24 hours in Kalmar – with your dog

Hund med framtassarna på ett bord.

Kalmar isn’t just a city full of history, the sea, and charm – it’s also a dream destination for those traveling with a dog. Here, you’ll find green parks, scenic walking paths, refreshing swims, and delicious food.

Hund i vatten.

Morning Fun in Kalmarsundsparken

Start your day with play and exercise in Kalmarsundsparken’s dog parks – one for large dogs and one for smaller ones. Is it a hot day? The dog-friendly beach is just a stone’s throw away, perfect for a refreshing dip. Visiting during or after week 29? You’re in for a visual treat: admire impressive sand sculptures together.

A group of people watching gigantic sand sculptures

Experience magical sand sculptures at the Kalmar International Sandsculpture Festival from July 14–18! With a bit of luck, the sculptures will remain in place for several months.

Guidad tur på Kalmar Slott.

Paw-Friendly History at the Castle

Continue your day with a visit to Kalmar Castle, where both you and your dog are welcome on the dog-friendly tour "Towers and Turrets". Explore the castle grounds, walk along the ramparts, and feel the presence of history. Visit Kalmar Castle’s official website for up-to-date times and information about the guided tours.

Hund sittandes på en stol på en restaurang.

Dog-Friendly Lunch

From the castle, it's just a short walk through the City Park and along the beautiful Tjärhovspromenaden before you reach Lotsutkiken – a café that truly loves dogs. There’s a cozy dog corner equipped with everything your furry friend might need: a water bowl, dog treats, a blanket, and even waste bags if needed. With views of the sound and a tasty lunch on your plate, this is a break to be enjoyed by both humans and dogs.

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Prunkande trädgård i italiensk stil

Villa Famiglia – A Taste of Italy in Småland

Just 15 minutes from Kalmar, you’ll find Villa Famiglia in Vassmolösa. This Mediterranean-inspired garden welcomes you with terracotta pots, lemon trees, and the scent of rosemary. Sit down in the lush garden and enjoy a cappuccino or a cooling ice cream. Your four-legged friend is, of course, welcome to relax in the shady environment.

Kvinna och barn i grönskande trädgård.
Allé i lövskog.

Stroll in the English Park

Continue your outing to the English Park at Värnanäs estate. This is one of the few preserved English-style parks in Sweden, featuring winding paths, large leafy trees, and surprising elements like a Chinese pavilion and a hermitage.

Kinesiskt lusthus
Handwritten notes hanging in a tree

In the English Park, you'll find the Island of Bliss. Write down your wishes and let them drift in the trees.

Bakelser

Ekenäs Artisan Bakery – Award-Winning Fika

The next stop is Ekenäs Hantverksbageri, a small artisan bakery south of Kalmar that bakes sourdough bread with heritage grains and pastries with locally produced and organic ingredients. Here, you can buy something delicious from their assortment. Continue down the road towards the sea, past charming wooden villas and lush gardens, and you will reach the dog beach. Here, your dog can take a refreshing dip while you enjoy your newly purchased fika.

Hund på en uteservering.

Sniff Your Way to Pizza at Kallskänken

End the day with dinner at one of Kalmar’s first dog-friendly restaurants: Kallskänken. Here, both you and your dog are more than welcome, whether you choose to sit inside or out in the cozy courtyard. The menu features creatively topped pizzas with a local twist. Feeling adventurous? Try the legendary Smörgåstårta pizza! Your dog is, of course, welcome to relax with you while you enjoy your meal.

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Page published by: Destination Kalmar AB