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Top 10 things to do in Stockholm

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

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

Djurgården, Stockholm

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

Photo : Yirui Aries/Visit Sweden

The Royal Palace

Photo : Ola Ericson/imagebank.sweden.se

Flower shop in Old Town

Photo : Simon Paulin/imagebank.sweden.se

Moderna museet, Stockholm

Photo : Agence les Conteurs

Stockholm City Hall

Photo : Henrik Trygg/Visit Stockholm

Spend a day at Djurgården

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

Visit Stockholm's Royal Palaces

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

Stroll around in Stockholm Old Town

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

Enjoy contemporary art at Moderna Museet

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

Ceremonial splendour at Stockholm City Hall

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

Archipelago

Stockholm archipelago.

Photo : Henrik Trygg/imagebank.sweden.se

Fotografiska in Stockholm

Photo : Erik G Svensson

Monteliusvägen, Södermalm

Photo : Tove Freiij/imagebank.sweden.se

Östermalms saluhall, Stockholm

Nationalmuseum, Stockholm

Photo : Linn Ahlgren/Nationalmuseum

Go island-hopping in the Stockholm archipelago

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

Swing by Fotografiska

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

Discover hip and trendy Södermalm

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

Indulge in Östermalms Saluhall

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

Explore Nationalmuseum

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

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Home » Travel Guides » Sweden » 25 Best Things to Do in Stockholm (Sweden)

25 Best Things to Do in Stockholm (Sweden)

The capital of Sweden is a cosmopolitan city with a tangled old town, stylish young districts, a dynamic city centre. Spread across 14 islands on Lake Mälaren, Stockholm’s very environment encourages you to rove and see where you’ll end up. There are around 50 bridges in the centre alone, while ferries are a fun way to get about.

When it comes to fashion, design and music Stockholm is well ahead of the curve, and many of the coolest places to shop and go out are on the island of Södermalm south of the centre. The lion’s share of the museums and family days out are on Djurgården, a wooded island where the city goes for rest, culture and fun.

Let’s explore the best thing to do in Stockholm :

1. Gamla Stan

Begin by going back to Stockholm’s roots at one of Europe’s great medieval centres, spread over three islands.

You’ll be in the midst of a true Hanseatic trading city, where gabled shops and warehouses are painted various shades of gold.

These now host all manner of restaurants, many garnering international awards, as well as museums, studios, bijou boutiques, cafes and bars.

On the eastern side of the old town there’s a long sequence of parallel cobblestone lanes leading in from the water and dipping under passageways.

Come here to squeeze through Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, an alley that tapers to just 90 centimetres across.

The visionary teacher and academic Artur Hazelius founded what was the first ever open-air museum in the world on Royal Djurgården in 1891. The idea was to show future generations what life was like in Sweden before the Industrial Age, and it has been borrowed by hundreds of museums around the world.

More than a century Skansen it’s still the best museum in its class, in 30 hectares and with a large cast recreating rural scenes from all over Sweden down to the finest detail.

A Sami camp from the Arctic circle, a farm from the remote western Härjedalen province and a open-air zoo with wolves, lynxes, otters, grey seals, reindeer and moose are a few of the attractions.

Book online : Skansen Open-Air Museum Admission Ticket

3. Vasa Museum

An awesome relic from the 17th-century reign of the all-conquering King Gustavus Adolphus has been revived at this museum the west shore of Djurgården.

The Vasa was a 64-gun warship that went down on its first voyage in 1628. It remained in the deep until 1961 when it was lifted to the surface and slowly and painstakingly restored.

The vessel has almost all of its original material and is the only 17th-century ship of this scale to make it to the present day.

And with the ship came a payload of artefacts that tell us what it was like to sail on the Vasa.

These are in ten exhibition rooms, and there’s a multilingual movie about the ship and its resurrection.

Get tickets : Vasa Museum Entrance Ticket

4. Modern Art Museum

On the island of Skeppsholmen at the Baltic Sea entrance to the city is the pick of Stockholm’s superb institutions for modern and contemporary art.

The museum started out in the 1950s in a former military building before moving into this Rafael Moneo-designed edifice at the end of the 90s.

Some of the names that even casual dabblers will know are Picasso, Marcel Duschamp, Henri Matisse and Salvador Dalí.

People also come especially for the museum’s restaurant, which looks over to Djurgården.

There’s also a sculpture with works by Picasso, Dan Graham and Alexaner Calder.

5. The Medieval Museum

In the 1970s during the construction of an underground car park builders happened upon some of Stockholm’s medieval city walls.

This is under the Norrbro bridge and measures 55 metres, and is now one of the showpieces of the city’s medieval museum.

Here you can track the history of the city from its foundation in the 13th century to the 16th century at the end of the medieval period.

Kids can dress up in armour, while other pieces of old Stockholm that came to light in the dig are part of the fun, like a 16th-century warship and a medieval graveyard.

These mingle with recreated houses, taverns and workshops.

6. Junibacken

Based on the stories of children’s author Astrid Lindgren, Junibacken is a theme park aimed at young readers.

Lindgren’s contribution to literature is indisputable and is still one of the world’s 20 most translated writers.

Her most beloved character is Pippi Longstocking, whose house, Villa Villekulla, is the final destination of a whimsical train ride through the park.

The park is designed to kindle children’s natural curiosity and abounds with niches, tunnels and miniature houses to adventure through.

Junibacken also has the largest children’s bookshop in the country, and Storybook Square is a kind of hall of fame for Sweden’s long lineup of renowned children’s authors like Elsa Beskow and Sven Nordqvist.

7. Swedish History Museum

The Swedish History Museum is anchored in the art collection of the 16th-century King Gustav Vasa, which grew with subsequent monarchs as the Empire expanded.

Now you’ll get a full chronology of Swedish history from Prehistory to the present day, with special attention on the exploits of the Vikings.

The Gold Room is literally brilliant, with more than 3,000 objects across 3,500 years of Swedish history.

Unforgettable here are the gold collars from 300-500 made from melted down Roman gold coins.

The Viking collection is as rich as you’d hope, and has artefacts from the trading post at Birka and the Mästermyr tool chest.

8. Royal Palace

With more than 600 rooms Stockholm’s Royal Palace is up there with the largest palaces in Europe.

There are five museums in this mostly 18th-century complex, which isn’t just a historical relic: The King of Sweden still lives here, most royal events and receptions happen at the palace and all the various departments associated with the royal family operate in these plush environs.

Just a brief run-down of the must-sees includes the reception rooms, the royal apartments, the Rikssalen (Hall of State) and the Ordenssalarna (Halls of the Orders of Chivalry). Of the five museums, the Treasury is predictably lavish and Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities has ancient Greek and Roman sculptures bought by the king during his trip to Italy in 1783-84.

Full day trip : 1-day Royal Palace and Castle Tour from Stockholm

9. Fotografiska

By the water on Södermalm is one of the world’s top photography galleries.

The location is the old wharf at Stadsgården, and the attraction is in a repurposed customs building.

There are four high-profile exhibitions staged at Fotografiska per year, along with 20 smaller shows, so no two visits will ever be the same.

Just by way of intro, some of the photographers featured here recently are greats like Robert Mapplethorpe, Guy Bourdin, Irving Penn, and Akseli Vamunen (Young Nordic Photographer of the Year in 2016). The gallery’s restaurant is highly regarded and has started picking up awards, while you can contemplate Djurgården from a table at the top floor cafe.

Book online : Fotografiska Entrance Ticket

10. The City Hall

One of the buildings that makes Stockholm, well, Stockholm is the City Hall, unmistakeable for its 106-metre tower and spire.

Composed of eight million bricks it’s the perfect expression of the Nordic National Romantic style and was inaugurated in June 1923 400 years to the day after Gustav Vasa’s arrival in the city.

The dimensions of the spaces inside are spellbinding, most of all the Blue Hall where the Nobel Banquet is held every December.

After dinner, there’s a dance in the Golden Hall, which is adorned with 18 million gold mosaic tiles.

An integral part of any visit is scaling the tower and gazing over Stockholm.

Recommended tour : Guided City Hall Tour

11. Strandvägen

Beside the water on Östermalm is one of the most exclusive addresses in the city: A boulevard and esplanade with views to Gamla Stan and Skeppsholmen, and tying Djurgården to the centre of the city.

Strandvägen was plotted in the late 19th century and completed in 1897 for the Stockholm World’s Fair.

The long row of palatial apartment buildings is in the Revivalist style, epitomised by Isak Gustaf Clason’s Bünsow Building, which looks like a Loire Valley chateau.

Stockholm’s tour boats and water taxis converge on Strandvägen, and the esplanade has scores of cafes and bars for a quick refreshment before carrying on your way.

Related tour : Stockholm Archipelago Cruise with Guide

12. Prins Eugen Waldemarsudde

There’s a snapshot of turn-of-the-century royal life at Prince Eugen’s estate on Djurgården.

Eugen was a man of leisure who threw himself into the art world.

He was a prominent collector and patron, and in his youth studied fine art in Paris.

Eugen’s collection, as well as his own landscape paintings, decorate his Art Nouveau house on an estate with buildings going back to the 18th century.

This is all on a small peninsula enveloped in mature oak woodland, facing the canal that links Stockholm to the Baltic and with the city’s skyline in the background.

The estate’s flower garden is a joy in early summer, and there’s also a sculpture garden with works by the likes of Auguste Rodin.

13. ABBA: The Museum

Whatever your opinion of Sweden’s biggest pop act there’s no getting away from their cultural impact.

More than three decades after they split up their music still pops up in movies, TV shows and of course their record-breaking musical Mamma Mia.

The museum brims with ABBA memorabilia and clever touches that fans will be wild for.

One is Benny Andersson’s piano, which is connected remotely to the piano in his house and plays whatever he’s playing at home.

There’s also a phone, Ring Ring, that only the four ABBA members know the number to.

At the immersive “Waterloo” exhibit you can step back to 1974 and relive the Eurovision Song Contest that ABBA won with “Waterloo”, to kick-start their career.

Tickets available online : ABBA The Museum – Walk In, Dance Out

14. Gröna Lund

Djurgården is also the scene for Sweden’s oldest amusement park, and although Gröna Lund first opened in 1883 it is very much up to date.

New roller coasters are unveiled every few years, like the state-of-art “Insane” on which you’ll spend half the ride upside down.

Another, “Eclipse” is a swing ride more than 120 metres in height.

Away from the white-knuckle rides the littler visitors will have the time of their lives on tea cups, carousels, bumper cars and romping through fun houses.

There are concerts in the park all summer, and Paul McCartney, Bob Marley and ABBA are a few of the big names to have played here.

15. Monteliusvägen

Before or after a trip to Fotografista, mosey across to the wood and cobblestone path above the north coast of Södermalm.

In a city that has a replete with scenic views, this may be the finest of them all: You’ll get your best shots of the City Hall and Gamla Stan from this 500-metre trail, and the light at sunrise and sunset is dreamy.

Over Lake Mälaren you’ll watch the big ships hoving into view and the smaller launches darting back and forth.

There’s also an old-time feel about this residential neighbourhood, and lots of places close by to grab a cold drink in summer or warm up with “fika” in winter.

16. Nordic Museum

Artur Hazelius, founder of the Skansen Museum, also conceived this ethnographical attraction a few moments away on Djurgården.

The Nordic Museum spells out the cultural history of Sweden from about the 16th century onwards, showcasing its traditional costume and textiles, ceramics, jewellery, furniture and folk art.

You can also get a handle on the Sami, Sweden’s only indigenous culture, and dip into their history, beliefs and way of life.

Isak Gustaf Clason was hired to design the building and came up with an extraordinary Neo-Renaissance palace that was finished in 1907 after a 19-year construction and would be worth the visit alone.

17. Stortorget

A mandatory stop in Gamla Stan is the oldest square in the city at the highest point of the island.

Stockholm’s expansion in the High Middle Ages began at this very point, and you can be sure that Stortorget has seen some drama in its time.

One was the Stockholm Bloodbath of 1520 when up to 90 people were executed in the square by Danish forces.

The cannonball in the wall at the corner where Skomakargatan joins the square is said to go back to this time.

Stortorget’s beauty is in its gabled houses from the 1600s and 1700s, and the Christmas market in December when treats like ginger snaps (pepparkakor) and mulled wine (glögg) bring plenty of cheer.

Included in : Sightseeing Tour by Segway

18. Drottningholm Palace

One of Sweden’s three World Heritage Sites is on the western outskirts of Stockholm.

Drottningholm is in the French style and was conceived in 17th century.

Refinements were made over the next few hundred years when each successive monarch left his or her own mark on the palace.

There are opulent salons from the 1600s, 1700s and 1800s, but one of the remarkable details is the Palace Theatre, which dates to the 1700s and continues to stage performances to this day, unchanged.

The Chinese Pavilion, finished in 1769, is another marvel in an oriental-infused Rococo style and with interiors enriched with decorative works like porcelain and lacquered furniture gathered by the Swedish East India Company in the 18th century.

19. Södermalm

We’ve already taken in the scenery and visited Fotografiska, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg on this island south of the centre.

Södermalm, where Greta Garbo grew up, has a few ultra-cool neighbourhoods with quirky shops and interesting places to go out.

Try SoFo (South of Folkungagatan) for one-of-a-kind designer boutiques, vintage shops and hip restaurants and cafes.

Nytorget Square here is a fun night out in summer.

The same goes for Mosebacke, which had a bohemian reputation for as long as anyone can remember, and is just the place to go for designer shopping, live music and a craft beer or coffee.

The sight of Stockholm from the terrace of the Södra Teatern is not to be missed.

20. Canal Trip

So much of Stockholm’s charm lies in its waterways that you’d be remiss not to see the city from the water.

You could even say it’s the first thing to do in the city, as you’ll get your bearings and see the parts you’d like to explore deeper later on.

A favourite trip is to head east on the Djurgårdsbrunnskanalen, a canal on the side of Djurgården.

This was dug during the reign of Charles XIV in 1825. On the way out there are lush views of palaces and gardens, and as you loop back you’ll see the city in all its majesty.

You could also take a bridges, which takes around two hours if you want to dig a bit deeper.

21. Hallwyl Museum

In the 1890s the aristocratic couple Walther von Hallwyl and his wife Wilhelmina ordered this mansion in the centre of Stockholm facing Berzelii Park.

The architect was Isak Gustaf Clason, responsible for many regal properties around the city like the Nordic Museum.

Hallywyl House is in a faithful Italian Renaissance style and while it might seem historic, the palace was advanced for its day and had phones, plumbing, central heating and electricity.

The countess in particular was a prodigious art collector, and even ten years before she passed away the palace had been donated to the state because of its profusion of fine art, furniture, silver, tableware and expertly crafted fittings.

The drawing room, dining room and billiard room are all very swish, while the courtyard puts on concerts in summer.

22. Stockholm Public Library

A bibliophile’s idea of heaven, the central building for the Stockholm Public Library is one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, and changed the city’s relationship with books when it opened in 1928. That’s down to the monumental rotunda at the top of the building.

This is a gigantic hall encircled with bookshelves, and for the first time readers could seek out the book they needed by themselves without having to consult the librarians.

Gunnar Asplund designed the library, and it’s held as a shining example of the Swedish Classicist movement.

There’s no fee to enter, and many of the titles are in English if you’re in need of a quiet, rainy day activity.

23. Norrmalm

If you’re young and fashion-conscious Stockholm’s revitalised city centre has all the chain stores, malls and old-school department stores to stay on point.

This area of Stockholm, also known simply as “City”, had an iffy reputation up to the 90s when it was brightened up and made pedestrian-friendly.

Now it’s a shopper’s paradise where there are flagships stores for international brands all along Drottninggatan, which is heaving on weekends.

Meanwhile Åhléns and the upmarket Nordiska Kompaniet (NK) are thriving Swedish institutions that have been here for more than a century.

24. Kungsträdgården

Behind the Royal Palace is a park that has something happening in all seasons.

But Kungsträdgården is never more beautiful than in April when its twin avenues of cherry trees are in bloom.

Thousands of people show up for Körsbärsblommans Dag (Cherry Blossom Day) in this month for a walk under those pink canopies.

In winter there’s a skating rink in the part of the park known as the oktogonen (octagon), while if you pass by in summer you’re sure to catch some temporary installation or festival.

And if you just have time to kill you could catch a game of street chess.

25. Go for Fika

If you’re new to the country then Fika is the easiest part of Swedish culture to pick up.

It’s essentially a coffee break, with no set time but is always a social occasion.

People at work “fika” (it’s a verb as well as a noun) to chat for a few minutes over coffee and a snack.

The partner for your cup of coffee can be anything from cookies to an open sandwich (smörgås). But the tried and trusted option is probably cinnamon buns (kanelbullar) or if you want to be a bit more indulgent, a slice of apple cake (äppelkaka).

