Vadstena Castle

Castle Vadstena, Ostergotland County, Sweden

What to expect

Vadstena Castle is a former Royal Castle in Vadstena, Sweden, showcasing Renaissance architecture. The castle was originally built as a fortress in 1545 and later transformed into a royal residence in the 16th century. It features a moat, guard towers, and a chapel, as well as an extensive collection of period furniture and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore the castle's grand banqueting hall, royal chambers, and exhibitions. The castle also offers panoramic views of Lake Vättern and surrounding parklands, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and families alike

Plan your family visit to the Vadstena Castle with these blog insights 👇

5 nice tips for Vadstena

This family's experience:

Activities: We visited Vadstena Slott, which is Sweden's best-preserved Renaissance castle. We walked around it and went into the Slottsgården. My youngest son was really impressed. "His papa is very interested in history and could tell him about the construction and what it might have looked like in the past." It was so well-preserved and beautiful. It is incredibly beautiful to photograph against a castle

Highlights: The well-preserved castle and the history. The architecture impressed our son. The father enjoyed sharing the history with his son: "His papa is very interested in history and could tell him about the construction and what it might have looked like in the past." ✨

Things to do in Vadstena: 7 tips in one of Sweden's cutest towns

This family's experience:

Activities: We admired the castle. It is one of Sweden's best-preserved Renaissance castles and "has visual similarities to the castles in both Kalmar and Örebro". It was initially built as a defensive structure and has a special department for children, "where appreciated children's activities are organized". We also had a guided tour

Highlights: We loved the guided tour of the castle. It was used as a residence, and later "the halls were used as grain magazines and weaving mills". We visited the special department for children. It is considered "one of Sweden's best-preserved Renaissance castles" ✨

Östergötland with children: 10 stops worth visiting

This family's experience:

Activities: We visited Vadstena and enjoyed bathing in Vättern. We also went to a toy museum, learned more about Sweden's exciting history, and visited the children's department at Vadstena Castle

Highlights: We loved Vadstena. The kids had a great time at the toy museum and enjoyed exploring the castle. Bathing in Vättern was also a highlight! ✨