Stockholm is a city that should definitely be on your bucket list. I’m sure you’ve heard many places crowned with the title of being “beautiful” but Stockholm well and truly deserves this reputation. In fact, the city is considered by many to be one of the world’s most beautiful places. Built upon hundreds of islands that make up the archipelago, the Swedish capital is a place full of culture and history, and a place oozing with ‘coolness’ and modern vibes.
Whether you are in the city for a short break or staying longer, there is plenty to keep you occupied; from museums, to architecture and historical buildings, to the ever present waterfrontages and of course Swedish food and drink. Whilst we are on the subject I must not forget to mention the delightful custom of Fika which I urge you to get involved with!
Here are some of my suggestions for things to do in Stockholm..
Things to do in Stockholm
Explore Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s old town and dates back to the 13th century. It is here that you will find many of the city’s iconic sights. The most famous is Stortorget Square with its colourful 17th-century buildings and the Stockholm Stock Exchange Building, home to the Nobel Prize Museum.. Nearby, the Royal Palace is a must-visit, offering guided tours of its opulent rooms and the chance to witness the changing of the guard.
Tip: The timings of will differ depending on the season, so always check; May-August daily at 1215 hours (Sundays and holidays at 1315 hours); April, September, October Wednesdays & Saturdays at 1215 hours, and Sundays at 1315 hours; November – March Wednesdays & Saturdays at 1200, Sundays 1300.
Also, make time to visit Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan), an architectural masterpiece and the oldest church in the city, known for its stunning Gothic design and historical significance.
The never-ending cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways of Gamla Stan (Mårten Trotzigs Gränd is the the narrowest of them all) are packed with all sorts of cafes, bars, restaurants and souvenirs shops.
Visit the Vasa Museum (Galärvarvsvägen)
Take a Stroll in Djurgården
The green island oasis of Djurgården is not far from central Stockholm and is popular with Stockholmers and tourists alike. Most tourists make their way here to enjoy a trip into one or more of its many museums, but it is also one of the city’s most popular recreation areas. There are great opportunities for picturesque walks, for example around the Djurgårdsbrunn canal and Blockhusudden, and there is plenty of green space to relax in what was once the Royal Game Park. I would also recommend stopping by Rosendals Trädgård, a garden café surrounded by greenery – it’s a beautiful spot for a refreshing drink!
Skansen Open-Air Museum: Inspired by the Norsk Folkesmuseum in Oslo, Skansen was opened as the world’s first open-air museum in 1891. Visitors can discover over 150 different buildings which have been relocated from sites all over Sweden and this allows the visitor to gain a valuable insight into the way of life in the different parts of Sweden before the industrial era. Skansen also has a popular Zoo which showcases some 75 different species and breeds of Scandinavian animals.
ABBA Museum: Families will love the ABBA Museum, a fun and interactive tribute to Sweden’s legendary pop group. This engaging museum allows visitors to step into the world of ABBA through interactive exhibits, including a chance to sing and dance alongside virtual avatars of the band. It’s a must-visit for music lovers and anyone curious about the global phenomenon that is ABBA.
Gröna Lund: Located on the seaward side of Djurgården island, the Gröna Lund offers rides and attractions common to any amusement park including a tunnel of love, a funhouse, as well as 7 roller coasters and is also doubles up as one of Stockholm’s concert locations.
Vasa Museum: Another ‘must’ for anyone visiting Stockholm, the museum is home to the only almost fully intact 17th century ship that has ever been salvaged, the 64-gun warship Vasa. The ship was intended to be the flagship of the Swedish imperial fleet, its pride and joy, but unfortunately she sank on her maiden voyage in 1628. In 1961, a huge operation was carried out to recover the wreckage that you see today. With more than one million visitors per year to the Vasa, this is Sweden’s most visited museum.
Tip: To reach the island you can either go by foot from the city centre, by the Djurgården ferry boat from Gamla Stan/Slussen, by bus or by tram from Norrmalmstorg – quite the experience!
See the City Hall (Ragnar Östbergs Plan)
One of the best and most iconic views of Stockholm is that from the City Hall – either from its waterside terrace or from the heights of its tower. It is also worth taking a short tour of the buildings interiors including the magnificent Gold Room where you will find no less than 18 million gold mosaic tiles! Learn about the building’s connection to the Nobel Prize ceremonies.
Indulge in Fika
Fika, the Swedish tradition of taking a coffee break with something sweet, is an essential part of Stockholm’s culture. Visit cosy cafés like Vete-Katten or Kaffekoppen to enjoy coffee accompanied by cinnamon buns, cardamom rolls, or other delectable pastries. If you’re in Gamla Stan, stop by Under Kastanjen, a charming café set in a quaint courtyard, perfect for savouring the fika experience. It’s the perfect way to pause and soak up the city’s atmosphere.
Discover Modern Design at Fotografiska
Stockholm is known for its innovative design, and Fotografiska is a prime example. This contemporary photography museum features thought-provoking exhibitions from world-renowned and emerging artists. After exploring the galleries, head to the top-floor café for stunning views of the city skyline.
If you’re an art fan you might also be interested in visiting Moderna Museet for its modern and contemporary art from Swedish and international artists. Also, Stockholm’s subway system is often called the world’s longest art gallery, with colourful murals and sculptures at many stations, so don’t miss this!