25 Best Things to Do in Stockholm (Sweden):

• Vasa Museum
• Modern Art Museum
• The Medieval Museum
• Swedish History Museum
• Royal Palace
• Fotografiska
• The City Hall
• Strandvägen
• Prins Eugen Waldemarsudde
• ABBA: The Museum
• Monteliusvägen
• Nordic Museum
• Drottningholm Palace
• Hallwyl Museum
• Stockholm Public Library
• Kungsträdgården
• Go for Fika

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You’ll love these experiences in stunning Stockholm

Aug 13, 2024 • 6 min read

Any trip to Stockholm should begin with a wander down the cobbled alleys of Gamla Stan. Kirk Fisher/Shutterstock

Stockholm ’s pleasures are legion, from abundant waterways and elegant green spaces to neighborhoods that brim with character to fascinating museums that showcase art, explore the past and celebrate Sweden ’s culture.

Even if you only have a few days here, you can see and do plenty. Whether you’re looking for history, culture or nature (or all three), here are our suggestions for places and activities that should be at the top of your list.

1. Take in the grandeur of Stadshuset

Topped with three golden crowns, Stockholm’s red-brick City Hall  has been a symbol of the city since its completion in 1923. Visits are by guided tour only, with highlights including the Blue Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquet is held every year, and the opulent Golden Hall, covered in mosaics depicting key events and people in Swedish history.

Across the courtyard, the 348ft(106m)-high tower has spectacular 360-degree views of central Stockholm. An elevator takes you halfway up, after which there are stairs and sloping walkways to the cupola.

2. Stroll down Strandvägen

Stretching along the Östermalm waterfront from Nybroplan to the Djurgården bridge, Strandvägen is Stockholm’s grandest boulevard. Turreted apartment buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries line the northern side of the street; on the southern side, a gracious waterfront promenade follows a quay dotted with cafés and restaurants.

Passenger ferries and sightseeing boats bound for the archipelago load at the avenue’s western end. Come summer, when crowds linger into light late evenings, Strandvägen is Stockholm at its liveliest and most beautiful.

3. Take to the water and see Stockholm by boat

Visitors are often surprised that Stockholm’s core consists of islands and canals – which means you haven’t really seen the city until you’ve seen it from the water (or jumped into it !). At the very least, hop on the Djurgården passenger ferry for the 7-minute trip between Slussen and Djurgården.

For something more informative, take a Harbor Boat Tour  around the islands of Kungsholmen and Långholmen, circle Djurgården on the Royal Canal Tour or travel Under the Bridges of Stockholm to visit both the Baltic and the Lake Mälaren sides of the city. Alternatively, choose one of the hop-on-hop-off boats that travel between key attractions on the Stockholm’s Baltic side.

4. Get pastoral on Djurgården

Known for its many museums, the island of Djurgården is also a fine destination for nature and outdoor recreation. Once a royal deer park, the 689-acre oasis on the eastern edge of the city has extensive woodlands and meadows crisscrossed by walking and cycling paths. You can rent bicycles next to the bridge at the Djurgården Visitor Center and at Sjöcaféet , which also rents kayaks, canoes and pedal boats.

For a beautiful walk or ride, follow the path along the bay and canal on Djurgården’s north side from the blue gate (Blå Porten) near the bridge. It’s a little over 2.5 miles (4km) to the island’s easternmost tip. About 20 minutes from the bridge, Rosendals Trädgård makes a delightful stop, with biodynamic gardens, a farm-to-table cafe and a stone-oven bakery.

5. Feel Swedish culture come alive at Skansen

The world’s oldest open-air museum, Skansen  provides a cultural history of Sweden at one large but accessible site. Since it opened in 1891, more than 150 buildings of cultural significance have been moved here from all over the country. In many of them, you can watch people in period dress making handicrafts or performing other traditional tasks. Various gardens represent different regions, while a zoo lets you encounter a variety of Swedish wildlife.

If you happen to be in town for any major holidays such as Walpurgis Night, National Day, Midsummer, St Lucia Day, or Christmas, head to Skansen to experience traditional Swedish celebrations.

6. Get lost in the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan

Every visitor to Stockholm heads to the Old Town  – and for good reason. Dating back hundreds of years, the cobblestone streets lined with narrow buildings in warm ochre hues are a delight to wander around – especially once you get away from the touristy main drag of Västerlånggatan.

There are major attractions here, too, from medieval and Renaissance churches to the huge baroque Royal Palace . Yet much of Gamla Stan’s charm comes from simpler pleasures: a quiet square, a tiny alley, a hidden courtyard, or quirky delights such as Stockholm’s smallest statue, an iron boy just 5.9in (15cm) high, looking up to the moon.

7. Celebrate Sweden’s sensational super troupers at ABBA: The Museum

Four decades after splitting up (holograms don’t count), ABBA remains a pop music phenomenon and Sweden’s biggest musical export of all time. If you’re a fan, don’t miss this irresistibly camp museum packed with memorabilia, from photos and letters to the group’s elaborate stage costumes and a replica of the Polar recording studio with original instruments and equipment.

Most entertaining are the many interactive stations where you can sing with the band on a hologram stage, try your hand at mixing music, dance like your favorite ABBA-avatar or “try on” costumes for a virtual photo shoot.

8. Plunge into Swedish history at Historiska Museet

For anyone interested in Scandinavia’s past, Historiska Museet is a must. Its Viking exhibit showcases more than 2500 artifacts, with interactive stations covering just about every aspect of Viking life. Another permanent exhibit picks up where the Viking exhibit leaves off, tracing Swedish history from the year 1000 to the present day, with a timeline on the floor to guide your steps.

Below ground, the glittering Gold Room displays more than 3000 gold and silver treasures, including three heavy gold collars  from the 5th century CE and a jewel-studded gold reliquary from the 13th century.

9. Board a 17th-century ship at Vasamuseet

This custom-built museum commemorates one of Sweden’s greatest failures: the sinking of the warship Vasa , just 20 minutes after it set sail under great fanfare from central Stockholm in 1628. Although built as an expression of Swedish military power, Vasa was fatally unbalanced, and a strong gust of wind was enough to cause her to list. Water quickly flowed in through the open gunports – and down she went, only 0.8mi (1.3km) into her journey and just less than 394ft (120m) from shore.

For over three centuries Vasa lay at the bottom of Stockholm harbor – before a dramatic salvage operation in 1961 raised her to the surface. Today displayed in a hangar-like space just next to (but not in) the water, the impressively preserved ship is the museum’s star attraction. Other exhibits provide background and context to this compelling tale of epic failure and amazing recovery.

10. Explore Skeppsholmen and Kastellholmen

Smack in the middle of Stockholm’s harbor, the green islands of Skeppsholmen and Kastellholmen provide a perfect break from Stockholm’s urban bustle. As you walk around the islets, beautiful views unfold in all directions, with Strandvägen and Djurgården to the north and east, and Södermalm and Gamla Stan to the south and west. You’ll also find interesting boats to admire, from the full-rigged sailing ship af Chapman (now a hostel ) to 19th-century wooden boats and a lightship docked along Östra Brobänken.

For more than 300 years, Skeppsholmen and Kastellholmen were the domain of the Swedish Navy. Though military operations have since moved elsewhere, the triple-tailed Swedish naval flag is still flown daily from the roof of the small citadel on Kastellholmen: a symbol that the country is at peace.

11. Take in the views from Södermalm

With steep cliffs rising straight from the waterfront, Södermalm is the place to go for panoramic views of central Stockholm. One justly popular spot is Monteliusvägen , a clifftop walking path just west of Slussen, opposite Stadshuset and Riddarholmen. A bit further west, central Stockholm’s highest point, Skinnarviksberget, is a good place to soak up some sun or enjoy a picnic while gazing out at Kungsholmen and Lake Mälaren.

Alternatively, head east from Slussen to the clifftop street Fjällgatan for a magnificent view encompassing Djurgården, Kastellholmen, Skeppsholmen, Gamla Stan and beyond.

This article was first published Aug 27, 2021 and updated Aug 13, 2024.

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The 10 Stockholm attractions you shouldn’t miss

Got your camera ready? The absolute best attractions and sights in Stockholm will have you snapping away in no time

When it comes to camera-ready sights, you could hardly do better than photogenic Stockholm. With its 14 island coastlines, the majestic parks and gardens that cover a third of the city, and excellent cultural things to do every which way you turn, this compact metropolis crams in top attractions like Swedish Surströmming (herring) .  Best of all, many of the most awe-inspiring outdoor landmarks can be taken in for absolutely nada – from Old Town square Stortorget’s rainbow-hued townhouses to the 27-square-kilometre Royal National City Park on Djurgården island.

Public museums stopped charging entry fees in 2016, but unfortunately the city’s most cutting-edge cultural attractions still come at a price. Art and photography galleries Artipelag and Fotografiska earn their spots on our list with accessible, carefully-curated exhibitions and fantastic food offerings. And the cringe stakes were high for Abba The Museum, which opened in 2013, but the tech-savvy Swedes behind it have created an unmissable interactive experience that shines a spotlight on the nation’s biggest musical export. Not to mention all manner of pioneering  bars and restaurants that have become tourist magnets in themselves (you could spend your whole trip pretty much just hopping from meal to meal). Foodie or not, and whether you’re here just for the weekend or much longer, these top attractions in Stockholm are sure to fit your bill. 

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Stockholm

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Stockholm attractions

1.  stortorget.

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• Sightseeing

Butter, chilli and mint-coloured townhouses dating back to the Middle Ages, an 18th-century fountain surrounded by cobblestones and an imposing palatial building that once hosted Sweden’s stock exchange are the star attractions on Stockholm’s photogenic main square. The focal point of the city’s Old Town (Gamla Stan) for 800 years, Stortorget draws hordes of tourists daily. Don’t miss the Christmas market if you’re visiting in December – it’s best experienced after dark when the square’s lit by a twinkling fir tree and the golden glow of oil candles dotted outside its bars and restaurants. 

2.  Fotografiska

• Specialist interest
• price 2 of 4

This imposing red-brick former customs building is home to an airy, spacious gallery that hosts meticulously-curated and frequently-changing exhibitions. Recent collections such as Andy Warhol's 'Photo Factory' and rock-star-turned photographer Bryan Adams have impressed local shutterbugs. After you've soaked up all the culture, have a respite at the stylish bar and café, which serves moreish (if overpriced) snacks, great coffee and a strong choice of quality wines.

3.  Stadshuset (Stockholm City Hall)

• Parliament and civic buildings
• price 1 of 4

Dominating Stockholm’s skyline, the dusk-red bricks and green and gold spires of Stadshuset make it one of the city’s most imposing (and impressive) landmarks. Around 200 politicians and officials work here, but the building is more famous globally for its decadent Golden Hall, where acclaimed Nobel Prize Award ceremony guests dine each winter surrounded by 18 million gold mosaic tiles. It's not like any old person can wander in though, your only way of accessing the room is via a guided tour.

4.  Abba The Museum

Filled with gold discs, chunky platforms and all the quirky memorabilia you would expect, Abba The Museum is one dazzling tribute to the glitziest band in Swedish history. Alongside all the kitsch, you'll find clever, interactive exhibits that give you the chance to perform alongside the group, complete with digital versions of their stage outfits. You don't need to be a die-hard fan to go, and while it may be more expensive than some of the city's other attractions, you can easily spend a half-day here. Warning: you will be humming 'Daning Queen' for hours afterwards. 

5.  Djurgården Royal National City Park

• Parks and gardens

A former royal hunting ground (owned by the Swedish crown since the 15th century), Djurgården literally translates as ‘the animal garden’. But these days it’s no longer packed with reindeer and elk. Instead, it serves as a leafy oasis of waterfront paths and woodland trails. Not all that far from the city centre, it’s a popular weekend haunt for local families, while tourists love its proximity to some of capital’s most-visited museums. 

6.  Artipelag

• Art and design

Buried within a pine forest on the island of Värmdö, Artipelag is a striking art gallery combining two very Swedish passions, design and nature. It’s here that you’ll find a rotating collection of international art and photography exhibitions, with previous retrospectives on the likes of Andy Warhol and Swedish fashion designer Lars Wallin. If you’re feeling peckish, the restaurant offers a luxury smörgåsbord lunch on weekdays and brunch at the weekend. There’s also a Scandi-chic café and pâtisserie with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the surrounding woodland.

7.  The Vasa Museum

Displaying a rescued 17th-century warship most people have never heard of, the Vasa Museum is one of the most-visited attractions in Stockholm. It’s not just tourists with enthusiasm for maritime memorabilia that flock here though. Soak up the impressive 69-metre-long wooden vessel, covered in decorative carvings (which sank on its maiden voyage, only to be discovered 333 years later), before learning all about the lives of passengers, the ship’s rescue operation and how it’s been so well preserved.

8.  The Royal Palace

• Historic buildings and sites

Jewel-encrusted swords, low-hanging crystal chandeliers and gold-embellished coronation carriages are just a few of the treasures found inside Stockholm’s Royal Palace. The official residence of the Swedish sovereign since the 18th century, it packs in more than 600 rooms, although only a limited selection are open to the public. If you’re a history buff, make sure to take one of the 45-minute guided tours.

9.  Skansen Museum

Peek into historic homes, meet in-character weavers and bakers, and gawp at the enclosures of Nordic animals at Sweden’s largest open-air museum. Haven’t met any locals yet? This is the place to embrace some Swedish seasonal fun. Skansen’s staff don flower crowns and dance around a massive maypole to mark Midsummer’s Eve, dish out glögg (mulled wine) and ginger snap biscuits at the venue’s well-stocked Christmas market, and belt out folk songs on Walpurgis Night, a bonfire-based festival that marks the start of spring.

10.  Stadsbibliotek (Stockholm Public Library)

• Libraries, archives and foundations

This orange 1920s building is a haven for bibliophiles and architecture addicts alike. It contains upwards of 400,000 novels, plays, poems and reference materials in multiple languages, many stacked from floor to ceiling around its iconic cylindrical reading tower. The room’s three-level design comes courtesy of Swedish architect Gunnar Asplund, whose goal was to allow visitors to browse the shelves without having to ask for help from librarians. You might feel a bit sheepish taking photos in here, but the bookworm and student regulars are used to passing tourists. 

There’s more where that came from...

The 20 best things to do in stockholm.

Sprawled out across a cluster of islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic sea, the Swedish capital is effortlessly photogenic from pretty much every angle. So it’s no surprise many of the best things to do in the Stockholm are outdoors, whether traversing forest paths, dipping in the lake after a sauna or sunbathing on an inner-city island.

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15 Things to See & Do in Stockholm

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

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

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

1. Marvel at the beautiful Gamla Stan

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

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

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

• Explore Stockholm on one of these top Swedish vacation packages

2. Discover world-class museums at Djurgården

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

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

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

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

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

• Related: Top cities and towns in Sweden to visit

3. Explore Stockholm’s waterways

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

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

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

4. Take a dip in Lake Mälaren

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

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

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

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

5. Get lost in the vast Royal Palace

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

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

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

• Discover more palaces and castles on these  Scandinavian royalty tours

6. Join the fun at Gröna Lund amusement park

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Unwind in one of Stockholm’s spas

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

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

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

• Related: Nordic spa and wellness traditions

9. Try authentic Swedish food

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

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

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

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

10. Stroll around Södermalm

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

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

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

11. Visit the photography museum at Fotografiska

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

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

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

12. Take the metro

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

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

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

• Related: Cool facts about Sweden

13. Go to a show at the Royal Swedish Opera

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

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

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

14. Climb the tower at Stockholm City Hall

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

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

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

15. Chill out with fika

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

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

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

• Related: The Swedish art of fika

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting there

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

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

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The 15 Best Things to do in Stockholm, Sweden

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A city overflowing with cultural gemstones, enchanting beauty, and well-preserved history, there are countless things to do in Stockholm. From world-class museums and thought-provoking galleries to dazzling UNESCO World Heritage Sites and imposing palaces, there are so many incredible places to visit here that you’ll never have enough time, no matter how long you’re visiting!

Despite looking like it hasn’t changed in hundreds of years, Stockholm certainly isn’t stuck in the past. The city’s captivating Old Town twists and turns with the vibrant city center and trendy modern districts merging into a single destination that’s both old and new, sleepy and dynamic, traditional and progressive.

Spread across 14 islands on Lake Mälaren, it’s almost like Stockholm has been purposely designed for exploring. Put on some comfy walking shoes, leave Google Maps untouched, and simply wander. You never know what magical things you might come across!

With such a huge choice of things to see and do, it can be tough to know where to begin. To make your vacation planning easier, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Stockholm. Add these exciting activities to your Stockholm bucket list, and you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time exploring Sweden ’s stunning capital city.

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Stockholm, Sweden

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 cool and unique things to do in Stockholm

1. get your bearings with a boat tour.

Even though it’s pretty compact, it’s still easy to get lost in Stockholm. One of the best ways to get a feel for the city is to sign up for a boat tour on your first day. There are all kinds of boat tours to choose from. So whatever type of experience you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it!

