stockholm travel tips

Stockholm Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 17, 2023

Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. No matter how often I come here, I am always amazed by it. Everything is just so photogenic and picturesque – the parks, the islands, the harbor, the historic colored houses dating back hundreds of years.

In fact, it’s so incredible that I even spent an entire summer living in the city!

Stockholm spreads itself out across fourteen islands (though there are thousands of islands in the archipelago) and has a ton of museums, attractions, parks, and art to see while getting lost among the historic streets and buildings. The people are wonderful too. While Swedes generally are quiet and reserved, they are happy to share advice with visitors.

Stockholm isn’t the cheapest place in the world so many backpackers rush their visit (or skip over the city entirely). That’s a mistake if you ask me as a visit here is worth every penny.

This travel guide to Stockholm can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to Sweden’s capital!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Stockholm

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Stockholm

1. Walk around Gamla Stan

This is the oldest part of the city, with centuries-old buildings, the Nobel Museum, the Royal Palace, cobblestone streets, and the historic homes of the aristocracy. I never tire of wandering through it. Get here early in the summer to beat the crowds and have the narrow, winding alleys to yourself.

2. Wander around Skansen

Skansen was the first open-air museum in the world. It’s also a zoological garden specializing in Nordic fauna, such as moose, reindeer, bear, wolf, lynx, and wolverine. Entry is 160-220 SEK depending on the season.

3. Tour the archipelago

Stockholm is surrounded by beautiful islands and waterways. You haven’t really seen the city if you haven’t explored the archipelago. The good tours take a full day, going out to more secluded islands. Tours only operate during the summer. Or take the ferry and island hop yourself!

4. Enjoy fika

Each day, Swedes pause to have a coffee (or tea) and a baked treat. This daily ritual is called fika . For Swedes, fika (or “to fika”) is a normal part of everyday life and can be done wherever you want, with friends or solo.

5. Tour the Vasa Museum

This museum houses the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship. The Vasa was so poorly built that it sank a mile from the dock. The cold sea preserved the ship and the museum does a wonderful job of putting the ship into its historical context. Admission is 170-190 SEK.

Other Things to See and Do in Stockholm

1. spend the day at djurgarden island.

Djurgarden is an island right in the middle of Stockholm. You can take a walking tour, eat at a relaxing restaurant, enjoy the amusement park located here, and visit a historic Swedish village. There are a lot of easy walking paths and it’s a popular spot for a picnic. In the summer, it’s a wonderful place for people watching or lounging with a book.

2. Take a bike tour

To explore all the city’s neighborhoods, rent a bike or treat yourself to a guided bike tour of the city. The city is not traffic-heavy and the winding streets are so much fun to explore on wheels. Expect to pay around 200-250 SEK per day for a rental while guided bike tours range from 200-400 SEK per person.

3. Enjoy Stockholm’s wild nightlife

Stockholm is known for its nightclubs and bars. It may be expensive, but Swedes love to go out and party. Hit the clubs and party with the locals. Watch out for the blackjack tables (they have them at every club!). My favorite places to go out at night are Debaser Hornstulls Strand, Anchor, Retro, Under Bron, Rose, and Soap Bar. The main nightlife area is called Stureplan. Expect to pay 100-260 SEK per club just in entrance fees!

4. Tour the Royal Palace

Built between 1697-1760 and located on the east side of the Old Town, the Royal Palace is a Baroque palace open to the public. It’s one of the must-see sights in Stockholm. The building dominates Gamla Stan. The royal family doesn’t live here anymore, but it’s still an important historical site. A combined ticket to visit the treasury, reception rooms, and museum costs 140 SEK. The palace is closed when dignitaries are being hosted.

5. See the art at the National Museum

The National Museum was founded in 1792 and contains works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Goya, Renoir, Degas, and Gauguin, as well as well-known Swedish artists such as Carl Larsson, Ernst Josephson, C.F. Hill, and Anders Zorn. The collection is quite robust, especially if you like Scandinavian artists. Admission is free, though temporary exhibitions cost 70-170 SEK.

6. Explore the Medieval Museum

Located underneath the Royal Palace, this museum is one of the better history museums in the city. The museum was built around excavated monuments and sections of the city wall so you can actually see and experience what the city was like 400 years ago. There’s also a medieval graveyard here and a warship from the middle ages. You learn a lot of details about medieval Sweden and life in Stockholm. It’s free too!

7. Tour city hall

Built in 1911, Stockholm’s City Hall is a historic brick building that features daily guided tours for 110 SEK. You’ll see the official areas of the hall and learn about the history of the building and local government. You can also go up the tower from May-September (for an additional 50 SEK) for amazing views of Gamla Stan and the city. Tours go through the areas where official council business takes place, as well as the ceremonial halls used for official city events and banquets.

8. Walk along Monteliusvägen

This is a mile-long walking path that offers fantastic views of Lake Mälaren. It’s one of the best places in the city watch the sunset from too. I love coming here for a sunset stroll.

9. Visit Fotografiska

Fotografiska features some of the best works in contemporary photography. It’s only a couple of floors, but its rotating exhibits are always top-notch so I’m always happy to visit. There’s a bar and café on the top floor that offers panoramic views of the harbor and Gamla Stan. Admission is 165-245 SEK.

10. Visit the ABBA museum

A visit to Stockholm wouldn’t be complete without checking out the quirky ABBA museum. Tickets are not cheap (admission is 250 SEK) but it’s a colorful way to experience Sweden’s legendary pop group (they’re one of the most popular pop groups of all time, with some 150 million records sold). The museum displays their original costumes and outfits, gold records, and props from the Mamma Mia films (which were based on the music of ABBA). There are lots of interactive displays highlighting the history and achievements of the group too.

11. Visit the Swedish History Museum

If you’re interested in Scandinavian history, this museum covers the Stone Age to the Vikings. Highlights include the Gold Room, which houses gold treasures from the Bronze Age to the 16th century. It’s a very detailed museum and I think they do a really good job explaining their Viking history. Admission is free.

12. Day trip to Uppsala

It’s easy to day trip from Stockholm, so take the train to Uppsala and enjoy this university town’s abundance of quaint shops, beautiful parks, and waterways. There are several fantastic museums as well. Sigtuna is another great day trip option, especially for its preserved medieval buildings dating back to the 10th century.

13. Have fun at Gröna Lund Theme Park

This 15-acre amusement park has over 30 attractions and is a popular venue for concerts during the summer. Originally opened in 1883, the park is located on Djurgården so it’s easy to access. Just keep in mind that the schedule changes a lot so be sure to check the website before you go. Admission is 120 SEK.

14. See the stunning subway art

Stockholm’s subway system also doubles as the world’s longest art gallery. Since 1957, artists have been invited to decorate the subterranean stations with their work, and today over 90 out of 100 stations feature public art. Kungsträdgården is one of the most famous stations and features a colorful abstract garden complete with sculptures formerly housed at the palace.

15. Visit Drottningholm Palace

Located just 30 minutes outside of the city, this 17th-century palace is the most well-preserved in all of Sweden. Modeled after the Palace of Versailles, the UNESCO-listed complex includes ornate gardens, a theatre, a Chinese Pavilion, and elaborately decorated interiors. It is the official private residence of the Swedish royal family and is only open on weekends. Admission is 140 SEK or 170 SEK including a guided tour in English.

16. Stroll Strandvägen

Hugging the waterfront in the prestigious district of Östermalm, Strandvägen is a boulevard lined with beautiful Art Nouveau buildings on one side and floating bars and cafes on the other. Finished just in time for the Stockholm World’s Fair in 1897, the promenade remains a popular place to spend an afternoon.

17. Take a canal tour

There’s no better way to learn about this maritime city than by taking to the water. Join one of the many different canal tours showcasing different aspects and areas of the city. A 1-hour tour generally costs around 240 SEK.

  For more information on other cities in Sweden, check out these guides:

• Gothenburg Travel Guide

Stockholm Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a 4-8-bed dorm room costs 200-260 SEK per night. For a private room, expect to pay at least 650 SEK per night. Most hostels in the city also add a 50-80 SEK surcharge for bed linen to offset the cost of cleaning (you are allowed to bring your own sheets, but sleeping bags are not permitted).

Fortunately, some of the hostels have some great perks. City Backpackers , for example, has a free sauna as well as free pasta while Skanstulls Hostel has free pasta, coffee, and tea. In expensive Sweden, free goes a long way to save money if you’re on a budget!

For those traveling with a tent, wild camping is legal outside the city. You just need to make sure you aren’t too close to someone’s house and are not camping in a cultivated field. But otherwise, Sweden’s Freedom to Roam law means you have a lot of leeway when it comes to wild camping.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels cost around 900 SEK per night. TV, free Wi-Fi, and coffee/tea makers are usually standard. Several hotels include free breakfast, so opt for these to save on your food budget.

Food – Food in Sweden is hearty and based heavily on meat, fish, and root vegetables. One of the most iconic and popular dishes is meatballs and a creamy sauce with potatoes and lingonberry jam. Crayfish, shrimp, mushrooms, and fresh summer berries are other popular staples. For breakfast, Swedes usually eat dark bread with cheese and vegetables. For fika, cinnamon buns are the go-to choice for many.

Like all of Sweden, eating out is expensive in Stockholm. You can get cheap food from outdoor street vendors starting at around 50 SEK, though these are few and far between. You can get hot dogs for around 30 SEK at places like 7-Eleven and Pressbyran.

Many convenience stores and cafes offer pre-packaged sandwiches and meals for 50-100 SEK if you’re on the go and want a quick bite. Whole pizzas cost around 65-95 SEK and most nice sit-down restaurant meals begin at 200 SEK for a main dish (for yummy pizza, check out Omnipollos Hatt).

