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Island · Gränna, Jönköping
Visingsö
A long island in the middle of Lake Vättern, a few kilometres from Gränna, with ruins of medieval and 17th-century castles, old churches and a large oak wood. Reachable by ferry from Gränna’s port.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Visingsö
Visingsö is a narrow, elongated island in the middle of Vättern, opposite Gränna. In the Middle Ages it was a residence of Swedish kings, who built the Näs castle at the southern tip. Stone ruins from that period remain at the lakeshore.
In the 17th century the island passed to the Brahe family, who built Visingsborg castle near the port, of which ruins remain, and the Brahe church. Further north, Kumlaby church, of medieval origin, has interior paintings and a tower from which much of the island can be seen.
The interior of the island is flat and covered by fields and woods, including an oak plantation established in the 19th century to supply timber for the navy. The paths are suitable for cycling, and in summer carriages take visitors to the main points of interest.
The ferry leaves from Gränna’s port and makes the crossing in about half an hour, with more departures in the high season.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From half a day to a full day.
Best time
From June to August, when the ferry runs more frequently and carriages operate. In spring and autumn the island is quieter; check ferry times before you go.
How to get there
By ferry from Gränna’s port, about a 30-minute crossing; on the island by bicycle, carriage or on foot.
Tip
Bring or rent a bicycle: the island is flat, and the ruins and churches are scattered over several kilometres.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Visingsö
How do you get to Visingsö?
By ferry from the port of Gränna, with a crossing of about half an hour.
What to see in Visingsö?
The ruins of Näs and Visingsborg castles, Brahe church, Kumlaby church and the oak wood.
How to get around Visingsö?
By bicycle, by carriage in summer or on foot. The island is flat, but attractions are spread out from each other.