Läckö Opera
The grand courtyard has fantastic acoustics, and the summer opera at Läckö Castle is well known and loved far beyond the borders of Västra Götaland - and even the whole of Sweden. Come rain or shine, audiences have flocked to the fairytale castle on Kållandsö to enjoy everything from Mozart to Benjamin Britten.
Upcoming events
Opera at Läckö since 1997
It started with one man standing alone in the empty courtyard, unable to resist trying out his voice against the high whitewashed walls. Now, over 50 singers, musicians, creators and stage technicians take over the courtyard every summer, transforming it into a unique venue for musical theatre.
The activities have become a natural part of the Läckö Castle Foundation's mission towards its visitors: to convey cultural history and cultural experiences in a living, qualitative and enriching way. Explore our calendar to find out more about upcoming opera performances, concerts and exhibitions at the castle.
In the past, our creators have performed interpretations of Macbeth, Figaro's Weddings, The go on and The Gazzetta. In our archive you can explore all the performances we have offered at the castle since 1997.
Latest news
Summer Opera 2026: Fidelio by Beethoven
Fidelio is Beethoven's only opera. A rescue opera, its plot is said to be based on a real event from the French Revolution.
It is a work whose story can reflect many situations in our time where human rights are suppressed and ordinary people are killed or taken away into captivity.
Tickets will be released on 1 December 2025.
Take the bus to the castle opera on Läckö
By travelling with the opera bus, you don't have to worry about parking or who in your party will be driving. Relax and enjoy a comfortable journey together with other opera guests! The opera bus departs from Läckö Castle fifteen minutes after the end of the opera performance and then goes directly back to Lidköping. Please note that tickets for the opera bus must be pre-booked.
Comfortable bus transport to the opera
Bus transport ToR Lidköping - Läckö Slott via Spikens fishing harbour in connection with the opera performed at Läckö Slott.
Departure times
- 16:30: Perfect for those who want to have dinner at Spiken's fishing harbour or at Läckö Castle before the performance. The bus picks up those who eat in Spiken at approx. 19.10 and drives on to Läckö Castle so that you have time to pre-order coffee for the break or just enjoy our beautiful foyer before we open the doors to the main courtyard at 19.40.
- 18:40: Direct transport to the Opera.
Departure points
- Skaragatan at the Old Town Square (outside the Stadshotellet).
- Kronocamping (bus stop Läckögatan) +5 min from departure at Stadshotellet.
Return journey
The bus departs 15 minutes after the end of the opera and goes directly back to Lidköping.
Important information
- Pre-book your ticket: Tickets are not sold on the bus and seats are limited - please book when you buy your opera ticket.
- Get there on time: You are responsible for being in place before departure.
New this year, the bus stops at the bottom of the castle hill, so it's only 200 metres to walk up to the courtyard
Opera buses run on HVO 100 - a completely fossil-free fuel. This means that your journey to and from the performance has a significantly smaller environmental footprint. So when you choose the bus, you're not only choosing a comfortable and easy route to the castle, you're also making a more sustainable choice for Lake Vänern, nature and the future.
Our performing arts
The magic of opera at Läckö Castle
Unique repertoire and artistic profile
Over the years, Läckö Castle Opera has become known for its courageous and original choice of repertoire. Instead of only performing the most well-known classics, we have often chosen lesser-known works and rarities. For example, we were the first to stage Fantasio by Jacques Offenbach on a Swedish opera stage.
Among the composers staged are Emmanuel Chabrier, Hector Berlioz and Heinrich Marschner, as well as several Swedish premieres; something that few others can boast. With each production, we endeavour to contribute artistic excitement to the Swedish summer opera scene.
Newly written Swedish operas at Läckö
Over the years, two new operas have premiered at Läckö Castle, namely Magnus Gabriel (2008) by Daniel Börtz, with a plot drawn from the castle's own history, and It is possible (2016) by Daniel Fjellström, based on the novel by Carl Jonas Love Almqvist. These productions have not only highlighted the history of the castle and the region, but also helped to develop the Swedish opera repertoire.
Stage design and acoustics at the castle
Year after year, the courtyard is reborn, as the stage is remodelled for each season to reflect the requirements of the production. In this way, each production has its own visual character. Since 2016, there has been a large sail roof that can be stretched out in case of rain, so that we can hold our performances regardless of the weather. The Borggården's acclaimed acoustics, which have been appreciated by visitors and critics alike, embrace the nuances of the music in an outstanding way and make the venue particularly suitable for opera.
Before you visit the Opera
Don't forget to book tickets for the opera before your visit. It's also a good idea to plan your journey here, as parking is limited. Read up and plan your visit by exploring our opening hours, photography rules and other information that may be important to know. If you want to spend the night in the castle grounds, we also offer bed and breakfast accommodation at Victoria House.
See & Do
Explore more activities
In addition to the gripping opera stage at Läckö, we offer guided tours, concerts and exhibitions that enrich and impress visitors of all ages. On the castle grounds, you can also enjoy boat and kayak trips, discovery tours and hiking trails in nature or along the water's edge.
Exhibitions
Läckö Castle is not only a majestic fortress from the age of great power, but also a vibrant cultural centre with a rich tradition of exhibitions. For decades, our halls, castle rooms and exteriors have been transformed into galleries, theatres and themed rooms where history, art and culture are woven together in a captivating mix. Explore our diverse range of exhibitions and join us on a journey back in time.
Concerts
In our castle area you will have the opportunity to experience unforgettable evenings with music and entertainment on a professional level. Sessions in Lidköping offers music and entertainment by bands and artists throughout the summer. Take the concert bus from Stadshotellet and experience the scenic surroundings of the castle area.
Guided tours
Immerse yourself in the history of the castle, hike in the nature reserve or enjoy a paddle trip through Lake Vänern. We offer educational guided tours of the castle, the nature centre and other scenic areas around Kållandsö. Enjoy an inspiring day at the castle with your family, friends, colleagues or class.
Hiking
When visiting Lidköping, don't miss the picturesque hiking trails out on Kållandsö. Choose a hiking trail that suits you and your party or book a hiking package with associated accommodation, parking, food and drink. In connection with your hike, you can visit the castle for an exciting insight into our history.
Canoe / Kayak
Canoeing or kayaking in Lake Vänern is a unique nature experience that you will never forget. There are calm waters and sheltered bays, but also more challenging paddles in the open sea. Whether you want to go out on your own or in a group, there are countless opportunities to experience Lake Vänern up close.
Boat trips
Experience a unique and scenic boat trip on Lake Vänern with an experienced guide. On our tour you get to explore Djurö National Park up close and view the mainland from a lake perspective. Bring a packed lunch or morning coffee, sit back and enjoy a full day trip full of idyllic nature experiences.