If you’re looking for a drink, beer can be as cheap as 40 SEK, though 65-75 SEK is more common. Wine costs around 55-75 SEK at your average restaurant, and cocktails are around 100 SEK. If you’re on a budget and want to drink, stick to beer. You can buy your own alcohol at the government-run Systembolaget for even greater savings.

Some of my favorite places to eat are Herman’s, Omnipolls Hatt, Beijing8, Ramblas Tapas Bar, and Hattori Sushi Devil.

Grocery shopping costs around 600-700 SEK per week for basic groceries like pasta, rice, and veggies. However, if you cut down on your meat and cheese intake (some of the most expensive food items in Sweden) you can lower your costs significantly.

Backpacking Stockholm Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget, you should plan to spend 825 SEK per day. This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all your own meals, using public transportation, walking, limiting your drinking, and participating in free activities like visiting free museums and taking free walking tours.

On a mid-range of budget of 1,600 SEK per day, you can stay in private hostel rooms, get a public transportation pass and take the occasional Uber, eat some fast food, enjoy a couple drinks, and do some more paid activities like museum visits or a guided bike tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,330 SEK or more per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out for all your meals, take taxis tog et around, drink more, do some excursions to the islands, and day trip to Uppsala. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in SEK.

Stockholm Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Stockholm may not be the most budget-friendly city to visit, but luckily there are a lot of ways to save money. It’s not too hard to save big if you know just a few tips. Here is how to visit Stockholm on budget:

• Purchase the Go City Stockholm Card – This pass gives you access to the city’s public transportation system and free entrance into 99% of the museums and canal tours. It’s well worth the money and definitely saves a lot more than it costs if plan to do a lot of sightseeing. It includes access to over 60 attractions and is 669 SEK for a 1-day pass or 1,569 SEK for a 5-day pass (which is a much better deal!).
• Stay with locals for free – Accommodation is expensive in Stockholm. Consider using Couchsurfing, a site that connects travelers with locals who offer a free place to stay. If you can cut out your accommodation costs, you will save a lot of money. It’s also a great way to get to know the local culture because you’re staying in someone’s home and you can ask them all the questions you want.
• Free walking tours – Free Tour Stockholm runs the best walking tours in the city. They offer a few different tours, including a tour of Gamla Stan. They generally last two hours and are available in English. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Drink beer – If you are going to drink, stick to beer. It costs about half as much money as mixed drinks or wine at bars and restaurants. For greater savings, buy your own alcohol at the government-run Systembolaget (it can be up to 50% cheaper that way).
• Avoid the big restaurants – Eating out in Stockholm is very expensive. If you want to eat out, try to stick to the outside grills you see on the side of the street. You can find a variety in them and they are under 100 SEK per meal (which is half the price you’ll pay at a sit-down restaurant).
• Try the lunch buffets – If you choose to eat out, the lunch buffets are an economical way to do so, often costing around 110 SEK. They are a popular option with locals. For a healthier option, try Hermans or Hermitage.
• Get a metro card – If you don’t plan to get the Stockholm Card, make sure you get a week-long metro pass. At 415 SEK for a week of rides, it is a better deal than paying 160 SEK for just 24 hours.
• Avoid clubs – Most clubs have a cover charge of over 250 SEK. Don’t waste your money.
• Refill your water bottle – Water is about 30 SEK per bottle. Since the tap water is drinkable (one of the cleanest in Europe!) you should just buy one bottle and reuse it. Not only will this save you money, but it will save the environment too! My go-to bottle is LifeStraw since they have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Avoid the taxis – With the subway open late (or all night long depending on the day) you can avoid taking taxis. A typical ride costs more than 250 SEK, so avoid them at all costs! (Uber is cheaper than taxis but it’s still very expensive).

Where to Stay in Stockholm

Stockholm has lots of hostels and they’re all pretty comfortable and sociable. These are my suggested and recommended places to stay in Stockholm:

• Archipelago Hostel Old Town
• Generator Stockholm
• City Backpackers
• Skanstull Stockholm
• Castanea Old Town Hostel

How to Get Around Stockholm

Public Transportation – Public transportation in Stockholm costs 38 SEK per ticket, making the day pass (or multi-day pass) your best choice.

You need to purchase a reloadable card in advance or download the app. Cards cost 20 SEK and can be filled with as much credit as you need (including multi-day passes). A week-long pass is the best deal at 415 SEK, though you can also get a 24-hour pass for 160 SEK or a 72-hour pass for 315 SEK. These can be used on buses, ferries, and trains.

The subway is known as the tunnelbana (or T-bana). Subway trains operate 5am–1am on weekdays and all night on Fridays and Saturdays. Trains come every 10 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night.

When coming from Arlanda airport, the bus is your cheapest option. Flygbussarna runs shuttles regularly, with tickets costing 119 SEK (one way). The journey takes around 45 minutes.

You can also take the Arlanda Express train to Stockholm’s central train station. It’s 299 SEK for a one-way ticket. The journey takes around 20 minutes.

Taxi – Most cabs cost around 285 SEK and should be avoided as the trains and buses run all night. Avoid taxis unless you have no other choice as they will burn a hole in your budget!

Ridesharing – Uber here is a little cheaper than taxis but it’s still quite expensive. I don’t recommend using it unless you have to.

Bicycle – Stockholm is a very easy city to bike around. Many hostels rent bikes or organize bike tours. Rentals cost around 200-250 SEK per day and guided bike tours range from 300-400 SEK per person.

When to Go to Stockholm

The ideal time to visit Sweden is from June to August, when the weather is warm and the days are (really) long. Stockholm is at its liveliest during this time, with locals taking advantage of the good weather at every opportunity. The parks are always full, and there are always fun events happening around town. Temperatures are often in the 20s Celsius (60s and 70s Fahrenheit) during the summer.

The downside to visiting then is that, since Sweden has a very short summer, the city is rather crowded, so be sure to book your accommodation in advance. This is especially true if you are visiting during Midsommar, the big Swedish holiday at the end of June. It’s a great time to experience Swedish traditions (which involve a lot of drinking).

May typically has great weather with occasional rain, while September has cooler temperatures and changing leaves. You’ll beat the crowds and still be able to explore the city on foot without the weather getting in your way (too much).

Attractions begin to close around late September, and the days get dark early in October. Temperatures start dropping around this time too. However, prices also decrease, and you’re likely to find cheaper airfares and accommodations during this time. Be sure to pack layers if you plan on visiting during this time of year.

The winter is very cold and sees a lot of snow and darkness. In the depths of the winter, you only get a few hours of light each day and temperatures plummet below -0ºC (32ºF). The plus side of traveling during the off-season, however, is that you can get the cheapest accommodations, and fees for certain attractions will be lower as well. While Stockholm is quite beautiful in winter, you won’t want to be walking around as much, and since it’s a great city to explore on foot, you will potentially be missing out.

How to Stay Safe in Stockholm

Sweden is one of the safest countries in the world. In fact, it ranks 15th on the ranking of the world’s safest countries (for comparison, the USA is 122nd) it’s a great destination for solo travelers — including solo female travelers.

However, Stockholm is still a large city, so the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Keep an eye out for pickpockets, especially around the train stations and on public transportation.

As in any city, be aware of your surroundings and use common sense and you should be just fine. You’re not really going to find any scams in the city either. It’s pretty safe.

That said, always keep an eye on your drink when out at the bar and never walk home alone if intoxicated.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, here’s a list of common travel scams to avoid.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Stockholm Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Stockholm Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Sweden and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Stockholm

Where to Stay in Stockholm: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in Stockholm

Living Lagom in Sweden: An Interview With Lola Akerstrom

The Swedish Birthday Party

How to Visit Stockholm on a Budget

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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.

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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.
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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

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The 21 best things to do in Stockholm

Want to know what’s cool in Östermalm or Södermalm? Check out our guide to the very best things to do in Stockholm

Welcome to Stockholm , where its terrific ABBA Museum barely scratches the surface of all the incredible things there are to do here (obviously, you should still visit the ABBA Museum. It’s great). This city is full of great shopping opportunities, brunch spots, galleries and more; you just have to know where to look. 

Once you get into what Stockholm’s really about, you’ll find this city’s attractions range from cold water swimming and hidden gardens to lakeside food markets and indie cinemas doing breakfast screenings . You heard us! Whatever you’re into, Stockholm’s got it. Read on for its best things to do right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️ The best restaurants in Stockholm 🍷 The best bars in Stockholm 🏘️ Where to stay in Stockholm 🏛️ The best museums in Stockholm 🏠 The best Airbnbs in Stockholm 🏨 The best  hotels in Stockholm

This guide was last updated by Phoebe Egoroff , 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.

What to do in Stockholm

1.  djurgården’s world-class museums.

• Attractions
• Sightseeing
• price 2 of 4

Stockholmers are obsessed with nature, and nowhere is better than Djurgården’s tranquil waterside and woodland trails. If you’re into your art and history, this island also boasts several of the capital’s most significant museums. At the open-air Skansen , stroll through five centuries of Swedish houses and farmsteads and observe wild Nordic animals. The  Vasa Museum  is home to a giant 17th-century salvaged ship, while  ABBA: The Museum  combines nostalgic memorabilia with quirky interactive exhibits. And choruses, obviously.

Time Out tip:  Food options in Djurgården are pricey, so pack a picnic and tuck in on the waterfront behind the Vasa Museum, or find a spot off one of the grassy trails.

2.  Sail through the 30,000-island archipelago

• price 3 of 4

Stockholm’s city centre consists of 14 islands, but that’s nothing compared with the tens of thousands that make up its sprawling archipelago. The three-hour ferry ride to the last island before Finland, Sandhamn, makes the Swedish capital feel endless. Forest-covered and dotted with brightly coloured cottages, the islands on your way range from the remote and unexplored to pristine tourist spots boasting boutique  hotels , galleries and long stretches of sandy beaches.

