travel near stockholm

12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Stockholm

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Karen Hastings Updated Apr 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Swedes love the outdoors, and the picturesque countryside around Stockholm , with islands, woodlands, lakes, and coastal towns, offers plenty of opportunities for adventures and day trips.

Excellent road, rail, and ferry links will take you wherever you want to go, and you'll find many of Sweden's top places to visit just a short hop from the city. Fairy-tale palaces, spectacular waterways, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Viking relics, and medieval villages await.

More than 30,000 islands lie in the sprawling archipelago, and many are close enough for a short (or long) day trip. You can easily take a ferry or sightseeing boat trip from Stockholm to explore them and see all their top attractions.

Plan your Swedish adventures with our list of the top day trips from Stockholm.

1. Drottningholm Palace: The Queen's Castle

2. sigtuna: sweden's first town, 3. visit the ancient university city of uppsala, 4. the viking settlement of birch island (björkö), 5. boat trip across lake malar to historic mariefred, 6. medieval gripsholm castle, 7. modernist enskede woodland cemetery (skogskyrkogården), 8. venture into the archipelago to visit the fortress of vaxholm, 9. the seaside resort of saltsjöbaden, 10. explore lake malar (mälaren), 11. the island of sandhamn, 12. stora fjäderholmen, map of day trips from stockholm.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , stunning Drottningholm Palace (Drottningholms slott) dates from the 17th century and was built for Queen Eleonora. Today the palace is the residence of the Swedish Royal Family.

It lies on the island of Lovö, roughly 11 kilometers west of Stockholm center — a journey of about 45 minutes by boat.

In the beautiful park, with its terraces and avenues of lime trees, are various bronze sculptures brought back from Denmark and Bohemia as trophies of war. In 1774, Drottningholm was bequeathed to Queen Luise Ulrike (sister of Frederick the Great) as a wedding gift, and new wings were added, along with the Chinese Pavilion .

The 18th-century Palace Theatre (Drottningholms Slottsteater) is still frequently used for performances and has stage machinery dating back to the reign of Gustavus III. Scenery and costumes from the period are displayed in the theater museum.

The palace's two large gardens, designed in Baroque and English styles, date from around the same period and are certainly worth seeing.

English-language guided tours are available, as are fun workshops and programs for children. A gift and souvenir shop is located in the visitor center.

Address: 178 93 Drottningholm, Sweden

Famous as Sweden's first town , Sigtuna is a major tourist draw and one of the best places to visit in Sweden for an authentic Swedish travel experience. If you want to see picture-postcard Sweden packed with things to do, this is your destination.

Founded in 980 CE, in the final century of Viking times, Sigtuna sits on the shore of Lake Mälaren , in the country's Uppland region. Today, you can see Sigtuna's history in the ruins, rune stones, medieval churches, and other historic buildings that still stand. At Stora Gatan , the boutiques and craft shops are fun to browse.

An easy way to visit Sigtuna and soak up some of its rich history without the hassle of driving is on the Viking History Half-Day Tour from Stockholm . On this five-hour tour, you have time to explore the quaint streets and shops of Sigtuna and stop at some fascinating historical sites, including an old Viking parliament, a Viking causeway at Täby, and Sweden's largest runic stone in Granby.

Sigtuna is located just 45 minutes north of Stockholm and about 30 minutes from the university town of Uppsala.

Famous as a medieval university city (the university was established in the 1400s), Uppsala boasts an amazing history and draws visitors from across the globe.

It's an easy 70-kilometer drive or train trip northwest of Stockholm and just 25 minutes' drive from the city's Arlanda Airport.

This is Sweden's fourth-largest city; however, that's easy to forget, as the town has a laid-back feel, particularly if you're meandering through the winding streets of the old town, where you will find many of Uppsala's tourist attractions .

Highlights include the magnificent 13th-century cathedral (Domkyrka), the place of burial for Sweden's kings and queens, and the University Museum (Gustavianum). It's also fun to wander around the university grounds and the Botanical Gardens (Botaniska trädgården), then relax in one of the many waterside parks and cafés.

If you'd like to visit Uppsala without the stress of having to find your own way around, consider the Viking History Tour from Stockholm including Sigtuna and Uppsala . This full-day adventure combines an illuminating visit to Viking historical sites like Jarlabanke's bridge and the Viking graveyard at Broby with a stop in Sigtuna and a guided tour of Old Uppsala.

Birka (Vikingastaden) , on Birch Island (Björkö), is only about 30 kilometers west of Stockholm and is another of Sweden's oldest towns to include on your travel itinerary. During Viking times, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was the central hub and the most important trading post in the Mälar Valley.

Established in the 8th century, Birka attracted travelers from near and far, and a wealth of ancient remains have been excavated and studied from Viking settlement sites and burial grounds since the 19th century.

During summer, boat tours with Strömma Kanalbolaget depart from the dock at City Hall. Guided tours are available, and you can dine at the island's restaurant.

A boat trip on Lake Malar (Mälaren) to the picturesque town of Mariefred takes around three hours and is a relaxing and scenic excursion. The town's origin and name come from the monastery of Pax Mariae, which was founded here in 1493.

The town's main landmark is a hillside 17th-century church. Below that is the oldest part of the town, with wooden houses running down to the lake. In the market square, to the north of the church, stands the Town Hall , built in 1784 and now housing the regional tourist center, and on the west side, beyond Stallarholmsvägen , lies the ruined church of Kärnbo .

Gripsholm Castle dominates the landscape. To get here, take a nostalgic voyage aboard the historic steamship S/S Mariefred — the vessel was built around 1900 — from City Hall, Stockholm.

A visit to historic and beautiful Gripsholm Castle (Gripsholms Slott) will immerse you in four hundred years of Swedish history. Located on the shores of Lake Mälaren , this royal castle rises over the pretty town of Mariefred .

Gripsholm is sometimes called Gustav Vasa's castle, as the king built it here in 1537. A must-see is the Swedish State's collection of portraits, featuring famous Swedes from the days of Gustav Vasa to ABBA musician and composer, Benny Andersson. Wander around the beautiful castle grounds and Hjorthagen nature reserve where royal deer graze.

Address: 647 31 Mariefred, Sweden

Created by the famous modernist architects Gunnar Asplund and Sigurd Lewerentz, Enskede Woodland Cemetery (Skogskyrkogården) is a place of stunning beauty set on a boulder ridge cloaked with pine trees.

Reflecting Nordic philosophy on the themes of life, death, and nature, the cemetery covers an area of about 250 acres and is hailed as one of the most significant works of these modernist architects.

Within the grounds lie a number of beautiful chapels and a visitor center. The Woodland Cemetery was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 and is a short trip from Stockholm city center.

English language guided tours and audio guides are available year-round, and a good café is located in the visitor center.

Address: Skogskyrkogården12233 Enskede

The largest museum in Stockholm's archipelago, Vaxholm Castle (Vaxholms fästning) — also known as Vaxholm Fortress Museum — lies on the island of Vaxö , northeast of Stockholm, in the channel used by ships and boats headed to the capital.

The fortress was given its present form in 1839, but immediately after the rebuilding, it lost any military significance since its walls couldn't withstand modern artillery. It now houses a museum with a collection of material from its days as a fortress.

During the 19th century, this was a favorite summer resort with Stockholmers. The little summer houses, with carved decorations and enclosed verandas, are relics of that period.

Address: Kastellet 1, 185 99 Vaxholm, Sweden

Around 20 kilometers southeast of Stockholm — a journey of just 25 minutes by train — on an inlet in the Baggensfjärd , is the small residential town of Saltsjöbaden. This fashionable seaside resort features a yacht marina, grand hotel, golf course, and tennis courts.

For those with enough courage to brave the elements, there's an open-air bathing pool ( Friluftsbad ). This is a favorite day trip destination for Swedes, who like to come here and soak up some sunshine and salty sea air. Top things to do include dining by the water, lounging on the beach, or boating in the bay.

Lake Malar (Mälaren), Sweden's third largest lake, lies immediately west of Stockholm. This 117-kilometer-long waterway extends through the provinces of Västmanland , Södermanland , Uppsala, and Stockholm to the Baltic . Numerous arms and inlets indent the shores. Vessels sail from the Baltic to Stockholm on the Södertälje Canal and Hammarbyleden .

Around the shores — which are partly fertile and partly rocky — lie castles, manor houses, and sprawling estates. More than 1,000 islands dot the lake, and boat services run to many of them (including Björkö ) in summer.

The principal towns on Mälaren are Stockholm , Västerås, and, farther north, Uppsala.

Sandhamn is one of the outer islands of the Stockholm Archipelago, as it meets the open Baltic Sea. On a summer day, it's a busy place, filled with people relaxing over coffee and fika in the many cafés , sunning on its beaches , and browsing in its little shops around the fishing port.

There are walking trails through the forest of windswept pines, and a little museum tells about the island's history. You can get there by ferry from central Stockholm.

Stora Fjäderholmen is the largest of four islands in the Fjäderholmarna group. Several ferry operators provide service from Stockholm several times a day during the summer tourist season, which is typically May through mid-September.

The island is part of the Royal National City Park , a notable tourist destination not only for its natural beauty but also thanks to its bountiful shops selling hand-made crafts and local goods, as well as several good restaurants.

If your ferry arrives at the main ferry port on the north side of the island, you don't have to walk far to find shopping and dining, with several options right on the waterfront or within a short stroll. If you are looking for a quieter place to grab a meal with an ocean view, head to the northwest corner of the island for lunch (and maybe a game of pètanque) at Röda Villan .

If you walk south along the eastern side of the island, you will find a small harbor that's home to smaller local boats. Just beyond this is the workshop of Föreningen Allmogebåtar , a local organization dedicated to preserving the building techniques of traditional Nordic boats, which has several fine examples on display.

Continue south and find even more shops along the waterfront, selling everything from locally made textiles to handcrafted candies. Although the short half-hour ferry ride allows you to visit for only part of a day, and the island is small enough to walk about in just a couple of hours, you may want to plan for more time to just explore and appreciate the scenery.

More on Sweden

Home » Travel Guides » Sweden » 15 Best Day Trips from Stockholm

15 Best Day Trips from Stockholm

A city of contrasts, Stockholm manages to merge the old with the new with relative ease.

Unlike many cities in the world Stockholm sprawls; sprawls across 14 islands in fact.

Stockholm is one of the most environmentally conscious cities on earth and is famed for its innovative use of technology in a bid to become the most sustainable city on earth.

Stockholm is ahead of the game in other ways too, on the forefront of music trends, fashion, innovation and design of pretty much all varieties.

Once you have taken time to cycle around the incredibly clean streets, sipped coffee at the Uber-trendy coffee shops it is time to starting looking a Sweden as a whole.

Let’s explore the best day trips from Stockholm :

1. Broby Bro

Sweden is a country steeped in Viking and Iron Age history and one of the best ways to witness relics from these eras is to head to Broby bro.

This graveyard is over 1000 years old and the stories of those who are buried here live on today.

Broby bro is best experienced with a tour guide for they can bring to life the tales of the Viking heroes that once ruled the land.

There are dozens of these stories to learn about but none so interesting as ‘Estrid’ whose skeleton was found in the Christian section of the Broby bro graveyard in 1995.

2. Jarlabanke Runestones

A visit to the Jarlabanke Runestones and Jarlabanke Causeway is a great way to get to grips with Viking history and how their rule shaped the lay of the land forever.

Earl Jarlabanke is one of the most infamous Viking rulers who many believed abused his power for his own gain.

He did however create the Jarlabanke Causeway that runs its 116m course in Täby, which Jarlabanke once owned all of.

The Vikings were incredible civil engineers and in a visit to the Jarlabanke Runestones you can learn about how their bridge building and road construction changed the world in which they lived.

The tiny town of Sigtuna is home to just 8000 people and can be found sitting to the north of Stockholm.

This quaint and charming Swedish town is steeped in history and is home to some beautiful olde-world townhouses.

Sigtuna town looks out over Sigtuna Bay which is tranquil and incredibly picturesque, if a little icy in winter.

Highlights of a visit to Sigtuna include a walk around the ruins of St Olof Church.

When the winter snows settle on the tumble down medieval church is starts to look almost fairytale like.

Aside from taking time to stroll through Sigtuna winding streets you can visit Steninge Palace and Rosberg Palace too if you are particularly interested in architecture.

4. Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago is one of the most impressive landscapes in all of Europe, home to some 24,000 islands that sit in the Baltic Sea.

Typically travellers associate island hopping with South East Asia, or the Caribbean, but in a short one tour trip from Stockholm city centre you can be in an island paradise, just a comparatively chilly one.

What makes the Stockholm Archipelago so incredible is that many of the islands are uninhabited and are true wildernesses.

Naturally, the Stockholm Archipelago is best experienced by boat.

You can kick back and relax or there are some tour providers who let you take the helm.

5. Natural Ice Fields

There are dozens of natural ice fields that surround Stockholm city centre and you can take your pick as to where you want to explore.

No need to have ever skated before as the guys and girls who run tours of the ice fields are fantastic teachers and by the end of the day you will feel as if you are ready to trail for the Winter Olympics…maybe.

The best season for ice skating in the Stockholm area of Sweden is between December and March.

This is a great day out for everyone; solo travellers, couples, families and big groups.

You will skate through some mesmerising landscapes, you’ll never want to skate in a rink again.

6. Sörmlandsleden

One of the most loved hiking routes in all of Sweden is Sörmlandsleden.

The trail starts about a 40-minute drive from Stockholm city centre and runs for 1000km through some of Sweden’s most pristine pine forest.

Obviously, on a day trip you cannot cover the full 1000Km but nevertheless you can get a taste for this phenomenal landscape.

You will pass through dense pine forest, walk alongside perfectly still lakes and out on to rocky plateaus.

Many people choose to hike up to Sweden’s highest peak, Kebnekaise, stop for a picnic lunch and admire the views before returning to the car to drive back to Stockholm.

7. Drottningholm Palace

Drottningholm Palace is the private residence of the Swedish royal family and is built on the island of Lovön.

Built in the 16th-Century Drottningholm Palace is a piece of history perfectly preserved in time.

Although each generation of the Swedish royal family has left their mark on the palace the 16-century facade remains the same.

In the centuries to come Swedish royals added a palace theatre and even a Chinese Pavilion.

A walk around the palace’s baroque garden is a real treat, especially when in full bloom in the spring months.

You can take a tour of the public rooms and the gardens too.

The complex is open throughout the year.

It is said that Birka was Sweden’s first city and it can be found on the island of Björkö or ‘Birch Island’. As one of the most significant trading spots of Vikings this is a city rich in history and cultural heritage.

In fact, Birka is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The highlight of a visit to Birka is taking a tour of the Viking Village.

Step inside traditional Viking homes, learn about daily life in Viking times and learn about how the black soil of Birka helped the city to thrive.

Once you have finished in the village head to Restaurant Särimner for a hearty lunch overlooking the sea.

Gävle is something of a hidden gem.

This charming town sits 100 miles to the north of Stockholm and is famed for being the home of Sweden’s best chocolate.

Many people enjoy taking a visit to the Swedish Railway Museums to see the locomotives of yesteryear, others prefer to take a gentle stroll around Boulogne Skogen City Park which is especially beautiful in autumn.

If you fancy something a little bit different book a session at the Dome Adrenaline Zone.

This 6000 sq.m playground has a climbing wall, ninja warrior course and super springy trampolines.

Church Street Saloon is a much loved restaurant in Gävle, and Matildas serves up a wonderful array of traditional Swedish dishes with a modern twist.

10. Helsinki

One thing that is particularly great about Europe is that all major cities are incredibly well connected, either by road, railway or by air.

Flights from Stockholm to Helsinki fly multiple times daily meaning you can have a flying visit to the Finnish capital should you so wish.

Take a wander down Mannerheimintie and pop into the National Museum.

Once you have toured the impressive museums head down to Parliament House or perhaps Kiasma, the city’s best loved art gallery.

The most iconic landmark in Helsinki is the rusty-red Uspenski Cathedral.

Standing proudly overlooking Helsinki Harbour do not miss this amazing architectural gem before you fly back to Stockholm in the late evening.

Malmö is a majestic city that can be found in the south of Sweden.

With cobbled streets and vast city squares there is so much to explore in the course of a day trip to Malmö.

The first port of call should be Malmö Castles that was built by the Danes in the 16th Century.

Speaking of Denmark, be sure to take moment to gaze in awe at the magnificent Øresund Bridge which connects Sweden to Denmark.

Kungsparken is an exquisite inner city park that can found just west of Malmö Town Hall.

Taking a little rowing boat out on the river in Kungsparken is one of the most romantic things you can do in all of Sweden.

12. Gripsholm Castle

Picture a castle from a fairytale, chances are what you are imagining looks a little like Gripsholm Castle.

This magical castle can be found in the small but perfectly formed town of Mariefred near Lake Mälaren.

This is one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Sweden and it is not hard to understand why.

Gripsholm Castle is not only incredibly photogenic but is home to a truly unique collection of Swedish artworks and furniture that date back over 400 years.

Once you have toured the castle’s interiors be sure to take an hour or so to roam the castle grounds.

Stopping by the deer paddock to take a moment to observe these chilled out creatures is a treat.

13. Lake Mälaren

Lake Mälaren, or Lake Malar, is one of Sweden’s natural jewels.

Covering 1,140 km² Lake Mälaren is the third-largest freshwater lake in the country.

During a day visit to Lake Mälaren you can drop by Gripsholm Castle or even Drottningholm Palace for a flying visit but many people prefer to head straight to Långholmen.

This is a sandy beach area that sits on the shores of Lake Mälaren and is the perfect place to relax and unwind, especially in summer.

If you prefer to be more active on your holidays you are more than welcome to be.

There are dozens of cycling and hiking trails that run through the woodlands that border Lake Mälaren.

14. Gotland

Hiding out in the Baltic Sea is the island of Gotland.

The coastline of this island is other-worldly and has to be seen to be believed.

Arches, stacks, and stumps are scattered across the beaches and form stunning silhouettes at sunrise and sunset.

The Gotland Museum is a must-visit and provides fascinating insights into local history and the region’s rich culture.

A visit to the Lummelunda Cave is a great way to spend an afternoon and can be accessed by a short boat ride.

The city of Visby that sits on Gotland is one of the best preserved medieval cities in the world.

Visby is another of Sweden’s gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

15. Uppsala

Uppsala is a charming Swedish university city that has a lot going on.

Being a university city means that there is no short supply of hipster coffee shops and bustling bars.

Marrying the old with the new, much like Stockholm in that sense, Uppsala is a versatile city that is a joy to explore.

There is a lot of history to explore in Uppsala, from the Carolina Rediviva library to Skokloster Castle and Uppsala Cathedral.

If you have a hankering for seafood head to Hambergs Fisk, should you want to hang with the cool kids get yourself to Cafe Årumment and settle down with a latte or two.

15 Best Day Trips from Stockholm:

• Jarlabanke Runestones
• Stockholm Archipelago
• Natural Ice Fields
• Sörmlandsleden
• Drottningholm Palace
• Gripsholm Castle
• Lake Mälaren

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations

The 8 Best Day Trips From Stockholm, Sweden

If you're in Stockholm with a day to spare, enjoy a day trip

Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

The best day trips from Stockholm for visitors are the ones that fit well with your trip. One size does not fit all. The following ideas for day trips from Stockholm cover the interesting history and charming cities, while some day trip ideas simply offer a relaxing day in southern Sweden .

A Scenic Day Trip to Gävle

The romantic town of Gävle, Sweden, is only about 100 miles north of Stockholm which makes Gävle one of the best day trips from Stockholm. The town offers attractions, shopping, art, and Sweden's best chocolate! When it comes to Gävle's natural beauty, the rivers of Gavilan and Testeboan bring life to this quaint city on ​Sweden's east coast.

The Historic Island of Gotland

The island of Gotland, Sweden, is found off the east coast of Sweden, about 125 mi (200 km) south of Stockholm. You can get to Gotland from Stockholm by car and ferry, or by air. Gotland is famous for its long sandy beaches since the island is one of Sweden's best beach destinations . Then there's bicycling and hiking, 94 beautiful medieval churches, and the town of Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage site .

A Day Trip From Stockholm to Finland

Yes, you can plan a day trip from Stockholm to the Finnish capital Helsinki . Just don't plan on taking the 16-hour ferry, instead use one of the 1-hour flights across the Baltic Sea to turn it into a quick hop across the sea. Helsinki is a very beautiful and interesting city and is definitely worth a visit, if only for a day or two!

