A hidden gem in plain sight, Gotland is the largest island in Sweden covering an area of 2994 sq km, situated in the Baltic Sea, off the country’s east coast. The Gotland province typically includes the neighboring islands of Fårö, Gotska Sandön, Furillen, Lilla Karlsö, and Stora Karlsö. Together, they boast a stunning 800km coastline featuring rocky outcrops, sandy beaches, beautiful bays, and scenic coves.

A picturesque and serene escape today, Gotland was, since before the Bronze Age, an integral part of sea trade routes in the region. Its strategic location drew the attention of the Hanseatic League, who conducted business through the island’s main port of Visby during the Middle Ages.

In the year 900, Gotland became an autonomous part of Sweden and then Denmark conquered it in 1361. The island officially returned to Sweden in 1645. While agriculture, stone quarrying, tourism, and fishing continue to be the primary industries, the island’s vintage aura and rustic appeal are why ferry tickets to Gotland are much in demand, year after year.

Moreover, Gotland’s fortified capital, Visby, is now one of the most revered destinations in Sweden. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the east coast town is famous for its cobblestone streets, quaint atmosphere, and well-preserved 12th to 14th-century baroque and gothic architecture.

The island, though, has much more to offer avid travelers. Gotland was the location of the popular Swedish TV series Pipi Longstocking. At the same time, acclaimed director Ingmar Bergman often spoke highly of Fårö’s allure.

As for Gotland’s natural wonders, the Lummelunda Cave in the north allows visitors to marvel at the underground topography of the land with its fossils, stalagmites, and stalactites. The island is also known for its limestone sea stacks. Among the most popular of these dramatic structures is Hoburgsgubben on the island’s southern tip and Langhammars on Fårö.

Gotland’s culinary landscape is equally diverse. The most ardent of gourmands find the farm and sea-to-table cuisine of the island to be exceptionally delectable. Spread across the island are several cafes, restaurants, farm shops, and breweries. Among the best places to eat in Gotland are Lilla Bjers, Restaurang Gula Honan, and Restaurant Rot, where they use molten glass for cooking the food.

Home to 92 medieval churches, Gotland is a year-round holiday destination where you can enjoy the beaches in summer and relish the festivities of the Christmas markets come winter. To reach the island, tourists can purchase ferry tickets to Gotland via Ferryscanner. During the warm months, the Nynäshamn to Visby route is particularly busy, with up to four daily sailings. At the same time, in winter, one or two ferries usually arrive at the island per day. Boats take roughly three hours from both Nynäshamn and Oskarshamn to reach the Gotland, one of the most unimaginably amazing vacation spots in all of Sweden.