The Royal Canal Boat Tour is one of the most popular. On this 50-minute trip, you’ll leave the city behind and sail around Djurgården. The picturesque island is well known for its magnificent museums, impressive historical sites, and wonderfully green landscapes. On your way back, you’re treated to an amazing view of the city’s skyline.

To get a feel for old Stockholm, sign up for the Historical Canal Tour instead. This adventure begins at the iconic City Hall and travels through narrow canals, passing the picturesque shoreline and the gorgeous buildings found along it. 

During your 50-minute ride, you’ll sail around Kungsholmen and see all kinds of fascinating places with rich histories. Keep an eye out for the hotel that was once a prison!

2. Wander around the First-Ever Open-Air Museum at Skansen

A visit to Skansen is not only one of the most unique things to do in Stockholm, but it’s also one of the most unique things to do in the world! This is because Skansen is the first and oldest open-air museum on the planet.

Launched in 1891 by visionary teacher and academic Artur Hazelius, Skansen aims to show future generations what everyday life was like in Sweden before the Industrial Age made its impact. The huge museum covers more than 74 acres (30 hectares) and is bursting with blissful rural scenes you’ll struggle to believe are real!

Over 150 houses and buildings were rounded up from all over Sweden and reassembled in the museum. As you explore, you’ll discover town districts, manor houses, a church, and a bakery. To help you picture what life was like back then, there are staff members dressed in costumes “living” in the village, all going about their daily lives.

As an added bonus, Skansen also includes a zoo and an aquarium home to more than 200 animals and sea creatures from around the world. It costs a little more to enter, but it’s worth it!

Buy Your Admission Ticket

3. Enjoy Free Entertainment with Parkteatern

If you’re visiting during the summer, one of the most fun things to do in Stockholm is to watch one of the many performances organized during Parkteatern . The annual cultural event takes place in public locations throughout the city, and all the shows are free to enjoy!

From dance performances, famous musicals, and music concerts to theatrical plays, instrumental concerts, and children’s shows, there’s absolutely tons going on. The events are held from June to September, and many of them take place in city parks. 

Taking in a show is the perfect way to enjoy the cool outdoor air during the evening while getting a little culture. Plus, it’s all for free!

Dates, performances, and locations change each year. So it’s best to check the official website to see what will be happening when you’re in the city. And because there’s no charge, spaces fill up fast. So pack yourself a picnic, get to your chosen spot, and make a day of it.

4. Ramble Throughout the Royal National City Park

When you need a break from all the Stockholm sightseeing, one of the best things to do is head for the Royal National City Park. This sprawling six-mile-long green space winds its way around the city and incorporates three royal parks: Djurgården, Haga, and Ulriksdal.

Stockholm’s Royal National City Park is the place where people go to relax and forget about hectic city life. Although, you’ll find there are so many amazing things to do here that you might end up more tired than you were to begin with!

If you love nature, you’ll have an incredible time exploring the wilderness zones. From centuries-old trees and craggy hilltops to secret swimming spots and rippling streams, this park is a haven if you like spending time outdoors. Visit at the right time of year, and you might even spot the deer, fox, and moose that live in the park.

If you prefer more traditional tourist attractions, you’ll never get bored with the theaters, museums, castles, and historical homes also found here.

5. Feel Like Royalty at Stockholm’s Royal Palace

If you’ve got a whole day to spare and you’re left wondering what to do in Stockholm, spend it exploring the city’s Royal Palace. Encompassing more than 600 rooms, the palace is one of the largest in Europe and can easily entertain you for an entire day – if not longer!

The 18 th -century Baroque complex is home to the King of Sweden and is where many royal events and receptions take place. If nothing exciting is happening during your visit, you’ll still have a fantastic time wandering around the palace’s five museums.

The Treasury is the most exceptional museum, where you can see the royals’ most important possessions, including sparkling crowns and heroic swords. Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities is also worth a visit. Here you can admire a magnificent collection of Greek and Roman sculptures bought by the king during his trip to Italy in 1783-84.   

Don’t forget to make time for the changing of the guard ceremony! It begins at 12:15 pm each day (except on Sundays when it starts at 1:15 pm) and lasts for 40 minutes.

6. Forget IKEA and Try Authentic Swedish Meatballs

You can’t possibly visit Stockholm without trying one of Sweden’s most iconic foods – meatballs! Made from a combination of ground veal and pork, eggs, milk or cream, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, these bite-sized treats are simple yet delicious.

In Stockholm, you’ll most often see them served with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, rich gravy, lingonberry jam, and pickled cucumber. You’ll find the emblematic meatballs available in practically every restaurant and food kiosk throughout the city. But here are a couple of the best places to try them:

Bakfickan understands that sometimes the side dishes play just as big a role as the main dish. Here they take just as much care with their mashed potato and lingonberry sides as they do with their meatballs, making a delicious and well-rounded meal.

Meatballs for the People is another great place for meatballs if you grow tired of the regular version. This cool restaurant serves up a bunch of different types of meatballs made from ingredients such as elk, salmon, and beef. They also serve special snacks and beers for dogs!

7. Sail the Seven Seas at the Vasa Museum

One of the best things to see in Stockholm is a giant 17 th -century ship. And there’s only one place to see it – at the Vasa Museum ! Originally owned by the all-conquering King Gustavus Adolphus, the Vasa was a colossal ship that went down on its maiden voyage in 1628.

The ship was stuck underwater until 1961, when it was taken back to the surface, lovingly restored, and placed in this fascinating museum. A staggering 95% of the ship is entirely original. Even the three towering masts were reconstructed to the exact heights and specifications of the originals.

As well as the giant 64-gun warship itself, the Vasa Museum also displays a treasure trove of artifacts, which were discovered at the same time. Through the 10 exhibition rooms, an explanatory movie, and countless relics, you can easily imagine what life was like on the Vasa. 

In addition to the main attraction, Vasa Museum is also home to a handful of other historic vessels. Take the time to explore, and you’ll find a torpedo boat, lightship, and an icebreaker.

8. Treat Your Taste Buds at a Crayfish Party

Crayfish is one of the best things to eat on a lazy summer day in Stockholm. In fact, the delicacy is so loved that locals hold crayfish parties (kräftskivor in Swedish) throughout August and September!

These parties are designed to mark the end of summer and are a great excuse for a final get-together. Crowds of people gather in outdoor spaces with party hats and glowing lights, making the most of the final warm evenings. Big pots of crayfish are boiled along with salt, dill, and beer. The crayfish are chilled until they reach their perfect temperature, after which they’re devoured straight from the shell.

You might not have the chance to join in on a crayfish party, but there are plenty of other places you can dig into the delicacy. B.A.R. is a great place to try the dish. At this eatery, you can choose fresh crayfish from the counter, and the chef will cook it for you on the spot.

9. Fall in Love with Photography at Fotografiska

If you’re an avid photographer (or like the idea of becoming one!), one of the best things to do in Stockholm is to spend an afternoon at Fotografiska . Set inside a repurposed customs building by the water in Södermalm, this museum is home to one of the greatest photography art galleries in the world. 

Each year, Fotografiska is divided into four excellent exhibitions bursting with magnificent examples of contemporary photography. Some of the photographers who’ve displayed their work here in recent years include Akseli Valmunen, Irving Penn, Guy Bourdin, and Robert Mapplethorpe.

As well as the eclectic rotating exhibitions, the art gallery also hosts cutting-edge music events throughout the year. Be sure to check the website to see if there’s anything interesting happening during your visit.  

If you’re feeling hungry, stop by the gallery’s top-floor cafe. Here you can soak up some of the most beautiful views over the city while digging into creative dishes made from organic and sustainably sourced ingredients.

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10. Loosen Up at the Stockholm Jazz Festival

Stockholm hosts all kinds of incredible events throughout the year, and one of the best for music lovers is the Stockholm Jazz Festival . Held across 10 days each October, this music festival is the largest of its kind in Sweden and includes around 160 live music concerts spread throughout the city. 

The event first began in 1980 and has since grown bigger and bigger. Today, famous jazz artists from all over the world travel to Sweden’s capital for the chance to perform. Some of the most recent artists include B.B. King, Eva Dahlgren, Louise Hoffsten, and Peter Asplund. 

The Stockholm Jazz Festival was originally hosted in one single location, but performances now take place in more than 60 venues all over the city. The venues are all indoors, so you don’t have to worry about fall weather ruining your plans. Dates, locations, and performances change every year, so make sure you check the website for the current program!

11. Find the Best Views of the City at Monteliusvägen

For the best sights in Stockholm, head to Monteliusvägen. Just a short walk away from the remarkable Fotografiska gallery, Monteliusvägen is a quarter-mile walking path that will reward you with views almost too beautiful to be true!

From the glistening waters of Lake Mälaren and the standout Stockholm City Hall to the islet of Riddarholmen and the emblematic Gamla Stan, you can see all the best parts of Stockholm from this single small path. For the ultimate shots, visit at sunrise or sunset when the lighting is just perfect. 

Even the other side of the path is stunning. It’s lined with charming houses that will make you feel like you’re walking through the pages of a fairytale book. Along the path, you’ll also find a handful of places to stop and sip a glass of wine in the summer or cozy up with a cup of coffee in the winter.  

12. Discover Your New Favorite Artist at Moderna Museet

Moderna Museet is the art gallery to visit when you think you don’t like art galleries. Home to one of the most spectacular European collections from the 20th century up to today, Moderna Museet features pieces by famous artists such as Matisse, Derkert, Dalí, and Picasso.

Within its walls, you’ll find art of all types, including prints, drawings, photography, and films, covering almost every subject from modern classics to contemporary art. Step outside, and you’ll find some bright and colorful sculptures to admire, too. With such a huge variety of artwork on display, you’re bound to find at least one piece that turns you into an art lover.

In addition to the permanent displays, the art gallery also offers a world-class selection of temporary exhibitions rotated throughout the year, hands-on workshops for kids, a great gift shop, and a comprehensive library. If you end up spending longer admiring the artwork than you thought, there’s also a fantastic restaurant, which rewards diners with views of Djurgården and Strandvägen.

13. Feel Like a Kid again at Gröna Lund

Spending a few hours at Gröna Lund is one of the most fun Stockholm activities there is. Hidden away on the island of Djurgården, Gröna Lund is the oldest amusement park in Sweden. It first opened in 1883, although you’d never know it! The park is filled with family-friendly attractions that are just as modern as any other theme park. 

If you’re up for a thrill, head for Monster. One of the park’s newest rollercoasters, Monster flies at 55 miles per hour, sends you upside-down four times, and peaks at a height of 112 feet! 

If that’s a bit too much for you, there are plenty of other rides and rollercoasters to choose from. There are also tons of gentle attractions for kids, making Gröna Lund one of the best places in Stockholm to visit as a family. 

As well as all the rides and attractions, the amusement park is also a great place to catch concerts. Throughout the summer, all kinds of artists from across all genres and ages take to the stage here. From Paul McCartney and My Chemical Romance to Dua Lipa and Tom Jones – you’ll find a range of famous artists playing here! 

14. Get Lost in Gamla Stan  

One of the must-do things in Stockholm is to spend time exploring Gamla Stan, also known as Old Town. One of the best-preserved medieval city centers in all of Europe, Gamla Stan feels more like an open-air museum than a bustling town.

Take a walk along the pedestrianized streets, and you’ll discover countless beautiful sights that will leave you speechless. Gabled houses dating back to the 1600s, artisan boutiques selling handmade crafts, and bakeries laden with sweet local treats straight from the oven are just a tiny example of the amazing things you’ll find here.

The two main streets are Västerlånggatan and Österlånggatan. We recommend you start with one and see where your feet take you. With so much whimsy around every corner, you really can’t go wrong!

If you prefer your day to be a bit more organized, plan to visit the Storkyrkan Cathedral, Nobel Prize Museum , and the Royal Palace. If you’re visiting during the winter, you’ve absolutely got to make time for the Julmarknad Christmas market, too. 

Take a Walking Tour

15. See What’s Happening at Kungsträdgården

Whatever time of year you visit Stockholm, there’s always something exciting happening at Kungsträdgården. A hidden park tucked away behind the Royal Palace, Kungsträdgården is a lively place where people gather to sip coffee at open-air cafes and have a good time.

In the spring, the park is filled with thousands of people eager to celebrate cherry blossom season. At this time of year, the trees are covered in delicate pink flowers that look amazing in photos! In the summer, Kungsträdgården holds fantastic open-air concerts, while in the winter, part of the park is purposely frozen over and becomes a dedicated ice rink.

Even when there’s nothing organized going on, you’ll still find lots to do at Kungsträdgården. The pathways are lined with restaurants dishing up seasonal cuisine, as well as art galleries displaying remarkable pieces by local artists. 

You’ll also find ancient plazas, gorgeous fountains, sunken pools, and flower-studded gardens to explore. Locals have nicknamed the place “Stockholm’s outdoor living room,” and when you see it in person, it’s easy to understand why!

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Stockholm. What’s your favorite thing to do in Stockholm? 

Planning a trip to Sweden? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Frequently Asked Questions

A visit to Skansen is not only one of the most unique things to do in Stockholm, but it’s also one of the most unique things to do in the world! This is because Skansen is the first and oldest open-air museum on the planet. Launched in 1891 by visionary teacher and academic Artur Hazelius, Skansen aims to show future generations what everyday life was like in Sweden before the Industrial Age made its impact.

You can’t possibly visit Stockholm without trying one of Sweden’s most iconic foods – meatballs! Made from a combination of ground veal and pork, eggs, milk or cream, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, these bite-sized treats are simple yet delicious. In Stockholm, you’ll most often see them served with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, rich gravy, lingonberry jam, and pickled cucumber.

Stockholm hosts all kinds of incredible events throughout the year, and one of the best for music lovers is the Stockholm Jazz Festival. Held across 10 days each October, this music festival is the largest of its kind in Sweden and includes around 160 live music concerts spread throughout the city.

For the best sights in Stockholm, head to Monteliusvägen. Just a short walk away from the remarkable Fotografiska gallery, Monteliusvägen is a quarter-mile walking path that will reward you with views almost too beautiful to be true! From the glistening waters of Lake Mälaren and the standout Stockholm City Hall to the islet of Riddarholmen and the emblematic Gamla Stan, you can see all the best parts of Stockholm from this single small path

Spending a few hours at Gröna Lund is one of the most fun Stockholm activities there is. Hidden away on the island of Djurgården, Gröna Lund is the oldest amusement park in Sweden. It first opened in 1883, although you’d never know it! The park is filled with family-friendly attractions that are just as modern as any other theme park.

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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• 40+ Fun Things to Do (as a Tourist) in Stockholm
• See & Do

Looking for things to do as a tourist in Stockholm? Whether you’re a culture seeker, nature lover, foodie, or traveling with the kids, you’ll find that this beautiful capital city has a broad selection of sightseeing options and attractions for your Nordic adventure.

• Feed Your Senses at Stortorget
• Hop-on Hop-off with RED Sightseeing
• The easiest way to discover Stockholm
• Go Dragon Hunting at the Great Church
• Museum Hop at The Royal Palace
• Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Järnpojke
• Watch the Sun Set at Monteliusvägen
• Fotografiska: No Ordinary Museum
• Skeppsholmen
• Immerse Yourself in Modern Art, Architecture and Design
• Discover the culinary Stockholm with Moveat
• The city's most delicious activity
• Skansen: Living Scandinavian History
• ABBA The Museum: Pop Back to the 70's
• Vasa Museum: Maritime Time Machine
• It’s Child’s Play at Junibacken
• Have a Farm-to-Table Lunch at Rosendals Garden
• Get a Shot of Adrenaline at Gröna Lund
• Enjoy an evening of mini-golf, food and drinks at Swing by Golfbaren
• A unique minigolf experience in central Stockholm
• Stroll Along Strandvägen
• Brunch While Cruising the Archipelago
• Bergius Botanic Garden
• Norrmalm / City
• Mid-Century Metro
• Opera Anyone?
• Get Classy at the Stockholm Concert Hall
• Kungsholmen
• Swim at Råmlambshov Park
• Hunt for Sculptures at Stockholm City Hall
• Ramble Around Royalty at Drottningholm Castle
• Build Your Stockholm Itinerary

S tockholm is located on Sweden’s southeast coast, built on an archipelago of fourteen islands where freshwater Lake Mälaren meets with the Baltic sea. Let’s explore some of Stockholm’s islands and districts to discover activities to fill your vacation itinerary.

We’ll start with the most iconic district in Stockholm…

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Gamla Stan , (‘Old Town Stockholm’) is located on the island of Stadsholmen (and officially Riddarholmen, Helgeandsholmen, and Strömsborg) in central Stockholm.

At Stortorget , (‘Grand Square’) and throughout the entire island, your eyes will enjoy exploring the architecture of the iconic colorful old buildings while your taste buds savor a bite from one of the many cafés . If you’re looking for souvenirs, you’ll find some quality shops here too.