An Interesting Day in Uppsala

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Uppsala is an interesting city with lots of historic buildings, romantic little cafes, and vibrant nightlife. To get from Stockholm to Uppsala (or from Uppsala back to Stockholm), most take the twice-hourly train from Stockholm . Make sure to see Uppsala Cathedral and Uppsala Castle, as well as the pre-Viking, prehistoric burial mounds in the old part of the town.

A Skiing Day Trip From Stockholm

Ski resorts in Sweden aren't hard to find, but there are a few that are outstanding and offer a great wintry experience. During the summer, they offer hiking, cycling, and various outdoor sports. Check the Swedish weather before you visit one of these ski resorts in Sweden. It's at least a ​4.5-hour drive though - depending on which one you want to visit - so you might want to start your day trip early in the morning, or plan to stay overnight.

A City Day Trip to Malmö

To be able to fit the city of Malmö into a day trip from Stockholm, you'll have to fly there, which only takes an hour and is quite affordable. (Driving takes six hours.) Just pick 2-3 of the attractions in Malmö for your day there, and you'll be all set for a great day trip.

A City Day Trip to Gothenburg (Göteborg)

A day trip from Stockholm to Göteborg also requires air travel due to the distance involved. But it's easy. Just hop from Stockholm to Göteborg on one of the many 55-minute flights each day.

A Nice Day on the Göta Canal

One of the best day trips from Stockholm if you want to relax a little and enjoy a little boat tour. Many visitors believe that the Gota Canal leads directly from Stockholm to Gothenburg. This is not true - the Göta Canal ends at the town of Mem, almost 150 mi (240 km) south of Stockholm. Drive south on the E4 for just about two hours and you'll be at the beautiful Göta Canal. Bring your camera.

Related Articles

More related articles.

6 easy must-do weekend trips from Stockholm

Stockholm, the Swedish capital and official home of the Swedish royal family, is a city like no other. The city center is packed with fascinating attractions, great places to eat, and excellent shopping. Plus, everything here has that effortless Scandinavian cool that makes the city a joy to visit. From the moment you arrive at Stockholm's Central Station, you'll see just why millions of people make the trip here every year.

But as cool as Stockholm is, there's more to the Stockholm Archipelago than just the city itself. Day trips from Stockholm can show you more of what Sweden has to offer, and weekend trips give you even more freedom to explore. Drop off your unneeded bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Stockholm so you can travel unencumbered. Traveling light makes it much easier to enjoy weekend and day trips from Stockholm, and knowing your things are safely looked after and waiting for you when you return will make it much easier to relax and enjoy the excellent weekend trips on this list.

Love discounts and traveling?

Sign up for our newsletter and get 10% off your next booking.

The biggest church in Sweden is one of the most iconic landmarks near Stockholm. And as well as the cathedral itself, the town of Uppsala provides plenty of reasons to visit.

Distance from Stockholm

Lying 70 km north of the Stockholm Archipelago, Uppsala can be reached in around an hour by car. It's also possible to catch a train from Stockholm's Central Station to Uppsala in a little over 30 minutes, making this one of the most popular day trips from Stockholm for locals and visitors alike.

Our activity recommendations

Uppsala Cathedral: Obviously, this ancient cathedral is the top attraction in town. Work began on the Cathedral back in 1272, and it has been the spiritual heart of Sweden ever since. The site of the coronations of Swedish monarchs and the burial place of a few of them, this stunning cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings in the country and, understandably, one of the most popular day trips from Stockholm.

Gamla Uppsala: As important as the Cathedral is to the city, Uppsala's history didn't begin in the Middle Ages. Take a journey back in time to Gamla Uppsala to see ancient Viking rune stones and burial mounds that go all the way back to the third century. This was once the seat of the powerful Yngling dynasty, and these burial mounds remain an incredibly atmospheric place to visit to this day.

Pub crawl: As historic as Uppsala undoubtedly is, there's more to it than just the ancient past. This university city has a young and energetic population and a lively atmosphere where there's always something going on. Check out the coffee shops and bars of the town, or go on a lively pub crawl to experience the nightlife of the university city for yourself. You'll make new friends and have a great experience of modern Swedish culture to go with your exploration of the past.

Best season to visit

Any time of year is a good time to visit Uppsala since most of the main attractions are open year-round.

Lake Mälaren

One of the largest lakes in Sweden, Lake Mälaren is the ideal destination for a boat trip or to enjoy the Swedish countryside.

Lake Mälaren is a big lake with lots of different access points along its convoluted coastline. Technically, Stockholm itself is on the lake, and it's possible to take a steamboat from the city itself to explore the islands and villages along the lake. Alternatively, you can drive for around an hour and visit some of the smaller towns along the lakeshore.

Take a cruise: If you want an easy way to enjoy Lake Mälaren, they don't come much easier than a boat cruise from Stockholm itself. Board the boat in the city and let the knowledgeable guides explain the history and ecology of the area as they take you to some of the most scenic areas on the lake. There is a range of different cruises available, including daytime and sunset cruises, so you can take your pick on how you want to spend your time on one of the best day trips from Stockholm. A hearty lunch overlooking the calm water or a leisurely dinner on the lake is hard to beat.

Go swimming: As an inlet of the Baltic Sea, the water here is never warm, but in the summer, it can be quite refreshing. All along the coast of the lake, you'll find beaches where you can take a dip and cool off during the warm summer, and you'll find plenty of locals doing the same.

Visit Viking Village : Located on the island of Bjorko, the Viking Village lets you step back in time to the Viking age to see how the ancestors of modern-day Swedes used to live. It takes several hours to reach the island from Stockholm, so this is best reserved for longer weekend trips.

To see the lake at its best and enjoy all the outdoor activities here, especially swimming, you'll want to visit during the summer.

Gripsholm Castle

This striking castle, just a short distance from Sweden's largest city, provides a great way to learn more about the history of the nation.

It's only 65 km from the center of Stockholm to the narrow streets of Gripsholm, a drive that will take around an hour. It's also possible to reach Gripsholm by public transport, with a train to Laggesta followed by a bus bringing you to the castle in not much more time than it takes to drive.

Explore the castle: Built in 1537, the castle has witnessed over 500 years of history, and the many rooms and hallways make it a great place to explore. See the magnificent State Hall, learn more about historic King Gustav Vasa, and learn more about the lives of the Swedish aristocracy in this fascinating place.

Admire the paintings: Gripsholm Castle is also home to the Swedish national portrait collection, so you can get your art fix while you're here too. This impressive collection is a highlight of the ancient city and contains portraits of everyone from Gustav Vasa to Benny from Abba, so you'll leave with a greater understanding of Sweden's most famous personalities.

Stroll the grounds: The beautifully maintained grounds of the castle are a highlight of day trips from Stockholm all by themselves. The perfect place to take a break from the busy city, the gardens are an excellent place to get some fresh air and recharge your batteries, whether on a day trip or a long weekend excursion.

Gripsholm Castle is a year-round destination. The gardens are probably at their best in spring, but there's enough to keep you occupied indoors no matter what the weather does outside.

Drottningholm Palace

This stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site is a great place to explore on any weekend trip from Stockholm. Easy to reach from the city, it's like taking a step back in time.

Just 12 km west of the city, this is an easy place to reach, even on a day trip. However, there's enough to do in the area that you can easily justify a longer weekend trip too. Only a half-hour drive from the city, it's also possible to reach Drottningholm palace by taking bus 117 to Spanga, then taking the 316 to Drottningholm Palace.

Drottningholm Palace: Built in the late 16th century as a summer residence of the Swedish royal family, this palace is beautifully well-preserved and provides a glimpse into the opulent lives of royalty. It remains a royal palace to this day, but Drottningholm Palace is also open to the public, so you can visit this remarkable building for yourself. The beautiful grounds and the magnificent palace form a staggering complex that will take hours to explore.

The Chinese Pavilion: Part of the wider castle grounds, the Chinese Pavilion was built in 1769 as a gift for Queen Lovisa Ulrika on her birthday. Cited as one of the main reasons for the palace becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Pavilion now houses objects and art from the period when it was built, and it's a fascinating place to explore in its own right.

Drottningholm Palace is a year-round destination and can be explored in any season.

This small town is not only rich in history, but it also provides a great way to get away from the sometimes crowded streets of Stockholm and enjoy a slower pace of Swedish life.

100 km from Stockholm, Nykoping can be reached with a drive of an hour and a half. This is one example of when public transportation can actually be faster since you can make the same journey by train in just over an hour.

Walk the city center: The city center of Nykoping is a charming place to explore, packed with beautiful old buildings and quaint shops. Don't miss the City Hall and the church of St. Nikolai, a medieval structure that offers great photo opportunities and a perfect place to relax and breathe in the spiritual atmosphere.

Nykopingshus: This partially ruined medieval castle is best known for a famous feast that took place here in 1317. Situated by the river, it's a great place to wander, and there's an on-site museum that will explain the long history of the castle and the town of which it is a part.

Summer is probably the best time to visit Nykoping since this is when you'll get warm weather that's conducive to strolling around the streets and taking in the laid-back atmosphere of this small town.

History buffs shouldn't miss this ancient place. If you want to explore the relics of Sweden's Viking age, this is the place to do it.

50 km from Stockholm, Sigtuna takes about an hour to reach by car. It takes a similar amount of time to reach by train, making it ideal for day trips and weekend trips from the Stockholm Archipelago.

Sweden's oldest street: Founded before Stockholm itself, Sigtuna is the oldest city in Sweden and is home to Sweden's oldest street, which sticks to the boundaries it had when it was first laid out over 1000 years ago. Nowadays, the street is lined with quaint shops and cafés that are ideal places to take a break and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic town.

Sigtuna Museum: Sigtuna's history is long and complex, and there's no better place to learn about it than the town Museum. Here, you'll see artifacts from the Viking age and learn why this was the first city founded in the country.

Summer is a good time to enjoy the atmosphere of the city, but there's really no bad time to visit here.

The best day trips from Stockholm and the best weekend trips have one thing in common: they offer you an extraordinary range of things to do. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the Viking age, explore the lives of the Swedish royal family, or enjoy the incredible scenery of this Scandinavian nation, it's all readily accessible from the Stockholm Archipelago itself.

If you only have three days in Stockholm , your best bet is probably staying in the city and sampling everything it has to enjoy. But on a longer trip, drop off your bags at a Stockholm luggage storage and try some of these fantastic weekend trips to see more of what Sweden has to offer.

Related guides

8 must see parks in stockholm.

Stockholm is a city of natural beauty evident in its numerous parks. Don't miss out on time outdoors while in this exciting city.

7 beaches near Stockholm: Where to go for sun, sand, and surf

Typically, Stockholm isn't a destination that you think of when it comes to beaches and that's a shame. The areas around the city offer plenty of refreshing places to take a dip and appreciate some coastal scenery.

Stockholm Christmas Market: The Complete Guide

The holidays in Stockholm are merry and bright. Check out traditional and contemporary trends at the Stockholm Christmas markets in various places around the city.

Explore the world

Get the bounce app.

Instantly find locations nearby to drop off your luggage wherever you go.

Around Stockholm

With royal palaces, vintage villages and Viking traces, the greater Stockholm county is certainly worth a venture or three. Conveniently, SL travel passes allow unlimited travel on all buses and local trains in the area. Free timetables are available from the SL office in Centralstationen, most tunnelbana stations and the SL website.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Drottningholm Slott

Home to the royal family for part of the year, Drottningholm's Renaissance-inspired main palace was designed by architectural great Nicodemus Tessin the…

The historic Viking trading centre of Birka, on Björkö in Lake Mälaren, makes a fantastic day trip. A Unesco World Heritage site, it was founded around AD…

Tyresta National Park

Some of the best hiking and wilderness scenery can be found in the 4900-hectare Tyresta National Park, only 20km southeast of Stockholm. Established in…

Gripsholm Slott

About 70km from Stockholm, Gripsholm Slott – with its round towers, spires, drawbridge and creaky wooden halls – was built in the 1370s and had passed…

Drottningholms Slottsteater & Teatermuseum

Slottsteater was completed in 1766 on the instructions of Queen Lovisa Ulrika. Remarkably untouched from the time of Gustav III’s death (1792) until 1922,…

At the far end of the royal gardens is Kina Slott, a lavishly decorated Chinese pavilion built by King Adolf Fredrik as a birthday surprise for Queen…

Birka Museum

The Viking trading centre of Birka, founded around AD 760, is now a Unesco World Heritage Site. Exhibits at the Birka Museum include finds from the…

Mariakyrkan

During medieval times, Sigtuna boasted seven stone-built churches, though most have since crumbled. Mariakyrkan is the oldest brick building in the area –…

Around Stockholm and beyond

• Experience Guide (sv, dk, no, eng)
• Corporate (in Swedish)
• Press & Media
• Travel Trade
• Destinations
• Middle Sweden

Top 10 things to do in Stockholm

Delve into the captivating charm of Stockholm, where the stunning archipelago, enchanting old town, and vivid cultural scene beckon you to discover their hidden gems. From majestic palaces and historic neighbourhoods to picturesque islands and renowned museums, Sweden's dynamic capital guarantees an unforgettable adventure.

Whether you're drawn to history and culture or eager to soak up the city's lively ambience, Stockholm caters to all tastes with numerous things to do and places to visit. Immerse yourself in these top 10 attractions and maximise your experience in Sweden's capital.

Djurgården, Stockholm

Djurgården is a part of the Royal National Citypark also known as The Ecopark. It is the first national city park in the world and it includes 27 km2 of nature and cultural values

Photo : Yirui Aries/Visit Sweden

The Royal Palace

Photo : Ola Ericson/imagebank.sweden.se

Flower shop in Old Town

Photo : Simon Paulin/imagebank.sweden.se

Moderna museet, Stockholm

Photo : Agence les Conteurs

Stockholm City Hall

Photo : Henrik Trygg/Visit Stockholm

Spend a day at Djurgården

Explore the island of Djurgården, home to some of Stockholm's most popular attractions. Visit the Vasa Museum to see the remarkably well-preserved Vasa warship, discover Swedish pop music history at the ABBA Museum , and experience Swedish cultural heritage at the open-air museum Skansen . Don't miss the thrill of Gröna Lund amusement park, the enchantment of Junibacken , or the tranquillity of the Royal National City Park.

Visit Stockholm's Royal Palaces

Discover Stockholm's royal history by visiting Stockholm's Royal Palace . Take a tour of its magnificent halls and chambers, then make your way to other royal residences such as Drottningholm Castle, Rosendal Castle, and Ulriksdal Castle. Each location offers a unique glimpse into Sweden's regal past and present.

Stroll around in Stockholm Old Town

Take a step back in time as you stroll through Stockholm's charming Old Town. Explore narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and iconic landmarks such as Stockholm Cathedral and the Nobel Prize Museum . Check out the quaint shops and cosy cafes hidden away in this medieval treasure trove.

Enjoy contemporary art at Moderna Museet

Immerse yourself in contemporary art at Moderna Museet . Explore its extensive Swedish and international art collections, including works by Picasso, Dali, and Warhol. Don't miss the museum's stunning waterfront location on the island of Skeppsholmen.

Ceremonial splendour at Stockholm City Hall

Marvel at Stockholm City Hall's architectural glory. Take a guided tour to admire its grand ceremonial halls, stunning murals, and magnificent view from the tower. Stockholm City Hall is also famous for hosting the annual Nobel Prize banquet.

Archipelago

Stockholm archipelago.

Photo : Henrik Trygg/imagebank.sweden.se

Fotografiska in Stockholm

Photo : Erik G Svensson

Monteliusvägen, Södermalm

Photo : Tove Freiij/imagebank.sweden.se

Östermalms saluhall, Stockholm

Nationalmuseum, Stockholm

Photo : Linn Ahlgren/Nationalmuseum

Go island-hopping in the Stockholm archipelago

Embark on an island-hopping adventure in Stockholm's archipelago . Using public transportation, visit islands such as Fjäderholmarna, Grinda, Utö, and Vaxholm. Waxholmsbolaget operates the archipelago. Each island has its unique charm, from quaint villages to picturesque coastlines, offering breathtaking scenery along the way.

Swing by Fotografiska

Experience the art of photography at Fotografiska , one of the world's largest photography museums. Fotografiska hosts captivating displays showcasing the works of both Swedish and international photographers, with four unique main exhibitions and approximately 20 smaller exhibitions annually.

Discover hip and trendy Södermalm

Head to the trendy district of Södermalm, known for its bohemian atmosphere and panoramic views. Walk along Monteliusvägen, overlooking Lake Mälaren, Stockholm City Hall, and Riddarholmen. Discover hip boutiques, cosy cafes, and vibrant street art as you explore this dynamic neighbourhood.

Indulge in Östermalms Saluhall

Treat your senses at Östermalms Saluhall , Stockholm's historic food market dating back to the 1880s. The market reopened after extensive renovations in 2020 and offers a tempting array of fresh produce, gourmet delicacies, and traditional Swedish specialities.

Explore Nationalmuseum

Discover Swedish art and design at the Nationalmuseum . The museum houses an extensive array of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts dating from the 16th century to the early 20th century. Delve into the evolution of applied arts and design and admire around 5,000 carefully selected objects displayed chronologically, offering a captivating journey through the museum's galleries.

Related articles

City Stockholm – the capital of Scandinavia

Explore Stockholm archipelago

8 iconic restaurants in Stockholm

Cafés in Stockholm

The best restaurants in Stockholm – from gastronomic stars to hip hangouts

Stockholm Archipelago: 10 amazing islands near the city

Even if you’re just in Stockholm for a few days, taking a day trip into the amazing archipelago that stretches east from the city can be one of the most rewarding parts of your visit.

The Stockholm archipelago is made up of tens of thousands of idyllic islands.

Needless to say, you won’t see them all. But it’s definitely worth exploring a few if you have the time, especially during the warmer months, when there’s endless potential for barbecuing, swimming and overnight stays.

Every summer, it seems like half of Stockholm’s population disappears into the archipelago to escape from the bustle of city life.

Fjäderholmarna Vaxholm Grinda Svartsö Ingmarsö Sandön Möja Runmarö Nämdö Utö

How many islands are in the Stockholm archipelago?

There are more than 24,000 islands to choose from, some with lively communities and others with nothing but serene rocky landscapes and stunning views of the Baltic Sea.

Some of the islands can be difficult to reach without your own boat, so we’ve put together a list of ten islands that can be visited easily using public ferries, and without shelling out for a guided tour (though there are some great ones available ).

Guided tours to the islands

If you really want to get away from it all, consider this private sailing tour , which takes you out to some of the lesser-visited islands in the archipelago.

You’ll even get the chance to visit a deserted island where you can swim, sunbathe and eat lunch before heading back to the city!

A slightly cheaper option is this guided kayaking trip into the Stockholm archipelago . Run in small groups, it lets you spend a full day exploring with nice breaks for lunch and a traditional Swedish fika .

And if you’re feeling even more adventurous, how about this self-guided three-day kayak and camping trip ? All the camping and kayaking gear is provided, plus maps and compasses, so all you need to do is to head off and explore. You can set up camp on whichever island takes your fancy – a great way to really explore the archipelago.

But if you’re short of time and fancy a high-adrenaline trip to the Stockholm Archipelago, why not try this RIB tour ? It takes you past some of Stockholm’s waterfront sights, before whizzing out to explore some of the nearer islands.

Which islands can be visited from Stockholm on a day trip?

There are commuter cruise lines that connect many of the best locations to Stockholm proper, which makes planning an island day trip a total breeze.

One of the easiest islands to visit from Stockholm on a day-trip is Fjäderholmarna.

It’s just a thirty-minute boat ride away from the city centre, with ferries running regularly throughout the day. For more on Fjäderholmarna, see below. 

Other islands within easy distance of Stockholm and good for day trips include Vaxholm, Dalarö and Gustavsberg, on the island of Värmdö, but just a 20-minute drive from the city.

Is it worth visiting the islands in winter? 

Although much of the archipelago freezes over in winter, routes to some of main islands are kept clear. 

Indeed, many locals feel that the Stockholm Archipelago is at its best in winter, when it’s quiet with a picturesque covering of snow, and ice floating in the sea.

This Winter Kayaking and Fika Experience is a great way to see the islands of the archipelago in winter at their most atmospheric.

Alternatively, you can wrap up warm and cosy beneath reindeer skins or blankets and enjoy the views on this winter cruise around the island of Fjäderholmarna.

For more on visiting Stockholm in winter, click here .

★ SUGGESTED DISCOUNT

Save with the stockholm pass.

Get up to 50% off at Stockholm's top attractions, including the Vasa Museum, SkyView Stockholm and The Viking Museum, plus discounts on some of the city's best boat trips.

