Sundsvall

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Bars and Pubs

Local spots to enjoy alcoholic beverages, socialize, and experience Sundsvall's nightlife.

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Comprehensive Guide to Bars and Pubs in Sundsvall, Sweden

Sundsvall, a charming city in northern Sweden, offers a vibrant yet cozy nightlife scene. Its bars and pubs reflect the city’s blend of modern Scandinavian culture and historical charm. Whether you’re looking for a lively night out or a quiet drink in a relaxed setting, Sundsvall has something for everyone. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the city’s bar and pub scene.

1. Popular Bars and Pubs in Sundsvall

A. Udda Tapas Bar

  • Ambiance: A trendy and modern bar with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Known for its stylish interior and creative tapas menu, Udda Tapas Bar is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
  • Specialties: Craft cocktails, local beers, and a wide selection of tapas dishes. Try their Swedish-inspired tapas for a local twist.
  • Pricing:
    • Cocktails: SEK 120–150
    • Beer (draft): SEK 80–100
    • Tapas dishes: SEK 60–120 per plate
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday–Thursday: 4:00 PM–11:00 PM
    • Friday–Saturday: 4:00 PM–1:00 AM
    • Sunday: Closed
  • Tips: Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. Dress code is smart casual.

B. O’Learys Sundsvall

  • Ambiance: A lively sports bar with a casual and friendly vibe. Perfect for watching live sports while enjoying drinks and pub food.
  • Specialties: Classic pub fare like burgers, wings, and nachos. They also serve a variety of beers, including Swedish and international brands.
  • Pricing:
    • Beer (bottle or draft): SEK 70–90
    • Main dishes: SEK 150–250
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PM
    • Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM–1:00 AM
    • Sunday: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM
  • Tips: No reservations needed unless you’re booking a table for a large group. Casual attire is fine.

C. Invito Ristorante Italiano

  • Ambiance: While primarily an Italian restaurant, Invito transforms into a chic bar in the evenings. It’s a great spot for a more upscale experience.
  • Specialties: Italian wines, Prosecco, and expertly crafted cocktails. They also serve small Italian-inspired bar snacks.
  • Pricing:
    • Wine by the glass: SEK 100–150
    • Cocktails: SEK 120–160
    • Snacks: SEK 50–100
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday–Thursday: 11:30 AM–10:00 PM
    • Friday–Saturday: 11:30 AM–12:00 AM
    • Sunday: Closed
  • Tips: Reservations are recommended for dinner, but walk-ins are usually fine for drinks. Dress code is business casual.

D. Daltons Saloon

  • Ambiance: A Western-themed pub with a rustic, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a fun and quirky spot for a casual night out.
  • Specialties: A wide selection of beers, including Swedish craft brews, and hearty pub food like ribs and steaks.
  • Pricing:
    • Beer: SEK 70–100
    • Main dishes: SEK 150–300
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday–Thursday: 4:00 PM–11:00 PM
    • Friday–Saturday: 4:00 PM–1:00 AM
    • Sunday: Closed
  • Tips: No reservations needed. Casual attire is acceptable.

E. Bishop’s Arms Sundsvall

  • Ambiance: A classic British-style pub with a cozy and traditional feel. Known for its extensive beer and whiskey selection.
  • Specialties: Local and international beers, ciders, and a curated whiskey menu. They also serve traditional pub food like fish and chips.
  • Pricing:
    • Beer: SEK 80–120
    • Whiskey: SEK 100–200 per glass
    • Food: SEK 150–250
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday–Thursday: 4:00 PM–11:00 PM
    • Friday–Saturday: 4:00 PM–1:00 AM
    • Sunday: Closed
  • Tips: No reservations needed. The pub can get busy on weekends, so arrive early to secure a table. Dress code is casual.

2. Local Features and Traditions

  • Swedish Drinking Culture: Swedes tend to enjoy their drinks in a relaxed and social manner. It’s common to start the evening with a meal before heading to a bar or pub. Many locals also enjoy "after work" (AW) drinks, which are informal gatherings with colleagues or friends after the workday.
  • Fika Culture: While fika (coffee and cake) is more of a daytime tradition, some bars and pubs offer fika-inspired cocktails or desserts, blending this Swedish custom into the nightlife experience.
  • Craft Beer Scene: Sundsvall has a growing craft beer scene, and many bars feature local brews. Don’t hesitate to ask the bartender for recommendations.

3. Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Age Restrictions: The legal drinking age in Sweden is 18 for bars and pubs, but some establishments may have a 20+ age limit, especially for late-night entry.
  • Payment: Most bars and pubs in Sundsvall are cashless, so be prepared to pay with a card or mobile payment app like Swish.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Sweden, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for excellent service is appreciated.
  • Reservations: While most bars and pubs don’t require reservations, it’s a good idea to book a table in advance for popular spots like Udda Tapas Bar or Invito, especially on weekends.
  • Dress Code: Sundsvall’s nightlife is generally casual, but some upscale venues may expect smart casual attire. Avoid overly casual clothing like gym wear or flip-flops.
  • Alcohol Prices: Alcohol in Sweden is relatively expensive due to high taxes. Budget accordingly, and consider starting your evening with a drink at home if you’re looking to save money.

4. Safety and Etiquette

  • Drinking Responsibly: Public intoxication is frowned upon in Sweden, and rowdy behavior may result in being denied entry to bars or being asked to leave.
  • Smoking: Smoking is not allowed inside bars and pubs. Designated smoking areas are usually available outside.
  • Last Call: Bars and pubs in Sundsvall typically stop serving alcohol 30 minutes before closing time, so plan your orders accordingly.

5. Summary

Sundsvall’s bar and pub scene offers a mix of cozy, traditional venues and modern, trendy spots. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a cocktail lover, or just looking for a relaxed evening with friends, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your taste. Remember to check opening hours, as they can vary, and enjoy the warm hospitality and unique flavors of this Swedish city.