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Your guide to the best activities in Stockholm

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Things to do on Skeppsholmen

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Stockholm   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Domingo Leiva | Getty Images

8 Best Things To Do in Stockholm

Updated May. 8, 2023

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

• All Things To Do

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

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

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

Djurgården Djurgården free

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

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

Monteliusvagen Monteliusvagen free

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

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

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Vasa Museum Vasa Museum

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

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

Skansen Skansen

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

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

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

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

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

Fotografiska Fotografiska

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

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

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

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

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

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Stockholm

Stockholm is loaded with things to do, but there are certain must-see attractions that should definitely be on your list of activities when visiting the Swedish capital.

Abba: the musuem.

It’s the number one attraction in Stockholm and for good reason: not only is the interactive ABBA section wildly fun and informative, the Swedish Music Hall of Fame is in the same building (and included in your ticket price) and is in and of itself beautifully presented. ABBA was intimately involved in conceptualising the entire thing, and it shows.

>> Get your tickets to a private tour right here!

Vasa Museum

It was called the mightiest warship of its time, and set sail in front of hundreds of people from Stockholm harbour – then sank less than 30 minutes later. And there it lay for more than 300 years, finally being raised in the mid-20th century in what became a world-renowned salvage operation.

>> The museum where it sits today is a fascinating look into Swedish history and is a must book!

The Royal Palace

Stockholm’s Royal Palace is the official residence of His Majesty the King, but also houses a number of excellent attractions open to the public, such as the Royal Apartments, the Royal Treasury and the Museum of Antiquities. It’s a great place to spend the day (be sure to catch the changing of the guard) before heading over to Gamla Stan (The Old Town) next door.

>> Make sure to learn all about it on this private tour!

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With more than 150 buildings – homes, churches, schools, shops and workshops – transported from around the country, Skansen is a miniature historical Sweden. In addition to the buildings, the world’s first open-air museum also has native animals such as bears, wolves and seals, a children’s zoo and craftspeople creating items such as blown glass and pottery on-site. This is one for the whole family, with plenty of activities to hold everyone’s attention for the entire day.

Stockholm’s amusement park overlooks the water. It is not just filled with the usual rides and games, it also has a number of great restaurants and bars and hosts a series of summer concerts that attract top international acts. Be warned, though: these shows are incredibly popular, so plan ahead.

One of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, Stockholm’s Gamla Stan is filled with award-winning restaurants, cafés, bars, shops and a number of fantastic museums. The cobblestoned streets are pedestrian friendly and there you’ll find both the oldest street in Stockholm (Köpmangatan), and the narrowest (Mårten Trotzigs Gränd).

>> Explore this immaculate part of the city on this walking tour!

Moderna Museet

Located on the incredible island of Skeppsholmen, Moderna is home to an excellent collection of Swedish (and international) modern and contemporary art – think Picasso and Giacometti. It also hosts numerous exhibitions, such as the recent visit by celebrated performance artist Marina Abramović. Several excellent restaurants and an absolutely amazing gift shop round out the offering.

Fotografiska Museet

Since the moment it was opened by Annie Leibovitz in 2010, Stockholm’s Photography Museum has been a wildly popular attraction in the city. Each year, four major exhibitions are staged, complemented by around 20 smaller ones. The café on the top floor offers spectacular views across the water to Djurgården , and the gift shop is a treasure trove.

Revisit your childhood at Junibacken, which takes you into the world of Astrid Lindgren, Sweden’s world-renowned children’s author. Pippi Longstocking is of course an integral part of the museum, but you’ll also meet Emil, Karlsson on the Roof, The Brothers Lionhearted and many more. The Story Train exhibitions were designed by the Royal Dramatic Theatre, the bookshop is extremely well stocked and the restaurant offers not just great traditional Swedish food, but also killer views.

>> Make sure to take your family on this family friendly tour!

Spritmuseum

The Museum of Spirits isn’t focussed on ghosts, it’s focused on booze. Housed in Stockholm’s only two remaining 18th-century naval buildings, the museum looks at Sweden’s complicated history and relationship with alcohol. Sponsored by Absolut, the museum is home to the vodka-maker’s best-known art works, as well as different experiences, such as a room where you can experience what it feels like to be drunk. Unsurprisingly there’s a bar on the premises – and a very good restaurant.

Stadshus (City Hall) is one of the most famous buildings in the city and is the seat of Stockholm’s government. It’s also where the annual Nobel Dinner is held, and offers an absolutely fascinating tour which gives you the history of not just the building, but of Stockholm as well. A small café abuts the grounds and you can even swim in the waters that lap up against it.

>> Make sure to see City Hall and other major attractions on this tour!

Taking up nearly a third of the city’s real estate, Kungliga Djurgården (the Royal Game Park) is home to Stockholm’s top attractions, but is also a massive green oasis where city dwellers walk, run, bike and generally feed their need for nature. There are a number of excellent restaurants and cafés where you can rest before wandering the island a bit longer, or visiting yet another great attraction.

>> Make sure you see the best of Djurgården on this cruise.

Prins Eugens Waldemarsudde

Originally the home of Prince Eugen, the building and grounds were deeded to the state upon his death in 1947. Prince Eugen was one of Sweden’s best-known landscape painters, and the museum (which is among the most visited in Sweden) houses many of his most renowned works, along with much of his collection. Temporary exhibitions are regularly staged in this spectacular building designed by renowned architect Ferdinand Boberg.

Royal Swedish Opera

The premier stage for opera in Sweden since 1773, Kungliga Operan offers not just the chance to see top-level talent, you can also tour the premises. The tour takes you backstage into the royal rooms, and gives a peek into the orchestra pit, as well as a thorough history of the building, which is fascinating in itself.

>> Sightsee past the opera on a golf cart , a unique experience in Stockholm

You’ll experience the best views in town from heart-stopping heights when you ride to the top of the world’s largest spherical building, Globe, in a glass gondola. The trip takes about 30 minutes and at the top you’ll take in 360-degree views of the city. Globe is home to some great shops and restaurants, and is one of the premier event venues in Stockholm.

Nobelmuseet

The Nobel Prizes are arguably the most prestigious awards in the world. This museum not only gives you the history of the prizes, but also hosts numerous exhibitions focussing on subjects related to the various prize categories and the ceremony itself. But don’t think it’s all seriousness and science – recent exhibitions have looked at Nobel fashion and artists considering the Dalai Lama.

The Stockolm archipelago

The Stockholm archipelago is home to more than 30,000 islands that range from the lively sophistication of Sandhamn to the remote wildness of Möja. Whether you choose a day trip to one island, or island-hop for a weekend, there is no doubt you’ll come away somehow transformed by the beauty around every corner.

>> Take a small group tour and see everything the archipelago has to offer!

Army Museum

This one is for history buffs. The Army Museum takes you through Swedish history dating from 1500 to the present day. Looking at both wartime and peace, the three floors are filled with an astounding number of historical objects and trophies, as well as staged scenes and the Raoul Wallenberg Room, which looks at the man who saved tens of thousands of people from the Nazis.

Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral)

Built in 1279, Storkyrkanis a medieval church that is home to the legendary Vädersolstavlan, as well as numerous other unique objects. Regular religious services are held here, and it’s the go-to church for royal weddings, funerals for prominent citizens and those always-popular royal baptisms.

>> For a respectful and religious visit, make sure you arrange with this group!

Tekniska Museet

The National Museum of Science and Technology is Sweden’s biggest museum of technology and is devoted to allowing both kids and adults see, feel, touch and understand technology through interactive exhibitions. With everything from space and energy to the environment and the digital world coming under the microscope, this museum is enormous, good fun and wildly informative.

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The 10 Most Popular Places to Visit in Stockholm

Stockholm is a city with many tourist attractions and must-see places . If you travel to Stockholm for a few days you will have plenty of time to visit the ten most important places that in my opinion are the following …

1. The Vasa Museum

The warship Vasa sank the day it sailed in 1628. It was rescued in 1961, 333 years later. In the Vasa Museum you can admire it in all its splendor. There are guided tours available in English and you can visit Vasa Museum for free if you own a Stockholm Pass tourist card .

The Vasa Museum is located on the island of Djurgården where you also find other impressive museums in Stockholm such as the Nordiska Museet, Vikingaliv the Viking Museum, or Spritmuseum, the museum of liquor and spirits.

2. The Skansen Open-Air Museum

Skansen is the oldest open-air museum in the world. Its regional museum features old houses from different periods and regions in Sweden and Scandinavia. Skansen also includes a zoo with Nordic animals, both wild and domestic, concerts and craftmanship and a center for celebrations and traditional festivities. Some years depending on the tourist card provider free visit to Skansen is included if you buy the Go City Card . You need to check it in advance.

3. Gamla Stan, The Old Town

Gamla stan is the historic center of Stockholm with narrow cobbled stoned streets. The most famous alley, Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, is only 90 centimeters wide. Small shops and unique restaurants, some located in old jails, are very popular. In my guide to see Stockholm in 3 days I dedicate one of them to visit Gamla Stan.

4. The Royal Palace – Kungliga Slottet

The Royal Palace of Stockholm is the official residence of His Majesty the King of Sweden is one of the largest palaces in Europe. Certain parts of the palace are accessible to tourists. Every day at 15 minutes past noon you can see the changing of the guard. You can visit the Royal Palace buying your ticket there or for free with the Stockholm Pass.

5. Stockholm City Hall – Stadshuset

Stockholm City Hall is the place where the administrative part of the Swedish capital is present and also where the famous Nobel Prize banquet is held. You can take a 45-minute guided tour of the City Hall. Throughout the year they are done in English and in summer also sometimes in Spanish. The tower bell is also available for visits.

6. The Museum of Modern Arts – Moderna museet

The building that houses the Moderna Museet was designed by the famous Spanish architect Rafael Moneo. The museum features a beautiful collection of modern art in Europe. There are guided visits in English all year round. Here you can also find the architecture and design museum called ArkDes.

7. The Museum of Photography – Fotografiska

Fotografiska , located on the island of Södermalm next to the docks of the large cruises that sail the Baltic, is not a normal photography museum. It is an international meeting point where everything revolves around photography. With more than 2,500 m2, it hosts four large exhibitions annually and between 15 and 20 smaller ones. Each year it attracts more than 500,000 visitors. Oh, do not miss out on its breathtaking views of the city from the restaurant’s picture windows!

8. Gröna Lund Amusement Park

Gröna Lund is a historic amusement park located on the island of Kungliga Djurgården, next to Skansen. You can enjoy its roller coasters, tivoli and attractions for adults and children. During summer time there are also a lot of concerts.

9. ABBA The Museum

ABBA The Museum opened back in 2013 and is one of my favorite museums in Stockholm. The museum hosts everything related to the most successful music band in Sweden of all times who also contributed significantly to the international expansion of pop music. In three words: a must see! In the same building you have the Swedish Music Hall of Fame where you can learn in detail about a large number of Swedish present a past musicians and bands.

Do not forget that in order to visit ABBA The Museum you need to book your ticket online and schedule a visit . Once inside you can stay for as long as you wish.

10. The Archipelago

From the nearby Fjäderholmarna islands, 30 minutes by boat from the city center, to the most distant islands among the nearly 30,000 that populate the Baltic waters at Lake Mälaren estuary. Islands with life, islands with nothing. Choose one and dedicate a day of your holidays taking one of the  many boat tours available or choose several islands and travel for five days from island to island.

Anyway, your visit to Stockholm is not complete without going through the archipelago.

Remember that many of these museums and attractions are accessible by buying the Stockholm Pass tourist card . If you are looking for more activities to do in Stockholm you may also be interested in what to do for free in Stockholm, including visiting these 15 free museums .

Here is also a guide to save money on your trip to Stockholm that lists many tips to keep in mind.

Regarding the ten most popular places to see in the city, did you visit any of these places during your stay in Stockholm? Do you have other places that you think should have made it to this list?

If you have any other questions or questions about your trip, leave me a comment and I’ll help you prepare it.

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67 Fun Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden

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Sweden’s capital city, Stockholm, is a great destination for a city break. It is a fairly small city but is spread over numerous interconnected islands and is an easy city to get around. Its nightlife is always lively and the city has lots of good pubs, clubs and live music venues.

It has fascinating museums and attractions, many of which have free admission, including a 17th-century shipwreck, Viking treasures and royal parks, castles and palaces. Just outside the city, you will find plenty of opportunities to hike, spot wildlife or take a kayaking trip. The natural beauty of the Swedish countryside is right on your doorstep.

Ever since it was founded in the 1200s, the city has been a political and cultural powerhouse, and with each passing year, it offers more adventures for travelers of every type to embrace.

Whether you’re celebrating some disco icons or soaking up the ambience of some magnificent forests, you’ll see the country in a whole new way.

Why not try these fun things to do in Stockholm , Sweden.

1 – Explore uninhabited islands on a kayaking trip

Why not try a two or four-day kayaking trip either with a guide or self-guided. Explore uninhabited islands at your leisure and stop wherever you feel like. For longer trips camping and cooking equipment are included. Get to know the wilderness just outside the city and have a real Swedish adventure.

The options for kayaking around Stockholm are almost endless. The city itself has many inlets and waterways and the larger Stockholm Archipelago includes over 20,000 islands, perfect for a multi-day trip .

• kayak tours in Stockholm

2 – See the Granbyhällen on a Viking History tour

Sweden’s most famous ancestors are by far the Vikings. Learn more about the country’s Viking heritage with a half-day tour through the Swedish countryside. Visit historic sites such as the ancient settlement of Granby home to the impressive granbyhällen runestone.

See a Viking causeway in Täby and walk among the mysterious standing stone circles. Visit the site of a Viking parliament and learn about their customs from a knowledgeable guide. This is an absolute must for history buffs!

• Viking history tours

3 – Visit the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is the home of Sweden’s Monarchy and plays regular host to the King’s official receptions. You can visit the palace year-round and visit the palace’s 600 rooms including the Royal Apartments and treasury.

The Royal Armouries has fascinating displays with over 30,000 royal artifacts including ceremonial weapons, armor and clothing as well as carriages and coaches. This is a fun thing to do in Stockholm.

• Royal Palace tours

4 – See the original city at Stockholm Old Town – Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan, literally meaning Old Town, is the original town center of Stockholm. It dates back to the 13th-century and its narrow cobbled streets and colorful medieval buildings are full of character.

Gamla Stan is a great place to go for nightlife with stylish restaurants, and a mixture of low-key pubs and fancy cocktail bars. You can find the Royal Palace, the original city square known as Stortorget and Parliament House all within a short distance of each other.

• Stockholm Old Town tours

5 – Learn the ropes on a sailing boat tour

For a really unique sightseeing experience why not try a sailing boat tour around the Stockholm Archipelago ? Take a full-day sailing tour around the islands. Get involved and help to steer and crew the ship under supervision from your skipper.

The trip includes drinks and a traditional Swedish lunch, a lesson on navigation and chart reading and the chance to stop at an uninhabited island to swim or explore.

• sailing tours in Stockholm

6 – Get in touch with nature at Rosendals Trädgård

A true oasis in the heart of the city, Rosendals Garden takes the organic food ideology to the next level!

When you sit down for a bite in the Garden Cafe, you’ll get more than just a good meal; you’ll become part of an incredible environmental experience that’s been 40 years in the making!

All of the ingredients for the food and beverages come straight from the surrounding farm, and during your time there, you can learn all about the fascinating biodynamic practices at play.

7 – Walk in royal footsteps at Drottningholm Palace

Drottningholm Palace dates from the 16th-century and is still home to Sweden’s Royal Family today. It is on UNESCO’s World Heritage list as a stunning example of the era’s architecture. The grounds are open to the public year-round and The Chinese Pavilion, Reception Halls and The Royal Chapel are all popular attractions.

The Chinese Pavilion also has a museum to the artist Evert Lundquist in the room that was his former studio. There is so much to see at Drottningholm Palace you could spend an entire day walking the grounds and taking in the ambiance.

• Drottningholm Palace tours

8 – Hike in Stockholm Nature Reserve

Just twenty minutes outside of the city center you can be in the unspoiled beauty of the Swedish countryside. The Stockholm Nature Reserve is a great place to hike, swim and spot wildlife, especially the local moose.

Try an eco-friendly, day-long guided tour and experience hiking, cooking over a campfire and the views of the lakes and forests. Learn about the area and culture from a local guide and see the best of the Stockholm countryside.

• hiking tours in Stockholm

9 – See a 17th-century warship at the Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s most popular attractions. It holds the remains of the Vasa warship which sank in Stockholm harbor in the year 1628, just minutes after setting out on its maiden voyage.

The ship was recovered almost intact in a mammoth operation between the mid-1950s and early 1960s. See the preserved ship along with artifacts salvaged from the harbor floor and discover its fascinating history at the Vasa Museum.

• Vasa Museum tickets & tours

10 – Treat yourself to some Candlelight Concerts

Live music is one of the great joys of life, and Stockholm has some excellent venues to choose from.

If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy these beautiful spaces, try out the Candlelight Concert Series!

This lovely set of performances has become a hit in cities across the world, including this Swedish metropolis.

