Welcome to Uddevalla!

The Heart of the Swedish West Coast

Where people flourish and enjoy life!

Uddevalla grew from the establishment of trade crossroads during the Middle Ages in the changing border between Sweden and Norway. It was first founded as Norwegian trade centre and was granted town charter in 1498. Fishing was important for growth and growth was spurred through recurrent enormous shoals of herring and a lively export trade.

Industrialization in the 19th century formed the basis of the city´s diversified economy today. Various old enterprises like the Uddevalla Safety Match Factory and later on textile businesses like the Tiger mill, and last but not least the renowned Uddevalla shipyard, have contributed to Uddevalla´s expansion over the years.

The community has developed into a modern regional hub today counting over 52.000 inhabitants. Now Uddevalla is one of the largest municipalities in Region Västra Götaland and has expanding trade and services industries.

Uddevalla is situated beautiful in the inner part of a fjord, and has a 270 kilometres long shore line. There are many opportunities for shopping and outdoor recreation like hiking, cykling, bathing, fishing and water sports.

Take a walk along the sea side from  the 10.000 years old shellbanks through the city centre to the oldest seaside resort in Europe, Gustafsberg where Swedish kings used to visit.

Welcome to the heart of the Swedish west coast, welcome to us!