Leave your car in the town centre and walk via Elsborg, the old town, up to Falu Gruva (Falu Mine). Stroll along the street called Berghauptmansgatan and make little detours via the side streets, where many of the former miners’ cottages remain intact. In the 17th century, the town’s heyday, this now pleasant district was a terrible area, where disease, sulphur dioxide fumes and drunkenness were rife. There was no vegetation here, and families lived in cramped conditions. But the close proximity of the mine, which was Sweden’s largest workplace, meant that many miners had no choice.

Via Berghauptmansgatan street, you will reach Falu Mine, which offers many activities for visitors who want to learn more about the Falun World Heritage site. Follow one of the knowledgeable guides down into the mine, visit the Världsarvshuset (world heritage centre), Gruvhospitalet (mine hospital) and Gruvmuseet (mine museum). In good weather, take the opportunity to go for exciting walks on the paths around Stora Stöten (the Great Pit).
 
Walk through the Elsborg district back to the town centre and to Dalarnas Museum, which includes a fantastic exhibition about the world heritage town and industrial landscape. Here, you not only find out more about the Falun World Heritage site but also the different industries nearby.
 
For more details about the Bergsmansbygden area of homesteads where mining cooperative members lived, don’t miss Gamla Staberg, which is the local visitor centre. It includes a pretty 17th century garden, a shop, a film room, walking trails and a popular café.  
The Tourist Information Office in Falun at 10-12 Trotzgatan street provides maps and more information. Call +46 23-830 50.