Grab a seat and enjoy the lush sounds of professional symphonies, as they play everything from classical to Coldplay.

It’s a truly special and soothing experience!

• candlelight concerts in Stockholm

11 – See the whole city on a hop-on-hop-off bus and boat tours

Traveling the city by bus is one of the best ways to see the sights. On a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, you get to travel like a local and pass all the major attractions. In Stockholm, you will pass by The Royal Palace, Stockholm City Hall, Vasa Museum and Skansen Zoo.

Passes are available for single or three-day durations and visitors can ride as many times as they like within the period. Passes also give unlimited access to the local guided tour boats and free entrance into Grona Lund Amusement Park.

• Stockholm hop on hop off bus tours

12 – Sit and sip at Chokladkoppen

If you’re going to savor a cup of coffee, you might as well do it in a gorgeous cafe!

Chokladkoppen is one of the most beloved cafes in the city, with a picture-perfect location beside the Royal Palace.

Settle in and enjoy a wide variety of hot and cold beverages, along with sandwiches, snacks, and desserts.

And as you savor your treats, you can enjoy the ambience of the Old Town area, from its colorful buildings to its lively citizens.

13 – Explore Sweden’s oldest towns on a Sigtuna day trip

The town of Sigtuna is one of the oldest in Sweden. It was once an important trading center but was more or less forgotten in the last two centuries. It has once again been recognized for its medieval ruins and historic buildings.

A knowledgeable guide will relay the town’s history as you explore the medieval center, ancient churches and the old town hall. Afterward, visit Wenngarn Castle with its well-preserved Baroque chapel and the red-cabin village of Viby.

• Sigtuna tours

14 – Cruise the streets on a segway tour

Why not try a Segway tour for a really unique way to see Stockholm! Explore Sweden’s capital city on two wheels with these action-packed and informative tours. Your guide will show you around the most important local landmarks, such as The Nobel Museum, Royal Palace, Shipyard and City Hall.

This is not your regular sightseeing tour but an exhilarating new way to see the city. A segway tour is a really fun thing to do in Stockholm.

• segway tours in Stockholm

15 – Join a photography class at Fotografiska

Fotografiska exhibits the best in contemporary photography. The museum is located in a large industrial building and displays several shows simultaneously. The work on display is always changing at Fotografiska so you’re bound to see something new.

The museum has an award-winning restaurant that uses local, seasonal ingredients to create sustainable and tasty dishes. You can join photography classes and workshops and occasionally see live music here. Fotografiska is not to be missed!

• Fotografiska tickets

16 – Take a tour of Stockholm City Hall

The Stockholm City Hall is well worth a visit if you are in the city. The hall famously hosts the Nobel Prize banquet every year on the 10th of December. It is one of the country’s most iconic buildings with its famous 3-crowned spire, which is a national emblem of Sweden.

As well as containing offices for over 300 employees including the City Council the building has grand ceremonial halls to visit and unique works of art.

• Stockholm City Hall tours

17 – Step back in time at The Viking Museum

You shouldn’t miss The Viking Museum when in Stockholm. This lively exhibition is not your standard museum. With movies, scenery, projections and sound effects you will be brought into the world of the Vikings.

Experience a Viking raid first hand, learn about shipbuilding and everyday life on the farm. Take the Ragnfrid’s Saga ride for an immersive look at Europe in the Viking age. This is a fun thing to do in Stockholm for all the family!

• Viking Museum tickets

18 – Get lost in the stacks at the Stockholm Public Library

Amidst all of the sightseeing, take some time to read a book (or five) at the Stockholm Public Library .

With its unique architectural style and soaring shelves, it’s little wonder that this has been listed amongst the best libraries in the world!

Take some time to admire the splendid architecture, then pop inside and browse through the amazing inventory of books – over 2 million of them!

It’s an especially awesome spot for language nerds, with a vast array of works in Russian, Persian, Arabic, Spanish, and more.

19 – Feel the sea spray on a speedboat tour

An invigorating speedboat tour might be just what you need to awaken your senses. Put on your waterproofs and experience a high-speed tour of the city waterfront. Feel the spray on your face as you head out of the city to the waterways of the larger Stockholm Archipelago.

You will pass by the National Museum and circle around Prince Eugens Waldemarsudde’s museum. Race out past the island of Fjäderholmarnas to see the many small forested islands and their colorful cabins. This is a great experience on the Baltic Sea.

• speedboat tours in Stockholm

20 – Take a picnic to Djurgården

Djurgården is one of Stockholm’s most picturesque parks with forested areas, grassy meadows, harbors and many of the city’s finest museums and attractions. The park has been owned by the Swedish Royal Family for over 400 years.

It is the most popular place to go for locals looking for some fresh air and nature in the city. You can take one of the blue heritage trams on the Djurgården line and find plenty of scenic spots to hike or picnic in this expansive city park.

• Djurgarden tours

21 – Go on an eco-friendly bike tour

Taking a cycling adventure around the city is a great way to explore. Stockholm has to be one of the most bike-friendly cities in Europe with up to 760 km of cycle paths throughout the urban area.

There are many options for bike rentals locally with electric bikes and wooden bikes being some of the most popular. You can jump on one of the regular tours and get a guided trip around the major landmarks.

• bike tours in Stockholm

22 – Get an epic view of the city on a hot air balloon ride

A hot air balloon ride is a fantastic way to get a new perspective on Sweden’s capital. Balloon rides run throughout the summer months and give passengers the chance to float high above the city steered by the breezes.

Spend some time chatting to the crew beforehand and help to prepare the balloon for flight. Take to the sky and see far into the distance over the city, its buildings and the many small islands and skerries.

• hot air balloon in Stockholm

23 – Learn about the indigenous Sami at the Nordic Museum (Nordiska Museet)

The Nordic Museum covers the story of life and traditions in the Nordic countries dating from the 1600s onwards. There is a permanent exhibition devoted to the indigenous Nordic people — the Sami.

The museum tells the story of its people through everyday objects like furniture, clothing, textiles, glass and porcelain. It’s a fascinating look into the history of the Nordic cultures.

24 – Try modern Swedish dishes on a food tour

Are you curious to learn more about Swedish food?  A food tour is an ideal way to taste some authentic and modern Swedish dishes. Try traditional staples like smoked reindeer and cured elk. Taste fresh local seafood and contemporary meatball dishes.

Join an intimate group for a walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Try a rich and warming chocolate drink and a traditional Swedish “Fika” — after-meal coffee and sweet treat. You will visit Östermalms Saluhall, home to some of the best dining in the city.

• food tours in Stockholm

25 – Go shopping in Södermalm

Södermalm, or Söder as it’s known locally, is the hip and trendy place to be in Stockholm. If you like a mixture of independent boutiques, vintage stores, cozy coffee shops and small cafes then Södermalm is for you.

Götgatan is the main street and is a great place to begin. The area has many bars and venues playing all kinds of live music from punk to jazz to electronic. It is also home to the Fotografiska Photography Museum. Visit Söder to get to know the modern face of Stockholm.

• Södermalm tours

26 – Get an adrenaline boost with Indoor Wingsuit Stockholm

If you’re looking for a fun activity to try in Stockholm look no further! Indoor Wingsuit gives you the ability to fly in a controlled safe environment. The wingsuit allows you to float suspended on air in a specially designed wind tunnel.

Indoor Wingsuit gives the experience of skydiving without the danger. It is the first and only facility of its type in the world and also offers a virtual reality skydive experience. See how it feels to really fly.

27 – Search for Elk on a wildlife safari

Stockholm is only a stone’s throw from some outstanding countryside. Why not venture out on a wildlife safari and see the quieter side of Swedish life. Take an adventure into the deep forest in search of elk, wild boar, hares, deer and birds.

Take a short hike through the woodland passing ancient Viking sites in search of the area’s most elusive creatures. A sunset tour gives the best opportunity to see many of these creatures and makes for an unforgettable experience.

• wildlife safari in Stockholm

28 – Visit a Queen’s fairytale palace at The Chinese Pavillion

The Chinese Pavilion is located on the grounds of Drottningholm Palace Park. It was commissioned as a birthday surprise for Queen Lovisa Ulrika by King Adolf Fredrik in 1753. This was a time when all things Chinese were particularly fashionable in Europe and the pavilion must have seemed very exotic.

The inside of the pavilion contains Chinese-inspired furniture and genuine imported objects. Items displayed include silk and paper wall coverings, lacquered screens, stained glass and ceramics.

Directions on Google Maps

29 – Take a sightseeing boat tour

Like the hop-on-hop-off bus, the sightseeing boats can be used as often as you like in a single day. Travel between Stockholm’s many islands and listen to the audio tour while on board.

Take in the important landmarks from the waterfront and enjoy a leisurely boat ride at the same time. This is a fun thing to do in Stockholm.

• boat tours in Stockholm

30 – See the extravagant Hallwyl Museum

The Hallwyl Museum is like stepping into a time machine. It is the preserved former home of one of Sweden’s wealthiest couples. The house was built in the late 1800s in a Mediterranean palazzo style. It was constructed using the finest materials and fittings and is lavishly decorated.

The house cost an enormous sum of money and was designed by Isak Gustaf Clason, the most renowned architect in Sweden. Visit the Hallwyl museum and see how some of the country’s wealthiest socialites lived.

31 – Learn some ice skating moves like a local

Enjoy the winter scenery in Stockholm by ice skating, with Nordic skates and equipment – on natural ice! One of the most iconic skating locations is the Kungsträdgården (King’s Garden) park in the heart of the city, which transformed into an ice rink in winter.

If that’s not enough, you can also go ice skating in Lake Mälaren, one of the largest lakes in Europe, or on the Baltic Sea!

• ice skating in Stockholm

32 – Check out the views at Monteliusvagen

If you like to explore on foot you can hike up to Monteliusvagen for some of the best views around. The viewpoint is along a quarter-mile walkway that culminates in fantastic views of Gamla Stan, Riddarholmen and The City Hall.

A dawn or sunset trip is recommended for stunning photo opportunities.

33 – Meet Pippi at Junibacken

Junibacken aims to create magical shared experiences and ignite children’s passion to read. It is a sort of interactive museum with theatre, singing, dancing and experiences based on scenes from children’s books.

Many come from the writing of Astrid Lindgren and introduce characters like Pippi Longstocking and Katla the dragon. Take the story train ride and experience a magical world directly from the pages of these beloved children’s books.

• Junibacken tickets

34 – Step into a Viking village at Birka

A visit to Birka allows you to step inside a genuine Viking Village. The area is a historic site dating back over 1000 years. It has recreation Viking houses and buildings so you can see how the area would have looked in the time of the Nordic warriors.

Visit the Birka Museum and learn the stories of the people who lived and died here with photographs and reconstructions of their clothes and the items they were buried with. There is a lot to see and do here so plan a whole day.

• Birka Viking City tours

35 – Ride the Monster at Gröna Lund

If you’re in the mood for some hair-raising fun while visiting Stockholm, Gröna Lund should be your first stop. This city amusement park has a bunch of white-knuckle rides including its newest roller-coaster, Monster! Plunge from 34 meters at speeds of 90 km/h while rotating upside down. This is not for the faint of heart!

The park has classic roller-coasters, free-fall rides, elevated swings, haunted houses and rides for smaller children. Gröna Lund is fun for the whole family.

36 – Take a photo of the city at Riddarholmen

Riddarholmen is an islet connected to Gamla Stan in the ancient part of the city. There are a number of palaces that previously belonged to the Swedish nobility but now are legal offices and courts.

The Islet is also home to the Old Parliament building, Old National archive which was in use until 1968. You can grab a great view of the city from the west side of the islet over the Riddarfjärden.

• walking tours in Stockholm

37 – Hang out in Kungsträdgården

The King’s Garden, or Kungsträdgården , is a popular hangout for locals in the city. It has a number of cafes and hosts live music events throughout the summer and ice skating in the winter.

Kungsträdgården has a number of statues, fountains and through the summer months, flower displays. It is a great place to sit and relax in the center of the city and is near to the Royal Swedish Opera, Saint James’s Church and Stockholm’s Old Town.

38 – Sleuth with a purpose with some scavenger games

If you’ve ever wanted to star in your own version of National Treasure, now’s your chance!

Scavenger games offer some innovative ways to learn about the city, as you hunt for clues and solve puzzles that reveal fresh insights.

Explore the medieval designs of Old Town, including some of its more fantastical elements.

Or head out in the evening for a spooky excursion, exploring the unique neighborhoods and learning about the legendary haunts of the capital.

Just keep an eye out for ghosts!

• scavenger games in Stockholm

39 – Live the music at ABBA The Museum

The ABBA Museum is one of the most fun things to do in Stockholm. It is so much more than an exhibition of ABBA-related memorabilia. The museum is an interactive experience that allows visitors to try on virtual costumes, sing, play and remix the group’s songs as they wish.

Take a virtual reality experience to feel what it is like to perform on stage and listen to an audio guide narrated by the band themselves.

• ABBA The Museum tickets

40 – See the kings’ tombs at Riddarholmen Church

Riddarholmen Church has been the burial place of almost all of Sweden’s monarchs since the 17th century.  Parts of the church date back to the 13th century when it was used as a monastery.

In the chancel, you can see the tombs of two medieval kings. one of which is Magnus Ladulås (Magnus III) who died in 1290 and was the first King to be buried here. The church contains a wooden sculpture of Christ that dates back to the 1400s.

41 – Take a deeper look at alcohol in the Museum of Spirits

The Spirit Museum is a celebration of Sweden’s relationship with alcohol. It has lots of information on the production of alcohol as well as tasting rooms, a bar, restaurant, cafe and a shop.

It also has regular exhibits focusing on the cultural connections we have with alcohol and how, for better or worse, it influences us. The museum houses the Absolut Art Collection which includes 900 artifacts based on the design of Absolut Vodka bottles.

• Museum of Spirits tickets

42 – Visit the Museum of Modern Art at Skeppsholmen

The Island of Skeppsholmen is at Stockholm’s entryway to the Baltic sea. It has a number of cultural institutions including Teater Galeasen, the architectural museum and the East Asian Museum. It also hosts the yearly Stockholm Jazz Festival.

Stockholm’s Museum of Modern Art is located on Skeppsholmen with a collection comprising over 130,000 works in various media and a huge photography archive. A visit to this inspirational space is a must for art lovers.

43 – Try some of the weird, wonderful restaurants

From Michelin-starred luxury to casual fare, there are excellent meals in the capital for every palate and budget.

Savor delicacies like slow-marinated pork and Rubik’s Cube-style desserts at Frantzen , or tuck into a Swedish classic at Meatballs for the People , which offers unique flavors like rooster and reindeer.

Enjoy a specially curated menu and contemporary surroundings at Haktet , or enjoy the innovative environment at Punk Royale , which features a specially curated menu, smoke machines, and LEGO sets for every table.

In this town, every bite is an adventure!

44 – See the picturesque Waldemarsudde Museum

The Waldemarsudde is an art museum located in the impressive former home of Prince Eugen. Within the grounds, there is a castle and separate gallery built in the early 1900s and an older manor house and oil mill from the 1780s.

As well as the Prince’s private collection of early 19th century paintings, you can visit the mansion’s private apartments and temporary exhibitions on the top two floors. The gardens are especially nice to visit in the summer months.

45 – Take a day trip to Uppsala

The city of Uppsala is only 40 miles north of Stockholm. It has traditionally been the religious center of the country and is home to its largest cathedral. The imposing Uppsala Cathedral was built mostly between the 13th and 15th centuries and features frescoes and decorations from the period.

Other fun things to do in Uppsala include visiting its centuries-old botanical gardens and university buildings, Uppsala Castle and the artist Bror Hjorth’s house.

• Uppsala tours

46 – Discover Stockholm’s “Venice of the North” on a stand-up paddleboard

Explore the city’s picturesque waterways on a self-guided stand-up paddleboarding tour. Get a quick introduction and all equipment needed for your adventure. Popular paddleboarding routes in Stockholm include exploring the Djurgården Canal, which takes you past iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and the Vasa Museum.

You can also paddle around the charming island of Södermalm, known for its trendy shops, cafes, and historic neighborhoods.

47 – Visit ancient Stockholm at the Medieval Museum

The Medieval Museum came into existence when a huge area was excavated for building works in the late 1970s. The exhibitions include a large section of the town wall from the 16th-century, a medieval graveyard and a warship which were all buried on the land.

It contains large-scale replicas of buildings from the era with furniture, clothes, weapons and a set of gallows. The Medieval Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday and admission is free.

48 – Get spooked on a Stockholm ghost tour

With an abundance of ancient sites, it’s no wonder that Stockholm has its share of ghost stories. Take a spooky walking tour of the cities oldest streets and learn the macabre history and practices of its people.

Learn about the supernatural creatures known as vaesen and the ancient undead creatures that crawl the city streets at night. Hear accounts of murder and execution and visit the part of the city once known as “Hell”. This is not for the squeamish!

