Planning a family getaway can be challenging, especially when you have kids to consider. But don’t worry! Markaryd, a charming town in southern Sweden, offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and educational experiences for whole families. Below you can find a comprehensive 48-hour itinerary that ensures your family makes the most out of your stay in Markaryd.
Day 1: Explore the Nature
9:00 – 10:00: Arrival and Check-In
Markaryd offers you a few places to stay, including two hotels – Ekebacken and Stora Hotellet, and a campsite Sjötorpet. It’s up to you which type of accommodation you choose. Arrive to Markaryd in the morning, leave your luggage (your room may be not available until afternoon) and start exploring the town.
For the purposes of this post I’m assuming that you’re staying at Ekebacken Hotel. A review of our stay there coming soon.
10:30 – 12:30: Markaryds Älgpark (Moose Safari)
Start your day with a visit to Smålandet – Markaryds Älgpark, a must-see attraction where you and your kids can get up close with majestic moose and american bisons. The park offers a drive-through safari experience, allowing you to observe these beautiful animals in their natural habitat. The other option you can choose from is a trip with a special train. Both experiences are worth trying – personally I can’t decide which one I prefer. Don’t forget your camera!
13:00 – 14:30: Lunch at Smålandet Restaurant
After your moose adventure, take your steps to the on-site Smålandet Restaurant for a hearty Swedish lunch. The restaurant offers a few interesting meal options, including moose kebab and köttbullar (traditional Swedish meatballs) as well as bison hamburgers. Kids menu is also available.
15:00 – 17:00: Time for Hike
Markaryd offers multiple hiking trails which I described more in another blog post. For this time I would suggest choosing Spångenrundan as it would perfectly fill your afternoon and lead you straight to a perfect place for family dinner that you can enjoy on your way back to the hotel.
17:30 – 19:00 : Dinner at Restaurang Perrongen
End your day with a delicious dinner at Restaurang Perrongen. The restaurant is located just by the entrance to platforms at Markaryd train station and offer a unique atmosphere. The menu is based on local and seasonal flavours. This place offers also kid menu that includes hamburgers and chicken popcorn.
19:30: Back to Hotel and Relaxation
Return to Ekebacken Hotell & Konferens for some rest and good night sleep. Enjoy your time together or go to bed immediately so you are ready for upcoming adventures of the following day.
Day 2: Continue Your Exploration
8:00 – 10:00: Breakfast at the Hotel and Check-out
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at the hotel. Pack your stuff, check out of the hotel and get ready for a new adventure.
10:30 – 12:30: Visit Vetenskaphus
Vetenskaphus is an interactive museum with two exhibitions – one temporary (Noble Prize exhibition presented currently) and the permanent one – Energi i balans. It is educational experience for the whole family and I’m sure everyone will have so much fun, regardless of their age.
13:00 – 14:30: Enjoy Your Lunch
Depending on what would you like to eat, I can propose one of the three places for your lunch. If you want to enjoy fast food with a view for the heart of Markaryd, enjoying the sun and a good weather, feel free to visit Torggrillen (Drottninggatan 7, 285 31 Markaryd).
If you feel like eating pizza or kebab, I’d suggest paying a visit to Markaryds Pizzabutik (Östergatan 9, 285 32 Markaryd) Don’t be afraid to order salads – chicken salad is my absolute favourite) where my husband enjoys Kebab Pizza every time we’re there.
Last but not least, if you think you want like to eat a bigger meal, try Restaurant Aroma (Östergatan 5, 285 31 Markaryd) that offers variety of meals, including pasta and other Italian specialties, steaks and, of course, kids menu.
15:00 – 17:30: Enjoy the Lake
It is time for another hike – this time I would recommend Getesjörundan with a short stop for a short swim in the lake Getesjön and having fun on the sandy beach. The rest of this hiking trail goes through calm residential areas and a green forest.
18:00 – 19:30: Visit Traryd Mini Zoo
Leave Markaryd for a moment and pay a visit to those friendly farm animals in Djurparken Traryd Skans. It’s located around 20km from Markaryd’s centre but worth seeing and making a picnic in a lovely environment. Ducks, chickens, peacocks, sheep, pigs, rabbits… And this is just a beginning. Bring a blanket, some snacks and enjoy this late afternoon in this small farm.
20:00: Time to Leave
Your two-days stay in Markaryd just came to an end. It’s time to leave this time but Markaryd has so much more to offer so don’t hesitate and come back as soon as possible to enjoy other hiking trails and attractions available in the area.
Some Other Tips For Your Trip
Where to stay?
Where to eat?
- Restaurang Perrongen
- Restaurant Aroma
- Markaryds Pizzabutik
- Torggrillen
- Central Conditoriet
- Asia Corner
- Restaurang ThaiPalaset
Shopping
Conclusion
Markaryd is an excellent destination for families looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and educational experiences. This 48-hour itinerary is designed to ensure that both parents and kids have a fantastic time exploring everything this charming town has to offer.
From getting up close with moose to engaging in museum activities, every moment is filled with fun and discovery. So pack your bags and head to Markaryd for an unforgettable family adventure! By following this itinerary, you’ll create lasting memories and enjoy a seamless, stress-free trip. Safe travels!
