Port of Call Visby, Gotland Sweden

The island of Gotland, Sweden has been a popular holiday destination for Swedes and other Scandinavians for a long time. There is a good airport, frequent ferry service and it has recently become a Baltic cruise itinerary port of call.

Where Your Ship Docks

Gotland has good port facilities and cruise ships will usually tie up at a pier. While there are no facilities at the pier it is only a short distance into the historic town of Visby.

\Wheelchair Accessibility

Disembarking – This port has a cruise ship pier but the ease of disembarking varies by the individual ships gangway designs. For passengers using wheelchairs there can be a moderate ramp incline to deal with.

Port Characteristics – The port has a moderate to steep geography where there are typically elevations and inclines to deal with. There is a good sidewalk to take you into historic Visby but it is steep in places. Streets in town have curbs and some cobblestones.

The town wall and gates

Currency

The island uses the Swedish Krona (SEK). 1 USD = 10.19 SEK.

Transportation

Most cruise ships provide shuttle buses into Visby but the walk is under a mile. Tours are the best option to see more of the island but there are rental cars near the port.

Attractions

The medieval town of Visby is near the port and probably the island’s major attraction. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for the protective walls, gates and well preserved medieval buildings and ruins, making it the main attraction on Gotland.

Fårö Island – Located north of Gotland, Fårö is famous for its stunning beaches, unique rauks (limestone formations), and as the filming location for Ingmar Bergman’s movies. source

Lummelunda Cave – This impressive limestone cave, which features unique formations and an underground river, offers guided tours that showcase its natural beauty.

Christian History – Gotland is also famous for its rich Christian history that dates back to the Nordic Middle Ages, significantly influenced by Danish and Swedish missionaries. Many churches founded during this period still stand on the island and are the focus of popular excursions. The island is home to some notable medieval churches, like St. Mary’s Cathedral in Visby, along with the remains of almost a dozen other churches demonstrating the historical spread of Christianity in Sweden. Christianity has shaped Gotland’s culture, architecture, and festivals, reflecting the island’s long-standing religious traditions.

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