• ghost tours in Stockholm

49 –  Have fun with technology at Tom Tits Experiment

Tom Tits Experiment is the place where science and technology are fun! Suitable for kids of all ages and adults, It has four floors and an outdoor space full of interactive experiments to try.

Tom Tits Experiment encourages kids to embrace learning with hands-on experience. Children can experience a giant yo-yo, optical illusions, light and shadow experiments and noisy musical equipment. This is a fun thing to do in Stockholm!

• Tom Tits Experiment tickets

50 – See the magnificent Skokloster Castle

Skokloster Castle is one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. It was built by wealthy aristocrat Carl Gustaf Wrangel in the mid-17th century, who died before it was completed. It was purchased by the Swedish Government in 1967 and became a museum.

It houses a fascinating collection and contains many of the original artifacts belonging to Wrangel. These include art and antiques, armor, exotic weapons, an Eskimo canoe and snake skins among other items.

51 – See the great artworks of the Nationalmuseum

The Nationalmuseum is the national gallery of Sweden and contains works from the late medieval period up to the present day. It has over 16,000 paintings and sculptures with works by Rembrandt, Goya, Renoir and Degas.

Its collection of prints and drawings numbers over 500,000 with works by Edouard Manet, Johan Tobias Sergel and Carl Larsson. Admission to its permanent collections is free.

52 – Take a stroll through Hagaparken

Haga Park is another of Stockholm’s huge outdoor public parks. It is built in the English style with extensive meadows and forested areas. It was a project of King Gustav III who commissioned the construction of some of its most famous landmarks.

The Chinese Pavillion, Temple of the Echo, Turkish Kiosk and the Copper Tents were all constructed in the late 1700s at the King’s request. Within the park is Haga Palace which is home to Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden.

53 – Visit the iconic Gripsholm Castle

Gripsholm Castle was built in the 1500s for King Gustav I. It is considered a national monument as well as a museum. The Castle has a large Hall of State with full-length portraits of King Gustav and a well-preserved 16th-century stateroom.

The Castle has been home to the national portrait gallery since 1822. Though it is a museum it is still a Crown Palace and available residence for the King.

54 – Get a chocolate medal at the Nobel Prize Museum

The Nobel Prize Museum contains information and artifacts related to Winners of the Nobel Prize and its creator Alfred Nobel. Previous Nobel Laureates have included Marie Curie, Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela.

The Museum aims to promote interest in the natural sciences through learning and promote the ideas that best benefit humankind. It also has a restaurant and gift shop.

55 – Try windsurfing

With its extensive calm waterways and wide-open spaces, Stockholm has a great environment for windsurfing. You don’t even have to leave the city to try this favorite old-school watersport.

Take an introductory lesson to learn the basics, using a board and sail tailored to your body size. These beginners lessons are suitable for anyone even if you’ve never stepped foot on a board before.

• windsurfing in Stockholm

56 – Take a deep dive into history at The Swedish History Museum

The Swedish History Museum is another of Stockholm’s fascinating institutions. It takes a personal look into the history of the Swedish people from the Ice Age to the present day. Its vast collection includes 10 million objects from 10,000 years of human society.

There are Viking age treasures and relics, armor, medieval art and less tangible relics such as the Norse Myths and sagas that formed the people. This is a really fun place to visit in Stockholm!

57 – See a live show at Avicii Arena

Avicii Arena hosts all the biggest events in the city. It is the largest spherical building in the world and over the last 30 years has hosted artists such as Metallica, Whitney Houston and a speech by Nelson Mandela.

You can also visit in the daytime and ride the Skyview elevator to the top of the domed arena. This gives some of the best unobstructed views of the entire city.

58 – Witness the past come to life at Skansen

Skansen is an open-air museum and zoo on the island of Djurgården. It exhibits the traditional ways of life in Sweden before the Industrial Age. It shows how life on the farm changed with the seasons and a look into the customs, celebrations and everyday life of by-gone times.

There is plenty to see at Skansen including a zoo with native and exotic creatures, a working farmstead and a kitchen garden.

• Skansen tickets

59 – Admire the art on the subway

Sure, underground art scenes are great… but what about when the works themselves are literally underground?

The capital is known for its hyper-creative subway stations, with 14 stops around the city featuring a variety of jaw-dropping murals.

The whole collection of works has been called “The world’s longest art exhibit”, and it offers a wonderful perspective on the evolution of creative forms in Sweden.

So as you’re heading to your next adventure, take some time to enjoy this unorthodox, multi-part gallery!

60 – See a rock that is older than the Earth at the Museum of Natural History

Stockholm’s Museum of Natural History has a variety of fun activities to keep you entertained. It has exhibitions on Swedish wildlife, human history, fossils, Giant Squid and even the skeleton of a Blue Whale. It also contains a granite meteorite that is even older than our planet.

Inside the museum, you can find the Cosmonova IMAX Dome which plays a variety of nature-inspired documentary films. The exhibitions are free when you book a ticket online.

61 – Watch a football match at Tele2 Arena

Tele2 Arena is the home stadium of local teams Hammarby IF and Djurgården IF. The retractable-roofed arena has seats for 40,000 spectators and is most often used for football matches and concerts.

It hosts a variety of one-off sporting events including mixed martial arts, bandy and motorsport. The biggest music acts from around the world have performed here including Paul McCartney, Madonna and Rhianna.

62 – Visit the Stockholm Concert Hall

The Konserthuset has been the home of Sweden’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra since 1926 and also hosts the award ceremony for the Nobel prize.

Its blue-walled exterior and imposing size make it a striking landmark in Stockholm. In front of the Konserthuset is the bronze “Orpheus Well” fountain by Carl Milles.

63 – Control the Colour by Numbers Tower

We’ve all tried the color by numbers kits, using the palate guides to create fun, vibrant works of art.

But only in Stockholm can you try the experience with an entire building!

Colour by Numbers is a unique public art project that offers an awesome chance to be part of the creative process.

Using an app on your phone, you can help determine the patterns and colors of the lights filling the windows of the tower, resulting in a constantly evolving canvas that really brightens up an evening stroll.

64 – See ballet at the Royal Swedish Opera

The Royal Swedish Opera puts on both brand new works and well known classics. Its three main activities are opera and ballet and activities for children and young people.

It displays both classical ballet and contemporary dance and has a program aimed specifically at young people to get them involved in higher culture. Why not go along and see a performance.

65 – Dance the night away on a pub crawl

Stockholm’s Old town has some great pubs and bars to visit. Why not join an evening guided pub crawl and visit some favorite local drinking houses. Learn the dark and sordid history of the area from a knowledgeable guide.

Alternatively, If you are a beer connoisseur why not join a beer tasting event. Try various local craft ales and assorted Swedish snacks. This is a great introduction to the cities nightlife.

• pub crawls in Stockholm

66 – See it all with flair on the best rooftops

From the architecturally diverse skyline to the picturesque, twisting waterways, Stockholm’s an ideal place for some panoramic views – especially from a rooftop bar or restaurant!

Try the fusion cuisine at Sjöstaden Skybar , or the unique blend of Nordic and Japanese foods at Tak Stockhol .

Test-drive fun cocktails and unique bites at Naboterrassen , or indulge your inner sommelier at the Winery Hotel , which specializes in local blends.

Or try top-notch Korean food and beverages made with local ingredients at Arc at Blique by Nobis .

Meals, drinks, and killer scenery – it’s the perfect combo!

67 – Dive into the local nightlife

When you’re done eating, it’s time to drink and be merry!

The city’s bars and clubs are lively, fun-filled, and unique, making each night out a memorable one.

Check out the live music and dancing at Debaser, or party down amongst the Art Deco glamor of Berns.

Soak up some jazz and soul at Fasching , or get a little raucous at the spacious Colosseum, with its incredible 2,000-person capacity.

Whether you want to pull an all-nighter or just engage in a little post-dinner revelry, the capital’s got you covered!

How to get to Stockholm?

The city has two great airports to choose from: Skavsta and Arlanda.

With a transfer service , you can get straight to and from the city, without the hassle of navigating taxis or public transit.

And there are great options for every budget – you can take a bus or an economy car, or splurge on a nicer vehicle, complete with flowers and champagne!

Where to stay in Stockholm?

Sheraton Stockholm Hotel is right in the middle of Old Town, making excursions easy; but with its classy French restaurant, gym, and sauna, it’s a great place in its own right!

And music fans will love At Six , which is walking distance from the party scene of Stureplan, and also features plenty of live acts in its on-site lounge.

Radisson Blu Royal Viking Hotel has an excellent health center if you want to focus on fitness, and tons of shopping, transit, and cultural amenities when you feel ready to explore.

Meanwhile, Clarion Hotel Amaranten will fill you up with excellent Swedish food FIX, classy cocktails, and easy access to the metro station.

And at Connect Hotel City , you can split your time between the elegantly appointed bar and bistro, and the amazing stores and cultural centers that are just a short walk away – truly the best of both worlds!

• best hotels in Stockholm

Visiting Stockholm on a budget?

There are so many amazing things to do in Stockholm, and a free walking tour is a wonderful way to start exploring!

Dive into the rich history and culture of the area, and see everything from a new vantage point as you stroll through the streets.

Your guides will provide excellent insights and stories, so be sure to bring cash to tip them!

Where to go next?

With its incredible mix of the natural and the cultural, Stockholm has earned its stellar reputation; but it’s just one of the best places to visit in Europe !

And if you’re not sure where to start on your next adventure, check out some of the neighboring cities – and countries!

Kiruna showcases a totally different side of Sweden, with its outdoor excursions, rich Indigenous history, and gorgeous Arctic landscapes.

In Finland, Helsinki is bursting with charm, with plenty of museums, awesome buildings, and thrilling family-friendly attractions to explore.

And nearby Estonia offers up Tallinn , with its wonderfully preserved medieval history and gorgeous scenery.

In Denmark, you can enjoy all of the wonders of Copenhagen , from literary and artistic triumphs to beautiful seashores.

Or head to Norway and spend some time in Oslo , where you can walk in the footsteps of monarchs, wild animals, and even world-famous adventurers!

And if you’re looking for more adventures closer to Stockholm, check out some multi-day trips , including some amazing kayaking excursions along nearby archipelagos.

Final thoughts

As you explore the capital’s streets and waterways, you’ll be amazed at how many different adventures you can squeeze into a day!

But even if you prefer a slower vacation, you’ll find lots to enjoy, from cafes and bars to lovely neighborhoods full of Swedish charm.

So as you check out the wonderful things to do in Stockholm, take note: there will always be more to come back for!

Happy travels!

Top 13 Things to do in Stockholm (Sweden)

• Pinterest 1.0K

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Stockholm , then you’ve come to the right place. From taking a stroll through Gamla Stan, the city’s old town, to checking out the stunning architecture of renowned spots such as Stockholm City Hall and the Royal Palace, there are plenty of sights and activities to keep you entertained.

The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife scene and wide selection of bars and clubs. There are also plenty of green spaces throughout Stockholm , like Humlegården Park and Kungsträdgården, where visitors can relax after sightseeing.

For those looking for some culture, plenty of museums and art galleries around the city offer something for everyone. Whether it’s fashion , photography, or contemporary art you’re into, Stockholm has it all.

And last but not least, don’t forget to sample the local cuisine at one of Stockholm’s many restaurants – from traditional Swedish dishes such as herring and pickled salmon to more modern international flavors – there’s truly something here to satisfy every foodie! So explore what this beautiful city offers – you won’t be disappointed!

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Table of Contents

Experiences and top things to do in Stockholm

Stoll the cobbled street of gamla stan.

Gamla Stan, or the Old Town of Stockholm, is an old neighborhood and a perfect place for Stockholm sightseeing. It was founded in the 13th century. This medieval old town is one of the best-preserved ancient towns in Europe and one of the most famous Stockholm points of interest.

Walk on the narrow, charming cobbled street as you browse the antique buildings standing in the neighborhood. Gamla Stan is a haven full of mesmerizing museums , churches, shops, and cafes . As you enter the site, you will feel like you have stepped into a fairy tale world.

Some of the most notable buildings you can find here are the Nobel Museum and the Stockholm Cathedral, Sweden’s National Cathedral. Most of the buildings here were built using the North German architectural style. In the middle of Gamla Stan, you will find Stortorget, the oldest square in this capital city of Sweden .

It was the location of the dark part of Swedish history, The Stockholm Bloodbath, which happened in November 1520. In this sad event, King Christian II, the ruler of Denmark , ordered the killing of Swedish noblemen.

Where to stay in Stockholm? Find awesome deals and book your hotel here!

Book this unique experience: Stockholm City Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise with Guide

Have A Cruise on A Bus with Ocean Bus

Stockholm is a city built over several islands and islets, so small straits separate some of the neighborhoods in Stockholm. To give a unique experience for tourists who visit Stockholm and make it easier for them to tour around the city , a traveling company offers a tour in Stockholm using an amphibious bus.

The bus is designed to move on land and in the water and is named Ocean Bus. Ocean Bus Tour gives you a unique way to go to Stockholm sightseeing.

Feel the excitement as the bus enter the water. A funny yet informative guide will accompany you on this interesting tour in Stockholm. Ocean Bus Tour starts on Strömgatan, near the Royal Swedish Opera.

Book this unique experience: Stockholm Under the Bridges Boat Tour

Get High and check out Globentorget

Looking for something unique things to do in Stockholm? Then you have to go to the Ericsson Globe located in Globentorget. Ericsson Globe is the world’s most massive spherical building.

This Stockholm landmark is unique because two gondolas can take you to the top of the building and have a beautiful view of Stockholm from above. The gondola ride, called SkyView, departs every 10 minutes, and each trip takes 30 minutes to complete.

The top of the round building is about 130 meters above sea level, so you can have a significant scene in the city when you are on top. Skyview is, without a doubt, one of the best spots to go sightseeing in Stockholm.

• Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM, and Saturday and Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM
• Admission fee: Check here for updated prices.

Book this unique experience: Stockholm Winter Tour by Boat

Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!

I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!

• Booking.com  – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
• Airbnb  – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
• Skyscanner  – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
• SafetyWing  – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
• GetYourGuide  – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
• My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon)  – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
• Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon)  – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.

Go for a Fika!

A slang word for Café’s, fika is an absolute Swedish thing that means to go for a coffee to accompany a slice of cake or pastry and is one of the things to do in Stockholm you must not miss.

If you’re living in Sweden, you invite your friends for a ‘fika’ after work or during the weekends (or anytime, really) and as a tourist or traveler, you can do the same, as well so you can experience something very Swedish. Visit Stockholm wrote a really good guide on where to go for a fika in Stockholm!

Check it out and try some bullar with your kaffe in a nice coffee shop with an amazing atmosphere, and maybe you’ll also find some other great places to visit in Stockholm along the way. Read it here.

Book this unique experience: Stockholm Archipelago Winter Kayaking and Fika Experience

Top Landmarks and attractions in Stockholm

Meet the devil at the national library of stockholm.

If you go to the National Library in Stockholm, you will find that this library has a unique collection: the Codex Gigas. Codex Gigas is loosely translated as Giant Book, but it is more popularly known as The Devil’s Bible because the books contain a large picture of the devil.

This antique book was made in the Benedictine monastery of Podlažice in Bohemia ( Czech Republic ) during the 12th century. It was taken to Sweden in 1648 as war booty, and now the book is preserved in the National Library, Stockholm.

Unfortunately, the book is not being displayed at the moment as the library is making a new temperature-controlled room for the book. Nevertheless, the National Library is still worth your visit. The vast library is the home to many other antique manuscripts. It also has thousands of modern books in its collection.

If you are still curious about Codex Gigas, you can see the digitized version on the National Library website.

• Opening hours: Monday and Thursday from 9 AM to 7 PM. Fridays, 9 AM to 6 PM. Saturdays from 9 AM to 3 PM.
• Admission fee: Free

Book this unique experience: Stockholm Paradox Museum Admission Ticket

Visit The Nobel Museum

What to do in Stockholm? How about visiting a place inspired by ideas to change the world? Located in a former Stock Exchange building in Gamla Stan’s big square, The Nobel Museum has an impressive collection of information regarding the prestigious awards in the world.

The Nobel Museum, a notable Stockholm attraction, was built by great minds that aim to create valuable discussions and spread knowledge about natural sciences and culture through creative learning with exciting designs mixed with modern technology and interesting exhibitions.

• Opening hours & admission fee: Check here for the updated opening hours and admission fees

Book this unique experience: Stockholm Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 45+ Attractions

Go Back to The Golden Era of Disco-Pop and visit ABBA: The Museum

Swedish singers for decades have been successful in making their way to the top of international music scenes. Not only are they famous in Sweden, but their hits have been able to capture the hearts of music lovers all over the world. In the past, you must have heard Roxette, Ace of Base, Eagle Eye Cherry, and many more. More recent Swedish singers that have made their way to international success are Icona Pop, Avicii, and Zara Larsson.

However, the most significant Swedish musicians that have become music legends are none other than the ABBA group. Many of their singles are still popular until now. Dancing Queen, I Have A Dream, Mamma Mia, and much more are still often played nowadays.