Time Out tip:  During the winter season (from September up until the end of April), some of the longer ferry rides are free. Check the Waxholmsbolaget and SL company websites for details and timetables.

3.  Panoramic art gallery Fotografiska

• Specialist interest

In an old waterfront red-brick building that once belonged to the customs department, you’ll find a photography gallery with wall upon wall of striking images. Fotografiska has late-opening hours all week and broad rotating exhibitions on everything from feminism to global politics. You’ll also find one of the sleekest bars and best cafés in the city, with panoramic waterside views across Stockholm’s central islands.

Time Out tip:  If you’re in Stockholm visiting a friend, ask if they have a Fotografiska membership to bag yourself a reduced entry fee.

4.  Challenge yourself at the Swedish History Museum

Among the very best of  Stockholm’s state-owned museums is the Swedish History Museum. From a candid exhibit exploring Sweden’s heinous treatment of its indigenous minorities to another exploring the links between the Vikings and Nazism, this place challenges the very notion of a history museum – and history itself. 

Time Out tip:  Take Tram 7 from Central Station to the museum along opulent Strandvägen. Your ride is included on the metro card, and on national holidays they run vintage carriages with a tearoom on board.

5.  Afternoon tea in SoFo

In Sweden, ‘fika’ (afternoon tea) is a daily ritual. Stockholmers usually seek out coffee, but a few of the capital’s best establishments also have a decent tea menu (see  Il Caffè ,  Pom & Flora ,  Café Pascal  and Socker Sucker ). For the flat white-inclined, SoFo, the area ‘south of Folkungatan’ on Södermalm island, has become a hotbed of trendy coffee shops. The baked goods of choice here include cinnamon and cardamom buns (plus saffron in winter), and if you fancy something savoury, there’ll often be rye open sandwiches or small rolls filled with cheese, egg or avocado.

Time Out tip:  For locals, fika time is strictly post-3pm, when the café-bakeries start to fill up. As a tourist, you can bag a quieter coffee break much earlier.

6.  An apocalyptic underground art tour

Stockholm’s metro network is often dubbed the world’s longest art gallery for a good reason; most stations have art in some form or other. Carved out of rocks, many retain the feel of a newly discovered cave, vividly brought to life through rainbow colours, words (the university stop has the Swedish human rights declaration tiled like a crossword) and futuristic patterns. The blue line hosts some of the most daring designs, including its starting point, Kungsträdgården, which feels like some post-apocalyptic archaeological discovery. 

Time Out tip:  The SL metro card covers a vast public transport network in the Stockholm region, stretching as far as the airport (if you take a bus from Märsta). For the best value for money, buy a 72-hour or 7-day ticket.

7.  Watch the sun set at Monteliusvägen cliff path

• Walks and tours

Be sure to round off your sightseeing by watching the sun go down over the shimmering surface of Lake Mälaren. The best spot to do this would be Norr Mälarstrand, a leafy trail that provides views of the Old Town and its characterful spires. If you are lucky, you might glimpse the Northern Lights.

Time Out tip:  Don’t forget to pack an evening picnic to help you stay warm while sunset-watching. Nearby Slussen boasts many independent coffee shops.

8.  Craft beer at eco-hub Hammarby Sjöstad

• Craft beer pubs

Off the beaten tourist trail, this industrial wasteland-turned-urban eco-district is worth a trip to check out its impressive energy-saving modern architecture (designed to reduce heat consumption) or bike along its pristine waterfront cycle lanes. To quench your thirst, drop by craft beer bar Nya Carnegiebryggeriet. Run by a team trained at the legendary Brooklyn Brewery in New York, it specialises in seasonal releases and limited-edition experiments. 

Time Out tip:  Turn up on a Wednesday, just as they put their latest brew on tap, and try it in 1/3 pint samples.

9.  Hellasgården’s lakeside sauna

• Health and beauty
• Saunas and baths
• price 1 of 4

A bonding ritual and coping mechanism in the long winters, the sauna is an integral part of the Nordic culture – a must-do activity while you’re here. Sweat out your stress at Hellasgården, a recreation area inside Nacka nature reserve, a short bus ride from Stockholm’s Slussen station. Expect to strip off completely in their gender-separated saunas and find locals braving a dip in the icy lake, even when the temperatures are well into the minuses. 

Time Out tip:  It’s worth combining a trip to Hellasgården’s sauna with one of the hiking trails around the lake. Check the giant map at the main entrance for inspiration. There are also plenty of barbecue spots for public use.

10.  Moderna Museet on Skeppsholmen

You can visit Moderna Museet ’s fantastic modern and contemporary art exhibitions any day of the week, but if you’re strapped for cash there’s free entry on Fridays from 6-8pm. It’s also home to a bookshop and café with a terrace overlooking the water across towards Östermalm’s lavish façades. You can reach the museum by footbridge from Kungsträdgården or by commuter ferry with your metro card. 

Time Out tip:  As one of the smallest central islands, Skeppsholmen makes for a beautiful brisk evening walk (with panoramic city-centre views).

11.  Breakfast screenings at Bio Rio

• Independent

One of the best ways to tackle a weekend hangover in Stockholm is to nestle into the soft red velvet seats at the iconic 1940s cinema Bio Rio in Hornstull. On Sundays at 10.30am, it hosts breakfast screenings, where you can catch a retro or newly-released indie film while snacking on a simple smörgåsbord of yoghurt, muesli, fruit and an open Swedish sandwich, knocking back as much coffee as you like. 

Time Out tip:  Many of the films shown are in English or have English subtitles, but check in advance to make sure you don’t end up trying to make sense of an obscure Japanese arthouse offering via a Swedish translation.

12.  Tantolunden’s hidden hillside gardens

• Parks and gardens

More than 100 allotments and brightly painted wooden cottages tucked away on Tantolunden’s hillside make this one of the city’s most colourful parks, and one of the city’s most  Instagram-friendly places . Think perfectly manicured flower beds and terracotta miniature homes you can cook or nap in. Elsewhere in the park, there’s mini-golf, two outdoor gyms and plenty of benches from which to watch passing boats during summer. In winter, it’s a well-trodden spot for a Sunday stroll or even a toboggan ride when the snow is falling.

Time Out tip:  Hike up the mound in the centre of the park to get some fantastic panoramic photos over the water towards Liljeholmen.

13.  Swimming off Långholmen island

Just a 15-minute stroll from urban Hornstull’s bustling coffee shops and bars is Långholmen island, home to a former prison that is now a hotel, restaurant and museum. The island is surrounded by coastal paths and greenery, making this an oasis within the city centre. With its modest sandy front, Långholmen beach is surrounded by flat rocks and a grassy bank where locals flock for picnics. As soon as summer hits, this is one of the Swedish capital’s most frequented swimming spots.

Time Out tip:  Långholmen’s bathing spots offer good-quality cold outdoor showers if you need to freshen up before heading back into the city. 

14.  Light up Telefonplan tower

The tower of the building that houses Konstfack, Sweden’s most significant design school, doubles up as a permanent interactive art installation. Simply step out at Telefonplan metro station after sunset and stand opposite the brutalist structure. On your way there, download the  Colour by Numbers  app, which lets you control the colour of the lights in the windows.

Time Out tip:  If you’re on the other side of the city, you can still watch the kaleidoscopic display on a live stream through the app. 

15.  Sunbathe at Hornstulls Strand

This small stretch of sand on the edge of one of Södermalm’s most popular neighbourhoods becomes the ultimate gathering place when summer hits. There’s a jetty to swim from, mini-golf, ice cream and hot dog stands, plus panoramic views across the water towards the shiny Liljeholmen development. At night, crowds come out to drink, catch some evening sun and compete for blasting the loudest stereo. Floating oasis bar  Loopen  serves drinks until the midnight sun takes its short break.

Time Out tip:  This is a prime swimming spot, but taking a dip here is only for the (extremely!) brave – until June at least. Some warmer water can be found at Brunnsviken, the lake by Stockholm University. 

16.  Subterranean games mecca Ugglan

In the heart of Stockholm’s Brooklyn-inspired SoFo district, Ugglan is where locals seek out fun and games on gloomy winter evenings. An after-work social hotspot, Ugglan is the place to indulge in table football, darts, boules, shuffleboard and air hockey, play with arcade machines, or join in a game of round-the-table ping pong. There’s locally brewed beer on tap and decent street food to soak it all up.

Time Out tip:  If you’re in a big group and keen to stay the whole evening, the food and activity package deals are well worth it, giving you fixed time slots for up to three games and access to an all-you-can-eat buffet.

17.  Street food at Hornstulls Marknad

• Markets and fairs

Every weekend from Easter until the end of summer, Hornstull’s waterfront is home to a flea market of vintage clothing, knick-knacks and local handicrafts. You’ll also find a selection of food trucks serving things like crêpes, Vietnamese sandwiches, vibrant veggie curries and punchy burritos. Tuck into your food on the wooden seating platforms overlooking the water. Mid-afternoon (if the sun is out), you might find local bands setting up for a gig.

Time Out tip:  To avoid the throngs by the food trucks, take your pickings for a picnic in neighbouring  Tantolunden park .

18.  Open-air club Trädgården

No trip to Stockholm between May and September is complete without a visit to the city’s outdoor party spaces. Rooftop bars  Slakthuset , in a former slaughterhouse, and  Tak , on a revamped square in brutalist Norrmalm, are the most talked-about locations. But the epicentre of summer nightlife on Södermalm is Trädgården, a massive courtyard dance area with burger shacks, table tennis and a jigsaw of bars bedecked with fairy lights. 

Time Out tip:  Entry is often free before 8 pm; check Trädgården’s social media for the latest information. The vibe here is very casual, but be aware that temperatures can drop quickly (should you turn up in your favourite summer shorts).

