Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a stunning city spread across 14 islands, known for its picturesque waterways, historic architecture, and innovative design. For those pondering things to do in Stockholm, exploring the charming old town, Gamla Stan, with its narrow cobblestone streets and the majestic Royal Palace, and visiting the Vasa Museum, home to a 17th-century warship, are essential experiences.
The city’s modern district of Södermalm offers a blend of trendy shops, hip cafes, and a vibrant cultural scene. The Skansen Open-Air Museum and Zoo provide a unique insight into Sweden’s past and an opportunity to experience traditional Swedish life.
Beyond its historical and cultural landmarks, Stockholm is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and green living, evident in its numerous parks and green spaces. For those exploring the best places to visit in Sweden, Stockholm’s blend of historical depth, architectural beauty, and environmental consciousness makes it a captivating and forward-thinking destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden
1. Gamla Stan (The Old Town)
Gamla Stan, the historic heart of Stockholm, is known for its well-preserved medieval cityscape, with narrow cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and the iconic Royal Palace.
Location: Central Stockholm, covering the island of Stadsholmen. Accessible by foot, bus, or metro (Gamla Stan station).
Scenic Spot: Colorful medieval buildings, Stortorget Square, and narrow cobblestone streets.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere or evening for a magical ambiance.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some streets have uneven cobblestones, which might be difficult for strollers or elderly visitors.
Price: Free to explore.
Travel Tip: Visit the Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral) and the Nobel Museum while exploring the charming alleyways.
2. Vasa Museum
The Vasa Museum is home to the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship, the Vasa, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. The museum offers an in-depth look into the maritime history of Sweden.
Location: Djurgården Island, Stockholm. Easily accessible by tram, bus, or ferry.
Scenic Spot: The massive, well-preserved 17th-century warship inside the museum.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but young children may find the historical content less engaging.
Price: Approximately 190 SEK (€16) for adults; free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: Join a guided tour to get the full story of the Vasa’s ill-fated journey and remarkable recovery.
3. Skansen Open-Air Museum
Skansen, the world’s first open-air museum, showcases traditional Swedish life through historic buildings, artisans in period clothing, and a variety of Scandinavian animals.
Location: Djurgården Island, Stockholm. Accessible via tram, bus, or ferry.
Scenic Spot: Historic Swedish buildings, costumed interpreters, and a zoo featuring Scandinavian animals.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for outdoor activities and special events.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for families with children.
Price: Approximately 220 SEK (€18) for adults; discounts for children and students.
Travel Tip: Visit during Swedish holidays like Midsummer, Christmas, or Walpurgis Night for special events and celebrations.
4. ABBA The Museum
For pop music fans, ABBA The Museum is an interactive experience dedicated to the iconic Swedish pop group.
Location: Djurgården Island, Stockholm. Accessible by tram, bus, or ferry.
Scenic Spot: Interactive exhibits, stage performances, and ABBA memorabilia.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for ABBA fans of all ages; children might enjoy the interactive elements.
Price: Approximately 290 SEK (€25) for adults; free for children under 7.
Travel Tip: Try the interactive exhibits, like singing and dancing with holograms of ABBA, and recording your own song in the museum’s studio.
5. Stockholm Archipelago
The Stockholm Archipelago, with thousands of islands, is a natural wonder. Take a boat tour to explore these scenic islands, enjoy traditional Swedish cuisine, and engage in outdoor activities.
Location: Extending from Stockholm into the Baltic Sea; accessible via ferry or private boat.
Scenic Spot: Thousands of islands with picturesque landscapes, fishing villages, and nature trails.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for boat tours, swimming, and outdoor activities.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some activities may be challenging for very young children or elderly travelers.
Price: Varies depending on ferry tickets or guided tours (starting from 150 SEK/€13).
Travel Tip: Visit Vaxholm, Grinda, or Sandhamn islands for a day trip or a relaxed overnight stay.
6. Djurgården
Djurgården is a peaceful island in central Stockholm, offering beautiful parks, walking paths, and several museums, including Skansen and the Vasa Museum.
