stepped off the train, the pace felt slower, the buildings more colorful, and the atmosphere cozier. If you’re looking for a break from Copenhagen’s big-city buzz, Lund makes the perfect mini escape.
💡 Tip: Don’t forget your passport! Since you’re crossing into Sweden, border checks are occasionally conducted. If you don’t want to stay overnight, you can also do a day trip to Lund from Copenhagen!
Things to Do in Lund
Exploring Lund University Campus
One of my first stops in Lund was Lund University, —one of Sweden’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, founded in 1666. As you wander through the campus, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Nordic fairytale. Historic buildings, cobblestone paths, and a sense of timeless academia make it a photographer’s dream.
My favorite spot? The ivy-covered university library. In autumn, the vines blaze red and orange, making it one of the most photogenic places in town. We just missed getting inside (rookie mistake—check the hours ahead of time!), but even the exterior is worth the visit.
And if you’re lucky enough to visit during Lundakarnevalen—the university’s famous student-run carnival held every four years—you’re in for a treat. It’s a quirky, colorful festival full of music, parades, and performances that take over the whole city.
🎓 Even if you’re only in town for the day, the energy around campus is contagious and gives you a feel for Lund’s unique mix of old-world charm and youthful spirit.
Lund Botanical Garden (Botaniska Trädgården)
Our next stop was the beautiful Botaniska Trädgården—Lund’s lush and peaceful botanical garden. Bright blooms mingled with fiery autumn leaves, creating the kind of scenery that makes you pause and soak it all in.
Established in the 17th century and now home to over 7,000 plant species, this garden is more than just a pretty place—it’s a hub for research, education, and quiet reflection. Whether you’re into botany or just need a break from sightseeing, it’s worth a stroll.
✨ Don’t miss: Café Botan, tucked right inside the garden. Grab a coffee or a fika (Swedish snack break!) and find a cozy bench for an impromptu picnic among the flowers. It’s the kind of peaceful moment that makes Lund so special.
📍 Easily walkable from the train station, it’s a perfect first or last stop for your Lund itinerary.
Lund Cathedral – Sweden’s Most Visited Church
Then, I headed to Lund Cathedral – Sweden’s most visited church and the beating heart of the city. Towering over the town with its majestic Twin Spires, this cathedral has stood since 1145 and holds nearly 900 years of Swedish history within its walls.
Step inside and you’ll find a peaceful, dimly lit sanctuary that feels both grand and intimate. But the real star? The Horologium Mirabile Lundense—a medieval astronomical clock built around 1425. It’s not just a timekeeper; it also shows the zodiac signs, moon phases, and calendar date. Be sure to catch the daily chimes at noon and 3 PM, when wooden figures of the Three Wise Men emerge to pay homage to the Virgin Mary. Watching this centuries-old mechanical marvel in action was like stepping into a living page of history.
And of course, I couldn’t leave without checking out the cathedral’s crypt, one of the oldest parts of the structure, dating back to 1123. It’s dark, cool, and full of carved stone columns, including the famous statue of Finn the Giant. Legend has it Finn helped build the cathedral, but when he wasn’t paid, he threatened to destroy it—until he was tricked and turned to stone. You can still see him clutching a pillar in the crypt today, frozen in time.
Wandering Lund’s Old Town – A Fairytale Walk Through History
After exploring the cathedral, take time to slow down and wander through Lund’s Old Town—a highlight of any 1 day in Lund. With its winding cobblestone streets, charming pastel buildings, and flower-framed doorways, this part of the city feels like it leapt out of a Scandinavian storybook.
Founded around 990 AD, Lund is one of Sweden’s oldest cities, and its historical roots are woven into every corner. As I meandered through the old town, I passed 18th- and 19th-century homes—each one carefully preserved and brimming with personality. Locals clearly take pride in their homes, and the details show: painted wooden doors in jewel-toned hues, blooming flower boxes, and ivy climbing up stone walls.
One of my absolute favorite things was spotting all the colorful front doors—each one a tiny work of art. And yes, the rumors are true: Lund is obsessed with flowers! Roses, geraniums, and wild greenery spill from window boxes and peek around garden gates, creating the most photogenic backdrops you could ask for.
🌸 Don’t miss:Adelgatan, one of the most charming and photo-worthy streets in the old town. It’s perfect for slow strolls, dreamy pictures, and soaking up the calm, cozy energy that makes Lund feel so special.
Where to Stay in Lund
If you’re planning to spend more than just 1 day in Lund, there are a few great accommodation options that suit different travel styles and budgets.
I stayed at Forenom Aparthotel Lund, and it was the perfect base—cozy, clean, and budget-friendly. The room came with a handy little kitchenette, which made it easy to prep breakfast or enjoy a quiet night in. Plus, there was a grocery store right across the street—super convenient for grabbing snacks or supplies between adventures.
If you’re after something more historic and elegant, check out The Grand Hotel Located in the heart of the city, this charming, century-old hotel offers classic rooms with a touch of old-world luxury. It’s a lovely choice if you’re looking to add a little more grandeur to your visit.
🏨 Pro tip: Lund is very walkable, so no matter where you stay, you’ll likely be just minutes from the main sights.
Final Thoughts on Spending 1 Day in Lund
Lund might be small, but it packs a big punch. In just one day, I explored centuries-old cathedrals, wandered cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses, and discovered one of Sweden’s most charming university towns. Whether you’re here for the history, the gardens, or simply a change of pace from the city, 1 day in Lund is more than worth it.
I went in expecting a quiet overnight stop—and left completely enchanted. If you’re on the fence about adding Lund to your itinerary, take this as your sign to go. It’s a hidden gem that makes you want to slow down, look around, and soak in every little detail.
More from My Scandinavian Journey
Lund was just one unforgettable chapter in my wider Scandinavia adventure—a journey that took me from the artistic neighborhoods of Copenhagen , through the vibrant culture of Stockholm, and all the way up north to Abisko, where I finally witnessed the magical Northern Lights. Oh, and let’s not forget the quick stopover in London to round things out with a bit of big-city energy.
✨ If you’re dreaming up your own trip, I’ve written detailed guides for each destination—perfect for planning a route that mixes big city buzz with small-town charm and jaw-dropping natural beauty.
👉 Check out my full travel blog to explore more stories, itineraries, and tips for making the most of every stop in Scandinavia and beyond.
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