19.  Get a drink in one of the world’s best bars

If you’re in a cocktail mood, look no further than Lucy’s Flower Shop , our favourite bar in Stockholm (it’s previously also found its way onto the World’s 50 Best ). Once you pay a visit you’ll understand why. Tucked away behind a secret door in an abandoned flower shop, what awaits is a colourful oasis with a Scandi-cool edge, boasting a short yet creative menu of exceptionally good cocktails. Lucy’s Flower Shop is open from 5pm – 1am and closed on Mondays. 

Time Out tip: Due to its popularity and small capacity, Lucy’s Flower Shop can often be fully booked weeks in advance; book well ahead to avoid disappointment.

20.  Shop at Södermalm’s second hand stores

If you’re going to hang out in Stockholm’s trendy Södermalm neighbourhood, you may as well embrace the local style and shop for new garms at one of the neighbourhood’s many second-hand stores. All within walking distance from each other, you can spend an afternoon or even a whole day browsing POP Stockholm , Beyond Retro , and HUMANA . It’s not uncommon for certain stores to be closed on a Monday, so make sure you check their opening hours before heading out.

Time Out tip: Head to HUMANA’s  Instagram page to get a first look at the new vintage arrivals in-store; they add around 200-500 pieces to their collection every day.

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Easily Scandinavia’s most beautiful capital, Stockholm is an exemplary mash-up of creative and eco-friendly lifestyles, innovative startup companies, a flourishing indie music scene, a hipster café culture, and an undying love for the outdoors due to its vast archipelago and proximity to water. Geographically, Stockholm is spread out across 14 unique islands, from historic Gamla stan (old town)—with its cobblestoned streets, earth-toned buildings, and the Royal Palace—to lush Djurgården, with its forests, green parks, rose gardens, and biking paths. For the city’s most exciting districts, head over to Östermalm to hobnob with Stockholm’s elite in Michelin-starred restaurants and upscale clubs, or wander around Södermalm, Kungsholmen, and Hornstull for eclectic shopping, excellent fusion restaurants, and cool indie nightclubs.

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When’s the best time to go to Stockholm?

The best time to visit Stockholm is between the months of May and September, when the city emerges from a dark winter and fully comes alive. Summer temperatures are moderate, and Stockholm’s archipelago is at its most beautiful during the long summer days from June to August.

How to get around Stockholm

Stockholm is served by two international airports. Stockholm Arlanda Airport is the main gateway and takes 40–60 minutes from downtown, depending on traffic conditions. Stockholm Bromma Airport is located right in town and serves short-haul flights between Stockholm and a few Baltic and Northern European countries. Taxis are expensive, so avoid them. The cheapest way of getting from Stockholm’s Arlanda Airport to town is to take an airport transfer bus like Swebus , which gets you downtown in 45–50 minutes. The fastest way is to take the 20-minute Arlanda Express train from the airport directly to Stockholm’s Central Station.

Run by Storstockholms Lokaltrafik (SL), Stockholm’s public transport system is comprised of subways (tunnelbana), bus and tram networks, ferries, and some long-distance trains. Tickets can be purchased at stations and kiosks showing the “SL” logo, and you can find departure times and schedules online. Alternatively, you can purchase the Stockholm Card , which provides unlimited rides on public transportation including access to over 80 attractions around the city.

Can’t miss things to do in Stockholm

Take a three-hour brunch cruise aboard the refurbished 1931 steamboat SS Stockholm to Vaxholm and back, and enjoy impressive views of Stockholm and its archipelago along the way from panoramic windows. You’ll dig into traditional Swedish classics like pickled herring ( sill ) and cured salmon (gravlax) alongside a variety of warm dishes, salads, potatoes, breads, and desserts. Pace yourself on the cold starters because once you start gorging, the tables are cleared to bring out sausages, meatballs, bacon, scrambled eggs, and other hot plates.

Food and drink to try in Stockholm

Eating out can dent your wallet, so choose wisely. Stockholm shines when it comes to seafood—think fish and small shellfish like crawfish and shrimp, but forget jumbo-sized prawns—and local game like reindeer, moose, and wild boar. While you’ll find some excellent restaurants that serve international fare such as Indian, Thai, Middle Eastern, and Japanese, the really excellent ones are few and far between. Be sure to “fika like a local” and dig into Swedish pastries such as kanelbullar (cinnamon buns) while you’re in town. For fine dining and upscale Michelin-starred restaurants, head over to Stockholm’s Östermalm and Norrmalm districts. You can find more laid-back yet high quality restaurants in the Södermalm, Kungsholmen, and Hornstull districts of town. Stockholmers love their happy-hour cocktails, and the city’s nightlife is hip, indie, and fresh. Most of its pubs and clubs are clustered around the neighborhoods of Östermalm, Gamla stan, and Södermalm.

Culture in Stockholm

Stockholm’s subway system, the tunnelbana, is the world’s longest art exhibition —110 km, with a variety of paintings, sculptures, mosaics, tiles, installations, and other durable art displays put together by 150 artists in over 90 of the city’s 100 stations. Stockholm also has dozens of offbeat museums that showcase its diverse interests—from the ABBA museum , dedicated to the legendary Swedish band, to Fotografiska , the city’s best contemporary photography museum, as well as Skansen , which opened in 1891 to spotlight pre–industrial-era Swedish lifestyles and now is the world’s oldest open-air museum.

When summer rolls around, Stockholmers are out and about celebrating numerous festivals. Summer begins with the most iconic, Midsummer , when both locals and visitors dance around maypoles with wreaths of wildflowers and garlands on their heads. Other popular festivals include Smaka På Stockholm (Taste of Stockholm), which is the country’s largest food festival; Kulturfestival and Street Festival , celebrating the performing arts; Stockholm Pride, Scandinavia’s largest LGBT parade; and various music festivals such as Summerburst.

Local travel tips for Stockholm

• Most locals know to ditch their cars. Frankly, most of them don’t own cars anyway, for good reason. Frequent traffic jams congest Stockholm’s narrow streets. But public transportation is extensive and punctual, so you won’t miss not having a car.
• Because eating out can add up quickly, locals also know to look for signs that read “Dagens rätt” or “Dagens Lunch.” This means “dish of the day”—often a discounted meal.
• If you plan on shopping, know that many stores and attractions open their doors late in the morning (10-11am) and close early (5-6pm). Plan accordingly to avoid surprises.

Practical Information

• Most locals speak English, so you can get away with knowing only “hej” (hello) and “tack” (thanks) in Swedish.
• Many stores open around 9 or 10 a.m. and close between 5 and 6 p.m. On weekends they shut even earlier—and on Sundays they may not open at all—so plan your shopping accordingly.
• Many businesses operate on a queuing system using a number dispenser, so be on the lookout for these when entering a store.
• Sweden is an almost cashless society—everyone uses credit cards, though you should save a few coins for public toilets.
• The country is very environmentally conscious—from organic restaurants and cafes to recycling habits and ubiquitous biking culture—so be cognizant of this when using public spaces.
• If you’re pushing a stroller, you get to ride public buses for free.
• Tipping is not required in Sweden.
• Sweden uses the 230 volt Europlug—type C and F. Sweden’s currency is the krona.

Guide Editor

Stephen Whitlock is a Yorkshireman who moved to New York and then, a decade later, relocated to Stockholm, Sweden.

Lola Akinmade Åkerström is a Stockholm-based award-winning writer and photographer.

©Westend61/Getty Images

Stockholmers call their city 'beauty on water'. But despite the well-preserved historic core, Stockholm is no museum piece: it's modern, dynamic and ever-evolving.

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How to Spend A Day in Stockholm

The capital of Sweden, Stockholm is made up of fourteen islands and more than 50 bridges on an extensive Baltic Sea archipelago. The largest city in Scandinavia, Stockholm is the epitome of Scandi-cool, from having one of the best preserved historic districts in the world, to being the home of the first-ever open air museum.

In our Stockholm travel guide, you’ll find information and tips for visiting all the most important must-see Stockholm tourist attractions, with an interactive map, organised to make the best use of your one day in Stockholm.

We also share recommendations for central places to stay, ideas about where to eat local food, and tips about how to make the most of your 24 hours in Stockholm.

When to Visit Stockholm

Whilst it can be quite cool in spring, the city is beginning to come back to life after a long dark winter, and local residents are happier for it. The cafés and restaurants start to open their outdoor terraces, although blankets and heaters are still a must.

The outdoor markets open in April and you’ll also be able to see the amazing cherry blossoms in Kungsträdgården and enjoy the annual free Music and Arts Festival, which usually falls after Easter .

The temperatures are lovely in Stockholm in the summer. Not getting too hot, they generally hover around 25ºc/77ºf, and the days are long, with the sun setting around 11 pm.

It’s the liveliest time of year, especially at the weekends when locals go sailing and hiking on the archipelago, and you can make the most of the long days and enjoy al fresco dining and a drink at one of the many floating bars.

Midsommar , Sweden’s biggest holiday, falls around the summer solstice and generally sees Stockholm empty as families head to their summer cottages for the month of July .

August is the busiest month in the city with many outdoor concerts and cinema events to enjoy.

The colour of the trees in autumn brings a different feel to the city, whilst the days are still long they are getting cooler and the city starts to move inside.

Log fires and candles are lit in the restaurants and bars for you to enjoy a cozy evening inside. The Stockholm Jazz Festival usually takes place in October and the Stockholm Film Festival in November .

The winters in Stockholm are freezing, getting as low as -20ºc/-4ºf with lots of snow on the ground, and the days are very short. However, if being in a winter wonderland appeals it’s still definitely worth a visit, just make sure you have your winter woollies packed!

There is often snow on the ground and it’s not unusual to see locals cross-country skiing to get about. All of the museums and other attractions are open, you just might need to make use of the very good public transport system to get about.

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Drive in from Europe or hire a car in Sweden

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Getting to Stockholm

If you are flying to Stockholm, you will land at either Stockholm Arlanda International Airport or Bromma Stockholm Airport , which hosts mainly domestic flights but a few are international.