Boats to the archipelago

The best and most affordable ferry company serving the Stockholm Archipelago is called Waxholmsbolaget .

Their English-language website is the best place to check for times, prices and other journey information, or just as easily use the Google Maps app on your phone to route the trip (it’s usually quite accurate).

This is the ferry company that locals and islanders tend to use.

The Waxholmsbolaget ferry terminal is at Strömkajen, just a few minutes’ walk from Kungsträdgården in the centre of the city.

Look for the geometric brass building by the water and you’ll see the boats docking right there.

There’s no need to book tickets in advance; you can buy onboard quickly and easily.

Another transport option is the Cinderella and Strömma Kanalbolaget boats from the pier at Strandvägen.

These sometimes have faster connections, but are also pricier and need to be booked in advance. Many only run from the end of April to mid-October.

How to get around once you arrive at an island

Some islands such as Vaxholm are connected to the mainland by road bridge, so you can simply drive around them, or take the bus. 

Others, such as Svartsö, are only accessible by boat and are best explored by renting a bike, walking or hiring kayaks.

So which islands should you visit?

All of the islands we’ve recommended are served by both ferry companies – for some of the year, at least – and are easy to visit from Stockholm.

1. Fjäderholmarna

Honestly, the little group of islands known as Fjäderholmarna is so close to the city centre that the only acceptable excuse for missing it is bad weather.

Fjäderholmarna is super easy to reach from Strömkajen (under 30 minutes by ferry), and is perfect if you want to make a quick half-day trip into the archipelago without spending much cash or travelling too far away from the city centre.

The one-way trip costs around 84 SEK on the Waxholmsbolaget ferry (Cinderella ferries also sometimes cover this route, but they are slower and more expensive).

Be aware that you may not get to see a specific sign or hear an announcement when you arrive because Fjäderholmarna is so close – if you get confused, just ask the captain to make sure you get to the right place.

Once you get to Stora Fjäderholmen, the main island, you can take a stroll along the seafront, or go on a short hike into the forest trails that run through the middle of the island.

Alternatively, play a few fun rounds of boule at Röda Villan, a popular restaurant set in a red wooden house that’s surrounded by mature trees (only open from May to October).

Fjäderholmarna is a bit of a hotspot for artist studios, so there are lots of places to browse and buy handcrafted goods, from jewellery and ceramics to glassware.

A quiet road loops around the whole island, making it nice and easy to find the dock when you’re ready to head back to the city.

Vaxholm is known as the gateway to Stockholm’s archipelago – it’s relatively close to the city centre and is connected to the mainland by a bridge, but it’s also the first stop for most ferries heading further out into the archipelago.

To get there from Strömkajen in central Stockholm, take a Waxholmsbolaget ferry. A one-way journey costs 104 SEK and takes between one hour and 90 minutes, depending on what time of day you leave.

During summer, Cinderella boats also make the journey from Strandvägen in around 50 minutes, but you can expect to pay around 175 SEK for a one-way trip.

Vaxholm is a cute little hub that is a lot more developed than other islands in the archipelago.

Just be aware that, thanks to its proximity to the city, it can get very busy – especially during July and August, when coaches empty hoards of tourists onto the streets.

The boats to the island can also be busy. On the upside, Vaxholm is easy to get to, and there’s usually something going on, even outside of the main tourist season.

On arrival, you’ll probably want to explore the old town, where twisting alleyways are lined with picturesque houses, then peek into some of the island’s many souvenir shops and cafés.

If you’re a bit of a history buff you’ll want to visit Vaxholms Fästning, the huge fortress that was built to protect the capital from Russian invasion in 1544.

From mid-may to mid-September, boats run between Vaxholm and the fort every 15 minutes for 60 SEK per adult.

If you’re taking a Waxholmsbolaget ferry to Vaxholm, it may also make a stop at the fortress – ask the captain.

If you want to stay on Vaxholm, the Waxholms Hotell is located right by the ferry terminal, or try Kastellet Bed and Breakfast , at the fortress.

Grinda is often talked about as the bathing paradise of Stockholm – people from all over the city head there during the weekends to get their share of sun, swim and relaxation during the summer.

The Waxholmsbolaget ferry to Grinda costs around 125 SEK and takes about two hours, 30 minutes (compared to around 90 minutes on the Cinderella boat from Strandvägen, whihc is almost double the price).

It makes sense to get off at Södra (south) Grinda since you sometimes have to change boats to reach Norra bryggan (the northern boat dock).

Grinda is almost completely owned by Skärgårdsstiftelsen (the Archipelago Foundation), which helps to preserve the island’s natural beauty.

This makes Grinda particularly lush and clean, with totally free access to explore the forest or swim to your heart’s content.

You can find the majority of the island’s shops and cafes at Södra Grinda, including a traditional Swedish värdshus (inn), the Grinda Wärdshus . 

This lovely guesthouse has rooms in traditional red-painted wooden houses a stone’s throw from the sea.

And if you’re feeling peckish, we’d recommend trying the traditional ‘Grinda loaf,’ the island’s famous baked bread.

Svartsö is also reachable using the Waxholmsbolaget ferries from Strömkajen – it’s about half an hour past Grinda. A one-way trip costs around 154 SEK.

While Svartsö is actually one of the larger islands in the archipelago, with its own little community, the population is seriously small – less than 100 people live here all year round.

This makes this remote, lesser-known island an amazing spot to go out and enjoy some peaceful time with nature.

It’s probably best to dock at Ahlsvik, since there’s a small beach there perfect for sunbathing.

It’s also close to the island’s only restaurant, Svartsö Krog – a famously good, seasonal (April to October), but super pricey, place to eat if you didn’t pack a lunch.

Renting a bike is highly recommended on Svartsö; it’s a great way to check out the island’s surprisingly varied scenery – expect freshwater lakes, forests, open farmland, and views of the Baltic Sea.

If you fall in love with the island’s laid-back vibe, why not overnight at STF Svartsö Skärgårdshotell & Vandrarhem ?

This bright, modern and affordable hostel offers the perfect environment to rest and recharge.

5. Ingmarsö

Just beyond Svartsö, the pretty island of Ingmarsö is a haven for walkers.

With unspoilt woods, remote lakes, marshlands and sandy bays, it’s a great place for hiking, swimming, fishing or simply enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings.

The Waxholmsbolaget ferry to Ingmarsö takes about four hours, 40 minutes with a change of boats at Boda, or four hours, 10 minutes if you get the direct boat. Both cost around 154 SEK.

The island has a population of just 150 people but it’s well laid out with hiking trails and has basic facilities for visitors including a bakery, a restaurant and a few small shops.

You can also rent kayaks and bicycles for further exploration or even go on a trail ride around the islands on an Icelandic pony.

And if you fancy staying here, the lovely Norrgården farmhouse has six comfortable rooms offering bed and breakfast surrounded by lush gardens with pretty pastoral views.

It even has a museum of island life in one its former farm buildings!

Sandön is one of the easternmost of the islands of the archipelago that you can visit on a day-trip, and you’ll need to take the Cinderella cruise line from the docks at Strandvägen to get there.

The trip takes 2 hours, 30 minutes, and needs to be booked in advance on their website.  It costs around 240 SEK.

Sandön is a beautiful destination that’s well worth the time and cost of the trip.

Sometimes people get confused about the name of this island – to be clear, Sandhamn is the name of the pretty harbour village you’ll arrive at, while the island itself is called Sandön.

Sandhamn is a hub for Swedes sailing around the archipelago, and you’ll see tons of sailboats and yachts lining the piers all summer.

The town of Sandhamn is much posher than settlements on other islands near Stockholm, with many boutiques and retail shops in addition to the usual cafés and souvenir shops.

If you’re trying to avoid crowds, opt to rent a couple of kayaks and paddle around the island – there are some beautifully tranquil hideaways along the coastline.

There are also some really nice sandy beaches for sunbathing and going for a dip, as well many gorgeous spots to unpack a picnic lunch to complete your trip out into the archipelago.

Want to stay the night? There’s the comfy  Sandhamn Seglarhotell on the harbour front at Sandhamn, close to Fläskbergets Beach.

The pretty island of Möja is one of the easternmost inhabited islands in the Stockholm Archipelago.

The ferry there takes almost five hours, whether you get the direct boat or change in Boda. Either way, the fare is SEK 186.

Home to pretty harbours and former fishing villages, it’s still popular as a boating and fishing destination, while its resident year-round population makes it a lively place, with cafés, restaurants and local shops.

Despite this, it’s a relaxing island with very few cars and only gravel tracks, so ideal to explore by bike. 

The island lies on the edge of the outer archipelago, large parts of which are protected as marine reserves, so Möja is great place to hire kayaks and head out to sea to explore.

The STF Möja hostel is a lovely place to stay, where the rooms have sea or garden views. There’s a barbecue that guests can use outside, plus bikes and paddle-boards to rent.

8. Runmarö 

If fancy visiting an island but don’t like travelling by boat, Runmarö is a good option. It’s just a short ten-minute boat trip from Stavsnäs, with boats running year-round.

Stavsnäs itself is a 50-minute drive from the centre of Stockholm, or you can take bus #433 from Slussen T-bana.

Runmarö is known as the authors’ island, since it provided inspiration to a variety of authors and artists, including Strindberg, the poet Tomas Tranströmer and artist Axel Törneman. 

The island is home to an amazing number of orchid species – at least 27 – plus nine lakes, known locally as marshes.

There are no guest house or hotels on Runmarö, but plenty of cosy  cabins and cottages to rent .

The island of Nämdö is the largest in the Nämdöskärgården (the Nämdö archipelago), though at just 4 miles long by one mile wide it’s still pretty tiny itself.

Traditionally a farming island, it’s a pretty place to walk around with wooded slopes, flower meadows and rocky cliffs to explore.

It’s a popular spot for swimming, fishing, hiking and just chilling, as well as exploring the other tiny islands in the Nämdöskärgården.

Just east of the island a new marine park has been designated, Sweden’s first in the Baltic Sea, which will protect the unique flora, fauna and landscapes of the archipelago. 

Nämdö is served by regular ferries from Stavsnäs, taking 35 minutes and costing  104 SEK.

The Stavsnäs Båttaxi also runs to various islands and jetties in the archipelago.

Stavsnäs can be reached from from Slussen T-bana in central Stockholm on bus #433.

There’s no hotel on Nämdö, but the Idöborgs Stuguthyrning rents out lovely sea views cabins and cottages, some right by the beach.

There’s also a beachfront sauna and you can hire kayaks to explore the coastline and other islands. 

The island of Utö, which means “outer” island, is one of the farthest south in the Stockholm archipelago.

It’s unusual in that farming and fishing were not its main source of income, but iron ore mining, and it was home to Sweden’s oldest iron mine.

Today, most of the former quarries are now lakes, and you can find out more about the island’s mining heritage at the Utö Mining Museum and Homestead .

For most people, however, the island’s main appeal is swimming or kayaking in its clear waters, relaxing on the sandy beaches, or renting a bike and exploring.

Hiking is also popular and there’s a marked 15km round trail that runs round the top of island, taking in woods, hills and coast.

Utö has a small year-round population, which means that it has a school, several restaurants, cafés, accommodation,  a fish shop and a well-regarded bakery – and even an annual Christmas market.

Ferries run year-round from Årsta Brygga on the mainland to Gruvbryggan in the north of the island (55 minutes), before carrying on to Näsudden (70 minutes), then Spränga (75 minutes). Fares to all destinations on the island cost 104 SEK.

Årsta Brygga is a thirty-minute drive south of Stockholm via route 73. 

If you want to stay, we suggest the reasonably-priced  Hostel Utö , with twin rooms and bunk-bed dorms in a good location, a short walk from the harbour in Gruvbryggan.

Map of Stockholm’s best islands

Tips for visiting the stockholm archipelago:.

• Plan your trip ahead of time: take careful note of the ferry schedules because it’s no fun to wait at the dock for the next trip (it can be hours between departures).
• Leave early, just in case: it’s better to be early than late when limited to the ferry schedule! This is especially important if you’re going to use the Cinderella boats and have booked your tickets in advance.
• If you’re on a tight budget, pack a lunch and bring it with you: prices on the islands tend to get expensive as they are small communities catered towards summer tourists.
• Do you want to stay overnight? Plan ahead to avoid full bookings, or pack some camping equipment for the ultimate archipelago experience; this option is highly recommended for Grinda.
• Definitely bring your swimming gear: even if you don’t plan for it, spending a day out on these dazzling ocean waters can make a swim become too tempting to resist!
• Bring cash. Most of Sweden is totally cashless , but you can never be too safe, especially out in the islands!

See also: 8 cheap Airbnbs in Stockholm The best Stockholm boat tours and cruises How to spend a summer weekend in Stockholm Special places to stay in the Stockholm archipelago

Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen: is it worth the hype?

You may also like.

Cycling in Norway

Whale watching in Iceland: when, where and how


Where to go hiking near Stockholm

Stockholm’s coolest record shops

6 of the best food tours in Stockholm

Where to play golf in Sweden

6 of the most epic helicopter tours in Iceland

The best lakes in Sweden

The 10 best national parks in Sweden 

Stockholm Travel Guide: 32 Best Things To Do & See in the Swedish Capital

The venice of the north.

Stockholm, Sweden’s capital , is super cosy!

As Alexander’s grandmother and grandfather live just south of the city, we have been lucky to visit Stockholm countless times over the years in all seasons.

“Fika”, old streets, walks along the canals and nice interior design shops… That’s just some of the things we love most about Stockholm.

You can easily spend a weekend in Stockholm – or several days – because there is so much to do and see at the many islands in the archipelago (which has given the city the nickname the Venice of the North).

In this travel guide to Stockholm, we share the best things to do and see as well as tips and recommendations for where to stay, good restaurants and cafés, how to get around and much more.

Where to stay in Stockholm?

• Budget: STF Zinkensdamm Hostel – Hostel five minutes from the beach in Södermalm.
• Value for money: Backstage Hotel Stockholm – Nice hotel close to nature on Djurgården.
• Luxury: Grand Hôtel Stockholm – Stockholm’s finest hotel.
• Search for the best value accommodation in Stockholm here .

Table of contents

Best things to do and see in Stockholm

Where to stay in stockholm, best restaurants and cafés in stockholm, how to get around stockholm, how to get to stockholm, our best tips for visiting stockholm.

Stockholm map and geography

Stockholm is spread over several different islands and islets. The central part of the city is located on 14 islands , all of which are connected by more than 50 bridges .

Stockholm’s archipelago consists of more than 20,000 islands (some say 30,000!), which spread east from the city towards the Baltic Sea.

Stockholm City Card

We’ll start this guide to Stockholm by mentioning an all-inclusive pass to the city: Stockholm City Card .

It’s a really great idea if you want to experience several museums or go on sailing trips in the archipelago.

You get access to more than 50 attractions and tours in Stockholm which you can visit freely for either 1 day, 2 days, 3 days or 5 days.

The card is valid, among other things, for:

• Going on an Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise with a guide.
• Sailing to Drottningholm.
• Visiting the Vasa Museum.
• Going up to SkyView Stockholm.

Some of Stockholm’s biggest and best highlights , in other words.

Several of the things to do and see in this travel guide to Stockholm are included in the Stockholm City Card, so we will mention it again later.

If you want to check out the prices and which museums, attractions and tours are included, you can read more about the Stockholm City Card here ( adlink ).

Tip: Remember to check the digital guide you receive after your purchase to see the updated list of included experiences and attractions, opening hours and specific booking instructions.

Advertisement

Since you are reading this travel guide, you are probably wondering what to do and see in Stockholm.

Well, we have been to Sweden’s capital many times and still find new exciting shops and cafés to visit as well as parks and museums we haven’t been to before.

There are plenty of sights and attractions for both a weekend trip and a longer stay.

In our opinion, here are the best things to do and see in Stockholm:

• Gamla Stan – The old town
• Stockholm Palace – The royal residence
• Stockholm Cathedral – The royal church
• The Parliament House – The legislative assembly
• Riddarholmen and Riddarholm Church
• Stockholms Stadhus – The City Hall
• Walk along the canals
• Canal cruise – See Stockholm from the waterside
• Djurgården – The green lungs of Stockholm
• The Vasa Museum – A well-preserved 17th-century warship
• The Viking Museum – Norse mythology and an interactive exhibition
• Skansen – The world’s oldest open-air museum
• Gröna Lund – Stockholm’s amusement park
• Rosendal Garden and Rosendal Palace
• Junibacken – A fun playground for children
• Candlelight Concert – Live performances with thousands of candles
• Södermalm – Hip atmosphere and great food
• Fotografiska – Museum of Photography with a view
• Katarinavägen – View of Gamla Stan
• Skinnarviksberget – Natural view of the city
• Sofia Church and Vitabergsparken
• Östermalm – Fancy shops and beautiful architecture
• Östermalms Saluhall – Food market for aestheticians
• Norrmalm – Shopping and culture in the centre
• Hallwylska Museet – A luxurious family mansion
• Paradox Museum – Optical illusions for children
• More parks and green areas in Stockholm
• SkyView – View of Stockholm from the Globe
• Stockholm’s metro stations – An underground art gallery
• Hop-on hop-off bus tour – See the best of Stockholm
• Shopping – Everything from vintage shops to Swedish chain stores
• Drottningholm Palace – Royal castle from the 17th century

1. Gamla Stan – The old town

Stockholm’s old town Gamla Stan is a must-visit when in Stockholm.

The area is located on an island in the middle of the city ( Stadsholmen ) between Norrmalm and Södermalm and it’s lovely to stroll through when walking from one district to the other.

The streets of Gamla Stan are narrow, old and really cute .

And yes, it is a bit touristy with souvenir shops and slightly more expensive food options… But the area is still super charming!

Our favourite streets in Gamla Stan:

• Västerlånggatan with the many shops.
• The more quiet Prästgatan , which, among other things, includes The German Church.
• Köpmangatan (Stockholm’s oldest street).
• Österlånggatan , where there are several small galleries and special shops.

Also, don’t miss Stortorget with the beautiful coloured houses and The Nobel Museum as well as the narrowest alley of Stockholm: Mårten Trotzig’s Alley .

In Gamla Stan, you will find Stockholm Palace , Stockholm Cathedral and the Parliament House – all of which we will get into in more detail below.

2. The Royal Palace – The royal residence

If you are interested in history , royal families or as Victoria loves historical drama series and movies about the royals, you can’t miss The Royal Palace ( Kungliga Slottet in Swedish).

Even though it’s the royal couple’s official residence and workplace , large parts of the castle are open all year round.

The Royal Palace is built in Baroque style and we were really impressed with the pompous rooms , the art and the gold details in the old castle.

It’s like stepping into a movie! It’s also fun to experience if you have watched the Netflix series Young Royals .

In addition to the castle itself, the entrance ticket also gives access to the Royal Treasury ( Skattkammaren ) with incredible royal crowns and weapons as well as the Museum Three Crowns ( Tre Kronor ), where you can learn more about the development of the old Tre Kronor Palace from a defence fort to a Renaissance palace.

See opening times, prices and different types of tickets on their website .

3. Stockholm Cathedral – The royal church

Right next to Stockholm Palace (described above), you’ll find Stockholm Cathedral ( Storkyrkan in Swedish).

The cathedral, which is also called Sankt Nikolai Kyrka , is the oldest church in Stockholm.

Inside the church, there is, among other things, a famous statue of Saint George and the Dragon, a beautiful organ and an impressive altar.

It’s worth checking out if you are in Gamla Stan.

By the way, this is the church in which Sweden’s Crown Princess Victoria married Daniel .

The church can obviously be seen from the outside for free, but (unfortunately) going inside costs a little bit .

You can buy a ticket at the entrance.

Tip: The entrance fee to the church is included if you have the Stockholm City Card ( adlink ).

4. The Parliament House – The legislative assembly

The Parliament House is called Riksdagshuset, and it is the seat of the Parliament of Sweden .

The building is located on a small island, Helgeandsholmen , just north of Gamla Stan, and it’s open to the public ( read about visiting the Riksdag here ).

It’s an impressive building and it’s worth passing by to admire even if you don’t intend to go inside.

5. Riddarholmen and Riddarholm Church

Riddarholmen is located on a small islet west of Gamla Stan.

On the cute little streets , you will find the town court, Birger Jarl’s tower, the Gamla Riksarkivet and lots of beautiful views of the water.

Riddarholmen Church is a beautiful burial and memorial church where former Swedish regents are buried.

The church is open to visitors during the summer season and also arranges several concerts throughout the year.

6. Stockholms Stadhus – The City Hall

The city hall , Stockholms Stadhus, was built between 1911 and 1923 and it was designed by the Swedish architect Ragnar Östberg in a national romantic style.

