Västerås
Västerås sits on the shore of Lake Mälaren in central Sweden, where medieval history, industrial heritage and modern technology meet. Its compact centre, lakeside paths and surrounding countryside make it a practical base for business and leisure travellers.
Passengers
Luggage
About Västmanland
Västerås is one of Sweden's oldest cities, set on the shore of Lake Mälaren about 100 km west of Stockholm. As the capital of Västmanland County, it combines a compact historic centre with a strong industrial and technology heritage.
The city's history reaches back more than a thousand years, visible at Anundshög, one of Sweden's largest Viking-era burial mounds. Västerås Cathedral and the nearby castle reflect its medieval importance, while later industrial growth shaped the city around companies such as ASEA and ABB.
The centre is easy to explore on foot, with Stora Torget, the cathedral, shops and restaurants close together. The Lake Mälaren waterfront around Öster Mälarstrand offers promenades, modern housing and views over the water, while Vallby Open Air Museum and the Kokpunkten water park provide family-friendly outings.
Västerås remains a significant business and innovation hub, home to engineering, energy and automation companies, as well as conferences and events at venues such as Aros Congress Center. Its food scene ranges from traditional Swedish dishes and lake fish to international restaurants and cafés.
For both leisure and business travellers, Västerås offers history, waterfront recreation and a well-connected base for exploring the Mälardalen region.
Västmanland Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early autumn is the most pleasant time to explore Västerås, with long daylight hours and outdoor dining along Lake Mälaren. Summer brings festivals and lake activities, while winter offers a quieter city with Christmas markets.
How to Get Around
The compact city centre is easy to walk, and local VL buses connect central Västerås with surrounding neighbourhoods. Cycling is popular, and trains link the city with Stockholm in about an hour.
Where to Stay
Stay near the cathedral and Stora Torget for restaurants, shops and landmarks, or along Öster Mälarstrand for waterfront hotels and views over Lake Mälaren. Hotels near the central station suit business travellers.
Food & Drink
Västerås offers Swedish classics, lake fish and international cuisine in restaurants, cafés and the city's market hall. Waterfront dining and neighbourhood bakeries make the food scene easy to explore on foot.
Ground Transportation Services in Västmanland
Airport Transfers
Pre-booked transfers connect Stockholm Västerås Airport with hotels, the city centre and destinations across Västmanland.
Hourly Chauffeur
A private chauffeur by the hour is useful for business meetings, events and flexible sightseeing in and around Västerås.
Car Rental
Rent a car in Västerås for independent travel along Lake Mälaren and convenient trips to Stockholm and nearby towns.
Bus & Group Transfers
Minibuses and charter buses suit groups travelling between the airport, venues, events and attractions in Västerås and the wider region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Cities in Sweden
View all
Gothenburg
Gothenburg, Sweden's west-coast port, blends historic canals and harbour architecture with a lively design, food and music scene. Its walkable centre, landmarks and nearby archipelago give the city a relaxed yet dynamic character.
Sundsvall
Sundsvall, a coastal city in Västernorrland, Sweden, is known for its historic stone center, lively waterfront and proximity to forests, islands and outdoor trails.
Västerbotten
Västerbotten, in northern Sweden, blends a rugged Baltic coastline, vast forests and the lively university city of Umeå with a calm, nature-focused way of life.