From Arlanda Airport the best way to get to the city center is by train. The Arlanda Express runs every 15 minutes and takes 18 minutes to get to Stockholm Central Station, in Norrmalm. It is recommended to pre-buy tickets as they are more expensive on the train.

You can also go by bus. The Flygbussarna takes about 45-50 minutes to get to Stockholm Central Station with a few stops on the way, and you can purchase tickets online or at the airport ticket machines.

From Bromma Airport the best way to get to the city is by bus. The Flygbussarna runs one to two buses an hour and it takes 20 minutes to get to Stockholm Central Station. You can buy your tickets online or at the airport ticket machines.

You can also book a private transfer from the airport with Klook directly to your accommodation in the city. Klook works with a large range of local operators to bring the the best options and prices for your transfer.

Are you planning a Sweden road trip? Get our 11 day Swedish road trip itinerary with interactive map, driving tips, and places to see and things to do so you don’t miss a thing as you travel around Sweden.

Where to Stay in Stockholm

Luxury: Hotel Frantz – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Story Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Comfort Hotel Express – Booking.com | Agoda

Hostel: Archipelago Hostel Old Town – Booking.com | Agoda

What to See & Do in Stockholm

Built over fourteen islands, Stockholm is still a pretty small city, and most of the top things to see are located on just a few of the islands and can easily be walked.

Stockholm also has a fantastic public transportation system made up of trains, buses and ferries if you prefer not to walk, but they can be quite expensive. In the summer months, you can hire a bike as a fun way to get around.

Our itinerary has been chosen to highlight some of the best sights in Stockholm and is easily walkable, however, if you are in Stockholm in the colder months you can make the most of the ferries and metro to help you get about.

Stockholm is one of the cleanest and least polluted cities in the world and is also home to the longest art gallery in the world! The Metro system, which is 105km long with 100 stations is a living art museum, with 90 of the stations displaying artwork – a good excuse to use the Metro!

If you prefer to have your day organised for you, check out this popular and highly-rated private tour with a local guide . You’ll discover Stockholm’s must-see treasures and top attractions on this full day guided tour, and enjoy an all-inclusive sightseeing experience complete with hotel pickup, all entry tickets, lunch, and a professional blue badge Stockholm city guide.

One Day Stockholm Itinerary Interactive Map

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

ABBA The Museum

What better way to start your day than with a good old dose of disco at the ABBA Museum ? This is a fully interactive museum and as well as checking out some of the iconic costumes they wore in their heyday, you can virtually try them on. You can do a music mixing challenge, become a fifth member of ABBA on the large hologram stage or just sing some fun ABBA karaoke!

The ABBA Museum can get really busy (not surprising, it’s one of our faves), so we recommend booking a skip-the-line entry ticket in advance, so you can sing more ABBA songs instead of standing in the queue!

Vasa Museet

Next, head to the Vasa Museum and marvel at the warship Vasa from 1628, an incredibly well preserved ship that is adorned with hundreds of wooden sculptures. The Vasa is the world’s only fully (almost) intact 17th century ship that has ever been recovered.

After 333 years at the bottom of Stockholm Bay, the Vasa was discovered and salvaged and the museum covers the history and life of the ship, which sank in Stockholm harbour on its maiden voyage before it ever went to war. There are also exhibits dedicated to the Vasa’s salvage and preservation.

Make your visit to the Vasa Museum on the island of Djurgården easier by buying your ticket in advance.

Nordiska Museet

You can’t miss the Nordiska Museum , the imposing Renaissance building that is Sweden’s largest museum of cultural history.

The museum has over 1.5 million exhibits that reflect the Nordic lifestyle from the 16th century up to today, as well as changing exhibitions, from Scandinavian design to fashion.

Some of the exhibitions require advanced booking, and you can find and book your tickets here .

Stockholm City Hall

On your way to Stockholm City Hall take a stroll down the tree-lined esplanade of Strandvagen, and check out the amazing waterfront views and palatial Italian and French Renaissance-style buildings.

Stockholm City Hall is one of the most defining landmarks in the city. It has a 106m tower, with three golden crowns on top, which is the Swedish coat of arms. The City Hall is famous for its grand ceremonial halls and is the venue of the great Nobel prize banquet.

You can only tour the city hall with a guide. It takes about 45 minutes and tickets can be purchased at the ticket office on the day of your visit.

Stockholm Medieval Museum

The Medieval Museum was constructed around old monuments excavated in an extensive archaeological dig in the late 1970s. Part of Stockholm’s city wall, dating from the early 16th century, was also found, and it now takes pride of place in the museum.

If you like medieval history then this is the place for you! You’ll get a real feel for the experience of being in medieval Stockholm, with its brick houses and booths, workshops, harbour and gallows. The museum covers the history from the 1250s to the 1520s and produces themed exhibitions with a medieval emphasis.

The Royal Palace

Cross the bridge to the island of Gamla Stan, also known as the old town of Stockholm, and you will see the Royal Palace , the official residence of His Majesty the King, open to the public year-round. Although the palace is the official residence of the Swedish royal family, their actual residence is at Drottningholm Palace on the island of Lovon, west of Stockholm.

The palace was built between 1697 and 1754 in the Baroque style by the architect Nicodemus Tessin and has over 600 rooms and eleven floors. As well as the royal apartments the palace has three museums, the Treasury, the Tre Kronor Museum and Gustas III’s Museum of Antiquities.

You can visit the staterooms of the castle on your own or join a guided tour. The guided tours are offered for a small surcharge on the regular entrance fee, last about 45 minutes and take place several times a day, alternating between Swedish and English.

RELATED POST: Beautiful Places in Sweden: Discover the Best Spots to Visit

Riddarholmen Church

The Riddarholmen Church is the final resting place of the Swedish kings and queens and is Stockholm’s only preserved medieval abbey. All rulers of Sweden are buried here, except for Queen Christina who converted to Roman Catholicism, abdicated, and was buried at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

The Riddarholm Church was founded in 1285 when King Magnus made a donation to the Franciscan Order to realise the construction of the Convent church at Riddarholmen. The church was built in the Gothic style and has an amazing cast iron spire.

The Riddarholmen Church is open daily to the public during the summer months. It can also be viewed year-round at concerts, Order of the Seraphim bell ringings or by special arrangement.

Storkyrkan – Stockholm Cathedral

Stockholm Cathedral was built in 1264 and has been always at the heart of religious and political life in Sweden. It is the oldest church in Stockholm and has been frequently rebuilt and extended, and the current shape and size date back to 1480. The Baroque style was introduced in the 1700s to harmonise the church with the Royal Palace.

Inside the church, you will find the sculpture of  Saint George and the Dragon  created in 1489 by the artist Bernt Notke. It is carved from oak wood, elaborately painted and partly gilded. The large sculpture group shows Saint George as a knight in golden armour on horseback killing a dragon and saving the Virgin.

Nobel Prize Museum

Next is the Nobel Prize Museum , located in the former Stock Exchange. The Nobel Prize shows that ideas can change the world and celebrates the unique fields of natural sciences, literature and peace. The museum has exhibitions, school programmes and lectures about all these issues.

Swedish inventor and industrialist Alfred Nobel (1833-1896) had a clear vision about the prize he created. In his will, he wrote that he wanted to reward those who had “conferred the greatest benefit to humankind”.

Learn about Nobel Prize laureates while immersing yourself in an extensive collection of videos, artefacts, multimedia, and lectures at the Nobel Prize Museum. With a single entry ticket, you can understand key contributions to the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peace.

Mårten Trotzigs Gränd

Head to Mårten Trotzigs Gränd via Stortorget, the oldest square in Stockholm. A popular Instagram spot, Mårten Trotzigs Gränd is the narrowest alley in Stockholm, with 37 steps that narrow down to a mere 90cm or 35 inches!

Monteliusvagen

Walk across the bridge from Gamla Stan to the island of Sodermalm, and walk along the Monteliusvagen. This quarter-mile-long walking path offers magnificent views of Lake Mälaren, Stockholm City Hall and Riddarholmen.

Fotografiska

Spend your evening at F otografiska , one of the world’s largest photographic museums, which stays open until 11pm daily. Each year they have over 20 small and four large and unique exhibitions showcasing famous and upcoming photographers from around the world.

However, this isn’t just a photo museum! There are also four award-winning restaurants and a cafe, making this a great stop for foodies. The restaurant, which serves a mainly plant-based menu, was awarded the Michelin Green Star for its sustainable practices.

The Bistro offers delicious sharing platters and the Chambre Seperee has a tasting menu served with unrivalled views over Stockholm. There is also a traditional Fika buffet with lots of yummy cakes and pastries and an expresso bar.

On Friday and Saturday nights in the summer you can enjoy an evening of wonderful food, drinks and live DJs on the veranda.

Immerse yourself in Stockholm’s vibrant contemporary art scene when you book tickets to Fotografiska, an important centre for contemporary photography in the heart of Stockholm.

Hang Out in Sodermalm

Södermalm is the hipster district in Stockholm, full of artists and designers. It has great independent and vintage shops, as well as some of the best nightlife in the city. A great place to go for After Work, the Swedish version of happy hour, you can often find reduced prices at this time.

SoFo is the trendiest area of Sodermalm and on the last Thursday of every month, they have SoFo Night, an evening of live music, snacks and late-night shopping.

Head to a Boulebar

With five locations in Stockholm, you will be able to find a Boulebar easily. This fantastic concept is all about eating great food, drinking amazing cocktails and of course, playing boule! It’s a really fun and relaxing way to spend your evening in Stockholm.

Boulebar is only open in the spring and summer, and if you want to play boule it’s best to make a reservation, however, you can always just watch how it’s done!