There are tours of the city hall almost daily ( read more about times and prices here ).

The city hall is located next to the water at the tip of Kungsholmen , where you can get a great view of Riddarholmen and the western part of Södermalm from the City Hall vantage point ( Stadshuset utsiktspunkt ).

In addition to being the seat of Stockholm’s municipality, it’s also where the Nobel Prize is awarded every year in December in the magnificent halls.

7. Walk along the canals

One of the most characteristic features of Sweden’s capital is the many canals and waterways that wind through the city.

In fact, there is so much water that Stockholm is sometimes called the Venice of the North .

Taking the time to walk along the canals is definitely recommended!

Enjoy the views over the water from the many bridges and roads along the waterfront, for example from Strandvägen , which runs from Norrmalm to Djurgården, North Mälarstrand a little west of the city hall, or Söder Mälarstrand just on the other side on the western part of Södermalm.

8. Canal cruise – See Stockholm from the waterside

You can also choose to see Stockholm from the water by going on a canal cruise.

Several companies offer boat trips in the canals where you get a unique perspective on the city and pass several of the best sights in Stockholm.

There are also several different types of boat trips included among the experiences you can get with a Stockholm City Card ( adlink ).

Going on a canal cruise in Stockholm is definitely a wonderful way to see the city.

9. Djurgården – The green lungs of Stockholm

The island of Djurgården is a beautiful oasis in the middle of Stockholm which is especially nice to visit in the summer because of the large green areas.

Rosendals Trädgård (the Rosendal Garden) with Rosendals Slott (the Rosendal Palace), Ekoparken, Djurgårdens Bokskog and Frisens Park take up a large part of the island.

The historic open-air museum Skansen is worth a visit on a day with good weather, too.

Near the water, you will find the amusement park Gröna Lund , ABBA The Museum and other popular museums such as the Vasa Museum , The Viking Museum , The Nordic Museum and the children’s park Junibacken .

Below we go into more detail about several of the experiences and sights on Djurgården.

10. The Vasa Museum – A well-preserved 17th-century warship

The Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s most famous museums and iconic landmarks .

The Vasa Ship sank in 1628 shortly after it sailed from the port of Stockholm on its maiden voyage.

Around 300 years later, the ship was raised from the bottom of the sea and restored. Now it can be experienced up close.

Alexander naturally visited the Vasa Museum as a child with his Swedish family – because it’s truly an exciting museum for children where you, among other things, can play between the cannons and imagine being inside the ship.

On our most recent trip to Stockholm, we both visited the museum and it was impressive to see the gigantic ship from six different floors . That way we could soak in all the details and see the ship from all angles.

There are several small exhibits, including a screening of a 17-minute documentary about the ship’s history.

The Vasa Museum is included in the Stockholm City Card ( adlink ) which gives access to more than 50 experiences and sights in Stockholm.

You can also buy your ticket online ( adlink ) or at the museum entrance.

Children up to 18 years old can enter The Vasa Museum for free.

11. The Viking Museum – Norse mythology and an interactive exhibition

We have to admit that we didn’t have high expectations for the Viking Museum. But we were positively surprised and really enjoyed our visit.

Here, you can learn about Norse mythology , Scandinavian history and of course the Viking way of life .

If you have seen Viking-themed TV series like Vikings, The Last Kingdom or Norsemen, it’s fun to see some of the more in-depth descriptions of the characters you know from the screen.

The museum is right next to the Vasa Museum on Djurgården, so it’s easy to combine a visit to both – and that’s exactly what we did.

Something that made the Viking Museum special was a small “ride” called Ragnfrid’s Saga , where you sit in a carriage (like in an amusement park) that takes you on a journey back to the Viking Age and tells the story of the fate of a Viking family.

In the course of 11 minutes, the carriage takes you through different rooms with figures, exhibitions, videos as well as light and sound installations. It was really well made!

You can choose to hear the story in English, Swedish and several other languages.

Visiting The Viking Museum, like the Vasa Museum, is also included in the Stockholm City Card ( adlink ).

Alternatively, you can buy tickets online ( adlink ) or at the entrance.

12. Skansen – The world’s oldest open-air museum

It has been quite a few years since we visited Skansen but we still include it in this travel guide to Stockholm as it’s a really cosy place.

At the world’s oldest open-air museum, you can travel back in time and learn about how the Swedes lived in the 16th century and up to the first half of the 20th century.

There are 150 historic houses and farms from all over Sweden.

During the summer season, there are singing, dancing and concerts at the outdoor museum while the winter season includes a Christmas market and Christmas concerts.

We have to admit that we are a bit conflicted about the fact that Skansen also has enclosures with wild Nordic animals, an aquarium and a children’s zoo with farm animals. As vegans and animal lovers, we don’t think animals should be kept in captivity like that.

13. Gröna Lund – Stockholm’s amusement park

Gröna Lund is Sweden’s oldest amusement park and it’s beautifully located next to the water on Djurgården.

If you are travelling with children , this is a fun place to spend the day.

There are around 30 rides , lots of stalls with games and lotteries as well as several restaurants and snack stands.

In addition, there is also entertainment for children, concerts and dance evenings.

Read more about Gröna Lund’s opening hours, prices and events on their website .

14. Rosendal Garden and Rosendal Palace

Go for a walk, relax in the sun or enjoy the many flowers and plants in the large green garden in the middle of Djurgården.

In Rosendals Trädgård (the Rosendal Garden), you’ll find biodynamic fruits, vegetables and flowers (which you can buy and take home with you).

There is a cute greenhouse café with lunch dishes, coffee and cake, too.

Apart from that, the garden also has a cool labyrinth and the beautiful Rosendal Palace from the 19th century ( read more about opening hours and prices here ).

15. Junibacken – A fun playground for children

We have not visited Junibacken ourselves, but if you are in Stockholm with young children , you should definitely check it out.

The children’s museum is a cultural centre for children (and childlike souls) , and it has a theatre, interactive exhibitions, places to play, a large bookstore with children’s books and many references to Astrid Lindgren’s world.

Among other things, you can “lift up” Pippi’s horse and ride a story train that takes you through several of the well-known Astrid Lindgren stories.

It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance – they can be purchased online here ( adlink ) or at the museum entrance where they cost a little more.

16. Candlelight Concert – Live performances with thousands of candles

Stockholm is already one of Europe’s most romantic cities. Now you can experience a special night with Candlelight Concerts; musical events by Fever that put on unique shows with classical music, tributes to contemporaries (like Sweden’s very own ABBA) as well as other genres like ballets and even anime.

What they all have in common, though, is the intimate settings and the thousands of candles . It sounds and looks so beautiful!

Read more about what’s on and book your Candlelight tickets here .

17. Södermalm – Hip atmosphere and great food

Södermalm, often called Söder , is a large area in Stockholm south of Gamla Stan with lots of green parks, cosy cafés and restaurants, thrift shops, interior design and clothing stores.

The hippest part of Söder is the SoFo district (South of Folkungagatan), where you’ll find many creative and innovative fashion stores, designer shops, small galleries and trendy eateries.

Further down, we’ll mention some of the best things to do and see in Södermalm.

18. Fotografiska – Museum of Photography with a view

With a beautiful view over the water and Stockholm’s small islands, the museum Fotografiska is located in an old customs station building in the northernmost part of Södermalm.

The modern photography museum is often recommended as one of the best things to experience in Stockholm – and for a good reason!

When we stopped by, there were three exhibitions at the museum and we were particularly fond of the News Flash exhibition which displayed unique news photographs from different decades.

The museum shop is also quite cool with many books, posters and Swedish design objects.

Furthermore, the museum is open from 10 am to 11 pm every day which can be convenient if you have more energy in the evening when all the other museums and shops are closed.

You can see the current exhibitions on Fotografiska’s website .

And if you have already considered buying a Stockholm City Card ( adlink ), you will be pleased to hear that Fotografiska is also included in the pass.

Alternatively, you can buy tickets online ( adlink ) or at the entrance, where they (according to the museum) typically are more expensive.

Children up to the age of 13 enter for free.

19. Katarinavägen – View of Gamla Stan

Katarinavägen is technically not a thing to see in Stockholm but nevertheless, we think it should be mentioned in this travel guide.

The road starts at Slussen and if you continue further up, you’ll get a nice view of Gamla Stan and the rest of Stockholm.

When we visited in February 2023, a fence had been put up in connection with some road work, so the view wasn’t the best. Luckily, you could still see – and take pictures – through the fence.

20. Skinnarviksberget – Natural view of the city

Another scenic view of Stockholm can be seen from the top of Skinnarviksberget.

In the northwestern part of Södermalm, you can go up to a small cliff , from where you can see the town hall Stockholms Stadshus, among other things.

It’s free and we can imagine it’s a lovely area in the summer or around sunset.

21. Sofia Church and Vitabergsparken

If you are in the eastern part of Södermalm – east of SoFo – it might be worth checking out Sofia Kyrka (Sofia Church) and Vitabergsparken.

The church is quite special from the outside (nothing too special from the inside though) and we can imagine that the park is beautiful in the summer.

22. Östermalm – Fancy shops and beautiful architecture

North of Djurgården and east of Norrmalm, one of the finest areas in the city with some of the highest property prices is located: Östermalm .

Here you’ll find designer shops, fancy bars, classy restaurants, green parks, Stureplan Torv , theatres and museums (for example Dramaten and Historiska Museet ).

It is a lovely area to walk around with beautiful architecture.

23. Östermalms Saluhall – Food market for aestheticians

One of the popular experiences for both locals and tourists in Östermalm is to stop by the beautiful market hall Östermalm’s Saluhall.

The market is from the end of the 19th century and you can buy fresh ingredients , get a bite to eat or have a drink from one of the many stalls.

And even if you don’t want to buy anything, you can just take a look inside, because it’s simply a stunning building .

24. Norrmalm – Shopping and culture in the centre

Norrmalm – the large area in the middle of Stockholm – brims with (Swedish) fashion and design shops along the shopping street Drottninggatan as well as on the smaller streets near it and in the shopping centre called Gallerian.

In addition, you will find lots of restaurants and cafés in different price ranges.

Norrmalm is also where you’ll find Stockholm Central Station , The Royal Swedish Opera , Stockholm Concert Hall , St. Clara Church and Sergels Torg with the Cultural centre Stadsteatern and the park Kungsträdgården .

25. Hallwylska Museet – A luxurious family mansion

As we have already mentioned earlier in the guide, Victoria has a thing for historical dramas and luxurious residences .

Although Hallwylska Musee is not a royal residence, the family that lived there was extremely well off – and you can see their beautiful rooms and all the fine things they have collected at the museum today.

It is free to visit the museum on Wednesdays (when it’s also open for longer).

See prices and opening hours on their website here .

26. Paradox Museum – Optical illusions for children

If you are in Stockholm with children, they will love to experience the Paradox Museum.

The museum is full of interactive experiences and optical illusions where you can take cool pictures.

Buy tickets online here ( adlink ).

27. More parks and green areas in Stockholm

We have already mentioned several parks in Stockholm city but if you want to check out even more parks for a relaxing time or a picnic in the summer , these are great options:

• Observatorielunden
• Humlegården
• Tantolunden
• Drakenbergsparken

Rålambshovsparken , Hagaparken , Skogskyrkogården (the Forest Cemetery) and Nackareservatet are a bit further away from the city but they also look lovely.

28. SkyView – View of Stockholm from the Globe

The world’s largest spherical building , the Stockholm Globe Arena (which is now called the Avicii Arena ), is just south of the central part of Stockholm.

Large music, sports and cultural events are held here, and along the outside of the round building, you can get a ride in a glass gondola and get a “sky view” over Stockholm.

If you already have a Stockholm City Card (adlink) , a ride in SkyView is included. Remember to check whether you need to book a visiting time in advance.

Alternatively, you can buy tickets here (adlink) .

29. Stockholm’s metro stations – An underground art gallery

The metro stations in Stockholm deserve their own spot in this travel guide because many of them are worth a visit just for their special designs.

The metro system has been called “the world’s longest art gallery” and there are more than 90 subway stations decorated with paintings, rock formations, sculptures, mosaics, installations and more.

And it’s almost like walking into an art exhibition as so much work has gone into making them unique and exciting .

The metro system is also called tunnelbanan or t-banan.

Some of the most beautiful metro stations in Stockholm:

• T-Centralen – especially the blue line with blue plants on a white background.
• Stadion Station is built into the mountain and has, among other things, a beautiful rainbow painted on the wall.
• Solna Central Station is red and green with cool nature details.
• Kungsträdgården Station is green with references to the old French garden that once lay above ground.
• Tensta Station illustrates acceptance, equality and love with pretty paintings.
• Rådhuset Station has the bedrock is exposed and unsculptured which resembles a large cave.
• Tekniska Högskolan has a technology theme with quotes from the history of science mixed with paintings and sculptures that refer to the four elements and the laws of nature.

You can see more cool metro stations on Instagram if you search for #stockholmmetro or #metrostockholm .

30. Hop-on hop-off bus tour – See the best of Stockholm

The classic hop-on hop-off buses also exist in Stockholm and you should consider going on a tour if you don’t have much time in the Swedish capital, or if you prefer to walk less .

The buses drive directly to many of the best attractions in Stockholm (including top sights like Stockholm Palace, the Vasa Museum, Gamla Stan, Gröna Lund and the City Hall).

You can easily jump on and off as you like in either 24 hours or 72 hours or you can stay on the bus and see most of town from the comfort of your seat.

See prices and read more about which sights the buses stop at here (adlink) .

31. Shopping – Everything from vintage shops to Swedish chain stores

Stockholm has it all when it comes to shopping.

The city is full of thrift stores, flea markets, design shops, antique shops and, of course, interior design in all price ranges (including the world’s largest IKEA).

In many places, you will find Swedish chain stores such as H&M, Weekday, COS, & Other Stories, Arket, Tiger of Sweden, Acne, Fjällräven, Filippa K, Lindex and the like.

Stockholm’s largest shopping street Drottninggatan (in Norrmalm) is a long pedestrian street with all kinds of shops, restaurants, bars and cafés.

Biblioteksgatan on the border between Norrmalm and Östermalm is a good place to go for more exclusive shops such as Mulberry, Tommy Hilfiger, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren and the like. The most expensive shops are located on the nearby Birger Jarlsgatan .

Some of the best vintage and thrift shops are Beyond Retro, Arkivet, Judit’s Second Hand, Humana Second Hand, Emmaus, Modern Retro Vintage and Myrorna – and Södermalm in general is probably your best bet if you’re looking for those kinds of shops.

For large shopping centres , you can check out NK (Nordiska Kompaniet), Gallerian, Åhlens City, Mood Stockholm and Sturegallerian.

The flea market Hornstull’s Market can be visited every Saturday and Sunday afternoon from the beginning of April to the end of September along the southwestern part of Södermalm. Second-hand clothes, books, art, antiques, delicacies and street food are sold here and live music is often played.

There is also a daily fruit and vegetable market on Hötorget – and at the weekend there are various other stalls, too.

32. Drottningholm Palace – Royal castle from the 17th century

Unfortunately, we have never been to Dronningholm Palace and it was closed on weekdays during our last trip to Stockholm – but next time we must go there!

The large well-preserved royal palace from the 17th century is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and surrounding it, there’s a beautiful palace garden in baroque style, a fountain, an English landscape park with canals and bridges, a Chinese pavilion and a theatre.

The Swedish king and queen live in the palace’s south wing , so that part is closed but the rest of the palace is open to the public. And it looks pompous.

A boat trip to Drottningholm is included in the Stockholm City Card ( adlink ) from May to September and as far as we can see, it takes about 50 minutes to sail to the island of Lovön, where it is located.

See opening times, entrance prices and get more information on the palace’s website .

We can imagine that it’s a fantastic experience if you have plenty of time in Stockholm or already have seen many of the sights in the city.

Map of the best things to do and see in Stockholm

Find all the best sights and attractions in Stockholm on the map below.

Although it’s easy to get around Stockholm, it will be convenient for most people to live relatively centrally in the city.

The most central areas are Gamla Stan (Old Town), Norrmalm and Östermalm . Here, you will find many of the best hotels in Stockholm as you will be in the middle of the action and close to all the most famous sights and attractions.

Södermalm and Vasastan are great if you want to be a little further away from the inner city and live more like a local. We think most of the city’s best eateries can be found here – and it’s still easy to get into the city.

On Djurgården , you will be very close to the centre and especially Östermalm but at the same time, you will stay in a very quiet and green area. It’s also a really nice option.

Find great hotels in the different areas below or scroll further down to see the best hotels in Stockholm divided by price range.

Search for the best and cheapest hotels in each area here:

Södermalm .

• Östermalm .
• Djurgården .

Here are our favourite hotels in Stockholm divided by price range:

Luxury hotels in Stockholm

• Grand Hôtel Stockholm – The finest hotel in Stockholm. Norrmalm .
• Bank Hotel – Gorgeous and lavish. Norrmalm .
• At Six – Hotel with a subdued, exclusive colour palette. Norrmalm .
• Hôtel Reisen – Gamla Stan’s most luxurious hotel. Gamla Stan .
• NOFO Hotel – Close to several of Stockholm’s best eateries. Södermalm .
• Hotel Diplomat – Sophisticated 5-star hotel. Östermalm .
• Ett hem – Luxurious, exclusive atmosphere with only 12 rooms. Vasastan .

Value for money hotels in Stockholm

• Hotel With Urban Deli – Close to everything and with a roof terrace. Norrmalm .
• Victory Hotel – Hotel with a sailor theme. Gamla Stan .
• Nobis Hotel Stockholm – Sleep well in Östermalm. Östermalm .
• Backstage Hotel Stockholm – Djurgården’s best hotel. Djurgården .
• Hotel Hasselbacken – Perfect place to relax after a day in Stockholm. Djurgården .
• Best Western Plus Time Hotel – Cosy “standard” hotel. Vasastan .

Budget hotels in Stockholm

• City BackPackers Hostel – Shared dormitories and shared bathrooms for budget travellers. Norrmalm .
• Generator Stockholm – Centrally located with dormitories. Norrmalm .
• Castle House Inn – A good and cheap option for some very central accommodation in Stockholm. Gamla Stan .
• STF Zinkensdamm Hostel – Hostel in Hornstull. Södermalm .
• Hostel Dalagatan – Great prices at a slightly secluded location. Vasastan .

Since we eat plant-based, we have visited cafés and restaurants in Stockholm with great vegan options and these are the ones we have included in this guide.

But don’t be alarmed if you normally don’t eat plant-based foods. We have included the places because the quality is amazing and the food has plenty of taste – for all types of eaters!

We had breakfast at the cute little plant-based cafe À La Lo and were really impressed with their “frozen banana yoghurt” which was a smoothie bowl with lots of fresh fruit and granola.

Their Croque Mon Dieu with “cheese”, smoked tofu, tomatoes and (perhaps a little too much) mustard was perfectly crispy and delicious.

The coffee comes from The Belleville Brûlerie roastery in Paris and they bake their own cakes.

If you want to come by at the weekend, make sure to come early or reserve a table in advance.

Vegan Mahalo has two cafés in Stockholm – one in Vasastan on Odengatan (close to À La Lo) and one on Hornsgatan in Södermalm .

We tried the latter and it was nicely decorated and had plenty of seating.

They had a good selection of breakfast options but we love smoothie bowls and of course, we had to try one of their three options. We ordered a pretty pink “pitaya” (dragon fruit) smoothie bowl with delicious toppings and a sinful stack of pancakes with whipped cream, fresh berries and syrup.

Their quinoa croissants tasted a bit too healthy for our liking but plus points for having vegan croissants at all!

Victoria enjoyed a Golden Latte which was creamy with a good, not too-strong spice mix (turmeric, ginger, pepper and cinnamon).

Vasastan and Södermalm .

Piccola Nonna Pizza

When we passed by Piccola Nonna Pizza, two nice ladies were behind the counter making pizzas to go and to stay in the cosy, small shop with Italian pictures and artefacts on the walls.

The place is known for making great Neapolitan pizzas (with a thick, soft edge and bottom), and it’s our favourite kind of pizza.

We tried a Potato pizza with pesto and one with nduja – both were really good!

Falafelbaren

Fresh falafels are the best and at Falafelbaren, they serve them in pita bread with homemade red cabbage, pickles, tomatoes, cucumber and tahini sauce – just as it should be.

Drop Coffee

The specialty coffee shop Drop Coffee serves some of the best coffee in Stockholm .

Here we filmed a few shots for our coffee documentary Shade Grown Coffee .

