Gotland Medieval Week 2025: Knights, Vikings, and Pirate Fun
Every August, the medieval world returns to life in one of the most magical places in Europe – Visby, the crown jewel of Sweden’s Baltic island, Gotland. And trust us, Gotland Medieval Week 2025 (August 3–10) isn’t your average history lesson.
For eight vibrant days, the ancient cobblestone streets hum with lute music, clanging swords, galloping horses, and the laughter of kids pretending to be dragonslayers. Since its start in 1984, the festival has grown into a massive event, welcoming over 100,000 visits every year. What began as a living history experiment is now Sweden’s largest historical celebration – and one of the most immersive in Europe.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this medieval week so unforgettable.
🏹 Medieval Magic Around Every Corner
Visby’s preserved city walls, church ruins, and stone alleys are a UNESCO World Heritage site, making the entire town feel like a film set. But it’s the people – the jesters, pirates, noblewomen, and Vikings – who bring it to life.
In 2025, the theme is "Water," so expect a wave of pirate action, sea sagas, and treasure hunts!
🎭 Highlights Include:
- Jousting Tournaments: At the Strandgärdet arena, armored knights clash in epic battles on horseback. You’ll cheer, gasp, and maybe cover your eyes during the dramatic reenactments of the Battle of Wisby 1361 (Aug 7–9).
- Historical Encampments: More than 10 themed camps pop up across Visby. From Viking sagas to pirate sword fights, you can wander through and watch history in motion.
- Markets & Crafts: Open daily from 11:00–19:00, Visby’s medieval markets sell handmade goods like wool cloaks, pewter mugs, and iron tools. There’s even a massive handicraft bazaar at Kapitelhusgården.
- Music & Fire Shows: From solemn Gregorian chant concerts in church ruins to folk-rock concerts under the stars, the festival comes alive at night. Don’t miss fire shows and street performances from groups like TRiX – they’re legendary!
- Family Fun: Kids get their own playground paradise with puppet shows, fair games, and the Riddargård straw castle. The “Swords & Sorcery” game takes kids on a quest across the island with 30+ challenges to conquer.
- Workshops: Learn how to shoot a bow, forge metal, cook medieval-style meals, or weave your own bag. Many workshops are donation-based or free.
🎟️ Tickets & Admission
Getting in is simple. You can grab a festival pass for full access to markets, events, and open workshops. Here’s the breakdown:
- 8-Day Adult Pass: ~689 SEK (about €60)
- Youth (16–20): ~517 SEK
- Child (7–15): ~345 SEK
- Under 6: Free!
🎟️ Some events require separate tickets, like the jousts or cathedral concerts (~195 SEK for adults). Pro tip: book early, especially for the big shows and reenactments.
Buy tickets online through the official site or Nortic.
🧳 How to Make the Most of Your Trip
Whether you're a seasoned time traveler or a first-timer, here are some tips to make your adventure extra smooth.
✈️ Getting There
Visby is well-connected:
- Fly into Visby Airport (just 4 km from the old town).
- Ferry from Stockholm’s Nynäshamn or Oskarshamn – a scenic Baltic trip!
- On the island: Rent a car or bike to explore Gotland’s countryside.
🏕️ Where to Stay
Book early – Visby fills up fast during Medieval Week!
- Hotels, hostels, and B&Bs: Book well in advance.
- Festival Camping at Galgberget:
- Modern camping (tents, RVs, toilets, electric hookups)
- Medieval camp (no power, costumes required!)
Both are within walking distance of the old town.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tips
- Head to the KidZone for safe, fun activities.
- Costumes add to the fun! Even a simple tunic or cloak helps your kids dive into the experience.
- Volunteers and performers are incredibly welcoming – kids are encouraged to ask questions and participate.
🎒 What to Pack
- Sun gear: sunscreen, hats, water bottles.
- Rain gear: light coat – summer showers can surprise you.
- Good shoes: The cobblestones and fields demand comfy walking footwear.
- Picnic gear: A blanket or mat is great for open-air meals at the ruins or the beach.
💰 Money & Meals
- Some vendors accept cards, but having Swedish kronor on hand is smart.
- Don’t miss local eats! Try:
- Rustic stews and flatbreads
- Caramelized almonds
- Saffranspannkaka (Gotland’s saffron rice pudding – yum!)
🎉 Why You'll Love It
This isn’t just a festival – it’s an adventure. You’re not just watching history; you’re stepping into it. With over 800 events across 40 venues, Gotland Medieval Week is one of Europe’s biggest and most immersive historical celebrations.
Visby’s dreamy, storybook setting makes it all feel real. You’ll meet people who’ve been coming for years, crafting their own armor or performing for crowds in firelight. Whether you’re in costume or not, everyone’s welcome, from kids in cardboard helmets to fully armored knights.
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