Location: An island in central Stockholm, accessible by tram, bus, ferry, or walking from the city center.
Scenic Spot: Green parks, waterfront views, and cultural attractions.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for picnics and outdoor exploration.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Rent a bike to explore the island’s many attractions and scenic landscapes efficiently.
7. Fotografiska
Fotografiska is a contemporary photography museum, known for its high-quality exhibitions and stunning views of Stockholm from its café.
Location: Södermalm district, Stockholm. Accessible by bus, metro, or walking.
Scenic Spot: Stunning photography exhibitions and a rooftop café with panoramic views of Stockholm.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening for a relaxed visit and dinner.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and teenagers; younger children may find the content less engaging.
Price: Approximately 185 SEK (€16) for adults; discounts for students and seniors.
Travel Tip: Visit the museum in the evening and end your tour with a drink or a meal at the café, enjoying the beautiful view.
8. Moderna Museet
The Museum of Modern Art, located on Skeppsholmen Island, offers an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Dalí, and Matisse.
Location: Skeppsholmen Island, Stockholm. Accessible by ferry, bus, or walking.
Scenic Spot: Collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso and Dalí.
Best Time to Visit: Any time, but weekdays tend to be less crowded.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with some interactive exhibits for children.
Price: Free for the permanent collection; temporary exhibitions may require a ticket (around 150 SEK/€13).
Travel Tip: Admission to the museum’s permanent collection is free.
9. Drottningholm Palace
Drottningholm Palace, the private residence of the Swedish royal family, is renowned for its beautiful baroque architecture, stunning gardens, and the Drottningholm Court Theatre.
Location: Located on Lovön Island, about 10 km west of Stockholm; accessible by boat, bus, or car.
Scenic Spot: Baroque-style palace, manicured gardens, and a historic theatre.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for the gardens; autumn for fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some areas require walking on uneven paths.
Price: Approximately 150 SEK (€13) for adults; free for children under 7.
Travel Tip: Take a boat trip from the city center to Drottningholm for a scenic approach to the palace.
10. Royal Swedish Opera
For an evening of high culture, consider attending a performance at the Royal Swedish Opera. The opera house, located in the heart of Stockholm, offers world-class ballet and opera performances.
Location: Norrmalm, central Stockholm. Accessible by metro, bus, or walking.
Scenic Spot: Ornate interior with grand chandeliers and gold detailing.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for performances.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older children interested in opera or ballet.
Price: Ticket prices vary depending on the performance (starting at 200 SEK/€18).
Travel Tip: Check the performance schedule in advance and book tickets, as popular shows sell out quickly.
11. Stockholm City Hall
The Stockholm City Hall, with its stunning architecture and grand ceremonial halls, is a symbol of the city. It’s where the Nobel Prize banquet is held annually.
Location: Kungsholmen Island, central Stockholm. Accessible by bus, metro, or walking.
Scenic Spot: Blue Hall (Nobel Prize banquet venue) and the Golden Hall with its mosaic walls.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon for guided tours.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but young children may find the guided tour lengthy.
Price: Approximately 130 SEK (€11) for adults; discounts for students and seniors.
Travel Tip: Join a guided tour to see the Blue Hall and the Golden Hall with its famous mosaic made of over 18 million tiles.
12. Kungsträdgården
Kungsträdgården, a central park in Stockholm, is a popular gathering place and venue for events, concerts, and festivals. During spring, its cherry blossoms are a major attraction.
Location: Central Stockholm, near the Royal Palace. Accessible by metro, bus, or walking.
Scenic Spot: Cherry blossoms in spring, open-air ice skating in winter.
Best Time to Visit: April for cherry blossoms or December for winter activities.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for families and couples.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit in April to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms and the spring atmosphere.
13. Gröna Lund
Gröna Lund is Stockholm’s historic amusement park, located on Djurgården Island. It offers a variety of rides, games, and concerts during the summer.
Location: Djurgården Island, Stockholm. Accessible by tram, bus, or ferry.