Delivore and Goodstore

Not far from Piccola Nonna Pizza, there’s a café called Delivore .

It doesn’t look like much from the outside but we had the best Snickers cake with chocolate, caramel and peanuts.

We already had lunch and weren’t that hungry, but we simply had to try it and we’re so glad we did. Yum!

In the same store, behind Delivore, there is a hidden 100% plant-based supermarket : Goodstore .

You have to know it’s there because it’s not really something that’s advertised to the street – but if you’re vegan, vegetarian or just curious about alternatives, you should definitely stop by.

We came home with “salmon”, “shrimp”, “sausages” and various snacks that we had never seen in Denmark before.

Fern & Fika

The atmosphere was lovely at Fern & Fika, which is located all the way west in Södermalm close to Hornstull Station.

We got a black coffee from Gringo Nordic and a chai latte as well as a raw raspberry chocolate cake which was amazing – and there were many other delicious dessert options in the display case.

Kafé Plattan

In the big Kulturhuset at Sergels Torg and T-Centralen metro station in the middle of Norrmalm, you will find the 100% plant-based Kafé Plattan on the bottom floor.

While Kulturhuset (the House of Culture) has a shopping mall vibe, Kafé Plattan has actually made their corner really nice.

In the display case, they have several dishes ready to be heated and eaten in the café or taken away. At lunchtime, there is an even bigger menu.

We tried a sandwich with pesto and a hoisin “duck” wrap .

And then Victoria couldn’t help herself, so she had to try a vegan semla (a traditional Swedish sweet roll) with almond filling and whipped cream – it was tasty!

Normally we wouldn’t recommend dining in the middle of a touristic area as the prices are often higher and the quality lower…

And while the prices are perhaps a bit higher at Verte, which is located in Gamla Stan , the quality of the food followed!

Their plant burger was absolutely perfect and for a few extra Swedish kronor, we could replace the regular fries with sweet potato fries which we loooove.

We also had a bowl with “chicken” in BBQ sauce , black rice, avocado, mango, bean sprouts, chickpeas, sriracha mayo and more. Super delicious!

Gamla Stan .

It’s amazing walking around in Stockholm – it’s safe , clean and there are a lot of interesting things to see on the way.

The pavements are wide and pedestrians can walk everywhere in the city.

If you want to experience many of the sights we have included in this travel guide to Stockholm, you must prepare to walk several thousand steps a day .

You can for example use public transport for the longest distances and then walk around the different areas between all of the museums, parks and iconic buildings.

Public transport

Stockholm has a very good public transport system with several bus lines, metro (also called tunnelbana or t-bana), trams and boats.

If you take the metro , you can get an art experience too, as most of Stockholm’s subways are beautifully decorated. Check out number 28 of the best things to do and see in Stockholm further up in the guide to see which stations are extraordinarily cool.

A one-way ticket is valid for 75 minutes and can be purchased in SL’s ticket machines, in the SL app or directly on the bus and subway using a contactless credit card, Apple Pay or similar.

The price per trip for an adult was 39 Swedish kronor in 2023.

Of course, you can drive around Stockholm (as locals obviously do to some extent) but for tourists, we wouldn’t recommend it.

Parking in Stockholm can quickly become a nightmare and it’s expensive . It’s not unusual with prices from 90 to 120 Swedish kronor per hour or a 24-hour ticket for 400 Swedish kronor.

There are of course several hotels that offer parking if you travel with a car.

The bike lanes in Stockholm are good (and there are many) so it is definitely an option to bike around the city .

In the summer, we imagine it’s a nice way to get around in the sunny weather.

There are several bicycle rental companies with both regular bikes and electric bikes.

Read more about the various options for renting bicycles here .

Drive to Stockholm

Although it is not great to experience Stockholm with your own car, it is certainly possible to drive to Stockholm from other locations in Sweden or its neighbouring countries.

The trip from Copenhagen in Denmark is 650 kilometres, which takes ~8 hours to cover. From Oslo in Norway , you’ll be driving for about 6.5 hours with a length of 520 kilometres.

From Gothenburg, there are 460 kilometres to Stockholm and a journey time of just over 5 hours, while the trip from Helsingborg is 550 kilometres, which according to Google Maps takes about 6 hours.

We would recommend that you either park your car at your hotel car park/parking garage , or alternatively find a free parking lot outside the city and take public transport back in.

With a little research, we have found free parking in the suburbs of Liljeholmen and Solna , but check for yourself what applies at the time you visit the city and whether the free parking is valid for only 24 hours or for several days.

Train to Stockholm from Denmark or Norway

The best way to get to Stockholm from Denmark or Norway is in our opinion by train.

Stockholm Central Station is located in the heart of the city, and it’s easy to get everywhere from here by public transport.

The journey from Copenhagen Central Station to Stockholm Central Station only takes a little more than 5 hours if you hop on an SJ express train (fast train).

From Oslo Central Station , the train ride takes about 5.5 hours.

It is also possible to travel to Stockholm with Snälltåget (a different train company) from Malmö , which takes approx. 6 hours, or from Helsingborg , where it takes 5-6 hours.

Find train tickets and see prices on SJ’s website .

Fly to Stockholm

There are many flights from Europe and the rest of the world flying into Stockholm every day.

The main airport is called Arlanda and it’s located 45 kilometres north of the city.

If you take the (slightly expensive) train Arlanda Express , you can reach Stockholm from Arlanda in just 20 minutes.

If you want to make it a little cheaper, you can take a bus from Arlanda to the train station Märsta and then take the train to Stockholm from there. That takes ~45 minutes in total.

There is also a less-used airport in Bromma, which is somewhat closer to the city.

You can use our adlink below to find the cheapest tickets:

Find the cheapest tickets to Stockholm on Momondo .

• Remember a good camera – here’s a guide to the gear we use .
• Drink tap water . The water quality in Sweden is excellent. You can easily drink water from the tap.
• Walk around . Walking from one place to another is often the best and most pleasant way to get around Stockholm.
• Take the subway . You can also take the metro and enjoy the art installations on the stations.
• Consider buying a Stockholm City Card (adlink) where you get access to more than 50 sights and attractions in Stockholm. In summer, there is also free transport with selected hop-on hop-off buses and boats.
• Explore the parks . The parks in Stockholm are great places to relax and breathe some fresh air.
• Don’t forget fika . Having a cup of coffee and something sweet is a pleasant way to spend the afternoon.
• Credit cards can be used virtually anywhere, so you don’t need to carry cash. In fact, not every shop accepts cash.
• Travel insurance (adlink) is important. Never travel without it.

Thanks for reading along

Thank you for reading our travel guide to Stockholm. We hope it has been helpful!

What do you think of Sweden’s capital? Are any of the things to do in Stockholm on your list yet?

If you’ve already been there, it would be great to hear your best tips and tricks.

Don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments below if you haven’t been to Stockholm yet. We are happy to help.

Pin for later:

Our favourite travel resources:

• Booking.com for cheap hotels.
• Momondo for the best flight deals.
• SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

• Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
• DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
• Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
• See all of our camera gear here .

Related articles:

• Helsingborg, Sweden Travel Guide : 11 Best Things To Do & See - Everything you need to know about Helsingborg in Sweden, including what to do, where to stay and our best tips
• Day Trip to Malmö From Copenhagen: How to Get There & What to Do - Discover the charm of Sweden’s 3rd largest city just 40 minutes by train from Copenhagen
• Mölle and Kullaberg Nature Reserve: Breathtaking Slopes and Hiking Trails in Scania, Sweden - Hiking with great views over Kattegat and Öresund in Southwest Sweden
• City break in Lund, Sweden: 6 Amazing Things to Do - A day in the charming university city in Scania
• Hiking in Söderåsen National Park in Scania, Sweden - A beautiful afternoon with lush forests, high cliffs and flowing streams

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Destinations
• Digital Nomad
• Travel Tips
• Inspiration
• Travel Videos
• Work With Us

Copyright © 2024 Northabroad

• Affiliate Disclaimer
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Stockholm   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Domingo Leiva | Getty Images

8 Best Things To Do in Stockholm

Updated May. 8, 2023

Stockholm is a great escape for the relaxed urban traveler. Here you can take a public ferry to the picturesque Gamla Stan or take a leisurely stroll among the relaxing grounds of the lush Djurgården park island. The capital is also perfect for those

• All Things To Do

Gamla Stan (Old Town) Gamla Stan (Old Town) free

In Stockholm, travelers don't necessarily need to venture to one of the city's museums to learn about its past. Instead, stroll through Gamla Stan, the neighborhood where Stockholm itself was founded in 1252. Cobblestone streets, winding alleyways and colorful, classic architecture abound, creating a medieval atmosphere  visitors can't seem to get enough of. But Gamla Stan's charming ambience isn't all the area has going for it. The neighborhood is home to some of the city's top attractions, including the Stockholm Cathedral, Parliament, the Nobel Museum (which houses exhibits about the Nobel Peace Prize and its laureates) and the Royal Palace . Gamla Stan is also where you'll find Stockholm's oldest street,  Köpmangatan, and Mårten Trotzigs gränd alleyway, the city's narrowest pathway at only 35 inches wide at its smallest point. 

Though travelers said there are plenty of cafes, shops and attractions here, some reviewers found Gamla Stan to be a tourist trap. Visitors said restaurants are often overpriced, and some were put off by the kitschy shops that catered to tourists. However, you don't have to spend money to get the best of Gamla Stan. Many tourists enjoyed simply strolling around the area and recommended everyone do the same, as they felt the scenery was the neighborhood's best asset. Gamla Stan is completely free to stroll through and aside from the various businesses that dot the area, is open for exploration 24 hours a day. For more information, visit the Stockholm Tourism Board's website .

Djurgården Djurgården free

In Stockholm, you don't have to travel far to experience the famous Swedish countryside. At Djurgården, you can get exactly that and so much more. The island of Djurgården is situated right next to the city center, accessible via various forms of public transportation (ferries included), as well as on foot thanks to the numerous bridges that connect to it from Östermalm. The island is one big green oasis, perfect for biking, strolling or picnicking. But there's more to this giant park than meets the eye. What lies within Djurgården is a treasure trove of activities, including some of the city's top attractions. Here, you'll find Rosendals Garden , Skansen , the Vasa Museum and 21 other museums, including one dedicated solely to the Swedish pop group ABBA. There's also an aquarium and amusement park, perfect for traveling families.

But don't worry, there are still plenty of spaces to unwind. Hit up one of the island's many coastal or canal pathways, or rest your legs at Isbladskärret, a small lake area home to numerous different types of birds and small herd of Scottish Highland cattle. In addition, there are plenty of eateries scattered around the island (previous visitors particularly recommend getting a bite at the greenhouse cafe at Rosendals).

Monteliusvagen Monteliusvagen free

If you're the kind of traveler who can't leave a new city without experiencing a vista or two, consider a walk along Monteliusvagen. At less than a half-mile long, this cobblestone-lined pathway may seem modest at first, but the views it offers of the Stockholm skyline pack a punch. The scenic path is perched atop the cliffs of Södermalm and faces Lake Mälaren, Riddarholmen (the small island adjacent to Gamla Stan ) and city hall, where some of the annual Nobel Prize award ceremonies and banquets are held. Sodermalm, the area where the Monteliusvagen is located, is akin to SoHo in New York City. The trendy neighborhood features a variety of shopping options, from designer to vintage stores, art galleries, bars and restaurants. And if you're still itching for more views during your time in Sodermalm, walk about a mile east and you'll hit the Fjällgatan viewpoint, found conveniently above Fotografiska .

Recent visitors said this short stroll is lovely and best experienced at sunrise or sunset. Some suggested taking food for a small picnic at the available benches, while others said those interested in photography would be hard-pressed to find a better place to take a photo of the city. Whichever way you choose to experience Monteliusvagen, you'll be greeted with fantastic views, according to reviewers.

Popular Tours

Stockholm Archipelago Cruise with Guide

(777 reviews)

from $ 38.75

GoStockholm Highlights Private Tour by Golf Cart

(108 reviews)

from $ 36.24

Viking History, Fika & Countryside 9h Tour to Sigtuna & Uppsala

(155 reviews)

from $ 215.41

Vasa Museum Vasa Museum

On its maiden voyage in 1628, the most powerful warship in the Baltic, the Vasa ,  was afloat only minutes before capsizing in front of stunned onlookers in the city's harbor.  Hundreds of years later, the massive, 226-foot-long ship was completely salvaged. The ship was so big that it took more than a year for it to be raised from the surface of the seabed. The Vasa has been put back together and extensively restored since then, with more than 95 percent of the ship originally intact. Thanks to this meticulous restoration, the ship is considered the only preserved 17th-century ship in the world and the  oldest fully preserved warship in the world. Today, the Vasa Museum is the most visited museum in Scandinavia, drawing in more than one million visitors a year.

In addition to the majestic ship, the museum houses a number of interesting exhibits about the vessel's history, including a look into what life was like at sea during that era, stories of the people onboard and a collection of artistic relics found on the ship.  But the pinnacle for travelers is touring the Vasa itself.  Recent visitors were in complete awe of the ship's incredible size and  were amazed at the quality of preservation down to the smallest detail. Even those who admitted the attraction wasn't initially at the top of their must-see list left the Vasa Museum with a better understanding of why this facility is considered one of the city's top attractions. And speaking of the museum's popularity, don't be surprised if you encounter long lines and crowds during Stockholm's peak season (summer).

Skansen Skansen

Founded in 1891, Skansen is not only the world's first open-air museum, but also its oldest.  The attraction illustrates five centuries of Swedish history through its showcase of 150 historical homes and farmsteads sourced from different parts of Sweden. Visitors can stroll through an 18th-century wooden church, a farmstead from northern Sweden and the town quarter, which consists of various 18th- and 19th-century homes and shops as well as period garb-clad historical interpreters who can also showcase traditional activities, such as spinning and knitting, among many others.  Skansen is also home to a zoo, which features 75 different species and breeds of Scandinavian animals, including wolverines, otters and Scandinavian brown bears, to name a few. And if you start to feel peckish during your tour, there are five fine and casual dining options to choose from on-site. 

Recent visitors thoroughly enjoyed their time at Skansen. Travelers said the place is so big, you could easily spend all day there and never get bored. Many in particular loved the zoo animals and said this is a great place to bring kids. What's more, historical interpreters speak English (among other languages), so visitors were happy they didn't miss out on presentations offered. And if you're visiting in the warmer months, some recommend having a picnic among the property's scenic landscape. 

Rosendals Garden (Rosendals Tradgard) Rosendals Garden (Rosendals Tradgard) free

Rosendals Trädgård is a public garden located on the island of Djurgården. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, or simply a scenic place to rest your feet, Rosendals is your answer. The attraction is a market garden outfitted with fields, a rose garden, orchard, flower beds, a vineyard and green houses, offering plenty of opportunities to unwind alongside nature. There's also an educational garden specifically for children. In addition to plenty of green spaces, there is an artisanal bakery, farm shop that sells biodynamically grown veggies and a plant shop. In the summer months, visitors can go out and pick flowers for purchase on the property. There is also the regularly lauded Greenhouse Cafe. Located right alongside gardens of its own, the cafe serves casual bites, primarily sourcing from the veggies grown on-site. And recent visitors can taste the freshness. Many travelers found the food served at the cafe and bakery to be delicious, and dining alongside gardens significantly enhanced their experience. Others were happy they brushed elbows more Swedish people than tourists here. 

Unless you plan on eating or purchasing something at the on-site shop, the Rosendal's Garden is free to explore. Hours, however, vary. From May to September the attraction is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (though closed from June 24th to 26th for Midsummer) and from October to December the garden is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Due to weather conditions, the gardens are closed to the public from January to April. To get to Rosendals, take the No. 69 bus to the Djurgården stop, walk over the bridge and follow the canal; signs to the gardens will become present.  For more information, check out the garden's website . 

Fotografiska Fotografiska

Stockholm is full of unique museums. There's one dedicated to the band ABBA, another to a sunken warship (the Vasa Museum ), and of course there's Skansen , the world's first open-air museum. Fotografiska stands out in that it is entirely made up of contemporary photography. The museum  presents four large exhibitions and 15 to 20 smaller exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing a variety of photography styles and subjects. Portraits, landscapes, black and white photos, series about war and even pregnancy have passed through Fotografiska. The museum aims to present a mix of unknown talents as well as big international names, some of which have included Annie Leibovitz, David LaChapelle and Nick Brandt.

Recent visitors offered mixed reviews of Fotografiska. Many travelers enjoyed the museum, raving about the interesting and thought-provoking photographs, while others felt the attraction was overhyped and overpriced. Some of those, however, admitted they weren't photography buffs to begin with. But what many did agree on was the top-notch dining options, as well as the stunning views of the waterways found within.

Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet) Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet)

While Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia actually live at Drottningholm Palace (some 20 minutes west of Stockholm), Kungliga Slottet (Royal Palace) serves as their workplace and is the setting for most official receptions. It's also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors are allowed to tour the Royal Apartments, Treasury and the Tre Kronor Museum. The name apartments are given to signify a series of state rooms, and there are about four different sets of apartments within the Royal Apartments including the Orders of the Chivalry, Guest, State and Bernadotte  apartments – the latter of which contains 14 rooms alone. And we haven't even gotten into what's in the Treasury and the Tre Kronor Museum. Safe to say it would be hard to see the palace in one afternoon. But if you are short on time, don't miss royal relics, including crowns and swords, found in the Treasury, or the Hall of State, found in the Royal Apartments. Today, the Hall of State acts as the venue for official functions, but up until 1975 it was the meeting place for parliamentary sessions. It's also the home of a silver throne that was gifted to the former Queen Kristina for her coronation in the 17th century. Whichever room you decide to venture into, expect truly grandiose interiors throughout. 

Visitors were definitely impressed with the magnificent architecture and decor of the palace, and had a few suggestions on how to tackle the massive attraction. Many considered the Armoury a must-visit, as well as the changing of the guards ceremony. Others highly recommended paying extra for a guided tour, which some said greatly enhanced their experience of the palace. However you decide to tour the attraction, don't get discouraged if you don't see it all. With more than 600 rooms, it's one of the biggest palaces in Europe.

Stockholm Top attractions all-inclusive Gran Tour

(140 reviews)

from $ 296.94

Open Electric Boat Ride in Stockholm

(371 reviews)

from $ 28.18

RIB Speed Boat - 2 Hour Archipelago Tour

(55 reviews)

from $ 156.02

Explore More of Stockholm

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 19 Best Fall Family Vacations for 2024

Amanda Norcross August 27, 2024

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

• Search Suggested Results View All Results
• EUR (€)
• GBP (£)
• Self-Drive i
• Privately Guided i
• Guided Small Groups i
• Northern Lights i
• Honeymoon & Romance i
• Ice & Snow Hotels i
• Multi-Country Tours i
• All Travel Styles
• Show all tours
• Best Sellers
• Special Offers
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Book With Confidence i
• Why book with us i
• Travel Update
• Booking Terms i
• Sustainability Policy i
• Manage Booking
• Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

15 Things to See & Do in Stockholm

Discover one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval centres, enormous palaces, and an array of stunning museums – all spread out over 14 gorgeous islands. Welcome to Stockholm, Sweden’s enthralling, elegant capital.

Whether you’re here for a Swedish honeymoon , city break, or Scandinavian road trip, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Stockholm. It’s a calm and charming capital city that boasts a surprising mix of cultural sights, outdoor fun, and fabulous cuisine.

To get inspired, read on to explore 15 of the best things to see and do in Stockholm.

1. Marvel at the beautiful Gamla Stan

On a visit to Stockholm, you’ll likely head to the city centre first. That’s Gamla Stan, the enchanting Old Town. With its pristine cobbled streets and colourful buildings, you’re sure to fall completely in love.

The bustling Stortorget square is one highlight of this fairy-tale district, perfectly placed to stop for a drink or just to watch people pass. Explore the attractive pedestrianised roads beyond the main square and you’ll find a rich array of delightful bars, cafés, and shops – plus so much more too.

Of course, Gamla Stan hosts many of Stockholm’s top tourist attractions as well, including the Royal Palace and the Stockholm Cathedral.

• Explore Stockholm on one of these top Swedish vacation packages

2. Discover world-class museums at Djurgården

Of Stockholm’s islands, one of the most popular to visit is Djurgården. It makes up a large part of the Royal National City Park, where local Stockholmers go to relax among the abundant forests and meadows.

For visitors to the city, the biggest draw to Djurgården is the island’s incredible array of museums. There’s really something for everyone.

ABBA the Museum, for example, tells the story of the career of Sweden’s greatest musical export. Here, you’ll get the chance to dress like ABBA, sing along, and write music yourself.