To honor their great success, a museum dedicated to showcasing the band’s music and memorabilia was opened in May 2013. In ABBA: The Museum, you can take a picture with the wax figures of the band members. You can also see replicas of the studio where ABBA recorded their hits. If you are a fan of ABBA or pop music, going to ABBA: The Museum should be put in your what to do in the Stockholm list.

• Opening hours: Monday and Tuesday, 10 AM to 6 PM. Wednesday and Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM. Friday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM.
• Admission fee: Check here for updated prices

Book this unique experience: ABBA The Museum Entrance Ticket

Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?

Remember this:  anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!

The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with  SafetyWing  was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.

I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.

Read my post about  why you should get travel insurance  for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from  SafetyWing  – they’re the best, in my opinion.

Sail to The Past at Vasa Museum

Located in Galärvarvsvägen, one of the most famous places in Stockholm, the Vasa Museum. Vasa Museum’s interesting collection displays the history of maritime in Sweden. This museum opened in 1990 and is part of the Swedish National Maritime Museums.

The most iconic item that you can find in this Stockholm tourism highlight is the warship Vasa. It is a 17th-century warship that sank in 1628. It was not discovered until the 1950s, and in 1961 it was finally salvaged.

Four other ships have been turned into museum ships outside the museum, docked in the harbor. Those ships are the icebreaker Sankt Erik (launched in 1915), the light vessel Finngrundet (1903), the torpedo boat Spica (1966), and the rescue boat Bernhard Ingelsson (1944).

Vasa Museum opens every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, but it operates longer every Wednesday. On those days, the museum closes at 8 PM.

• Opening hours: Open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM

Book this unique experience: Stockholm Vasa Museum Entrance Ticket

Learn about Sweden at Skansen Open Air Museum

If you’re looking at some of the best activities in Stockholm, then make sure to head to Djurgården island, and you will see the world’s oldest open-air museum. Skansen Open Air Museum was first opened to the public on 11 October 1891. The museum’s founder, Artur Hazelius, wanted to showcase how people from different parts of Sweden lived before the Industrial Era.

Skansen stands on a large piece of land with a size of approximately 300,000 m². You can find replicas of houses and farmsteads from every single area of Sweden. Not only displaying buildings, but you can see craftsmen, such as silversmiths, tanners, bakers, glassblowers, and shoemakers, dressed in traditional outfits and performing their skills. You will feel like you have traveled back in time.

If you bring your kids here, they will enjoy their time in Skansen. There are plenty of exciting activities for kids available here. They can have a pony ride, visit the zoo, play with traditional toys, and many more. If you bring them here in the summer , they can try to do the chores that were usually done in the past.

• Opening hours: Open every day from 10 AM to 4 PM
• Admission fee: Check here for updated prices .

Book this unique experience: 1.5-Hour Ghost Walk and Historical Tour in Stockholm

What to eat and restaurants in Stockholm to try

Kannelbulle with your coffee for fika.

Kannelbulle, also known as a kanelbulle or cinnamon roll, is a popular treat in Sweden and a must-try when visiting Stockholm. These sweet pastries are made with a soft and fluffy dough rolled up with a generous amount of cinnamon and sugar and then baked to perfection. Kannelbullar is often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack and can be found at most bakeries and cafes throughout the city.

But what makes Kannelbulle so special? For one, they are incredibly delicious! The combination of the soft, fluffy dough and the warm, fragrant cinnamon filling is truly heavenly. They are also versatile and can be enjoyed independently or with a cup of coffee or tea. And let’s not forget that they are a beloved part of Swedish culture, with a long history dating back to the 19th century.

So why should you try Kannelbulle when you visit Stockholm? Simply put, it is a tasty and authentic way to experience the culture and cuisine of Sweden. Plus, who doesn’t love a good cinnamon roll? So be sure to add Kannelbulle to your list of must-try treats while in Stockholm.

Book this unique experience: The Nordic Food Walk in Stockholm

Toast Skagen

I’ve lived in Vaasa, a Swedish-speaking Finland area where traditions and cultures mirror the local’s ancestors from Sweden, and Toast Skagen is one of their favorites.

The same food culture can be found in its original founders – the Swedes enjoy this snack as much as the Finn-Swedes in Vaasa!

Toast Skagen is a toast (duh) topped with chopped prawns mixed with mayonnaise, dill, and lemon juice. Try it when you see in it one of the many trendy cafés in Stockholm!

Book this unique experience: Stockholm Food Tour

What are my favorite travel must-haves?

As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!

• Warm packable jacket  – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
• Transparent toiletry bag  – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
• Kindle Paperwhite  – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
• Powerbank  – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
• Travel Adapter  – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.

Swedish Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes and Lingonberry Jam

Swedish meatballs, or köttbullar, are a traditional dish popular in Sweden and a must-try when visiting Stockholm. These savory meatballs are made with a mixture of ground beef and pork and are flavored with a blend of spices such as allspice, nutmeg, and white pepper. They are then formed into small balls and cooked until tender and juicy. Swedish meatballs are typically served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, and gravy.

But what makes Swedish meatballs so special? For one, they are incredibly tasty and satisfying. Combining the savory meatballs with the tangy lingonberry jam and rich gravy is a flavor explosion that will satisfy your taste buds. They are also a beloved part of Swedish culture, with a long history dating back to the 18th century.

So why should you try Swedish meatballs when you visit Stockholm? Simply put, they are a delicious and authentic way to experience the culture and cuisine of Sweden. Plus, they are comfort food that will hit the spot, no matter what time of year you visit. So be sure to add Swedish meatballs to your list of must-try dishes while in Stockholm.

Have extra time? Visit other places near Stockholm!

Visit the royals at drottningholm palace.

What to see in Stockholm? Like some other European countries, Sweden is one of the few countries in the world with a reigning Monarch. And the lives of the Swedish Royal Family have become one of the leading tourist attractions in Stockholm. One place that you can go to if you want to know what it is like to be the king of Sweden during your trip to Stockholm is Drottningholm Palace.

Located in Drottningholm, on the island of Lovön, a part of Stockholm County, this palace is the private residence of the King’s family members. The original stone castle on this site was built in 1580 by John III of Sweden. It was rebuilt in 1662 after a fire incident in the previous year.

In the 19th century, this palace was abandoned. King Charles XIV John of Sweden at that time thought that Drottningholm Palace was the symbol of the old dynasty. It was in 1907 that a massive restoration of the palace was initiated. The process took four years to finish. In 1981, the current King’s family decided to move into the castle and use it as their primary residence.

You can visit the Drottningholm Palace and the park surrounding it almost any day of the year. However, visiting the insides is only open to the public at certain times (see below). The beautiful architecture and details are one of the things to see in Stockholm. The beauty of this palace has made Drottningholm Palace the first place in Sweden on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list .

• Opening hours: Mon- Fri CLOSED Sat-Sun 10 AM to 4 PM

Learn and read more about Stockholm:  Best Day Trips from Stockholm: Weekend Trips from Stockholm

Why should you visit Stockholm?

Stockholm is the top destination to visit if you’re interested in Scandinavia, as it is well-known as one of the most stylish cities in Europe . Not to mention, it has tons of attractions to see and well interesting history, traditions, and culture. Roaming around Stockholm, you’ll stumble upon many stylish and beautiful Swedes dressed like they’re there to impress, but trust me, they don’t! Besides this, the Swedish way of life is so chill that you’ll never want to leave Stockholm.

When is the best time to visit Stockholm?

Well, this is all up to you! Stockholm is beautiful all year round and has a lot to offer for each season, but the high season is, of course, in summer (June-August) when the weather is warm and the city is busy with activities. But of course, autumn (August-October) is also a marvelous time as nature changes its hues from green to bright orange, plus the weather is also still warm but cold at night.

That said, winter (November-March) is great for winter activities such as skating, snow angels, and Christmas markets! But if you’re not a big fan of the cold but would like to see Stockholm during the low season, come in spring (April-May), and witness nature comes back to life.

That said, winter in Stockholm is the best time to visit if you prefer lesser crowds, but I suggest dressing appropriately for winter when you plan to visit Stockholm in the cold season so that you can enjoy the town without freezing your ass off.

Also, if you’re interested, you can check out this list of awesome places to visit during winter in Europe !

Planning to visit Sweden? Check out these posts!

• Best time to visit Sweden
• Sweden Points of Interests:   Places to visit ,  Castles to visit ,  Islands to check out ,  National Parks to hike ,  UNESCO Sites ,  Museums to check out ,  Beaches to chill at ,  Hiking spots ,  Camping spots , and  Stockholm to Helsinki Ferry
• Stockholm Points of Interests:   Things to do in Stockholm ,  Day trips from Stockholm ,  How to get from the airport ,  Cafes to check out ,  Pubs to hang out ,  Museums to visit ,  Restaurants to try , and  Where to stay in Stockholm
• Swedish Culture Overview:   Tipping guide ,  Drinks to try ,  Supermarkets to do your groceries , and  Food to try
• Places to visit in Sweden:   Kalmar ,  Gammelstad ,  Ystad ,  Gothenburg ,  Uppsala ,  Malmö ,  Swedish Lapland ,  Luleå ,  Kosterhavet National Park ,  Gotland ,  Österlen ,  Lund , and  Skåne

Where to stay in Stockholm

Tours to do in stockholm, are you on pinterest pin these for later read.

23 thoughts on “Top 13 Things to do in Stockholm (Sweden)”

I hope to visit Sweden in the Fall, thanks for the guide!

I’m rooting for you!

I want to travel Stockholm in mid July Please guide me for economic sight seeing at Stockholm and nearby.

Hi! July is a good time to visit July and the weather is pleasantly warm. You can read this post about the best day trips from Stockholm . Let me know if it is any help!

Sweden is a beautiful and wonderful country to visit! A must-go in my list to travel! The city looks really nice and the food is amazing. Thanks for the tips and review.

No problem, pleasures’ all mine!

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sweden

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Lura Seavey Updated Apr 13, 2023

With its rich history and varied landscapes, Sweden is a traveler's paradise and a photographer's dream. If you love outdoor attractions, it's certainly hard to beat. The air and water are crystal clean, and there are thousands of acres of unspoiled forests and majestic lakes to explore, not to mention vast archipelagos along its coasts.

The roads and public transport are excellent; the citizens are invariably friendly and helpful; and in recent years, Swedish cuisine has undergone what can only be described as a revolution. Throw in a mind-boggling history, from notorious Viking invaders to royal dynasties and imperial intrigue, and one thing is certain: you'll never be bored.

Sweden's tourist attractions range from opulent palaces and ancient towns to vast Arctic landscapes and the famed Ice Hotel. There are so many things to do that you'll want to allow plenty of time to enjoy all its outdoor adventures and historic treasures.

To help you pinpoint the best places to visit in this much-loved Scandinavian country, we've pulled together our list of the top attractions in Sweden.

Gamla Stan, Stockholm

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Stockholm's Old Town, known as Gamla Stan, is a small concentrated area where the city began in the middle of the 13th century.

Much of the medieval enclave remains, although in typical Scandinavian style, it is freshly brushed and painted regularly. Its charm is in the architecture along its narrow stone-paved lanes and cobbled streets around its squares, especially the main one, Stortorget , surrounded by old merchants' houses.

In this neighborhood, along with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafés, you'll find the Nobel Museum , the Post Museum , the Royal Coin Cabinet , and several churches. It's also a good area to stay if you can find suitable accommodations, with options including luxury boutique hotels, guesthouses, and even affordable inns and hostels.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Stockholm

The Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet) in Stockholm is Sweden's most popular museum, attracting around a million visitors annually. The museum caters to tourists of all nationalities, and English-language guided tours and audio guides are available.

A visit to the Vasa , which houses 10 separate exhibitions and a further four museum ships, is a day out in itself. In 1628, the pride of the Swedish Imperial fleet, the 64-gun warship Vasa , sank on its maiden voyage. The ship lay below the icy waters for more than three centuries until, in 1961, an incredibly ambitious salvage operation took place. Now, visitors from across the world come to see this fascinating time capsule.

A shop and a restaurant are located on-site for those wanting to make a full day of it.

Another Stockholm museum worth visiting is Fotografiska , an innovative gallery of changing exhibits celebrating the art of photography. It is also known for its entertainment venue and restaurant, which features sustainably grown organic produce. The museum has been so successful that there is also a newer branch of this museum in New York City .

Address: Galärvarvsvägen 14, 115 21, Stockholm

Fairy-tale Drottningholm Palace (Drottningholms slott) , on the island of Lovö, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It lies about 11 kilometers west of Stockholm city center (45 minutes by ferry), making this an excellent day trip from Stockholm . Dating from the 17th century, the palace is now the official residence of the Swedish Royal Family.

In the picturesque terraced park are bronze sculptures from Bohemia and Denmark, brought back as trophies of war. Be sure to take in the Chinese Pavilion, which dates from the late 1700s. The 18th-century Palace Theatre (Drottningholms Slottsteater ) is still used for performances during the summer months. In the Theatre Museum, you can see period stage costumes and stage scenery.

Guided tours are available (in English), and a variety of fun programs and workshops are available for kids and adults alike.

Address: 178 93 Drottningholm

Often described as Sweden's greatest feat of engineering, the Göta Canal (Göta kanal) dates from the early 19th century and is 190 kilometers in length. It's now one of the country's premier tourist attractions and offers a unique perspective on Sweden's heartland.

In addition, by connecting with lakes Vänern and Vättern and the Trollhätte Canal , it forms part of a water link all the way from Stockholm, in the northeast, to Gothenburg, in the southwest.

Featuring 47 bridges and 58 locks the canal stretches from Sjötorp at Lake Vänern to Söderköping on the Baltic Sea. There's a choice of passenger cruise vessels or you can hire a boat and experience the canal in your own way.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gothenburg

Sharing the same latitude as central Greenland, Kiruna in Lapland is Sweden's northernmost town. It's also the chief town of the largest commune in the country, which borders both Norway and Finland. The midnight sun is visible here from mid-May to mid-July.

Originally a Lapp settlement, the town began to develop when the mining of iron ore started around 1900. Incredibly, due to subsidence caused by mining, the entire city is being slowly moved northwest to the foot of the Luossavaara Mountain.

The world's first-ever Ice Hotel at Jukkasjärvi is about 17 kilometers outside the city. The ICEHOTEL , with its stunning rooms and furnishings, is re-created each year in a new design, built from ice in the river Torne.

In the summer, this is a center for river rafting, stand up paddleboarding, fishing, and canoeing. Sweden's highest mountain, Kebnekaise , is 90 kilometers west of Kiruna. Abisko National Park is located 95 kilometers northwest, where the Lapland Railroad runs west to Narvik on the Norwegian coast.

Address: Marknadsvägen 63, 981 91 Jukkasjärvi

Skansen , the world's oldest open-air museum (and one of the world's largest), is a historic village made up of houses and farmsteads from all over Sweden. Together, these impressively preserved buildings represent both rural and urban culture at various periods from 1720 to the 1960s.

Gathered here are churches, schoolhouses, manor houses, shops, mills, workers' homes, artisan's shops (including a book bindery, print shop, shoemaker, tinsmith, comb maker, and glassworks), a bakery, a funicular railroad, a Sami camp with reindeer, and a number of complete farmsteads.

These homes, farms, and workshops are inhabited by costumed interpreters who carry on the everyday work, demonstrating the crafts and skills as well as doing household and farm tasks. A zoo includes animals native to Sweden, as well as sections for exotic animals and a children's zoo.

Skansen is located in the huge urban Djurgården Park, a favorite place for locals, especially in the summer. Throughout are traditional cafés, restaurants, snack bars, and even hotels. Canoe and bicycle hire are also available if you're feeling energetic. You will also find Abba the Museum here, along with the Gröna Lund amusement park.

To get here, you can catch a ferry from Gamla Stan or Slussen or take a tram or bus from Norrmalmstorg. Alternatively, the park is a pleasant 15-minute walk from the city center. Stop by the Djurgården Visitors' Center for more information.

Address: Djurgårdsslätten 49-51, 115 21 Stockholm

Steeped in medieval history and brimming with ruined churches, the rose-entwined, walled town of Visby, on the island of Gotland , is a huge draw for visitors from around the world.

Quaint cobblestone streets snake about the town, and when exploring, it's all too easy to lose your sense of being in the modern world. Adorned with stepped gables, many medieval trading houses remain, as well as some timber buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Clearly, Visby's reputation as 'the pearl of the Baltic' and UNESCO World Heritage Site status are both well deserved. A self-guided or guided sightseeing tour of the magnificent walls, which date back some 700 years, is a must. Built into the structure are some 44 defensive towers, and the walls still bear the scars of attack in the form of two breaches.

Direct flights are available from Stockholm and several other Swedish cities, as well as excellent ferry links.

One of Sweden's most famous buildings, Stockholm City Hall (Stockholms stadshus) was built between 1911 and 1923, using an astonishing eight million bricks. It is considered one of the finest examples of National Romanticism, designed by the architect Ragnar Östberg. The 106-meter-tall tower is topped by three crowns.