Scenic Spot: Amusement park rides with a waterfront backdrop.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for rides and concerts.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with attractions for all age groups.
Price: Entry around 130 SEK (€11), plus additional ride costs.
Travel Tip: Check the concert schedule as Gröna Lund frequently hosts performances by popular artists.
14. Ostermalm
Ostermalm is an upscale district known for its exclusive shopping, fine dining, and elegant architecture. Visit the Östermalms Saluhall, a historic food market offering high-quality local and international cuisine.
Location: Central Stockholm, near the city center. Accessible by metro, bus, or walking.
Scenic Spot: Upscale shopping streets and the historic Östermalms Saluhall food market.
Best Time to Visit: Any time, though weekday mornings are less crowded.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but primarily of interest to adults.
Price: Free to visit, but shopping and dining costs vary.
Travel Tip: Even if you’re not shopping, the food hall is worth a visit for its atmosphere and architecture.
15. Stockholm Subway Art
The Stockholm subway system is known as the world’s longest art gallery, with stunning artwork in many of its stations.
Location: Various metro stations throughout Stockholm.
Scenic Spot: Artistic murals and installations in subway stations.
Best Time to Visit: Any time; off-peak hours for easier exploration.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for families and art lovers.
Price: Requires a metro ticket (approximately 42 SEK/€3.50 for a single ride).
Travel Tip: Take a self-guided tour of the subway stations to see the diverse range of art on display.
16. Monteliusvägen
Monteliusvägen is a scenic walking path along the heights of Södermalm, offering one of the best views of Stockholm’s cityscape and the waters of Lake Mälaren.
Location: Södermalm, Stockholm. Accessible by bus, metro, or walking.
Scenic Spot: Panoramic views of the Stockholm skyline and City Hall.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for the best views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the steep paths may be difficult for some.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Go at sunset for a breathtaking view of the city and a romantic walk.
17. Nordic Museum
The Nordic Museum showcases the cultural history and ethnography of Sweden from the 16th century to the present day.
Location: Djurgården Island, Stockholm. Accessible by tram, bus, or ferry.
Scenic Spot: Exhibits on Swedish traditions, fashion, and folklore.
Best Time to Visit: Any time; weekdays are less crowded.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but best for those interested in culture and history.
Price: Approximately 140 SEK (€12) for adults; free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: Check out the exhibitions focusing on traditional Swedish customs and lifestyles.
18. Hallwyl Museum
The Hallwyl Museum, housed in a late 19th-century palatial residence, showcases the life and collections of the wealthy Hallwyl family.
Location: Central Stockholm, near Norrmalmstorg.
Scenic Spot: Luxurious late 19th-century mansion interior.
Best Time to Visit: Any time; guided tours offer the best experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and history lovers.
Price: Free entry.
Travel Tip: The guided tour of the house provides a fascinating insight into Stockholm’s high society at the turn of the century.
19. Icebar Stockholm
For a unique experience, visit the Icebar Stockholm, where the bar, including the glasses, is made entirely of ice.
Location: Inside Hotel C Stockholm, near the central station.
Scenic Spot: A bar made entirely of ice, including the glasses.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a unique experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Open to all, but primarily appealing to adults.
Price: Approximately 250 SEK (€22), including a drink.
Travel Tip: Book in advance, especially during peak tourist season, and dress warmly – temperatures in the bar are below freezing.
Snapshots from My Journey in Stockholm, Sweden (2019)
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Stockholm, Sweden: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Stockholm: 9/10 – Stockholm offers numerous attractions for children. The Skansen open-air museum and zoo, Gröna Lund amusement park, and Junibacken (dedicated to Astrid Lindgren’s stories) are top choices for families. The city also features the Vasa Museum, showcasing a well-preserved 17th-century ship, and many parks, such as Djurgården, which are perfect for outdoor play.
Nightlife in Stockholm: 9/10 – Stockholm has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Areas like Södermalm and Stureplan are known for their nightlife offerings, from trendy clubs to cozy pubs. The city also hosts numerous cultural events, including concerts and theater performances, ensuring a lively night out.