Alternatively, the Nordic Museum takes you further back in time, to the very origins of Swedish history. Or there’s Skansen, an open-air museum that shares exhibits on Sweden’s traditional people and ways of life.

Don’t miss the Vasa Museum, one of the most visited museums in all of Scandinavia (Denmark, Norway, and Sweden). It’s home to the world’s only preserved 17th-century boat, that sank in Stockholm harbour on its maiden voyage back in 1628. It’s an impressive, tangible part of history.

• Related: Top cities and towns in Sweden to visit

3. Explore Stockholm’s waterways

You may have heard people refer to the Swedish capital as the “Venice of the North”, thanks to its many waterways and splendid early modern architecture. Yet the similarities end there, and the city’s nickname doesn’t really do justice to Stockholm’s relationship with the water that surrounds it.

The whole Stockholm archipelago spreads across 80 kilometres (50 miles) and over 30,000 islands, divided by channels you can explore by boat. These range from the tiniest uninhabited islets to well-developed and bustling holiday resorts.

No visit to the city would be complete without taking to the water. In fact, it could be one of the most romantic things to do in Stockholm.

4. Take a dip in Lake Mälaren

Continuing your journey on Stockholm’s waters, why not visit Lake Mälaren, Sweden’s third-largest freshwater lake? Its easternmost bays are on the outskirts of the city and easily accessed from the centre.

If the city’s waters tempt you to a swim, Lake Mälaren is the best place to do it. In the summer, you’ll be in plenty of company. In fact, Stockholmers have been swimming here for centuries and the city’s warm summers make a dip a very attractive idea.

If not, Lake Mälaren also offers the opportunity for wildlife walks and scenic views. It’s definitely worth the trip out of town.

• Head to Stockholm during the warmest months of the year on a Sweden summer tour

5. Get lost in the vast Royal Palace

Back on dry land, one of the most fascinating ways to spend a day in Stockholm is in Gamla Stan’s Royal Palace. While still the official residence of the Swedish royal family, this 18th-century building is one of Stockholm’s most visited sights.

The Royal Palace is also among Europe’s largest palaces, boasting over 600 rooms. But the King of Sweden still works here today, so you won’t be able to visit them all yourself.

Nonetheless, the Palace offers an amazing amount to see and do. The Royal Apartments, for example, give you a glimpse into the real life of Scandinavian royalty. And the Museum of Antiquities is renowned for its collection of 17th-century Italian sculpture.

• Discover more palaces and castles on these  Scandinavian royalty tours

6. Join the fun at Gröna Lund amusement park

We said that the island of Djurgården has something for everyone. For families on holiday in Sweden , and the young at heart, the island’s famed amusement park – Gröna Lund – is a fun way to spend an afternoon.

Thanks to its city-centre location, Gröna Lund is smaller than the amusement parks you might be familiar with. Yet its miniature size doesn’t limit its offering, with rides that range from the thrilling to the family friendly.

In the evening, you could attend concerts by international musical artists. Seeing a gig beneath Stockholm’s long sunsets could be one of the best things to do in Stockholm at night!

7. Witness the history of geniuses at the Nobel Prize Museum

Sweden is the home of the  Nobel Prize , the annual awards recognising some of the greatest minds in literature, science, and more. If you’re interested in the history and winners of the prize – and even if you didn’t think you were interested – there’s plenty of awesome things to see.

Of course, the Nobel Prize Museum is one of the best places for you to start. Its permanent exhibitions share an important story about the history of creativity. And you can enjoy guided tours, DJ sets, and events from Nobel laureates too.

8. Unwind in one of Stockholm’s spas

One of the best things to do in Stockholm as a couple is to visit a spa. With fantastic options across the city, you’ll be truly spoiled for choice.

Centralbadet, in the heart of Gamla Stan, is an ideal option for visitors. In a building dating back to 1904, you’ll find a typical Nordic sauna, an incredible swimming pool, and everything you’ll need to while away the afternoon.

Alternatively, to the southwest of the city, discover the Hellasgården park and lake. Stockholmers come here to dip in the ice pool before heading to the nearby sauna.

• Related: Nordic spa and wellness traditions

9. Try authentic Swedish food

Scandinavian cuisine is an increasingly popular option in hip eateries around the world. Yet one of the best places to try it in all its glory is Stockholm.

Check out the city’s food courts to sample the pastries, sweets, meats, or beers on offer. The Östermalm Market Hall, for example, is a Stockholm institution to the north of Gamla Stan. Alternatively, in the summer at Hornstulls Marknad, you’ll find contemporary street food stalls lining the waterway.

Of course, while you’re in town, try traditional Swedish delicacies such as Swedish meatballs (köttbullar), fried or cured fish, and reindeer. They’re easy to sample in many of Gamla Stan’s historic restaurants.

• Delve into the secrets of Sweden on these history and culture Scandinavia tours

10. Stroll around Södermalm

If you want seriously cool things to do in Stockholm, you’ll need to head to Södermalm – or just Söder, as the locals call it. It’s a district known for its hip and relaxed atmosphere, as well as its creative and trendy residents.

Explore vintage stores and boutiques, coffee shops and galleries, and bars open long into the night. For an afternoon stroll, there’s really nowhere better.

Södermalm is also where you can enjoy some of the best views over the city. The Skinnarviksberget, for example, is the highest point in Stockholm.

11. Visit the photography museum at Fotografiska

One truly unmissable destination in Södermalm is Fotografiska, Stockholm’s renowned photography museum. But like everything in this surprising district, Fotografiska is far from your normal gallery space.

That means you won’t find museum staples like permanent exhibitions or works for sale. Rather, Fotografiska’s work aims to inspire a better world through the medium of photography. As a result, it’s all about the experience – including political exhibitions, events, fine dining, and more.

Unsurprisingly, Fotografiska also has one of the coolest bars in this part of town.

12. Take the metro

Now, you might not think it sounds much like a destination. But Stockholm’s extensive metro is more than just a transit system. It’s a unique art gallery that’s worth a visit on its own.

Journey along Stockholm’s metro and you’ll see its diverse surprises yourself. Each station is eccentrically decorated in artworks, sculpture, rock formations, and mosaics, created by over 150 different local artists.

It’s an important part of Stockholm’s culture and a testament to its residents’ creativity. Try the blue line, which has some of the most exciting displays.

• Related: Cool facts about Sweden

13. Go to a show at the Royal Swedish Opera

If you’re looking for glamorous things to do in Stockholm at night, a trip to the Royal Swedish Opera might be the answer. Set in the 18th-century opera house across the water from the Royal Palace, this is the home of elegance, high culture, and serious talent.

Whether you want ballet, opera, or just a powerful symphony, you’ll find it on the programme here. Winter is a magical time to catch a performance. And during the summer you may have the opportunity to see the Royal Swedish Ballet perform in Vitabergsparken, a public park in Södermalm.

• Related: Guide to Sweden in summer  & Guide to Sweden in winter

14. Climb the tower at Stockholm City Hall

With its solid red-brick façade and iconic tower, the Stockholm City Hall is one of the most recognisable features of the city’s skyline. It’s primarily an official building, hosting political and cultural events.

A look inside makes for a rewarding visit. For example, you can see the hall that hosts the Nobel banquet, where the world’s greatest minds receive their awards.

The highlight of the City Hall is the tower itself. Climb to the top to reach the three crowns of Sweden’s national coat of arms. It’s a truly jaw-dropping view over the city.

15. Chill out with fika

Finally, a trip to Sweden wouldn’t be complete without sampling one of Sweden’s best-loved traditions: fika .

Fika is the simple act of taking time out to enjoy a cup of coffee (or kaffi , in Swedish) and a snack. Yet the Swedes have made this ritual into an art. Fika’s not about just enjoying a pick-me-up. Rather, it’s time to socialise, check in with each other, and unwind.

You can enjoy fika at any café in Stockholm, in Gamla Stan or Södermalm.

• Related: The Swedish art of fika

Explore the best of Stockholm’s things to see with Nordic Visitor

Palaces and parks, saunas and spas, museums and markets – now you know what to do in Stockholm.

Book a trip with Nordic Visitor and we’ll take all the hassle out of your visit. We’ll organise your accommodation, activities, and regional transport in Sweden, plus any onward tours around Scandinavia.

What’s more, we’ll provide all the insights you need to experience Stockholm to the fullest. Our local travel experts are based in the Swedish capital and will share the best cultural highlights to suit you, as well as the top places to eat, drink, and relax too.

You could opt for an independent train trip or self-drive tour of Sweden to explore at your own pace. Or choose a small group tour of Scandinavia to discover Stockholm and other exciting places in the region, like Copenhagen and Oslo, with an expert guide.

Come and experience Stockholm for yourself. Get in touch to start your trip .

Wanderlust has taken Emma across much of the world, but it was Scotland that she made her adopted home. Aside from enjoying countryside walks, campervan weekends and gigs in Glasgow, you’ll often find her writing about European travel and plotting her next trip.

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

CLASSIC SWEDEN

Sweden’s top three by train, best of scandinavia classic - winter, related posts, top 10 cities & towns in sweden to visit.

Blogs , Scandinavia , Sweden , Destinations , Guides , Things to Do

10 Best Vacation Spots in Sweden: Ideas from Local Experts

Why scandinavia is perfect for solo travel, 10 cool swedish facts: what is sweden known for.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Destinations A-Z

Stockholm Travel Guide

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Don't be surprised if you find yourself contemplating a move to Sweden after a visit to Stockholm; the city makes traveling feel easy and effortless (even for newbies). Locals tend to be welcoming and friendly, English is widely spoken, and everything from the subway system to city streets are clean and straight-forward.

But beyond ease of travel, Stockholm delivers a one-of-a-kind experience thanks to its placement on an archipelago of 14 islands that each offer a distinct feel—from the colorful buildings and cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan to the nature-rich isle of Djurgården. It's a place where you can hop on a public ferry and find yourself in a different world without ever leaving the city. And no matter where you end up, you'll find yourself at ease in the contemporary, urban feel Sweden is known for. Just make sure to make time for fika , a coffee and cake break, so you can slow down and enjoy life like the locals do.

Central European Time (GMT+2)

Best Time to Go

Sweden can be chilly, making the summer months an ideal time to visit. Between May and September, the days are long, the weather is temperate, and the country's biggest national festival, Midsummer, kicks off—just keep in mind the summer is the city's busiest time as well. For good weather and fewer tourists, shoot for September to early November, when you'll experience the shift to fall and the coziness of Stockholm as the days begin to shorten. If you time it right, you might even catch the Stockholm Jazz Festival (October) and Stockholm International Film Festival (early November).

Things to Know

Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)

(Check the current exchange rate )

Language: Swedish

I don't speak Swedish: Jag talar inte svenska

I'm lost: Jag är vilse

I would like…: Jag skulle vilja...

Calling Code: +46

Capital City: Stockholm

How to Get Around

Trains: The city's underground subway network, known as the tunnelbana, is quick, easy, and much cheaper than hopping in a taxi. To ride, you can either buy a SL access card and load it with a single-use ticket (38 SEK, around $4) or pick up a travel card with unlimited access for a period of time (24 hours: SEK 160, around $18; 72 hours: SEK 315, around $36; and 7 days: SEK 415, around $48). Through the same transportation company you can get out of the city via an above-ground train.

Buses, Trams, Ferries: If you're just visiting Stockholm for a short time, you should be able to get around via subway, but if you need, the city also offers a bus system. In addition to buses, trams run on the island of Djurgården (where you'll find the Vasa Museum) and scenic ferries connect the islands. All three modes of transportation rely on the SL card (same as the subway and most trains).

Taxis: In addition to Uber, Taxi Stockholm offers a reliable track record and booking via their app. Just keep in mind that taking taxis around Stockholm can be expensive.

Car service: For a luxury private car service, check out Blacklane or Freys , who has been in operation for over 125 years.

Best Hotels

Address: Mariatorget 3 118 48 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 545 789 00 Website

It doesn't get more sunny and hip than The Rival, a luxury boutique hotel in the lovely neighborhood of Södermalm. In addition to designer rooms, you'll find gathering places for eating and drinking and an impressive theater showcasing some of the world's finest talent.

Lydmar Hotel

Address: Södra Blasieholmshamnen 2 111 48 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 22 31 60 Website

The Lydmar might be one of Stockholm's finest five-star hotels, but you won't find buttoned-up staff or a snobby air. The hotel strives for relaxed elegance in everything from their contemporary classic rooms (with pieces that will make you swoon) to the staff who are encouraged to share their local intel and let their personalities shine.

Red Boat Mälaren (The Red Boat)

Address: Södermälarstrand Kajplats 10 118 20 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 644 43 85 Website

As you might expect from a city built on the sea, Stockholm is home to a handful of boat hotels and hostels. The Red Boat and Ran of Stockholm offer both hotel and hostel-style rooms on Stockholm's most prevalent resource: water. Plus, the central location in the middle of Stockholm provides easy access to main tourist sites and the subway.

Villa Dagmar

Address: Nybrogatan 25-27 114 39 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 20 05 90 Website

This opulent property plops you right in the heart of Stockholm, minutes from the Royal Palace and Royal Swedish Opera. Each individually decorated guest room is as comfortable as it is lavish — and some have balconies. Don't miss a meal in the bright courtyard and garden for a visit to the gazebo with its curated gifts and fresh blooms.

Address: Sköldungagatan 2 114 27 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 20 05 90 Website

You won't find Sweden's iconic IKEA look at Ett Hem (which translates to "A House"). True to its name, the hotel is found in a private residence built in 1910 and offers up an at-home feel for each and every guest. The thoughtfully designed, cozy rooms are the perfect place to snuggle in when the weather cools and boast high-end features like marble bathrooms and local furnishings.

Hotel Skeppsholmen

Address: Gröna gången 1 111 86 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 407 23 00 Website

Surrounded by trees near the waterfront, this hotel is designed for lovers of clean simplicity and brunch (yes, you read that correctly). In addition to beautiful rooms and a central location you'll find Restaurant Långa Raden, which is known for its popular weekend brunch and brunch-inspired lunch menu.

Best Restaurants

800 grader (pizza).

Address: Sigtunagatan 17 113 22 Stockholm Phone: +46 70 858 95 98 Website

Even the Swedes need a reliable pizza spot, and this place is all that and more. Inside you'll find a cool, laid-back interior, friendly staff, and a simple menu of four or five pizzas. You can't go wrong. No reservation is needed and dining is indoors.

Vina (wine bar)

Address: Sofiagatan 1 116 40 Stockholm Phone: +46 70 406 66 26 Website

Vina—as the name suggests—is all about the wine, but the food menu stands on its own. The tiny space is near Nytorget, one of Stockholm's trendier areas, and will draw you off the street and into its cozy, romantic atmosphere. Dining is both indoors and outdoors (depending on the weather) and reservations are recommended.

K25 (food hall)

Address: Kungsgatan 25 111 56 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 21 29 29 Website

Have you really been to Stockholm if you haven't experienced one of their food halls? These spacious markets packed with food stalls offer everything from traditional Swedish cuisine to international classics. At K25, one of the city's best halls, you'll find sushi and dumplings alongside Swedish meatballs and burgers. Dining is indoors and market-style (no reservations needed).

Asian Post Office (Asian fusion)

Address: Regeringsgatan 66 111 39 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 20 60 10 Website

Half the fun of eating at the Asian Post Office is kicking back in the restaurant's sleek, modern interior. You can pair innovative cocktails (and mocktails) with Asian fusion bites like pork buns, gyoza, and udon noodles with kimchi and lobster. To make sure you snag a seat, book a table in advance.

Knut Bar (Northern Swedish)

Address: Regeringsgatan 77 111 39 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 30 40 57 Website

You can't leave Stockholm without trying out traditional Swedish cuisine, and when you're ready to try the local delicacies, this is the place to go. You'll find good northern Swedish dishes including venison, moose sausage, deer tartare, and plenty of local fish. Not into wild game meat? They have amazing northern Swedish-style pizza flatbread and lingonberry sorbet. Just make sure to book a table in advance and come expecting indoor seating.

Woodstockholm (contemporary)

Address: Mosebacke Torg 9 116 46 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 36 93 99 Website

Woodstockholm takes food seriously, so much so that they constantly change the menu theme, delivering fresh dishes under a broad theme—like 'Art'. no matter what "theme" you find when you visit, you're guaranteed local, sustainable foods paired with a wine menu that showcases smaller producers.

Things to Do

Vasa museum.

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Address: Galärvarvsvägen 14 115 21 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 519 548 80 Website

The Vasa Museum's main draw is the almost fully intact 17th-century warship—the Vasa—which sank on her maiden voyage in 1628. The boat has been preserved beautifully and is the main event, but you'll also get a realistic look at life aboard and get to know the people who went down with the ship.

Fjäderholmarna

Address: Fjäderholmarna 100 05 Stockholm Website

Taking a ferry in the archipelago is a must, and the island of Fjäderholmarna is an easy destination both in what it offers and its ease of access. It's a breezy, 20-minute boat ride to the island, which has a restaurant and cafe and small shops along with trails and swimming.

Fotografiska

Address: Stadsgårdshamnen 22 116 45 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 509 005 00 Website

If you like photography, even a little bit, this is the place to be. Heralded as the "largest photography museum in the world" you'll find a vast collection of thought-provoking photography around every corner.

Stockholm City Hall

Address: Hantverkargatan 1 111 52 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 508 290 00 Website

City Hall is one of Stockholm's most famous buildings, but beyond that, it gives anyone willing to climb the stairs in the tower an unparalleled view of the whole city.

Best Shopping

Address: multiple locations in Stockholm (Götgatan 31, Kungsgatan 42, Humlegårdsgatan 20, Långholmsgatan 36) Phone: +46 8 21 92 85 Website: granit.com/se

Granit has a West Elm feel paired with an eco-conscious mindset and that distinct clean Scandinavian look. Swing by for homegoods, gifts, and a calming escape from the city streets.

NK Stockholm

Address: Hamngatan 18-20 111 47 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 762 80 00 Website

NK—short for Nordiska Kompaniet—is a high-end department store with everything from Balenciaga and ba&sh to Hermès and HUGO. It's the place to go for a day of shopping at high-end retailers set in a relaxed environment.

Gina Tricot

Address: Götgatan 30 118 46 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 411 29 70 Website

Also known as Gina T, this Swedish boutique has a crisp, modern look that's coveted by women all over the world. The brick-and-mortar shop gives you easy access to the brand's feminine, stylish look.

Address: multiple locations in Stockholm (Drottninggatan 63, Götgatan 21) Phone: +46 8 642 02 59 Website

For an edgier take on Scandinavian style, check out Weekday, a beloved Swedish brand known for their minimal, street-inspired clothing.

Neighborhoods to Know

Gamla Stan (Old Town): It makes sense that the center of Stockholm, a city that's built on islands, is found on a compact island marked with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Gamla Stan, also called Old Town, is so picturesque, you won't be able to put down your camera. Swing by the medieval Storkyrkan cathedral or watch the changing of the guards at the Royal Palace before stopping for a fika at Stortorget, the oldest square in Stockholm.

Djurgården : To the east of Gamla Stan is the much-larger island of Djurgården, best known for the Vasa Museum. But the island houses more than the city's most famous museum, the tranquil island is full of parks with walking trails and green meadows perfect for midday picnics. For a next-level experience take a ferry from Slussen (in Gamla Stan), so you can arrive via water.

Södermalm : It doesn't get more hip than Södermalm, also known as "Söder" or "The South Side." In this uber-trendy neighborhood south of Gamla Stan, you'll find endless cafes and restaurants alongside boutiques and shops. If you're looking for an escape from the busy city streets, grab a sandwich to-go and find a nook in Rosenlundsparken, a sprawling neighborhood park.

Norrmalm : Stockholm's "downtown" is a must for first-time visitors. In Norrmalm, you'll find yourself smack dab in the middle of Stockholm's commercial area, home to everything from the opera and ballet to giant department stores, hotels, and trendy cafes. Make time to rest your legs and people watch at Kungsträdgården park and enjoy the views over the water toward Gamla Stan.

Östermalm : To the east of Norrmalm is Östermalm, a large district with high-end residential areas sprinkled with smart restaurants and classy bars. It's a great place to explore if you're looking to get away from the buzz of Norrmalm and Gamla Stan.

Spring: The start of spring marks a happy time for the Swedes, who welcome the longer days and first signs of color and life. Temperatures vary greatly—March and April tend to be cooler—with averages typically hovering between 30 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. There's usually not a ton of precipitation, but you can expect a couple rainy days each month.

