Halmstad City Guide

Good mix of local and international food. Vegetarian and vegan options available. Late-night food is limited outside central bars.

Decent nightlife with bars and clubs mainly in summer. Popular spots include Harrys and Morfars Brygga.

Strong fika culture with several specialty coffee shops and good quality beans.

Tipping is optional. Small tips in restaurants (5-10%) or rounding up are appreciated. Not expected for taxis or services.

SIM cards sold at convenience stores, supermarkets, and provider shops (Telia, Tele2, Telenor, Tre). ID required for prepaid. eSIMs generally available.

Very clean city with effective waste pickup and recycling.

Limited 24/7 pharmacies and stores. Emergency hospital services operate round-the-clock.

Main supermarkets like ICA Maxi, Willys, and Coop offer international products. Open 8 AM to 9 PM weekdays, shorter hours on weekends. Most stores open Sundays.

Card payments are accepted almost everywhere; many places do not take cash.

ATMs are available mainly from major banks like SEB, Swedbank, and Nordea. They are less common due to high card usage.

Local schools teach mainly in Swedish. International schools are in larger cities nearby. Admission and waitlists vary.

Small nomad community with few dedicated meetups or co-living spaces. Cafés offer decent Wi-Fi.

Many parks and river paths offering shaded walking and running options.

Safe and scenic running along the Nissan River, parks, and nature reserves with local clubs.

Several gyms offer fitness classes and modern equipment.

Several tennis and padel clubs with online booking and equipment rental.

Padel courts with memberships and drop-in play; coaching available.

Multiple studios offer different styles, including Hot Yoga and Vinyasa. English-speaking instructors common.

Active martial arts scene with disciplines like BJJ, Muay Thai, Karate, and more. English-speaking instructors available.

No nearby ski resorts; closest ones are several hours away.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing are popular with rentals available.

Surfing at nearby Tylösand; cold water requires wetsuits. Best in autumn and winter for bigger waves.

Cold-water dives in the Kattegat sea with moderate visibility and diverse marine life.

Good public healthcare with English-speaking staff at Halmstad Hospital. Pharmacies provide OTC meds and advice.

Tap water is clean, safe, and regularly tested; you can drink it directly.

Lots of playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, baby supplies stores, and family attractions like an amusement park and beaches.

Highly accepting city with local Pride events and strong legal protections.

Pet-friendly city with dog parks, veterinary clinics, pet supply stores, and many accommodations welcome pets.