Drink Cocktails at Pharmarium

Pharmarium is a small and cozy cocktail bar in Gamla Stan built on the site of Sweden’s first pharmacy, which opened in 1575. The bar has 45 seats, and you can reserve at the bar or a small table. They do have some cute window seats which are held for walk-ins, but your timing needs to be spot-on!

Pharmarium, as the name suggests, takes its inspiration from the pharmacy to create amazing and unique cocktails. There is also a light food menu, with some great salads.

Where to Eat in Stockholm

Meatballs for the people.

Meatballs are a mainstay of Swedish food, and Meatballs for The People has meatballs for everyone, from your traditional Swedish meatballs to more exotic flavours such as moose and reindeer, and they also have vegetarian options. There is an extensive drinks list with beers, ciders and great cocktails.

Urban Deli Nytorget

Urban Deli is internationally known for its hybrid of restaurant and store and deli, located at Nytorget in SoFo – just one of their four branches. Here you will find local residents mingling with celebrities, and people who love food and enjoy life. 

Head to Urban Deli for breakfast, lunch, afternoon coffee and dinner, and fit in some fantastic shopping in the store and market hall before or after you eat.

The weekends are busy in the dining room and in the bar, but if you’re looking for something quieter head to the Post Bar. In the summer, they build a huge outdoor terrace that stretches between the restaurant and Nytorgsparken, where you can enjoy an al fresco drink or meal.

Djuret is all about meat, the name literally translates to ‘the animal’. They are passionate about using seasonal produce from both the land and sea, as well as vegetables, so the menu is constantly being updated to include the best produce available.

Djuret offers a fixed-price three-course menu, which is all savoury dishes, to which you can add extras such as cheeses and desserts. They also have vegetarian dishes available if you don’t want meat.

Go on a Nordic Food Walk

Sweden, in fact, the whole of Scandinavia, is becoming a food powerhouse of Europe. With specialities like the smörgåsbord, gravadlax, pickled fish and delicious meatballs, it’s worth getting an expert to show you where to eat Sweden’s unique cuisine.

With our recommended Nordic food tour you’ll visit some of the many food markets and enjoy samples of traditional Swedish food as you wander the most famous areas of the city with your experienced English-speaking guide. You’ll eat enough for a full meal, so taking this tour makes a good option if you can’t decide where to eat in Stockholm!

Top Five Stockholm Travel Tips

• Stockholm is almost 100% cash-free. Many shops and restaurants will proudly advertise that they are a cash-free zone, so there is no need to exchange currency, just make sure you have your debit and credit cards or Apple Pay or Google Pay at the ready.
• Although Sweden is a member of the European Union, they don’t use the euro, but the Swedish Krona.
• If you want to buy alcohol outside of a bar or restaurant you have to go to a Systembolaget , a government-owned chain of liquor stores, which is the only place outside of bars and restaurants to buy alcohol. The stores close early on a Saturday afternoon and are not open on Sundays or public holidays so you will need to plan ahead.
• If you are planning on going to see lots of attractions on your visit then it is worth buying the Stockholm Go City All Inclusive Pass , as it has entry to most of the main museums and a lot of tours and experiences. You can buy the pass online and either have it sent to your home or pick it up on arrival, alternately you can download the app to your phone. The Stockholm Pass lasts anywhere from one to five days and the countdown starts when you use the card for the first time. They are valid for two years from the date of purchase.
• Tipping in Stockholm is not mandatory, and if you do want to tip it should be for good service. When tipping you should round up to the next big number.

More Than One Day in Stockholm

Take an archipelago sightseeing cruise.

Climb aboard a 1906 classic archipelago cruise ship and take a wonderful tour of this beautiful part of Scandinavia.

Experience the best of the Stockholm archipelago in a short period of time on a round-trip city cruise . With a guide on board, learn about the history of the different sights you pass. Enjoy a journey with beautiful sights and fascinating stories. 

Visit Skansen

Skansen is the world’s first open-air museum which opened in 1891 and is home to, amongst other things, a historical Sweden in miniature, a zoo, an aquarium and several gardens and eateries.

Travel back in time at this authentic showcase of pre-industrial Sweden and you can visit houses and homesteads from all over the country and experience traditional rural life and the different social conditions in which people lived between the 16th and the first half of the 20th century. Buy your admission ticket here.

Take a Kayak Tour of the Archipelago

If you want to combine a tour of the beautiful Skärgården archipelago with some adventure and exercise then this is for you. Explore by kayak an environment formed of about 30,000 islands in the Baltic Sea where the surface of the water is overhung by domes made of rocks and trees creating a unique natural maze.

Spend the entire day exploring different islands from the water and stop on one of the deserted islands for a filling lunch cooked on an open fire. You can also paddle around the other islands and get the opportunity to see other fantastic things in the wilder parts of the archipelago, like circling sea eagles searching for prey.

One Day Summer Nature Hike

If you take one day trip from Stockholm, make it this highly recommended and well-organised nature hike.

Escape the city and venture into the vast wilderness of Sweden for a day as you discover the incredible forests which lie outside of Stockholm . See beautiful landscapes, learn about the local fauna and flora, and enjoy lunch prepared on a wooden fire .

Take a hike through the incredible natural scenery, breathe the wonderful fresh air and take in the incredible views as your guide teaches you about the local wildlife and you swim in a local lak e and dry off by the open fire . 

With a professional guide to offer insights, an organised hiking tour is the perfect opportunity to see  more of Sweden in less time!

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“It is not a city at all. It is ridiculous to think of itself as a city. It is simply a rather large village, set in the middle of some forest and some lakes. You wonder what it thinks it is doing there, looking so important.”

Kungsholmen

Millesgården, old stockholm: gamla stan and around, skeppsholmen, swimming in stockholm.

Ingmar Bergman

Without a shadow of a doubt, Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Built on no fewer than fourteen islands, where the fresh water of Lake Mälaren meets the brackish Baltic Sea, clean air and open space are in plentiful supply here. One-third of the area within the city limits is made up of water, while another third comprises parks and woodlands. As a result, the capital is one of Europe’s saner cities and a delightful place in which to spend time.

Broad boulevards lined with elegant buildings are reflected in the deep blue water, and rows of painted wooden houseboats bob gently alongside the cobbled waterfront. Yet Stockholm is also a high-tech metropolis, with futuristic skyscrapers, a bustling commercial heart and one of the world's hottest start-up scenes.

For most visitors, the first stop is the Old Town, Gamla Stan , a medieval jumble of cobbled streets and narrow alleyways huddled together on a triangular-shaped island. Close by is the tiny island of Skeppsholmen, home to the city's main modern art gallery and a quirky floating you hostel. To the north of the Old Town, the district of Norrmalm swaps tradition for a thoroughly contemporary feel: this is Stockholm's downtown area where you’ll find shopping malls, huge department stores and conspicuous, showy wealth. The Central Station and the lively park, known as Kungsträdgården – are located here too. Most of Stockholm’s museums and galleries are spread across this area and two others: to the east, the more residential Östermalm , with its mix of grand avenues and smart houses; and to the southeast, the green park island of Djurgården . Here the extraordinary seventeenth-century warship, Vasa , rescued and preserved after sinking in Stockholm harbour, and Skansen , the oldest and best of Europe’s open-air museums, both receive loud and deserved acclaim. To the south of the Old Town, the island of Södermalm was traditionally the working-class area of Stockholm, but is now a haven for hipsters. Its grids of streets, lined with lofty stone buildings, create an altogether more homely ambience than the grand and formal buildings of the city centre. It’s here, in a fashionable area known as SoFo (south of Folkungagatan) that you’ll find some of the city’s most enjoyable bars and restaurants. Crossing the narrow neighbouring island of Långholmen, known for its popular beaches, you’ll reach Kungsholmen, an island that’s fast becoming a rival to its southern neighbour for trendy restaurants and drinking establishments.

Brief history

Swedish stateman Birger Jarl founded Stockholm in 1255 in an attempt to secure the burgeoning city of Sigtuna from maritime attack. However, it was vibrant trade with other towns of the Hanseatic League, such as Hamburg, that helped give Stockholm, rather than Sigtuna, its prominent position within the Swedish realm during the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. Following the breakup of the Kalmar Union with Denmark, Swedish king Gustav Vasa established royal power in Stockholm, enabling the city to grow into the capital of one of Europe’s major powers by the seventeenth century. Military defeat by Russia in the Great Northern War (1700–21) put paid to Swedish territorial expansion in northern and eastern Europe, and, instead, Stockholm developed politically and culturally at the centre of a smaller Swedish state.

By the nineteenth century, Stockholm was still essentially rural, with country lanes, great orchards, grazing cows and even windmills in the centre of the city; the downside was the lack of pavements (until the 1840s) or piped water supply (until 1858), and the presence of open sewers, squalid streets and crowded slums. Having escaped bomb damage during World War II thanks to Swedish neutrality, the mid-twentieth century ushered in a huge modernization programme as part of the Social Democratic out-with-the-old-and-in-with-the-new policy: Sweden, and particularly the capital, Stockholm, was to become a place fit for working people to live. Old areas were torn down as “a thousand homes for a thousand Swedes” – as the project had it – were constructed. Today, Stockholm is a bright and elegant place, and with its great expanses of open water right in the centre, it offers a spectacular city panorama unparalleled anywhere in Europe.

To the west of the city centre, Kungsholmen has a very different feel, with wider, residential streets, larger parks, select shops and Stockholm’s Stadshuset (City Hall). Whereas Norrmalm is easy to get to on foot, Kungsholmen is best reached by T-bana (either Rådhuset or Fridhemsplan T-bana stations). Venture further into Kungsholmen and you’ll discover a rash of great bars and restaurants, and an excellent beach – Smedsuddsbadet – at Smedsudden, where you can swim in Lake Mälaren and enjoy fantastic views of the Stadhuset and the Old Town; to get to it, head through the popular park, Rålambshovsparken , or take bus #4 to Västerbroplan, from where it’s a five-minute walk.

