Arriving in Piteå, I had low expectations. Again, I wanted to revisit a place, I spent summer vacations at, as a kid. And again, I had no recollection of the small town, it turned out to be. To my surprise, a charming little thing. I liked it better than Luleå. A lot smaller. Easily covered on a day trip. If in the region for a longer time, I wouldn’t mind having this as a base. The village is centred around Storgatan, the pedestrian main street, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Actually, Sweden’s first pedestrian street, opened in 1961. Following it, you will cross Rådhustorget (the main square), and at the end reach two parks, Badhusparken and Stadsparken, which in reality felt like one. Move a little to the left, along the canal, and you’ll be at the harbour, and the sculpture park. For me, the allure is the wooden houses, street art pieces, a dash of modern architecture, and village vibe.
I travelled here from Luleå, by bus, which might be the only way of reaching it, in regards to public transportation. There’s no train station nor airport. Closest could be Luleå’s. The bus was a good option, though. An hour ride, the direct routes. Departs several times a day. 100 SEK for a one-way ticket. You can use the app for tickets, I paid the driver, credit card only. Luleå bus station is at one end of the town’s main street. Piteå bus station is a short walk away from its equivalent. It’s not obvious in which direction to head, after exiting the bus station, so follow the “crowd”, or check the map.
Website: pitea.se/turism
Going there
