Sundsvall

🛍️

Shopping Centers

Large indoor malls and shopping centers offering a variety of retail stores, supermarkets, and dining options.

Sections

1. Birsta City

Overview:
Birsta City is the largest and most popular shopping center in Sundsvall, and one of the largest in northern Sweden. It is a modern, well-organized mall that attracts visitors from across the region.

  • Location: Gesällvägen 1, 857 53 Sundsvall (approximately 9 km north of Sundsvall city center).
  • Types of Stores:
    Birsta City houses over 90 stores, including international brands like H&M, Zara, and Lindex, as well as Swedish favorites such as KappAhl, Stadium, and Clas Ohlson. You’ll also find electronics stores (Elgiganten), home goods (Hemtex, IKEA nearby), and beauty shops (KICKS, The Body Shop).
  • Entertainment Options:
    While primarily a shopping destination, Birsta City offers family-friendly amenities such as play areas for children. Nearby, you’ll find IKEA, which is a popular attraction in itself.
  • Dining Options:
    The food court includes a variety of options, from fast food (McDonald’s, Subway) to sit-down restaurants offering Swedish and international cuisine.
  • Typical Costs:
    Prices are standard for Sweden, with clothing items ranging from SEK 200–1,000 depending on the brand. Dining costs range from SEK 80–150 for a meal.
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM
    • Saturday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
    • Sunday: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
      (Note: Hours may vary during holidays.)
  • Transportation Options:
    • By Car: Free parking is available, and the center is easily accessible via the E4 highway.
    • By Bus: Local buses (e.g., lines 1 and 2) connect Sundsvall city center to Birsta City. The journey takes about 15–20 minutes.
    • By Taxi: Taxis are available but can be expensive (approximately SEK 150–200 from the city center).
  • Local Tips:
    • Visit IKEA, located just next to Birsta City, for affordable home goods and a classic Swedish fika (coffee and cake) at their café.
    • Weekends can be busy, so plan your visit during weekdays for a more relaxed experience.

2. In:Gallerian

Overview:
In:Gallerian is a centrally located shopping mall in Sundsvall, perfect for those who want to shop without leaving the city center. It offers a mix of retail, dining, and services.

  • Location: Storgatan 26, 852 30 Sundsvall (in the heart of the city center).
  • Types of Stores:
    In:Gallerian features a mix of fashion stores (e.g., MQ, Gina Tricot), shoe stores, and specialty shops. It also has stores for electronics, books, and gifts.
  • Entertainment Options:
    While it doesn’t have large-scale entertainment facilities, its central location makes it a great starting point for exploring Sundsvall’s cultural attractions, such as the nearby Kulturmagasinet (cultural center and library).
  • Dining Options:
    The mall has a few cafés and restaurants offering light meals, coffee, and pastries.
  • Typical Costs:
    Similar to Birsta City, with clothing items ranging from SEK 200–1,000 and meals costing SEK 80–150.
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
    • Saturday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
    • Sunday: Closed (some stores may open on Sundays).
  • Transportation Options:
    • By Foot: Easily accessible if you’re staying in the city center.
    • By Bus: Most city buses stop near Storgatan.
    • By Car: Parking is available in nearby garages, but it can be limited during peak hours.
  • Local Tips:
    • Combine your visit with a stroll along Storgatan, Sundsvall’s main shopping street, which features additional boutiques and restaurants.
    • Check out local Swedish brands for unique souvenirs.

3. Skönsberg Centrum

Overview:
Skönsberg Centrum is a smaller shopping area located in the Skönsberg district, catering primarily to locals. It’s a convenient spot for everyday shopping and services.

  • Location: Skönsbergsvägen, 856 31 Sundsvall (about 3 km northeast of the city center).
  • Types of Stores:
    This center includes grocery stores (ICA, Coop), pharmacies, and a few specialty shops. It’s more focused on practical shopping than fashion or luxury.
  • Entertainment Options:
    Limited entertainment options, but the area is close to green spaces and local parks.
  • Dining Options:
    A few casual eateries and cafés are available.
  • Typical Costs:
    Grocery prices are standard for Sweden, with basic items like bread costing around SEK 20–30.
  • Opening Hours:
    • Grocery stores: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM (varies by store).
    • Other shops: Typically 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.
  • Transportation Options:
    • By Bus: Several local bus lines connect Skönsberg to the city center.
    • By Car: Parking is available and usually free.
  • Local Tips:
    • This is a good spot for picking up essentials if you’re staying in the area.
    • It’s less touristy, so you’ll get a more local experience.

4. Nacksta Centrum

Overview:
Nacksta Centrum is another smaller shopping area, located in the Nacksta district. It’s primarily focused on serving the local community.

  • Location: Nackstavägen, 853 53 Sundsvall (about 3 km west of the city center).
  • Types of Stores:
    Includes grocery stores, a pharmacy, and a few small shops.
  • Entertainment Options:
    Limited, but the area is close to residential neighborhoods and local parks.
  • Dining Options:
    A couple of small cafés and fast-food outlets.
  • Typical Costs:
    Similar to Skönsberg Centrum, with grocery prices being the main focus.
  • Opening Hours:
    • Grocery stores: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.
    • Other shops: Typically 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.
  • Transportation Options:
    • By Bus: Local buses connect Nacksta to the city center.
    • By Car: Parking is available and free.
  • Local Tips:
    • Ideal for quick grocery runs or if you’re staying in the Nacksta area.
    • Not a major tourist destination, but convenient for practical needs.

Cultural Insights and Local Considerations

  • Shopping Culture:
    Swedes value quality and sustainability, so you’ll find many stores offering eco-friendly and high-quality products. Sales periods (e.g., after Christmas and in late summer) are great times to shop for discounts.
  • Payment Methods:
    Sweden is largely cashless, so be prepared to pay with a credit or debit card. Mobile payment apps like Swish are also widely used.
  • Language:
    Most store staff speak English, so communication won’t be an issue.
  • Tax-Free Shopping:
    Non-EU visitors can claim VAT refunds on purchases over SEK 200. Ask for a tax-free form at the store.

Conclusion

Sundsvall offers a mix of large shopping centers like Birsta City and smaller, community-focused hubs like Skönsberg Centrum. Whether you’re looking for international brands, Swedish design, or everyday essentials, you’ll find plenty of options. For the best experience, plan your visits around public transportation schedules and take advantage of Sweden’s efficient and customer-friendly shopping culture.