Northeast of the city centre, Lidingö is a well-to-do commuter island, close to the ferry terminal at Värtahamnen serving Finland, Estonia and Latvia. The island’s main attraction is the startling Millesgården , the outdoor sculpture collection of Carl Milles (1875–1955), one of Sweden’s greatest sculptors and art collectors.

Phalanxes of gods, angels and beasts sit on terraces carved into the island’s steep cliffs, many of the animated, classical figures also perching precariously on soaring pillars, which overlook the distant harbour. A huge Poseidon rears over the army of sculptures, the most remarkable of which, God’s Hand , has a small boy delicately balancing on the outstretched finger of a monumental hand. Those who’ve been elsewhere in Sweden may find much of the collection familiar, as it includes copies and casts of originals adorning countless provincial towns.

If this collection inspires, it’s worth tracking down three other pieces by Milles in the capital– his statue of Gustav Vasa in the Nordiska Muséet on Djurgården; the Orpheus Fountain in Norrmalm’s Hötorget; and, out at Nacka Strand (Waxholm boat from Strömkajen), the magnificent Gud på Himmelsbågen , a claw-shaped vertical piece of steel topped with the figure of a boy, forming a stunning entrance marker to Stockholm harbour.

Three islands – Riddarholmen, Staden and Helgeandsholmen – make up the oldest part of Stockholm , a cluster of seventeenth- and eighteenth-century buildings backed by hairline medieval alleys. It was on these three adjoining polyps of land that Birger Jarl erected the town’s first fortifications. Rumours abound as to the derivation of the name “Stockholm”, though it’s now widely believed to mean “island cleared of trees”, since the trees on the island that is now home to Gamla Stan were probably felled to make way for the settlement. Incidentally, the words holm (island) and stock (log) are still in common use today. You can experience a taste of Stockholm’s medieval past at the excellent Medeltidsmuseet , at the northern end of the two bridges – Norrbron and Riksbron – which lead across to Gamla Stan.

Although strictly speaking only the largest island, Staden, contains Gamla Stan , this name is usually attached to the buildings and streets of all three islands.

Once Stockholm’s working centre, nowadays Gamla Stan is primarily a tourist hub with many an eminently strollable area, in particular around the Kungliga Slottet (royal palace), Riksdagshuset (parliament building) and Storkyrkan (cathedral). The central spider’s web of streets – best approached over the bridges of Norrbron or Riksbron – is a sprawl of monumental buildings and high airy churches which form a protective girdle around the narrow lanes. Some of the impossibly slender alleys lead to steep steps ascending between battered walls, others are covered passageways linking leaning buildings. The tall, dark houses in the centre were mostly owned by wealthy merchants, and are still distinguished by their intricate doorways and portals bearing coats of arms.

The main square of the Old Town is Stortorget , an impressive collection of tall pastel-coloured stone buildings with curling gables which saw one of the medieval city’s most ferocious battles, the “Stockholm Bloodbath”. Now, as then, the streets Västerlånggatan, Österlånggatan, Stora Nygatan and Lilla Nygatan run the length of the Old Town, although today their time-worn buildings harbour a succession of souvenir shops and restaurants. Happily, the consumerism here isn’t too obtrusive, and in summer buskers and evening strollers clog the narrow alleyways, making it an entertaining place to wander or to stop for a bite to eat. There are few real targets, but take every opportunity to wander up side streets, where you’ll find fading coats of arms, covered alleys and worn cobbles at every turn.

Off the western shore of Gamla Stan, the tiny islet of Riddarholmen houses not only one of Stockholm’s most beautiful churches, Riddarholmskyrkan , the burial place for countless Swedish kings and queens over the centuries, but also the Baroque Riddarhuset (House of the Nobility), a reminder of the glory days of the Swedish aristocracy.

East of Birger Jarlsgatan – the main thoroughfare that divides Norrmalm from Östermalm – the streets become noticeably broader and grander, forming a uniform grid as far as the circular Karlaplan, a handy T-bana and bus interchange full of media types coming off shift from the Swedish Radio and Television buildings at the eastern end of Kalavägen. Östermalm was one of the last areas of central Stockholm to be developed; the impressive residences here are as likely to be consulates and embassies as fashionable homes.

Off Gamla Stan’s eastern reaches lies the island of Skeppsholmen , home to two of Stockholm’s best youth hostels. However, it’s the eclectic clutch of museums and galleries, including the excellentModerna Museet, that draw most people here.

Whatever you do in Stockholm, don’t miss the delights of the city’s southern island, Södermalm , whose craggy cliffs, turrets and towers rise high above the clogged traffic interchange at Slussen. The perched buildings are vaguely forbidding, but venture beyond the main roads skirting the island and a lively and surprisingly green area unfolds, one that has, historically speaking, been working class at heart. After dark, you’ll probably end up in one of Söder’s bars or restaurants in the hip area known as So-Fo ; this is the handful of streets lined with cafés and restaurants which lie “ so uth of Fo lkungagatan” (hence the name), predominantly Åsögatan, Bondegatan and Skånegatan.

Fotografiska Muséet

A mere five minutes’ walk from Slussen along Stadsgårdsleden towards the Viking Line ferry terminal, Stockholm’s latest attraction, the Fotografiska Muséet , is housed inside one of the city’s former red-brick customs warehouses. Spread across three floors of airy exhibition space, the museum showcases the work of world-renowned photographers both in print and on film. Exhibitions change frequently though there’s every chance that one of the big names will be on display when you visit: recent displays have included Robert Mapplethorpe, France’s Sarah Moon and Scottish photographer Albert Watson, whose work featured on over two hundred magazine covers, including Vogue . For unsurpassed views of the Stockholm waterfront, head up to the museum’s top-floor café where the vistas are as breathtaking as the photographic work downstairs.

True to its name ("long island"), Långholmen is a skinny sliver of land that lies off the northwestern tip of Södermalm, crossed by the mighty Västerbron bridge linking Södermalm with Kungsholmen. There are a couple of popular beaches here. Leafy and peaceful, Långholmen is a delightful place to take a walk; on the way you’ll also get some stunning views of the city towards Stadhuset and Gamla Stan.

The water in Stockholm is clean and perfect for swimming during the long days of summer. The best beaches are all west of the city centre: on Långholmens there's Långholmens strandbad to the west of Västerbron bridge, and rocky Klippbadet to the east of the bridge; and across on Kungsholmen, Smedsuddsbadet has a large grassy area for sunbathing.

Alternatively, Södermalm is the place to go for swimming pools ; there are three in fairly close proximity: Forsgrénskabadet in Medborgarplatsen ( t 08 508 403 20; Medborgarplatsen T-bana); Erikdalsbadet, Hammarby Slussväg 20, ( t 08 508 402 58; Skanstull T-bana), which has an open-air pool; and the wonderful little Liljeholmsbadet, Bergsundsgatan 2, ( t 08 508 411 77; Hornstull T-bana), a pool in a boat-like pontoon contraption that floats in Lake Mälaren. The last of these is closed from mid-June to mid-August, and has nude swimming for women on Mondays, and men on Fridays; the water here is always 30°C. For unofficial nude bathing, head out to one of the islands in the archipelago and find your own private spot.

Top image: Things not to Miss: Rocky skerry in the outer archipelago of Stockholm, Sweden © Mikael Broms/Shutterstock

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Hej! Welcome to Stockholm Travel Guide

Stockholm Travel Guide is packed with travel tips and inspiration. If you are planning a trip to Stockholm, Swedens beautiful capital, you'll find almost everything you need to know before you go. Welcome! [Updated 07-06-2023]

Ok! First thing you need to know is that the cheerful Swedish “hej!” means “hi!” or “hello!”. Remember that and then just use English for the rest of the conversations when you are in Sweden. Not to brag, but we Swedes are really good at it 🙂

Second thing. Below you'll find quick links to the most important pages for planning a trip to Stockholm. More information is to be found in the menu ↑

Arriving in Stockholm

Welcome to Sweden! You'll probably touch down at Stockholm Arlanda Airport. But then what? Taxi, bus, train or pre-booked transfer? Read this guide to ground transportation .

What to see in and around town

Plan ahead! Stockholm has a lot of spectacular sights and some of them should be booked in advance. Let us show you the way from Vasa Warship and Vikings to more modern attractions in Stockholm .

Where to stay

Skip the international chains! Soft sheets, smart designs, sumptuous and healthy breakfasts – always in Scandinavian style. These locally owned hotels are where to stay in Stockholm .

Getting around town

Standard advice: If you're have the ability to walk for a while, just put on your walking shoes and go! But sometimes the subway, buses and trains come in handy. Here's more to read on public transport in Stockholm .

Shopping in Stockholm

International fashion and local designers. Luxury shopping, Swedish craft, H&M and moose souvenirs. Gigantic shopping malls & small shops. Stockholm's got it all. Here's our take on shopping in Stockholm .

Weather and temperature

Is it cold? It may very well be. Is it wet? Yup, more often than we approve of. Is it warm and sunny? On occasion. And those long summer days and nights are absolutely magical. Dive into our facts on the weather in Stockholm .

About Stockholm Travel Guide

The site is managed by a guy named Göran , with some help from other local experts. We are dedicated to helping you get most out of your trip to Stockholm. If you can't find what you are looking for in the menu above, please get in touch and I'll try to help you out. Send an e-mail to [email protected] or chat with us on the Facebook Page for Stockholm Travel Guide.

We live in Stockholm!

Everyone who contributes to Stockholm Travel Guide lives in this wonderful city. We work, eat, party and sleep here every single day. Except for when we go to London or NYC on vacation 😉

Stockholm Travel Guide knows Stockholm!

The streets, the alleys, the old and beautiful buildings. The best place to get a fika! Forget Tripadvisor, we've got the expert advice you've been looking for.