Stroll Through Södermalm
A stroll through Södermalm offers a delightful blend of vibrant city life and scenic charm. The neighborhood’s South of Folkungagatan (SoFo) area is renowned for its eclectic mix of trendy cafés, unique boutiques, and creative spaces, making it a hub for Stockholm’s young and stylish crowd. For a cosy fika break, head to the popular Vete-Katten, known for its traditional Swedish pastries, or enjoy the modern vibes at Kaffeverket, where you’ll find expertly brewed coffee. A short walk takes you to Monteliusvägen, a picturesque vantage point with stunning views of Lake Mälaren, the city skyline, and the iconic Stockholm Old Town. This charming blend of modern culture and natural beauty makes Södermalm one of Stockholm’s most beloved districts.
Relax at Stockholm’s Rooftop Bars
As the sun sets, head to one of Stockholm’s rooftop bars for spectacular views and a chic ambiance. Tak and Södra Teatern are popular choices, offering creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy the unique perspective of the city as it transitions from day to night. Another of my favourites include Basta at the top of the Åhléns City department store – the perfect place for tasty italian food and refreshing cocktails.
Take a trip from Stockholm Waterfront/ Port
Commonly referred to as the ‘Venice of the north’ it should come as no surprise that one of the best, and most pleasant ways, to enjoy Stockholm is from the water. Down at the port you can hop aboard a number of boats and ferries which will give you another perspective on the city as well as transporting you from island to island.
Experience Swedish Cuisine
Stockholm is a foodie’s dream, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional Swedish fare. Trying Swedish cuisine is a true culinary adventure, where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
To experience classic flavours, visit Smorgastarteriet, known for its modern take on Swedish dishes like herring, gravlax, and meatballs. For a more casual yet authentic experience, Pelikan offers traditional Swedish comfort food with a waterfront view, while Oaxen Slip provides a refined, eco-conscious dining experience with locally sourced ingredients. We also tried authentic Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce at Meatballs for the People – think Ikea meatballs but way better.
Still looking for ideas?
Whilst the above suggestions covers the city’s main sights, if you have more time on your hands you may be interested in venturing further afield or perhaps exploring some of Stockholm’s other neighbourhoods. Whilst this list is by no means extensive, hopefully it can help to further inspire you..
Take a trip to Drottningholm Palace on the island Lovön
Located on Lake Mälaren, this is the private residence of the Swedish royal family. Whilst the rooms in the southern wing of the palace are reserved for their use, the rest of the palace and grounds are open to the public year round. Make sure you check out the impressive theatre and Chinese Pavilion.
Travel Time: 45 minutes by ferry or 25 minutes by subway and bus
Take a Boat Tour of the Archipelago
Stockholm’s archipelago features over 30,000 islands, each with its own unique charm. A great thing to do in Stockholm is to head out on a boat tour. Hop on a day cruise from Strömkajen, which will take you to picturesque islands like Vaxholm or Sandhamn, where you can explore quaint villages, enjoy scenic views, and relax in nature. For a more active adventure, rent a kayak and paddle through the serene waterways, immersing yourself in the peaceful surroundings.
Visit historic Uppsala
This historic university town boasts impressive landmarks like Uppsala Cathedral, the largest church in Scandinavia, and the Gustavianum Museum. Stroll through the charming streets of the old town and visit the gardens of Carl Linnaeus, the famous botanist.
Travel Time: 40 minutes by train.
Visit one of Sweden’s oldest towns, Sigtuna
Sigtuna, one of Sweden’s oldest towns, offers a charming glimpse into the country’s history. Nestled along the shores of Lake Mälaren, this picturesque town is known for its well-preserved medieval streets, colourful wooden houses, and ancient rune stones. Wander through Stora Gatan, Sigtuna’s main street, lined with boutique shops and cosy cafés, or visit the Sigtuna Museum to learn about the town’s Viking heritage. The iconic Sigtuna Church and nearby ruins add a touch of history to the peaceful setting.
Travel Time: 50 minutes by train and bus.
Escape to Tyresta National Park
Known for its untouched forests, tranquil lakes, and diverse wildlife, this expansive park offers a serene escape from city life. Hike along scenic trails that wind through ancient woodlands, or enjoy a peaceful moment by one of the park’s pristine lakes. Whether you’re looking to explore its rich biodiversity, spot birds and animals, or simply enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature,
Travel Time: 40 minutes by bus.
Explore Mariefred and Gripsholm Castle
The quaint lakeside town of Mariefred is home to Gripsholm Castle, a Renaissance-era fortress housing Sweden’s National Portrait Gallery. The picturesque streets of Mariefred, with their quaint wooden houses and cozy cafés, make for the perfect place to relax after exploring the castle, offering a glimpse into Sweden’s rich cultural heritage.
Travel Time: 1 hour by train.
Head to the coastal town of Nynäshamn
Nynäshamn, a charming coastal town located south of Stockholm, offers a peaceful getaway with a scenic blend of nature and maritime charm. Known for its vibrant harbour, Nynäshamn is a gateway to the Stockholm Archipelago, with ferries departing regularly to Gotland and other nearby islands. The town is also home to lovely beaches, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea, as well as lush parks and walking trails that showcase its beautiful natural surroundings. Enjoy fresh seafood at the harbour-side restaurants or explore the town’s local craft shops and cafés.
Travel Time: 1 hour by train.
Final Thoughts | Things to do in Stockholm
Stockholm is a city that offers endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. From its rich history and cultural landmarks to its modern design and scenic nature, there’s no shortage of things to do in this Scandinavian gem. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for more, Stockholm’s charm will leave you inspired and eager to come back.
If you have any more ideas to add to this list, do let me know in the comments below! Love, V xx
