Coastal history, archipelago life and maritime culture
Karlskrona is a city shaped by the sea. Quays stretch towards the archipelago, church towers rise above wide squares, and history feels present in every street.
Located in the heart of the Blekinge archipelago, Karlskrona is Sweden’s only naval UNESCO World Heritage Site - a city planned in the 17th century that still feels alive, welcoming and closely connected to the sea.
Here, naval history meets island life, baroque architecture blends with modern culture, and cafés sit beside historic waterfronts. Karlskrona is not simply a place to visit – it is a city best experienced slowly.
A World Heritage Site by the sea
Karlskrona was founded in 1680 as the base of the Swedish navy and is today recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its unique maritime history and city planning.
The city was built to impress – and still does.
Wide squares, historic fortifications, churches, dockyards and military buildings together tell the story of Sweden’s naval power and life around the Baltic Sea.
What makes Karlskrona unique is that the World Heritage Site is still part of everyday life.
You experience it while crossing Kungsbron, walking along Skeppsbrokajen or watching the evening light over Stortorget.
Explore the World Heritage Site →
The Naval Museum – history above and below the surface
Located on the island of Stumholmen, the Naval Museum is one of Karlskrona’s most popular attractions for both adults and children.
Here you can:
- Step aboard a real submarine
- Discover shipwrecks and maritime artefacts
- See one of the world’s largest collections of figureheads
- Experience interactive exhibitions beside the sea
The museum tells stories not only about naval warfare and ships, but also about everyday life at sea throughout the centuries.
And outside the windows, the Baltic Sea remains part of the experience.