A very informative tour recounts some of its history, as well as information about the Nobel Prize, which is presented here each year. On the tour, you'll see the Blå Hallen, the Blue Hall, where the Nobel dinner is held, and the Gyllene Salen, the Golden Hall, lined by 18 million gold mosaic tiles.

Those who want to travel even farther back in history can visit the Royal Palace ( Sveriges Kungahus ), located on Queen's Island ( Drottningholm ). After a scenic ferry ride, tourists can explore this 18 th -century Baroque palace, which has more than 600 rooms. It is also home to several museums, including the Tre Kronor (Three Crowns) Museum , the Museum of Antiquities , the Armoury , and the Treasury . Be sure to time your visit to catch the daily changing of the guard.

Address: Hantverkargatan 1, Stockholm

Liseberg is one of the most popular places to visit in Sweden, and each year, the park lures more than three million visitors. It has a huge range of attractions, from children's carousels and a fairy-tale castle to adrenalin-pumping rides for speed demons, bumper cars, and four roller coasters.

The park stages concerts in summer, too, and it's a real favorite with both Swedish families and visitors from abroad. At Christmas, the park hosts an excellent market. There are plenty of places to eat and beautiful flowers in bloom during the summer. For the best views in Gothenburg take a ride on the Big Wheel.

Address: Örgrytevägen 5, 402 22 Göteborg

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Gothenburg

Located across the Oresund strait from Denmark's Helsingor (Elsinore), the town of Helsingborg is full of historic sites.

Its most prominent feature and famous landmark is a massive brick tower called Kärnan (The Kernel) , originally built in the 14 th century as a lookout turret for the town's fortress. It stands at the head of the market square ( Stortorget ), looming 35 meters above. Ambitious tourists can climb its 190 steps to get stunning views of the town below, as well as the Oresund Bridge and Denmark .

After exploring the city's historic center, head to the Fredriksdal Open-Air Museum & Botanical Garden (Friluftsmuseum) for an authentic look at Swedish daily life in centuries past. In addition to visiting the living history at a working Skåne farm, visitors can tour the Fredriksdal Mansion , a beautiful Botanic Garden , and visit the Grafiska Print Museum and a Music Museum.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Helsingborg

From Malmö city center, a 15-minute drive takes visitors to the magnificent Oresund Bridge. Famous throughout the world since opening in 1999 and several decades in the planning, the structure has gained further notoriety through the hit Danish/Swedish TV drama 'The Bridge."

This incredible engineering feat now links Sweden to Denmark, and in turn, the continent of Europe. The bridge is both rail and road, and on the Danish side, merges into a tunnel so as not to impact aircraft at Copenhagen airport.

Take a trip across the bridge and through the tunnel to neighboring Denmark, and if you like, spend some time exploring the attractions of Copenhagen .

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Malmö

The Uppsala Cathedral is the crowning jewel of this city, originally built around 1270. Over the centuries, it has acquired additions, each era leaving its own influence. Its most striking exterior features are neo-Gothic spires added in the late 19 th century, as well as stained-glass windows from the same remodel period.

Inside, take note of the details in the Baroque pulpit, which was carved in 1707, and be sure to visit the north tower's Silver Chamber, home to a gold brocade robe worn by Queen Margaret (circa 1400), as well as the final resting place of King Eric IX (St. Eric) whose rule ended in 1160.

Uppsala's medieval university, Uppsala Universitet, operates a museum (Gustavianum) , which sits just across from the cathedral. It houses a wide variety of artifacts, ranging from Viking weapons and jewelry to Egyptian relics, including several mummies. It also has exhibits about Sweden's cultural history and an art collection.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Uppsala

Famous as being Sweden's first-ever town and founded in 980 CE, the last century of the Viking era, the idyllic village of Sigtuna nestles alongside Lake Mälaren in the lush green landscape of Uppland, north of Stockholm. Sigtuna's amazing history is to be found in the medieval churches, ruins, rune stones, and buildings that remain to this day.

Along Storgatan, which has stood for more than a thousand years, are clusters of interesting little boutique shops selling fashion, designer items, and handicrafts. By car, Sigtuna is just 45 minutes from Stockholm, 30 minutes from the medieval university town of Uppsala, and just 20 minutes from Arlanda airport.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Uppsala

Stockholm is often referred to as the "Venice of the North." Water is everywhere, and around 30,000 islands lie in Stockholm's wondrous archipelago (skärgården). Distinctive red and yellow timber summerhouses occupy some islands, while others remain totally unspoiled.

A trip on the water, either in and around the city or to one of the islands, should be top on your list, whatever time of year you visit (cruises operate year-round). Many tours include lunch or dinner, and all give a unique vantage point of the city. Hop-on, hop-off options are available, too. When downtown, the distinctive Stromma boats are impossible to miss.

In summer, this is the Land of the Midnight Sun with 24-hour daylight lasting several weeks. Abisko National Park is some 77 square kilometers in size and is famous for its pristine natural beauty and Nordic wildlife. It's a great place to visit for Scandinavian winter adventures and long summer hikes.

Abisko is situated approximately 100 kilometers west of the town of Kiruna and is more than 200 kilometers inside the Arctic Circle within the auroral oval, an area that is considered to be one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights .

Regular flights operate to Kiruna from Stockholm, and bus, train, or taxi transfers are available to the park. Weather permitting, make sure you visit the spectacular Aurora Sky Station .

This is Sweden's most visited cathedral and one of the most visited sites in the southern province of Skåne. You'll understand why when you stand in front of the imposing Roman structure with its magnificent twin towers. Lund Cathedral (Lunds domkyrka) was founded around 1080 by the Danish King Canute IV and is the oldest and finest Romanesque church in Sweden.

The present building dates from the 12th century. Over the altar is a magnificent 14th-century carved reredos, the work of a north German master.

The crypt is the oldest part of the cathedral. Its roof is borne on carved stone pillars, with figures that are traditionally believed to represent a mythical giant, Finn, who is said to have built the cathedral.

In the aisle is the famous 14th-century astronomical clock with figures of the Three Kings, which emerge twice daily at noon and 3pm on weekdays and 1pm and 3pm on Sundays.

Address: Kyrkogatan 6, Lund

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Copenhagen

If you simply enjoy the upbeat and carefree tones of Mama Mia or are an Adam-Whitely-level super-fan, the ABBA The Museum in Stockholm is an exciting place to visit.

Exhibits begin with a look at the personal histories of each member, complete with letters, costumes, and instruments, most of which are displayed in re-creations of the actual settings they frequented.

One of the neatest exhibits is the museum's replica of the Polar Studio, complete with almost entirely original equipment, where you can feel, see, and hear what it was like to be in the studio with them. Tourists can also see a full range of ABBA memorabilia, from trinkets to gold record awards.

If you really want to be immersed in the experience, take advantage of the museum's virtual performance space, where you can "try on" costumes and even perform onstage alongside holograms of Agnetha, Benny, Björn, and Frida.

Address: Djurgårdsvägen 68, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden

More on Sweden

Travel experts reveal eight of Europe's most walkable cities, from the south coast of England to a Spanish spot with streets too narrow for cars

• How do you prefer to travel when on holiday? Vote in our poll below... 
• READ MORE: Traveller films spellbinding journey to heart of Egypt's pyramids

Seeing the sights on holiday always sounds good on paper, but in reality it can often involve the faff and expense of car hire or navigating unfathomable public transport networks.

Sign up instead for a break in an ultra-walkable city - and get your 10,000 steps a day in while you're at it. 

Need some inspiration? European travel experts have shared their favourite walkable destinations with MailOnline Travel.

All of these cities have something unique to offer - and they are all easy to explore on foot.

Read on for the lowdown on a Spanish spot with streets too narrow for cars, an English seaside spot with 150 parks, a walkable French city with a 'mightily impressive river' and more...

Seville, Spain

'Seville is a city built for walking,' says the team at Lonely Planet . 

In fact, the 'winding streets' in the city's 'historic core'  are 'so narrow' they 'prohibit most traffic'. 

The team adds: 'The traffic-free cobbled streets, riverside promenades, parks and squares mean there are plenty of reference points to help you avoid getting lost.' 

Stockholm, Sweden

Justin Francis, founder of Responsible Travel , loves exploring cities on foot as he says that’s 'where you find the living culture and character of a place'.

He recommends Stockholm as a worthwhile walkable destination, saying: ‘It's a city rich in green space and culture - and fantastic for exploring on foot or bike.'

The Swedish capital’s 'long summer days are perfect for walking tours’, while in December 'you can meander through cosy, atmospheric Christmas markets'.

The expert adds: 'Stockholm's architecture, food scene, museums and galleries are all worth exploring.'

Oxford's 'compact layout and well-maintained footpaths' make it an ideal spot for a walkable city break, says Gareth Mills, UK country manager at AllTrails .

He adds: 'The city’s key tourist attractions, including its historic colleges, charming streets, and cultural landmarks, are all easily accessible on foot. 

'Oxford’s pedestrian zones and rich heritage also create an ideal environment for avid walkers.'

AllTrails has 60 recommended walking routes in Oxford, including the popular Oxford Tour Circular , which hits some of the city's top attractions, including the historic Bear Inn. 

Bordeaux, France

Clare Payne of Travel Counsellors , says port city Bordeaux, in the wine-growing region of west France, is one of her favourite walkable cities.

The expert says: ‘The city is fairly flat with most of the main sights centrally located on streets that spur from a mightily impressive river.

‘Make sure you check out Miroir d'eau (Water Mirror), which is a beautiful spot in the city near the river and great fun for kids too.’

You can find suggested walking routes on the Bordeaux Tourism website , including an 8km walk (4.9 miles) that hits all of the city's main sights.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, in northwest Belgium, is an 'extremely walkable city', says Clare Payne.

She tells MailOnline: ‘The city is quite compact so you can reach all of the main sights easily by foot.

‘The historic centre is Unesco World Heritage listed and full of beautiful, cobbled streets. Don’t miss Rozenhoedkaai, otherwise known as Rosary Quay, for that perfect social media shot.’ 

Athens, Greece

The capital of Greece is 'easy to tackle on foot', says the expert travel team at Lonely Planet . 

They say: 'Strolls through neighbourhoods like old-town Plaka, flea-market famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights.' 

As an added bonus for history buffs, 'wherever you walk in Greece's storied capital, the ancients have walked before', says Lonely Planet. 

Brighton, UK  

Gareth at AllTrails says: 'Brighton is celebrated for its walkability thanks to its vibrant, pedestrian-friendly city centre and its famous seafront promenades and undercliff walks, which offer 13km [eight miles] of off-road trails. 

'The city’s compact layout allows visitors to easily stroll between diverse attractions, including eclectic shops, cafes, and cultural sites.' 

Gareth loves the city's 150 parks, which mean visitors to the city are 'never far from nature'. 

However, he adds: 'Brighton’s beach is not one for distance walking as the stones make it a serious challenge.' Tourists are better off sticking to the paved seafront, which has enough cafes, bars and ice-cream stands to 'reward any walker'. 

Koblenz, Germany

The team at Byway , a flight-free travel company, recommends tourists choose a small city if they’re looking for a walkable destination.

They love Koblenz in Germany, which sits 'in a super location at the junction of two of Europe’s great rivers - the Rhine and the Moselle'.

Koblenz, they note, is a 'delightful old city' with 'fine riverside walks'.

Koblenz’s tourism board recommends exploring the city’s old town to ‘discover hidden gems’ and ‘experience traditional half-timbered architecture up close’.

Byway adds that the city is also a 'brilliant base' for out-of-town excursions to the wider region. 

More From Forbes

5 reasons to visit the arctic wilderness of swedish lapland.

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Aurora Borealis can often be seen on dark nights in Swedish Lapland.

Swedish Lapland—the Arctic region of Sweden—is an ideal destination for those seeking a Scandinavian adventure away from the usual tourist hotspots.

A world away from the bustling capital Stockholm, Northern Sweden offers wild lanscapes that change dramatically with the seasons.

In the summer, the midnight sun bathes the landscape in endless daylight, offering a unique opportunity to explore the hiking trails of the national parks at any hour. In winter, temperatures plummet as the region transforms into a winter wonderland, with the northern lights making the occasional appearance.

Whenever you choose to visit, the Arctic region of Sweden offers a wonderful experience of nature's extremes. Here's how to spend your time in Swedish Lapland.

Hike In The Midnight Sun

Swedish Lapland’s vast wilderness is one of its most defining features. In the summer, this remote region transforms into a land of endless daylight, thanks to the midnight sun.

For several weeks, the sun doesn’t set, creating a unique atmosphere where time seems to stand still.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities during the summer months. Trails range from gentle walks through ancient forests to challenging routes in the mountainous areas, such as those found in Sarek and Abisko National Parks.

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Kungsleden , or the King’s Trail , is particularly famous, offering trekkers a chance to experience some of the most scenic, untouched landscapes in Sweden. The full trail stretches approximately 250 miles, but even much shorter sections provide a taste of the region’s beauty.

Kungsleden—or the King's Trail—is a memorable long-distance hiking route in Swedish Lapland.

Kayaking is a popular activity, with countless lakes and rivers providing tranquil settings for paddling. Torne River, one of the last wild rivers in Europe, is a favorite for those looking to combine adventure with breathtaking views.

Hunt For The Northern Lights

While summer in Swedish Lapland is all about the endless daylight, winter brings with it the long, dark nights that are perfect for witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena: the northern lights, or aurora borealis.

Swedish Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the lights, with clear skies and minimal light pollution required for optimal viewing conditions.

The northern lights can be seen from late September to early April, with the peak viewing period being between December and February. To increase your chances of seeing the lights, consider staying in remote areas away from city lights.

Abisko National Park is particularly renowned for its aurora sightings, thanks to a unique microclimate that creates clear skies more often than not.

Many local guides offer northern lights excursions, which can include everything from snowmobile tours to husky sled rides. These tours not only enhance your chances of seeing the aurora but also provide an opportunity to explore the winter wilderness.

For those who prefer a more relaxed approach, simply stepping outside your accommodation and gazing up at the sky might be all you need to witness a display.

Sleep In An Ice Hotel

A visit to Swedish Lapland wouldn’t be complete without experiencing one of its most iconic attractions: the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi .

This unique hotel is rebuilt every winter from blocks of ice taken from the nearby Torne River. Each year, artists come together to create intricate ice sculptures, themed rooms, and even an ice bar, making every visit different.

Guests at Sweden's Icehotel sleep on reindeer skins.

Staying at the Icehotel is an unforgettable experience. Guests can choose between cold rooms (Dec-Apr), where the temperature hovers around 23°F, and warm rooms, for those who prefer a more traditional stay.

Cold rooms are furnished with ice beds covered in reindeer hides. Guests are loaned thermal sleeping bags to keep warm throughout the night. A cup of hot lingonberry juice, served in the morning, is a ritual that adds to the experience for those staying in cold rooms.

Even if you choose not to stay overnight, the Icehotel is worth a visit. Day tours allow you to explore the art suites and learn about the process of building the hotel. The on-site ice bar, where drinks are served in glasses made of ice, offers a unique way to enjoy a cocktail.

Discover Sami Culture

The Sami people are the indigenous people of the northern parts of Scandinavia, and their culture is deeply intertwined with the landscape of the region.

As such, a trip here offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Sami way of life, which has been shaped by decades of living in harmony with the Arctic environment.

Jokkmokk is one of the best-known Sámi cultural centres in Sweden. It’s home to the annual Jokkmokk Winter Market , which has been held for over 400 years and is a major event in the Sami calendar. Ajtte Museum provides further opportunities to learn about Sami history, crafts, and customs.

Swedish Lapland is home to hundreds of Sami-owned businesses, including guides, craftsmen, and chefs, each eager to share their unique stories and traditions. This road trip through the region should provide some inspiration for your own trip.

Visit Kiruna, A Town On The Move

Kiruna, the northernmost town in Sweden, is a place unlike any other. Located 90 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Kiruna is best known for its large iron ore mine, one of the largest in the world.

Kiruna is the northernmost city in Sweden and the location of a fascinating urban planning project.

But what makes Kiruna truly fascinating is the remarkable relocation project. The mine, which has been in operation for over a century, has caused the ground beneath Kiruna to become unstable. As a result, the central district must be relocated a few miles to the east.

This includes moving buildings, infrastructure, and even landmarks like the Kiruna Church, a striking wooden structure that has been voted Sweden’s most beautiful building.

Visiting Kiruna offers a unique perspective on urban planning and the challenges of living in an Arctic environment. The relocation process is ongoing, and visitors can learn about the project at the local visitor centre or by taking a guided tour of the mine, which delves deep into the history and future of the town.

Beyond its relocation, Kiruna serves as a gateway to many of the region’s natural attractions. From here, you can easily access Abisko National Park, climb Kebnekaise (Sweden’s highest mountain), or embark on a northern lights tour in the winter.

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