Sport in Stockholm: 8/10 – Stockholm is excellent for sports enthusiasts. The city offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including kayaking, sailing, and cycling. Stockholm also has a rich sports culture, with major football teams like AIK and Djurgården IF, and hosts various sporting events, such as the Stockholm Marathon. Winter sports are accessible in nearby resorts, and the city’s parks provide ample space for jogging and other fitness activities.
Culture and Attractions in Stockholm: 10/10 – Stockholm is rich in cultural attractions and historical sites. Highlights include the Royal Palace, the Nobel Prize Museum, and the historic district of Gamla Stan with its cobblestone streets and medieval buildings. The city is home to numerous museums, such as the Moderna Museet and the ABBA Museum, and hosts a variety of cultural festivals and events throughout the year.
Gastronomy in Stockholm: 9/10 – Stockholm boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from traditional Swedish dishes to international cuisine. The city has numerous high-quality restaurants, including several Michelin-starred establishments. Local specialties such as herring, meatballs, and gravlax are widely available. The food markets, such as Östermalms Saluhall, are great places to sample local delicacies.
Shopping in Stockholm: 8/10 – Shopping in Stockholm is varied and enjoyable, with a mix of high-end boutiques, department stores, and unique local shops. Drottninggatan and Biblioteksgatan are popular shopping streets. The city also has several shopping centers, such as Mall of Scandinavia, and charming districts like Södermalm and Gamla Stan, offering vintage shops and Swedish design stores.
Prices in Stockholm: 6/10 – Stockholm is relatively expensive, consistent with the high cost of living in Sweden. Prices for accommodation, dining, and shopping are higher than in many other European cities, but the range of options allows for different budget levels.
Average price for a hotel night: 180 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 20 €
Price of a beer: 7 €
Price of a coffee: 4 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Stockholm, Sweden
For those looking to explore beyond the city’s archipelagic beauty, top day trips near Stockholm open the door to the rich history and stunning natural landscapes of the region. The royal palace of Drottningholm and the historic town of Sigtuna, along with the natural reserve of Tyresta National Park, offer memorable getaways.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Stockholm accommodations range from opulent hotels in the bustling city center to serene lakeside retreats, offering every traveler a haven of peace and luxury in the heart of Scandinavia’s largest metropolis.
FAQ About Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden
What are the top attractions in Stockholm, Sweden?
Stockholm’s top attractions include the Vasa Museum, Gamla Stan (the Old Town), the Royal Palace, and Skansen Open-Air Museum.
Can I visit any historic sites in Stockholm?
Absolutely! Don’t miss the historic Gamla Stan area, home to narrow medieval streets, the Stockholm Cathedral, and the Nobel Museum.
Are there any unique museums to visit in Stockholm?
Stockholm offers several unique museums like the ABBA Museum, the Moderna Museet for contemporary art, and the Fotografiska, a renowned photography museum.
What outdoor activities can I do in Stockholm?
Stockholm is surrounded by water and green spaces. Enjoy boat tours in the archipelago, hiking in Tyresta National Park, or a leisurely stroll in Djurgården.
Can I experience traditional Swedish cuisine in Stockholm?
Yes, you can enjoy traditional Swedish dishes like meatballs, herring, and Smörgåsbord in various restaurants throughout the city, especially in the Östermalm district.
Is there a good place for shopping in Stockholm?
For shopping, visit the Biblioteksgatan and its surroundings in Östermalm for high-end brands, or explore the boutiques and vintage shops in the Södermalm district.
Are guided tours available in Stockholm?
Yes, Stockholm offers various guided tours, including walking tours of Gamla Stan, boat tours around the archipelago, and themed tours like Viking history tours.
What nightlife options does Stockholm offer?
Stockholm’s nightlife is vibrant, with a range of options from cozy pubs in Gamla Stan to trendy clubs in Stureplan and live music venues in Södermalm.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stockholm
https://www.getyourguide.com/stockholm-l50/
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