Summer: Summer may be tourist high season, but there's a reason for that—the months of June, July, and August are warm and pleasant, averaging temperatures in the low 50s to low 70s. The month of July tends to be the rainiest month of the year (around three inches of precipitation).

Fall: The weather starts to dip in the fall, when temperatures can get as low as the 30s and November marks the shift into winter. That being said, you'll find weather in the late 50s and early 60s in September. Precipitation is moderate, but might show up as snow in the later months.

Winter: As you might guess, winter in Stockholm can be chilly and dark. Temperatures range from the low 20s to mid 30s, and snow is a reality. When the weather shifts and winds blow in from the Baltic Sea, it's a good time to huddle in and enjoy a lavish fika.

Apps to Download

Uber: Ride hailing, electric bikes and motorized scooters, food delivery. iOs | Android

Google Translate: Word translation with offline capabilities. iOs | Android

SL – Journey Planner & Tickets: Stockholm metro map, route planning, route updates. iOs | Android

Bookatable: Restaurants near you with table booking. iOs | Android

Keyflow: What's going on in Stockholm nightly with in-app ticket purchasing. iOs | Android

Related Articles

Ultimate Stockholm in 3 Days Itinerary + Hidden Gems (2024)

Stockholm is the bustling capital city of Sweden and is filled with stunning architecture, dreamy panoramic spaces, and fascinating historical sites. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler looking to explore more of the city, this guide will help make sure you have an unforgettable 3 days in Stockholm, Sweden!

What is Stockholm Known For?

With a population of over 1.5 million people, Stockholm is known for being the largest and most populous city in the country . And despite the fact it’s not the oldest city in Sweden, Stockholm has been the country’s cultural, political, and economic center for centuries! That said, Stockholm is perhaps best known for its iconic pop culture exports. These include the legendary Swedish supergroup ABBA , the world-famous tennis player Björn Borg , and everyone’s favorite place to buy cheap yet functional furniture with names we can’t pronounce without butchering them a little — IKEA !

Additionally, Stockholm is famous for hosting the annual Nobel Prize banquet and ceremony. Every December, the world’s most important and ground-breaking accomplishments are recognized and celebrated in Stockholm. Ultimately, Stockholm is a vibrant city that combines history and culture with modernity. With its plethora of museums, restaurants, shops, and attractions there’s something for everyone in this beloved Swedish capital!

How to Get to Stockholm, Sweden

There are a few different ways to get to Stockholm, Sweden from other parts of the world. If you’re coming from further away, the best option is to fly into the Stockholm Arlanda Airport. The international airport is about 20 minutes from the city center by Arlanda express train , and tickets cost about 130 SEK (which is about $13 USD). You can purchase them at the airport with your phone.

✈️ NOTE: I recommend using Skyscanner or StudentUniverse to search for cheap flights. And if you’ve never heard of StudentUniverse, you can read my full review of the flight search engine here .

Alternatively, you can also arrive directly at Stockholm Central Station by train from other parts of Europe. This is an affordable and especially convenient option if you coming from somewhere in the Nordic area, such as Copenhagen, Denmark, or Oslo, Norway . If this is the avenue you want to take, I recommend utilizing Omio to check train routes and prices! It’s a very reliable company I’ve used for all my inter-Europe travels since 2019.

✅ Check train routes to Stockholm on Omio ! | If it’s your first time using the platform, use this link to sign up to get $11 off your first booking.

Last but not least, if you’re up for a road trip through Europe or have access to a car, it’s easy to reach Stockholm by car. A good friend of mine lives in Oslo and has driven to Stockholm on about 30 different occasions to spend a weekend in the city! The drive is a little less than 6 hours, so it’s quite doable to drive to Stockholm as a mini road trip too.

Where to Stay in Stockholm

When you get to Stockholm, you’re likely going to need a place to stay! To help you out, here are my top recommendations based on the extensive research I did while preparing for my trip as well as my personal experience!

Low-Cost Stay

• Castanea Old Town Hostel — A hostel I loved staying at in Gamla Stan | ⭐️ 9.5 / 10
• Hotel Hornsgatan — a family-owned hotel in Södermalm | ⭐️ 8.8 / 10
• Best Western — 3-star hotel in Norrmalm | ⭐️ 8.8 / 10

Mid-Range Stay

• Hilton Stockholm Slussen — 4-star hotel in Södermalm | ⭐️ 8.4 / 10
• NOFO hotel — 4-star hotel in Södermalm | ⭐️ 9.6 / 10

Luxury Stay

• Hotel Frantz — 4-star hotel in Södermalm | ⭐️ 9.8 / 10
• Grand Hôtel — 5-star hotel right on water in Norrmalm | ⭐️ 9.6 / 10

You can also explore other places in Stockholm and check rates & availability with the buttons below.

Getting Around Stockholm, Sweden

As a tourist, I would say there are two ways of getting around during your 3 days in Stockholm: by foot and public transit or by tour.

The first and most obvious option is to get around Stockholm on foot. The city is fairly walkable and the attractions are generally clumped together in their respective neighborhoods, making it a great way to explore! However, there can be quite a bit of distance between neighborhoods so may end up spending a lot of time walking if you choose this option. The good news is that Stockholm has a fantastic public transportation network called SL . It includes the metro, tram, bus, ferry, and commuter train so you can pretty much get to any location within the city with ease. Plus, if you plan on visiting several attractions during your visit then you should consider getting a Stockholm City Pass . This is an all-in-one ticket that allows you unlimited access to public transportation and discounts on several popular attractions.

✅ Check out the Stockholm City Pass here

By Private Tour

The last way to get around Stockholm is by doing a private tour . From bike tours and walking tours to scooter tours and kayak tours — there are so many different ways you can explore the city! And even on a tight budget, you can find some really affordable tours that are well worth their value. Personally, I always try to take at least one since it usually offers you a more authentic perspective of the city, and you can get some local insight and awesome recommendations from someone who truly knows the city. Plus, it’s the most stress-free option, which I am always in favor of! 😅 So, if you’re looking for an immersive way to explore Stockholm with ease, then taking a private tour with an experienced guide is the way to go!

✅ 🇸🇪 Explore the different sightseeing tours of Stockholm

Stockholm in 3 Days Itinerary (2024)

Now that you know some of the essential information on the Swedish capital, it’s time to get into all that Stockholm has in store for you over three days! This ultimate itinerary includes my favorite destinations within the city – from classic highlights that every visitor should see if they only have one day in Stockholm, as well as some lesser-known gems that I discovered during my five days there.

🇸🇪 NOTE:  To save you time and energy, I have grouped places and attractions located near each other. This way you can hopefully avoid wasting time going back and forth around the city!

Day 1: Stockholm in 3 Days Itinerary

For the first day of my ultimate Stockholm in 3 days itinerary, I recommend exploring some of Stockholm’s most important institutions and establishments. This way you can get a taste of traditional Swedish culture and slowly adjust to your surroundings, especially if you’re still a bit tired from getting into the city!

1. Enjoy Fika

To make sure you start your day off on the right foot and are properly fueled for everything else in the store, I recommend enjoying a bit of fika. Fika is pronounced fee-ka and is an absolute pillar of Swedish culture . It translates to coffee and cake, but it’s more generally described as a casual break to relax and socialize. Oftentimes people grab a small cup of coffee, tea, and a pastry — just something small as opposed to a giant all-American breakfast. And in case you’re wondering, there is no exact time fika happens. Traditionally, locals enjoy Fika from morning until the early afternoon (~3 PM). Thus, you can find lots of places that specialize in fika all over the city most hours of the day since it’s such a staple to their culture!

🇸🇪 NOTE : I’ve included all my recommendations for places to eat during your 3 days in Stockholm in a later portion of the post!

2. Tour Through City Hall

After you’ve had your fill of Fika or regular breakfast, it’s time to explore some of Stockholm’s main attractions, the Stockholm City Hall. This imposing building features a lantern-top tower and is made up of 8 million bricks. You can marvel at its beauty just from the outside or also opt to take a 45-minute guided tour of the inside. The tour allows you to learn about Stockholm’s history and politics and view important rooms. But the part that makes the tour worth it is seeing the Blue Hall and stunning Golden Hall up close. These rooms are where the most important cultural meetings take place: the annual Nobel Prize Banquet in the Blue Hall and the subsequent evening ball in the Golden Hall. And like every fairytale ballroom, the Golden Hall does not disappoint! The room is decked out in shimmering mosaics that illustrate allegories of key events and significant people from Swedish history. I could only imagine how delightful it must be to dance across the room with everything lit up. So, if this sounds like something you’d enjoy, tours are at the top of each hour from 10 AM – 3 PM . And regardless if you choose to do one or not, don’t forget to walk across city hall’s civic plaza. You’ll get a great view of Stockholm’s waterfront!

3. Admire Riddarholmen

Once you’re finished with City Hall, it’s a short 13-minute walk to Riddarholmen. This landmark is the oldest preserved building in the city and dates back to medieval times, specifically the late 13th century. It serves as a museum, a royal burial church for monarchs between 1635 and 1950, and the church of the Order of the Seraphim. Today, visitors are welcome to explore around inside, for the price of a small fee that goes towards maintenance. But, if you are tight on money or just not interested, you can at least admire the outside. For example, you’ll notice the roof features a neo-gothic cast iron spire. This is because the roof had to be restored after sections were burned down in the 19th century.

🇸🇪 PRO TIP : If you want to give your feet a break, head towards the waterfront — Evert Taubes Terrass . There’s a lovely observation deck with a couple of benches and hardly anyone was there when I went.

4. Wander Through Gamla Stan

From Riddarholmen, you can make your way to the Gamla Stan. This is Stockholm’s historic Old Town and the heart of the city! The area includes all kinds of restaurants, quaint shops, winding cobblestone streets, cafés, and of course, beautiful architecture! I recommend just wandering around for a bit. It really is charming and you feel like you’ve been transported in time just a little bit — well, at least I did, being from America and all. Oh! And don’t forget to stray off the main paths! You’ll likely discover pleasant courtyards that are much less crowded. Or, if you want a specific purpose, try and find the narrowest alleyway in Gamla Stan. It’s called Mårten Trotzigs Gränd and so narrow that two adults can’t walk side by side! All this said I will warn you that if you haven’t been to this area previously, it’s very touristy. It feels like every third shop is a souvenir shop and there are lots of tours that come through here…but I’ll admit that even I couldn’t resist taking a tour of Gamla stan or avoid buying a few postcards to send back home to my parents. 😅

🇸🇪 NOTE : You’ll likely pass by the beautiful Riddarhuset, which translates to the House of Nobility , on the left side! It dates back to the 17th century and displays over 2,330 coats of arms if you want to stop and admire it for a little.

5. People-Watch Around Stortorget

One area of Gamla Stan that you won’t want to miss is Stortorget Square. This is the oldest square in Stockholm and where you’ll find the iconic colorful buildings that appear in so many postcards! This little square is encapsulated by old merchants’ houses, the Stockholm Stock Exchange Building, and the Nobel Prize Museum . As you can likely tell from the name, the museum is all about the history of the Nobel Prize! From specific winners and their inventions to the creation of the Nobel Prize by Alfred Nobel. So, if you love learning about ground-breaking discoveries that have greatly shaped humanity as we know it, this museum may be worth checking out! But, if you want to just relax, there are plenty of benches to sit on and simply people watch — one of my favorite things to do while traveling. I even met this lovely man who was painting the beautiful surrounding scenery. Turns out, he had been traveling around Europe for months and supporting himself with his impressive paintings. I even bought a few pieces, and it made his day! So, let this be a gentle reminder to support small local artists and businesses when you can — the little things mean the world to them!

🇸🇪 Fun Fact : Gamla Stan’s Den gyldene freden restaurant has been in business since 1722! It’s even in the Guinness Book of Records for being the “longest operated restaurant with an unchanged environment” and remains one of the oldest restaurants in the world!

6. See Inside Storkyrkan

Another place to make a quick stop is Storkyrkan, also known as the Stockholm Cathedral. This is Stockholm’s oldest church and was built in the 13th century. It honestly isn’t that impressive from the outside, especially because it was undergoing a ton of construction while I visited…but, if you pay a few dollars to go inside, you’ll see a completely different story. The inside has a late medieval appearance that includes a vaulted ceiling bolstered by numerous brick pillars. In the past, the church was the site of several coronation ceremonies and includes several old pieces of art. For example, two of the more notable pieces are a medieval sculpture of Saint George and the Dragon and Vädersolstavlan, which is one of the earliest images of Stockholm!

7. Marvel at The Royal Palace

Just on the other side of Storkyrkan is the Royal Palace, locally known as Kungliga Slottet. This is the official residence of the Swedish royal family and it is nothing short of grandeur . Inside, there are over 600 rooms, spanning 11 floors , that are brimming with furniture and works of art from all over the world! This makes it one of the largest palaces in all of Europe. And despite the palace being the actual residence and place where official meetings and work and conducted, it is open to the public year-round. You can purchase an entrance ticket to tour the royal apartments, the Hall of State, the Treasury with the regalia, and the Museum Three Crowns! Plus, they open up even more areas of the castle during the peak summer months, so it’s worth a stop by! Oh! And if you’re there at 12:15 PM during the week (1:15 PM during the weekend), you can observe the royal guard’s ceremony! This is the equivalent of Buckingham Palace’s changing of the guards ceremony in London. The entire process lasts about 40 minutes, so I wouldn’t stay the whole time, but it’s fun to witness for a couple of minutes. For opening times and tickets, you can check out the official website for the Royal Palace .

8. Stop by IKEA City

This next stop on this Stockholm in 3 days itinerary really isn’t a tourist attraction, but it can be! And, I figured I would include it since I enjoyed visiting so much lol…🤠 About 7 minutes walking from Gamla Stan is IKEA City-Stockholm . It’s literally a regular three-story IKEA Store but so fun to walk around. I mean most people enjoy browsing beautiful furniture stores and planning out a dream house with no financial limits right?! Anyway, this is always a fun place to walk around for an hour, and I personally wanted to test out if the meatballs at an IKEA store tasted different from the meatballs at IKEA stores in the US. My verdict is yes — meatballs from IKEAs in Sweden are definitely superior and so delicious! So, if you want a cheap dinner, IKEA has got your back! But, if you want to truly immerse yourself in the Swedish local food scene , there are plenty of restaurants serving traditional Swedish food in Gamla Stan! And for the ultimate foodie and non-vegetarian, I recommend doing a local food tour ! This will allow you to sample 12 tasty Nordic dishes and explore the city’s hearty culinary culture. Plus, you’ll get to learn a bit of background information and the importance of the specific dishes you try!

✅ Check out this Highly-rated 4-hour Nordic Food Tour

9. Take this Fun Ghost Tour

To cap off your first day of this Stockholm in 3 days itinerary, I highly recommend taking this 90-minute spooky ghost tour through Gamla Stan! It’s one of the best and most entertaining ways to learn about Stockholm’s dark past! Plus, if you’re lucky, you’ll have Callum as your guide, and let me tell you, this man knows how to keep a crowd engaged! He pulls out all the stops to ensure everyone has a good time! And even if you’re someone who doesn’t like being scared, fret not — the chances of any paranormal activity happening are next to zero…👀 So if you’re looking for something that is a little out of the ordinary, definitely check out this fun ghost tour!

✅ 👻 Check Availability for this spooky ghost tour through Gamla Stan

Day 2: Stockholm in 3 Days Itinerary

For day 2 of my ultimate 3 days in Stockholm, it’s time to explore Stockholm by way of water and to see check out some of the awesome museums available on the island of Djurgården!

10. Kayak Through Stockholm

Start the day off with a leisurely upper body workout by kayaking the waterways through Stockholm ! That’s everyone’s dream start to the day right?! 😅 But seriously, if you’re ready to give your feet a break and take in the great outdoors, then this is a unique experience you don’t want to miss out on! Specifically, on this popular 2-hour kayaking tour , you’ll get to paddle around the city’s main islands and its many charming bridges while catching a new perspective of the most popular landmarks. For example, you can expect to pass by City Hall, Riddarholmen, Gamla Stan, and more! Plus, it’s suitable for beginners and more experienced kayakers — so don’t miss out!

✅ 🛶 Check out this highly-rated Kayaking Tour through Stockholm

And if you’re visiting during the winter season and thinking won’t it be freezing??? Yes is the answer, but this 3-hour winter kayaking tour provides you with a dry suit and winter kayaking gear to keep yah dry and toasty! They even provide you with warm drinks and snacks to keep your energy levels as you discover the Vaxholm part of the Stockholm Archipelago . So, if you’re ready for a truly memorable experience, then consider kayaking through the gorgeous Stockholm Archipelago!

✅ ❄️ See details for this excellent winter kayaking tour

11. See the Boats Along Strandvägskajen

After your kayaking tour is over, I recommend venturing out from the main city center to the island of Djurgården! Along the way, I suggest taking your time to promenade along Strandvägskajen . This is a scenic walkway that is located right along the waterfront. As such, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views and see all the boats in the harbor. Plus, you can even check out the menus of the restaurants on boats that serve lunch/dinner if you want to eat then or circle back! Or, if you’re feeling a little tired and just want to take in the sweeping views, there are plenty of benches along this walkway for you to sit back and relax. I did this for about 10 minutes and couldn’t help but smile at the fact I was solo traveling across Europe, discovering such a beautiful city, and just having the time of my life. It’s the small moments that mean the most sometimes am I right…😉

12. Discover the Vasa Museum

When you get to the end of Strandvägskajen, you’ll end up at a bridge that is about a 3-minute walk away from the Vasa Museum . This is one of the most popular and recommended tourist attractions in Stockholm. It showcases one of Sweden’s most famous ships — the Vasa, which sunk on its maiden voyage in 1628. The long story short is that it was salvaged and brought back to the surface in 1961 and meticulously restored. Today, you can marvel at its intricate details up close and learn about the fascinating history surrounding it by visiting the Vasa Museum. And even though I’m not one for nautical history or ships, I freaking loved this museum. That said, I’ll be completely honest and say that an entrance ticket to the museum (~$18 USD) may not be worth it for everyone…So if you have any reservations or just want more information on what to expect, you can read my detailed account of the Vasa Museum here.

⛵️ Purchase your entrance ticket to the Vasa Museum!

13. Roam Skansen Open Air Museum

A fun alternative or additional museum to check out if you have extra time and energy is the Skansen Open Air Museum ! This is just a few minutes walk away from the Vasa Museum in Djurgården. And unlike the Vasa Museum, Skansen is an open-air museum, meaning you can enjoy the crisp fresh air while learning about how the Swedish people used to live! This living history museum is composed of over 150 historic buildings on the grounds, as well as a zoo with Scandinavian animals like reindeer, elk, and brown bears! So, if you’re visiting Stockholm with kids, Skansen is a great place to spend a few hours! But even if you don’t have children, I still recommend visiting as there are so many activities available and you have centuries worth of history right at your fingertips! And, if you think you’ll only be up for one museum, you can read my full review of Skansen here . This will hopefully help you decide whether the Vasa or Skansen is the better option for you! Plus, I’ve included the must-visit spots within the museum. 😅

🦌 Purchase your entrance ticket for Skansen here

14. Sunset at the Harbor on Dj Island

As you make your way back into the central part of Stockholm, a nice little detour to make is at the harbor behind the Vasa Museum . You’ll pass through a well-maintained park that includes a few winding pathways. And again, there are a few benches and large rocks to sit at if you want to sit and rest for a few moments. There’s nothing specific to do, but I figured I’d share the spot since I caught such gorgeous views. The picture below is the view that I got to enjoy around sunset from this spot…

15. Eat Your Way Through Östermalms Saluhall

Alright, by now, you’re probably ready to eat! And if you haven’t already found a place to go, I recommend checking out the food scene at Östermalms Saluhall ! This is located in Östermalm , which is one of the bustling districts of Stockholm filled with an array of restaurants and shops. Keeping in line with the area, Östermalms Saluhall is essentially a food hall/market that contains about 50 little shops. It has everything from the freshest fish and meats to artisanal cheese makers and bakers. You can also find all kinds of produce, gourmet goods, delicacies, and of course, several cafes! So, it’s a pretty awesome space. And while it’s a hot spot for locals, I would call it a bit of a hidden gem to tourists. The reason was that I kept asking other tourists I met if they had heard of it, and all I got were blank faces…😂 That said, it’s expensive so prepare! But the quality and flavor you’ll get from the food are well worth the expense…Plus, I would argue that getting to admire the beautiful architecture of the antique stalls is reason enough to stop by!

Day 3: Stockholm in 3 Days Itinerary

For the final day of my ultimate Stockholm in 3 days itinerary, it’s time to give your feet a break and explore the less hyper-touristy bits of Stockholm!