We love Stockholm!

In case that's not clear yet: We are completely and utterly in love with this charming old fellow that goes by the name Stockholm. Our mission is to make you feel the same way ♥

Tours and attractions at Stockholm Travel Guide

Our most important advice for planning a trip to Stockholm is this: Do your research, find out what you would like to see and do, and make the reservations online before you jet away to Sweden.

Why? Because you'll get a better price booking online than when booking directly with the attractions. And you have your tickets ready for the day that suits you best. Our partners Get Your Guide and Viator, both well known and trusted providers of tours & attractions, guarantees safe and smooth reservations.

» See all tours, attractions, discount cards & more

Choose a Scandinavian hotel for the right feeling

Finally. This is sort if a big deal to us. You've probably stayed at Hilton, Sheraton, Marriott and other international chain hotels before. That's fine.

But when in Stockholm, make sure to relax, sleep and dine like a Scandinavian.

This town offers excellent hotels by local brands you probably never heard of, until now. Strawberry (formerly Nordic Choice) and Scandic has some really cool and spectacular properties, with great restaurants as well. And there are quite a lot of smaller and more personal hotels and B&B:s to be found. Or, just let us guide you:

» Read our guide to hotels in Stockholm

Local expert, travel writer (visited 50+ countries), and I've been living in Stockholm for more than 20 years. My mission with this travel guide is to give you the best possible advice for your visit to Stockholm and to share tips on my own personal favorites in this beautiful city.

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• Intressanta platser Stockholm

Intressanta platser i Stockholm

Stockholms ”must-see” platser.

Stockholm har allt! Från historiska skatter till moderna mästerverk, och allt däremellan. Här kan du promenera i Gamla Stans slingrande gränder, njuta av naturen och de idylliska öarna i skärgården eller sjunga med till ABBA på ett museum. Oavsett om du vill upptäcka historian om Vasaskeppet, njuta av utsikten från Stadshusets torn eller ta båten till Vikingastaden Birka, finns det alltid något att göra och platser att besöka i Stockholm. Ta dig runt bland sevärdheterna i Stockholm med en Hop On-Hop Off buss eller båt, en båttur eller promenera genom staden.

Hoppas vår lista med tips på 15 olika ”must see” ger dig inspiration att upptäcka Stockholm. Längst ner i inlägget finns en karta där alla intressanta platser i Stockholm finns markerade!

Gamla stan - Stockholms historiska hjärta

Gamla stan är full av medeltida arkitektur, smala gränder med färgglada hus och här ligger Kungliga Slottet. Här finns också många mysiga caféer och restauranger att slå sig ner på.

Så tar du dig dit Hop On-Hop Off bussen stannar vid Kungliga slotten (hållplats 2 och 6). Hop On-Hop Off båt lägger till vid kajen precis nedanför slottet.

Åk båt i Stockholms skärgård

Stockholms skärgård är en idyllisk samling av över 30 000 öar, kobbar och skär, som bjuder på fantastisk natur och trevliga skärgårdsöar att upptäcka. Beroende på hur mycket tid du har finns olika alternativ för dig att upptäcka skärgården. Lilla skärgårdsturen tar dig ut på en guidad tur – välj tur på längden utifrån vad som passar dig bäst. Om du vill se mer av skärgården och har en heldag så rekommenderar vi att du hoppar ombord på Cinderellabåtarna . Längs Cinderellabåtarnas rutt finns flera idylliska skärgårdsöar att besöka – Grinda, Sandhamn, Vaxholm eller Gällnö.

Vasamuseet – populär turistattraktion i Stockholm

På Vasamuseet kan du se och lära dig allt om Vasaskeppet - ett av världens mest välbevarade krigsskepp från 1600-talet. Ett besök på museet är ett måste för alla historieintresserade.

Så tar du dig dit Hop On-Hop Off bussen stannar vid Nordiska museet (hållplats 9 och 13) och därifrån är det en kort promenad till Vasa museet. Hop On-Hop Off båt lägger till vid kajen precis nedanför museet.

Vikingastaden Birka – att av Unescos världsarv

Birka Vikingastaden ligger på Björkö i Mälaren och är en av de mest intressanta platserna i Stockholm att besöka. Det är en av Sveriges äldsta vikingastäder och ett av Unescos historiska världsarv. Ta båten till Birka , du kliver på vid Klara Mälarstrand och två timmar senare kliver du iland på Birka. Där kan du besöka vikingakvarteren, följa med på en guidad tur och besöka museet! Mat och dryck finns på restaurang Särimner.

Kungliga Djurgården – vacker natur och många sevärdheter

Kungliga Djurgården är en grönskande ö mitt i Stockholm med vacker natur och några av stadens mest populära attraktioner såsom Skansen, Vasamuseet och nöjesparken Gröna Lund. Djurgården är en plats i Stockholm där både stockholmare och turister älskar att vara!

Så tar du dig dit Hop On-Hop Off bussen stannar vid flera olika platser på Djurgården, kliv av eller på där det passar dig bäst! Hop On-Hop Off båt lägger till vid flera platser längst kajen på Djurgården.

Stadshuset – arkitektur och vacker utsikt

Stadhuset är en ikonisk symbol för Stockholm och känd för sin majestätiska arkitektur, den årliga Nobelfesten och den fantastiska utsikten över staden från tornet. Vågar du gå upp i det 106 meter höga tornet?

Så tar du dig dit Hop On-Hop Off bussen stannar precis utanför Stadshuset (hållplats 19).

Vaxholm – skärgårdens huvudstad

Vaxholm anses av många vara porten till Stockholms skärgård- Det är en charmig småstad med färgglada trähus, mysiga kaféer och restauranger samt den historiska fästningen Vaxholms Kastellet. Ta båten till Vaxholm , det är det smidigast och absolut vackrast sättet att ta sig dit.  

ABBA The Museum – populärt besöksmål

Museet är en interaktiv upplevelse där du som besökare kan dyka in i ABBA värld, utforska deras ikoniska karriär och till och med själva stå på scenen i en virtuell show. Kul för hela familjen och en populär turistattraktion i Stockholm.

Så tar du dig dit Hop On-Hop Off bussen stannar utanför museet (hållplats 10 och 12). Hop On-Hop Off båt lägger till vid kajen vid Allmänna gränd och därifrån är det en kort promenad på ungefär 5 minuter.

Fotografiska vid Stadsgårdskajen

Fotografiska i Stockholm är en av Europas största och mest välrenommerade fotogallerier. De är kända för sina imponerande utställningar av samtida fotografi och dess fantastiska utsikt över staden från restaurangen.

Så tar du dig dit Hop On-Hop Off bussen stannar vid Slussen (hållplats 5) och därifrån är det en promenad på ungefär 10 minuter längs kajen. Hop On-Hop Off båt lägger till vid kajen precis utanför Fotografiska.

Kungliga Operan vid Gustav Adolfs torg

Kungliga Operan i Stockholm är Sveriges nationalopera och erbjuder en magnifik scen för klassiska operaföreställningar och baletter i en storslagen historisk byggnad. Finns det en föreställning att boka vid ditt besök i Stockholm rekommenderar vi det varmt!

Så tar du dig dit Hop On-Hop Off bussen stannar vid Strömgatan (hållplats 1).

Skansen på Djurgården – familjens favorit

Skansen är ett friluftsmuseum och djurpark som erbjuder en inblick i Sveriges kulturarv och natur genom historiska byggnader och djur från hela landet. Hela familjens favorit och ett måste att besöka i Stockholm både för turister och stockholmare!

Så tar du dig dit Hop On-Hop Off bussen stannar precis utanför huvudentrén till Skansen (hållplats 11). Hop On-Hop Off båt lägger till vid kajen vid Allmänna gränd och därifrån är det en kort promenad på ungefär 10 minuter.

Södermalm – avslappnad oas

Södermalm är en hipp stadsdel som är känd för sin trendiga atmosfär, charmiga kvarter och livliga kultur- och restaurangscen. Ett populärt område för både stockholmare och turister – en måste plats att besöka!

Så tar du dig dit Hop On-Hop Off bussen stannar vid Slussen (hållplats 5).

Drottningholms slott – ta båten

Drottningholms slott är ett av UNESCO-världsarv och en populär sevärdhet i Stockholm. Där finns en vacker barockträdgård och imponerande arkitektur som erbjuder en fascinerande inblick i Sveriges kungliga historia. Ta båten till Drottningholm , du kliver ombord vid Klara Mälarstrand och njuter av en vacker tur på Mälaren. Ombord finns en restaurang om du vill passa på att äta lunch under resan till Drottningholm – vällagad mat med svenska smaker!

Moderna Museet på Skeppsholmen

Promenera över den vackra Skeppsholmsbron med den gyllene kronan och njut av den grönskande oasen Skeppsholmen mitt i stan. Här ligger Moderna museet, där du kan beundra modern konst från både svenska och internationella konstnärer.

Så tar du dig dit Hop On-Hop Off båt lägger till vid kajen på Skeppsholmen och därifrån är det en kort promenad på ungefär 5 minuter.

Ta båten till skärgårdsön Fjäderholmarna

Fjäderholmarna är en idyllisk ö bara 30 minuter från centrala Stockholm. Det är en perfekt dagsutflykt – njut av mysiga restauranger, hantverksbodar och vackra natur bara en kort båttur till Fjäderholmarna från Strandvägen i city.

Karta – måsten att besöka i Stockholm

Här är en karta över sevärdheter och turistattraktioner i Stockholm du inte vill missa!

Andra har också tittat på

Båtresa till vaxholm från stockholm.

Ta båten till skärgårdens huvudstad

Båt till/från Drottningholms slott

Båtutflykt till Unescos världsarv

Stockholm Hop On–Hop Off buss & båt

Sightseeing på egen hand

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