7 tips for a successful conference in Gotland

1. Start your conference on the ferry

Gotland offers a unique advantage: the journey itself is part of the experience. Book a conference room onboard and kick off with a short workshop, lecture, or activity while still on the ferry.

This accomplishes two things:

-The group immediately gets into the right mindset

-You save time once you arrive

2. Gotland is suitable all year round

Many automatically think of May–September when planning a conference on Gotland. However, the truth is that the island works just as well, if not better, during the rest of the year.

Each season has its own character:

-Spring – the light and energy as the island awakens

-Summer – vibrancy, restaurants, and life in Visby

-Autumn – a calmer pace and fantastic evenings

-Winter – raw, beautiful, and very focused

Even the winter months of December – February, the cold and stark months out here in the Baltic Sea, offer something special. The sea, wind, and silence create an environment where your group can truly settle in, reflect, and work together.

And sometimes, that's exactly what a really good conference needs.

3. Use Visby – not just the conference room

Visby is essentially a giant outdoor meeting space.

Tips for different outdoor 'venues'

-Walk & Talk around the City Wall

-Workshop in Almedalen

-Group Exercises in the Botanical Garden

People think better when they move.

4. Book Dinners in Visby

Visby boasts one of Sweden's best restaurant selections per square meter. So, make sure your group doesn't get stuck at the hotel.
You can view our various dinner options here.

Conferences are often decided over a glass of wine – not in the meeting room.

5. Include an Activity to Break Up the Day

Make sure to experience Gotland beyond the conference room. Check out our activities here, including:

–The Hunt for the Havor Ring

–So Much Gotland

–Mission Gotland

–Expedition Gotland

–So Much Better

6. Consider All of Visby as a Conference Destination

In Visby, the entire city functions as a conference destination, where accommodation, meetings, restaurants, and entertainment are all conveniently located within walking distance.

7. Allow for Some Free Time in the Schedule

The biggest mistake many make is having overly packed schedules.

Gotland works best when there's room for:

-Spontaneous conversations

-Walks

-An ice cream in the evening sun