16. Take a Sightseeing Boat Tour

Whether you opted to kayak around Stockholm or not, a nice way to familiarize yourself with Stockholm without putting in any effort is with an electric boat tour ! This boat ride lasts only 50 minutes and takes you through the newer side of Stockholm . You’ll even get to pass by the spot where the Vasa Ship sank back in 1628! It’s a fantastic way to see Stockholm from a different perspective, and you won’t have any glass windows getting in the way of your perfect shot. Plus, the boat has a capacity of about 25 people, so you get a more personal tour — unlike with the hop-on-hop-off boat rides.

✅ ⛵️ Check out this sightseeing boat tour around Stockholm Harbor.

17. Admire the Unique Metro Art

When you’re boat ride is done, it’s time to make your way underground. In Stockholm, public transportation is not only efficient but beautiful too. Almost every station in the metro system has been thoughtfully decorated with unique art pieces that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different museum. Some of the metro stations are decorated with floor-to-ceiling paints. Other stations have stand-alone panels illustrating different concepts out of ceramic tiles. Either way, you can tell the city put a lot of thought into filling the metro stations with meaningful pieces of work!

And I know what you’re thinking… why would I buy a metro ticket to look at artwork? Well, the next stop is Södermalm! And from Norrmalm, where the boat tour finishes, it’s an uphill climb — literally and figuratively. Thus, the most efficient and easiest way to travel is by metro. And as long as you’re heading through the metro, you might as well take the time to enjoy some artwork right?!

A single metro ticket is good for 75 minutes and costs 38 SEK (~$3.50 USD) . So, within that time, you can easily check out the artwork at three or four stations! I recommend visiting the Stadion station and/or the Universitetet station . Just make sure to get to the Slussen station before 75 minutes is up!

18. Discover Trendy Södermalm

When you pop up from the Slussen station, you’ll be at the foot of Södermalm. This is the trendy part of Stockholm that has more of a local vibe as there aren’t so many obvious tourist attractions here. The area is the go-to place for an aesthetic coffee shop, a fun night out with your friends, and where to browse some second-hand clothes ! You’ll also find an abundance of trendy shops, cafés, bars, restaurants, and flower shops. Honestly, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! My reason for visiting Södermalm was to take in the beautiful panoramic views over Stockholm city, which I’ll get into next!

19. Scenic Views at Skinnarviksberget

Finally, to end this epic Stockholm in 3 days itinerary, I highly recommend trekking to Skinnarviksberget ! This is the highest natural point in central Stockholm and does require a bit of uphill walking/hiking from the Södermalm metro station, but I promise it’s worth it! Those who make the trek up will be rewarded with majestic panoramic views of Kungsholmen, Gamla Stan, Stockholm City Hall, and all the colorful buildings across the water. The scenic outlook is unsurprisingly a crowd favorite spot among both locals and tourists alike, but the crowds aren’t too bad. For peak enjoyment, I recommend saving this for the end of the day and heading to a grocery store or pastry shop. This way you can take in the sweeping views while refueling on delicious snacks– because isn’t everyone happier when they’re eating and watching a magical sunset?! Anyway, I tried to save the best for last and hope this lovely outlook proves to be the perfect ending to your time in Stockholm!

Where to Eat in Stockholm

If you’ve made it this far, congrats! I bet you not many have 😂. So as a reward, here are some of the best places to eat in Stockholm during your 3 days! A few I found on my own, while others were given to me as recommendations from locals, so yah know it’s gotta be good!

NOTE: Also, you can click the names of the places for their Google Maps locations!

Breakfast / Fika

• Skeppsbro Bageri — Bakery located right on the waterfront in Gamla Stan ! You’ll find a wide range of fresh pastries and bread, ranging from sweet treats to savory items. Seating is limited though, so get there early, unless you’re fine with braving the cold.
• Café Pascal — This is a popular café in Norrmalm that offers a healthy selection of coffees, teas, and pastries! The space is small for the number of people it draws, so expect seating to be limited…but if you go, make sure to try a croissant sandwich!
• FIKA & Wine — This is a cozy and warm restaurant in Gamla Stan that makes for a lovely brunch/fika/dinner spot! They have everything from fresh pastries and lots of coffee options to decent size portions of traditional Swedish foods! Plus, the staff is very friendly and hospitable!

• Restaurant Tradition — This is a fantastic restaurant in Gamla Stan that serves a wide range of very authentic and traditional Swedish food! Everything is so delicious and the service is great! I’d highly recommend it for lunch or dinner.
• Mom’s Kitchen — A very budget-friendly place in Östermalm that offers traditional Swedish food! It’s not sensational food, but it gives you more than enough bang for your buck. They essentially have prepared a certain number of portions of dishes in to-go containers. After you order, they microwave the food and present it for you on a plate if you choose to eat there. Oh, and when I went they offered unlimited bread/crackers.

• Restaurant BAR & Akvarium — This is one of Stockholm’s best restaurants/bars in Norrmalm that specializes in seafood! They have a massive selection of fresh fish, and the prices are quite reasonable for what you get. So, if you want to taste some awesome seafood, be sure to check out this place!
• Restaurant 1889 Fine Fast Pizza — If you want a break from traditional Swedish food, head to 1889 Fine Fast Pizza in Norrmalm for delicious pizza at an affordable price! The restaurant has a cozy and almost luxurious feel, and everything I tried was so good! I highly recommend their pannacotta desserts if you go! Seriously, I still dream about how divine it was.

🇸🇪🍦 Fun Fact : Swedish people are the second biggest consumers of Ice cream in Europe! If you’re visiting during the spring/summer/fall, make sure to go to StikkiNikki !

Other Places to Visit in Stockholm, Sweden

In case you end up spending a few extra days in the city or want some other options, here are some other places to add to your 3 days in Stockholm itinerary!

• Kungsträdården — This is a wonderful park that’s in the heart of Norrmalm ! You’ll honestly probably pass it just walking around the city, but if not it’s totally worth visiting! There are always lots of activities happening and you can see lots of cherry blossom trees flourishing around May!
• ABBA Museum — As I mentioned in the beginning, Stockholm is famous for producing the Swedish supergroup, ABBA! Thus, if you’re a fan of their music or just want to get your groove on, then you should definitely pay a visit to the ABBA Museum on Djurgården !
• Anders Fogelströms Terrass — This is a small park located in Södermalm that I did a morning run to! It does require a little bit of a walk from the Slussen station but does offer another lovely panoramic view that’s different from what you see at Skinnarviksberget

3 Things to Do Near Stockholm, Sweden

Alternatively, if you’re ready for a change in pace and scenery, you can always opt to add a day trip to your Stockholm in 3 days schedule! Here are three popular spots for a day trip from the Swedish capital!

1. Drottningholm Palace

The first place you can easily day trip to is Drottningholm Palace . It’s located about 45 minutes by public transit outside of Stockholm and serves as Sweden’s royal family private residence. All areas except for the Southern wing where the royal family lives are open to the public. And like the Royal Palace in Stockholm, this palatial estate is massive and exudes elegance. It’s even been on UNESCO’s World Heritage list since 1991! At Drottningholm, visitors can explore the Chinese Pavilion, the palace theatre, and the royal chapel, and feast their eyes on the well-manicured palace gardens. Truly it’s a sight to behold. And if you prefer not to deal with public transit, you can always opt for a private tour from Stockholm !

✅ 🏰 Check out this private tour of Drottningholm Palace from Stockholm

Uppsala is just about an hour away from Stockholm by train and is Sweden’s fourth most populous city. Despite its urban sprawl, Uppsala still embodies the charm of small-town life. Here, you can visit the striking Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 13th century, explore many historical museums, and wander through Uppsala Castle!

Sigtuna is an ancient Viking settlement located about 50 minutes from Stockholm by car or an hour and 20 minutes via public transit. This picturesque town has been around for over 1,000 years and is known as Sweden’s oldest town, making it the perfect place to explore traditional Swedish culture! While there, you can visit medieval churches and see the ruins that represent the city’s illustrious history. Plus, the small-town atmosphere gives off a certain peacefulness that makes Sigtuna all the more attractive if you want to get away from the touristy side of Stockholm!

Stockholm in 3 Days: FAQs

For the most part, I would say Stockholm is safe. Obviously, don’t abandon caution and common sense, but I felt pretty safe walking around late at night by myself.

In my totally biased opinion, I found Stockholm well worth visiting. Maybe it’s my fascination with Viking culture or the fact I’d never been to the Scandinavian part of Europe before, but the city was an absolute delight!

For good weather and minimal crowds, I recommend visiting between May and early June or between late September and early November. That said, I hear the Christmas markets in Stockholm during the winter are wonderful! 🎄

There is no simple answer to this question, as it depends on what you want to see and do in Stockholm. However, I would recommend spending at least 2-3 days in the city if you want to get a good overview of everything Stockholm has to offer. Plus, if you’re interested in day-tripping and seeing some of the surrounding areas, then you’ll definitely want to spend a good 4-5 days in the city.

Aside from the normal things to pack for vacation, I highly recommend bringing hand lotion and chapstick! Even though I visited during early Fall, my hands and lips were getting wrecked by the crisp, dry air. Save yourself by bringing a good amount of moisturizing lotion and chapstick.

Wrap-Up: Stockholm in 3 Days Itinerary (2024)

Ultimately, Stockholm is an incredible city filled with endless activities for visitors to fill their itinerary with. From exploring the winding cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan and discovering Stockholm’s diverse archipelago by water to seeing the Vasa ship up close and indulging in mouthwateringly good Swedish cuisine — you don’t want to miss out on immersing yourself in this amazing culture!

And, with this Stockholm in 3 days itinerary in hand, I’m sure you’ll have a fabulous time. So, with that, I wish you the best of luck discovering Stockholm and hope this guide has been helpful! As always, feel free to reach out with any questions!

Explore the Nordic Region

• 🇫🇮 Considering making a trip to the Finnish Capital of Helsinki? Discover and eat your way through the city with a local! Or, consider a fun day trip over to Tallinn, Estonia !

Save This Post for Later!

Kristin is the founder of Global Travel Escapades, a blog dedicated to helping travelers explore beautiful destinations and planning their wildest travel dreams. She has explored 30 countries and is on a mission to visit 50 by age 30. Along the way, she has lived in places like sunny San Diego and the vibrant French capital! Ultimately, Kristin hopes her passion for adventure, delicious food, and all things F1 & tennis inspires others to plan their next travel escapade!

Photo: Henrik Trygg

Hiking trails near Stockholm

Publish date : 27 August 2024

Put on your best walking shoes, fill up your backpack with snacks and water, and head out! Here are Stockholm's best hiking trails.

Stockholm and its neighboring municipalities have many good hiking trails that take you through lovely natural and historic settings. All nature reserves in Stockholm (and many green areas) have marked trails and paths, often several to accommodate casual and experienced hikers alike.

Besides many great spots for a sunny forest trek, several major marked trails are ready just waiting for your best walking shoes. Along the way, you'll come across history, culture, and nature, and for those attempting to cover several legs (maybe even the whole length of a trail), there are hotels, hostels, and B&Bs along the way.

There are also several tour operators – like Nordic Trails , The Green Trails , and True Nature – organizing nature hiking tours. Some take you along a marked trail, others venture off the beaten path into Stockholm's nature.

Stockholm's major hiking trails

• Sörmlandsleden – Sörmlandsleden is the longest hiking trail in the Stockholm area, by a wide margin; roughly 1000 km long (621 miles), divided into 62 legs and 36 offshoots. The initial legs are in southern Stockholm, but the trail leaves Stockholm soon afterward, to circle the whole province of Södermanland. Along the way, it cuts through neighboring towns like Södertälje, Trosa, Nyköping, Eskilstuna, and Katrineholm. The sections are as varied as the Swedish landscape, offering coastline, forests, rolling hills, and urban areas.
• The Archipelago Trail – Stockholm's latest hiking trail, The Archipelago Trail, is due to open in the fall of 2024. Starting in Arholm in the North and ending at Landsort in the South, the trail runs the whole length of the archipelago across 21 islands. The 20 individual legs are 270 km (almost 168 miles) in total length, covering both pristine nature and picturesque fishing hamlets along the way.
• Roslagsleden – Roslagsleden starts in the suburb of Danderyd and continues northward to the northern Archipelago (called Roslagen). The trail consists of 11 legs, is 190 km (just over 118 miles) and ends in Grisslehamn. Along the way, hikers will pass several small lakes perfect for a swim, lush forests, and historical environments like Wira Bruk smithing village. Angarnssjöängen, one of Stockholm's best places for bird-watching, is also along the trail just a couple of miles North of its starting location.
• Upplandsleden – The Upplandsleden trail starts North of Stockholm, in Knivsta, and continues northward. The trail is split across three sections, together covering 500 km (about 311 miles) of the Uppland province. Much like Sörmlandsleden, it cuts through a wide range of environments and milieus; green forests, coastal nature, rural fields, and urban areas like Uppsala, Enköping, and Älvkarleby. The trail's most northern point is Långhälls Nature Reserve, 12 miles south of the city of Gävle.

Find more hiking tips in the list below the article.

Looking for more?

Be adventurous in the stockholm archipelago.

Categories : Activities

Where I find mindfulness in the city

Local in Stockholm

Experience Stockholm with a personal guide

Guided tours with a twist, vacation on two wheels, kayak adventures in stockholm, have an active vacation, winter activities in stockholm.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

The 20 essential travel tips for visiting Stockholm

Wondering whether to use cash, or whether to bare all at the sauna? We've got you covered.

If there’s one thing about Stockholm , it’s sure of its ways. This is the land of clean eating, of fika in the afternoons, and of surprisingly low-alcohol beer. And the last thing you want to do is get caught in some sort of embarrassing blunder, right?

So fear not, we have you covered. Our local writers have compiled a list of 20 things you should know before visiting Stockholm for the first time, from where to use cash to when to bare all at the sauna. Ready? Here’s every travel tip you’ll need for your first time in Stockholm.

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Stockholm 🍽️ The best restaurants in Stockholm 🏘️ Where to stay in Stockholm 🏨 The best hotels in Stockholm

This guide was updated by Madeleine Hyde , a writer based in Stockholm. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .  

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The ultimate Stockholm travel guide

1.  save your clean-eating week for stockholm.

The vegan offerings in this city are unrivalled. You can order your coffee with oat, almond or soya milk in most cafes, get delicious vegan ice cream in stores or at Stikki Nikki, or try vegan pulled pork (called oomph ) in Max Burger, Vigårda and many other burger establishments.

2.  Get a pint at 4pm

Rush hour is also the start of ‘After-Work’, a Swedish version of happy hour beginning around 4:30pm. Many pubs will serve a cheaper pint during these hours, and there’s even a club, Out of Office, that kicks off in the late afternoon instead of the late evening to cater to thirsty office workers. Download the club’s app for your free entrance ticket and dance your suit off.

📍 Discover the best bars in Stockholm

3.  Spend a late night at a gallery

If you’re a night owl looking for something more intellectually stimulating than a night on the tiles, thank goodness for Fotografiska, the photography exhibition on Södermalm’s northern waterfront. After the rest of the galleries have closed, this former factory stays open until 11pm.

📍 Discover the best museums in Stockholm

4.  Saunas are for revealing all

Another Nordic ritual is stripping down in the sauna. In Swedish culture, it’s generally encouraged to keep things private—except for when it comes to the sauna. Don’t expect to bring anything but yourself and a towel, which is mostly for drying yourself off after you plunge into an icy-cold lake.

5.  Don’t bring a ton of cash

Stockholm aims to become a cash-free city in the coming years, and in fact, many cafes, restaurants and hotels already enforce this policy. So on your trip, it’s best to bring your bank card and only use cash if you have to. 

6.  The flavours of fika

‘Fika’ is the Swedish coffee and cake ritual that means that the best cafes in the city will be full to the brim in the afternoons, especially on weekends. The traditional fika is with a cinnamon bun, but some cafes do their own variations: the rhubarb crumble buns at Fabrique, or the pistachio and blackcurrant version at Il Caffe are some favourites. It’s a crowded time, but well worth pushing in.

7.  Access the airport the sneaky way

Many travellers don’t realise that apart from the expensive express train and coaches, you can get from Arlanda airport to the city centre by public transport. Follow signs to the local buses at any terminal, and look for the one that goes to Märsta station, which is on a commuter rail line. The whole journey to central Stockholm can be covered on a single ticket, which you can buy on the SL app.

8.  Avoid the ‘stress tunnel’ at Centralen

An early sunset normally tempts Stockholmers to leave the office around 4pm and so for most of the year, this is our rush hour. Avoid the central station, ‘T-Centralen,’ at 4pm and at around 8 in the morning, if you can help it—this is when the ‘stress tunnel’ between the different metro lines is at its most congested.

9.  Buying alcohol here is a bit… systematic

The Swedish government has a monopoly on alcohol—if it’s over 3.5 percent ABV, anyway. For the strong stuff, you’ll need to head to government-owned Systembolaget, which close early afternoons on Saturday and don’t open at all on Sundays. If you fancy a 2 percent beer (affectionately known to locals as folköl , or ‘the people’s beer’), you can get these in any regular store.

10.  Have a whole Swedish conversation with just two words

Swedes are well-known for their English skills; you’ll hear and see English all around you in Stockholm. Still, if you want to try out some Swedish, you can do so with minimal effort. You can say hello or goodbye with just ‘hej’ or ‘hej hej’ (where the ‘j’ is pronounced like an English ‘y’) and ‘tack’ means both thank you and please, so it’s extra easy to be polite.

11.  The two words you need for a cheap pint

Stockholmers are big beer lovers, and there are many great micro-breweries and craft beer establishments across the city to prove it. That’s not to say that your pint has to be anything fancy or expensive, however; at any bar, you can order their cheapest pint of beer simply by asking for a ‘Stor Stark.’

12.  Pack your toughest boots

If you’re planning a winter trip, bring along some very sturdy shoes. From November through till March you can expect the ground to be covered in ‘slask,’ a grotty mix of melted snow and grit. It keeps you from falling over, but it will leave its mark on your footwear!

13.  Look beyond the metro lines

Booking accommodation in Stockholm can be dizzying. Which island is best? How much should you spend? And most commonly asked: Can they all be accessed easily? In the inner-city, the answer is yes. But it’s worth looking further, too: the prices of accommodation go down if you look along the commuter rail lines, rather than just the metro lines. Don’t be intimidated by these local lines; they’ll often get you to the city centre just as quickly!

14.  Lunch starts early in Sweden

Lunch is Sweden’s biggest meal of the day. Restaurants typically offer buffet lunches for a fixed price and start serving at noon sharp. Oh, and there won’t normally be any desserts on the table, but you can save your sweet tooth for later (see fika )!

15.  Down-time in the summer

Swedes take holidays very seriously—normally, by disappearing off to their countryside cottages or island retreats on the archipelago. This means that at certain times of the year, Stockholm is a bit of a ghost town, especially after Midsummer in June and July. On the plus side, visitors get the city to themselves!

16.  Island-hop in style for no extra cost

Your SL card (SL being the Stockholm transport system) can get you onto pretty much any transport, including some of the ferries that run between the inner-city islands. In the winter season, you can even use an SL ticket on ferries to the archipelago.

17.  Culture without the entrance fee

If beer and sauna culture don’t cut it, you can spend your Tuesday afternoon at a museum instead, without spending anything. The Nordic Museum has free entry on Wednesdays from 5-8pm, and the Nobel Prize Museum from 5-8pm on Tuesdays. The Modern Art museum on Skeppsholmen, meanwhile, has free admission the whole week round.

18.  Drink in the evening sunlight in summer

In the summer, drinking goes outdoors. Bars reveal themselves in all kinds of innovative outside spaces, including under a bridge: Trädgården (the garden) opens under Skanstull bridge at the end of May. As a bonus, if you get there before 7pm you’ll avoid any entrance free and be offered cheaper drinks deals.

19.  Plan ahead to avoid taxis

Taxis are very, very expensive in Stockholm. Especially boat taxis (yes, really!), which will come and get you if you’re stuck on an island in the archipelago. Plan ahead by checking the SL app for your best travel options. On weekends, the metro runs all night, but on weekdays your best bet after 1am might be a night bus.

20.  On weekdays, breakfast is simple and healthy

In cafes, you’ll find mostly muesli and yoghurt or bread rolls with ham and cheese served in the morning hours. On weekends, however, it’s a whole different story. Popular brunch spots like Kitchen & Table and Greasy Spoon fill up quickly, so be sure to book ahead!

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Android app
• Time Out Worldwide