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Place in Östergötland, Sweden
Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Riggwelter assumed (based on copyright claims)., CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Vadstena (pronounced "Vasstena" by the locals) is a village in Sweden. It is in the northern part of the Götaland region in the Östergötland county. It has about 5,700 inhabitants in 2020.
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One of the largest medieval churches in Scandinavia. It holds a large collection of medieval wooden sculptures. Next to the altar is Saint Bridget of Sweden's reliquary.
From the 16th century, it was built as a fortress to protect the rich Mälaren Valley from the Danish Empire. Rebuilt into a Renaissance palace by the royal Vasa family and since then very well-preserved. Guided tours are offered all year. Museum with furnishings from 16-18th centuries.
City Hall
The oldest city hall in Sweden, built in the early 15th century.
A museum that covers the town's hospital tradition. The 16th-century Mårten Skinnares House is next to the museum and open during guided tours of the museum.
Sancta Birgitta Klostermuseum
In the old royal palace which was rebuilt into the Bridgettine convent.
In a building from the 16th century. Tells the story of the town.
A house museum dedicated to the local sculptor Gottfrid Larsson. The house also contains "Spetsmuseum" (Bobbin Lace Museum).
Toy Museum
In a building from the 16th century. Tells the story of the town.
The world's largest runestone, with a visitor center. See Vikings and the Old Norse for context.
A known birdwatching site. Naturum visitor center.
A mountain 20 km south of Vadstena. Ski at Ombergsliden in the winter.
Monastery ruin.
Systembolaget is the state-owned monopoly liquor store.
By train
Train stations are in Motala, Mjölby or Linköping, from where you take the bus to Vadstena.
By bus
It's not possible to pay cash for a ticket on the bus. You can get a ticket in Quickomats and some stores.aspx.
By car
Taxi
Taxis are on the expensive side. The meter is used to control the cost but always make sure that this is set when commencing a journey.
Bike
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Linköping · International · LPI
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