Welcome to Gävle

Gävle is located about two hours north of Stockholm and is home to approximately 100,000 people. The first mention of Gävle as a city dates back to 1413.

During the late 19th century, Gävle became a significant industrial city where the pulp, textile, and mechanical engineering industries were the most prominent. Sweden’s largest coffee brand, Gevalia, has its coffee roastery here in Gävle.

Where the university is located today, there was an infantry regiment until December 31, 1997. After the regiment was closed down, the buildings were converted into what is now Gävle University.

Gävle is the seat of Gävleborg County, and the Governor resides in Gävle Castle. Sweden’s King, Gustav III, also held his last parliament in Gävle Castle in 1792 before he was murdered at a masked ball in Stockholm the same year.

Like many other coastal cities in the north of Sweden, Gävle has experienced extensive city fires, and in the most recent one, in 1869, virtually the entire city north of the Gavleån river burned down, leaving thousands of people homeless.

Today, Gävle is a city with a great interest in sports and culture. Gävle is primarily an ice hockey city where the city’s team, Brynäs IF, is one of the most successful teams in Swedish history and has won the top league in Sweden 13 times. Brynäs plays its home games at Monitor ERP Arena, located near Campus Sätra.

In the heart of the city, Agnes Cultural Centre was inaugurated on December 6, 2024, where the city’s library is located, as well as Bio7, which shows quality films, and the city’s art gallery, which arranges various art exhibitions.

Step back in time and explore the historic heart of Gävle, just behind Agnes Cultural Centre. Wander through the charming streets and imagine life in the city before the devastating fire of 1869.

Across from the city garden, you’ll find Gävle Concert Hall, the proud home of the Gävle Symphony Orchestra. This venue hosts concerts featuring renowned artists and a variety of musical performances.

Located just a short five-minute stroll from Gävle’s bustling city center, you’ll discover the city’s serene oasis, Boulognerskogen. Inspired by Paris’ renowned Bois de Boulogne, this park was established in 1865. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll, a relaxing picnic, or a more active pursuit, Boulognerskogen has something for everyone. Enjoy playing beach volleyball, working out at the outdoor fitness station, or taking a refreshing dip in the Gavleån river. And during the warmer months, a cozy café awaits to refuel your energy.

A short distance south of Gävle’s city center, you’ll find Hemlingby, a popular outdoor recreation area. With its well-maintained running and cross-country skiing trails, and numerous barbecue spots, Hemlingby offers the perfect escape for nature lovers. Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled day grilling sausages and enjoying the fresh air.

In Gävle, you can also see the world-famous straw goat during December, whose fame is mainly due to the fact that it has been subjected to sabotage many times.