28 Best Things to do in Stockholm: Top Places to visit

Hipster cafes, a harbour lined with boats, gothic architecture, cinnamon buns and a vibrant nightlife – that’s Stockholm in a nutshell. A Nordic city that gets everyone who comes here. Beautiful sights, rich museums, interesting attractions and plenty of green spaces to just be. Let’s take a look at the best things to do in Stockholm.

Best Things to do in Stockholm: Top Places to visit

Gamla Stan

To visit Stockholm and not visit the oldest part of Gamla Stan is like not seeing the Colosseum in Rome or the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Winding cobblestone streets, aristocratic houses in warm shades, cafes where you feel like snuggling up and just soaking up the atmosphere.

You’ll find these beautiful, colourful houses in the small Stortorget square, which is dominated by the Nobel Museum (more on that in a moment).

The best time to soak up the atmosphere is early in the morning or in the early evening, when Gamla Tent becomes more crowded. You can just wander through the hidden alleys and admire the interesting architectural features from lamps to doors to shutters.

One of the most interesting streets is Prästgatan. A quiet and authentic street with colourful houses that is a popular location for filming. Or wander on to the narrowest alley, Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, which is only 90 cm wide.

For shopping, head to Västerlånggatan, which forms the centre of the district. It’s crowded, so if you’re looking for something quieter with quaint shops, try Österlånggatan.

Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan)

Stockholm Cathedral is one of the most beautiful sights in Stockholm and a must-see from the inside. The Baroque exterior contrasts with the Gothic interior complete with red tiles. The church has an extensive collection of medieval and contemporary works of art.

It is open daily from 10:00-18:00 and 9:00-18:00 in summer (June-August). The entrance fee is 75 SEK.

Royal Palace (Kungliga slottet)

On the eastern side of the old town, the Gamla Stan Royal Palace dominates. The royal family may not live here, but it is still worth a visit. Interestingly, the Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Sweden and Drottningholm Palace is the official residence of the Queen of Sweden.

Unless you are a die-hard fan of such art, you probably won’t be able to walk through the entire palace in one visit. With more than 600 rooms, it is one of the largest palaces in the world. The combined ticket also includes a tour of the ticket office, the reception room or the museums.

The interior of the palace is luxuriously decorated in rococo style. Don’t miss the grand marble west staircase, the Hall of State, the Bernadotte Apartments and the Charles XVI Gallery, which is based on the Hall of Mirrors in the Versailles .

As in London , the changing of the guard is popular here. It takes place daily at 12:15pm (one hour later on Sundays and public holidays).

The Royal Palace is open daily from 10:00-17:00 (May-September) and 10:00-16:00 (October-April). Admission costs 170 SEK (without exhibition), 150 SEK for students and 85 SEK for children 7-17 years old.

For official receptions, the Palace may be fully or partially closed, so check the Royal Palace website in advance.

TIP: In the Old Town (Gamla Stan), eat at the Slingerbulten restaurant. It is affordable and serves Swedish classics based on herring, smoked salmon, reindeer or elk meat or meatballs.

Riddarholm Church (Riddarholmskyrkan)

This is the very church whose steeple dominates much of Stockholm’s photography. Riddarholmskyrkan is one of Stockholm’s oldest churches, dating from the 13th century. century, which is built of red brick and has a cast-iron church tower. It used to be the burial place of many Swedish rulers.

Riddarholm Church is open from May to September from 10:00-17:00. Admission is SEK 60 and SEK 30 for students and children aged 7-17. You can also buy a discounted combination ticket with the Royal Castle for SEK 210 (SEK 110 for students and children).

House of the Nobility (Riddarhuset)

Riddarhuset is one of the most beautiful buildings in Stockholm. It is an exemplary work of Dutch Baroque architecture of the 17th century. century. Riddarhuset is open on weekdays 11:00-12:00 and in summer until 12. August then 10:00-13:00. Admission is SEK 60 for adults and SEK 40 for students, children over 12 and seniors.

The open-air museum

The Skansen in Stockholm, known as Sweden in Miniature, is the oldest open-air museum in the world thanks to its opening in 1891. More than 150 farms, churches, windmills, craft workshops and dwellings will immerse you in the history of Sweden.

Especially when travelling with children, do not miss the open-air museum. Children will love the local Nordic Zoo, where they can see moose, bears, wolverines, reindeer, wolves and lynx. In summer, concerts are held in the open-air museum and in winter, Christmas markets are held.

The museum is open 10:00-18:00 and 10:00-15:00 in the low season. Admission is SEK 220, SEK 200 for students and seniors and SEK 70 for children 4-15 years old.

Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet)

The Vasa Museum is dedicated to the former battleship that infamously wrecked just 1 mile off shore. The cause was an engineering error. The hull of the boat was so slender that it could not withstand the impact of the water and the heavy rigging. The ship was from 17. for 333 years on the seabed, yet it remains perfectly preserved.

Visitors are attracted not only by the preservation, but also by the rich decoration – 200 ornaments and 500 statues representing biblical figures, sea monsters, figures from Greek mythology and Swedish nobility. In addition to the ship, you will learn more about what life was like on a ship and what life was like in Stockholm at the time.

These are the reasons why the Vasa Museum is the most visited museum in Scandinavia. The museum is open daily 10:00-17:00 and on Wednesdays until 20:00. In the summer, visiting hours are extended 8:30-18:00.

Admission is between 170-190 SEK depending on the time of day you visit the museum. Children under 18 years of age are admitted free of charge. Click here to purchase tickets in advance.

Nobel Museum

Want to learn more about the world’s most prestigious awards in terms of cultural, scientific and academic advancement? The Nobel Museum will tell you.

Admission is SEK 140, SEK 100 for students and seniors, and children under 18 are free. It is open daily except Mondays from 11:00-17:00 (until 21:00 on Fridays).

Drottningholm Palace

Drottningholm Palace, or Queen’s Palace, is the private residence of the royal family and one of Stockholm’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The palace dates back to the end of the 17th century. century and was built on the basis of Italian and French architecture. That is why it is called the Versailles of the North. Like Versailles, it lies outside the city centre itself.

The palace includes the Court Theatre, which is the oldest actively used theatre in the world. The beautiful park with its Baroque, Rococo and English-style gardens is also worth a visit. Entrance to the gardens is free.

Drottningholm Palace is open 10:00-17:00 in summer and 10:00-16:00 in low season. Admission is SEK 150, SEK 130 for students and SEK 75 for children aged 7-17.

Nordiska Museum = Nordiska Museet

Would you like to soak up more of Swedish art and culture? Nordiska Museet is the largest cultural and historical museum in Sweden, where you can admire the largest collection of paintings by the famous Swedish artist August Strindberg and discover Scandinavian traditions.

Also worth seeing is the eclectic Renaissance-style castle that houses the museum.

The Nordiska Museet is open 10:00-17:00 and admission is SEK 150 (seniors and students SEK 130, children under 18 are free).

Museum of Modern Art (Moderna Museet)

At the Moderna Museet, art awaits you with paintings and sculptures, including photography and film from 1900 to the present day by names such as Picasso, Braque, Dali, Matisse, as well as new artists from Scandinavia and the rest of the world. Outside you will find an exhibition of colourful sculptures.

Admission to the museum is free, but there is a charge for temporary exhibitions. Open 10:00-20:00 (Tue and Fri) and 10:00-21:00 (Wed, Thurs and weekends).

The museum is located on the island of Skeppsholmen, which used to be an important naval base and is still home to traditional wooden ships. The whole island invites you to walk in a quiet environment.

And while you’re here, be sure to take a stroll to the small rocky island of Kastellholmen, home to the medieval Kastellet Castle, which you won’t miss thanks to its brick colour.

Historical Museum (Historiska Museet)

The Historical Museum in Stockholm is an authentic representation of Swedish history. The Viking era is brought to life through artefacts and multimedia installations. It immerses you in medieval battles and shows you in the Golden Chamber what treasures were found and looted in the past.

The Historical Museum is also a great place for families, as they have built fun attractions for children in the outdoor courtyard. The museum is open Tue-Sun 11:00-17:00 and Wednesday until 20:00 and in summer 10:00-17:00. Admission is free.

National Museum (Nationalmuseum)

The National Museum was founded in 1792 and is the largest art museum in Sweden. Here you will find works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Renoir, Degas, Goya and famous Swedish artists Carl Larsson, Erns Josephson, CF Hill and Anders Zorn.

It’s a huge collection, where you can enter for free (except for temporary exhibitions, where the entrance is around 85-170 SEK). Even if you don’t go inside, enjoy the beautiful building from the inside. It’s as if the Renaissance buildings in Florence . It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00-17:00.

Medieval Museum (Stockholms medeltidsmuseum)

The Medieval Museum is located below the Royal Palace. It was built around excavated monuments and part of the city walls, so you can feel the atmosphere of historic Stockholm 400 years ago. You will learn a lot about medieval Sweden and life in Stockholm.

Admission is free. Open daily except Monday 10:00-17:00.

House of Parliament (Riksdagshuset)

On the same island, a short walk from the Medieval Museum, is the magnificent Riksdagshuset, or Parliament. You can take a walk in the park right in front of it.

Guided tours have been cancelled for the time being because of the coronavirus, but you can still attend public hearings or debates and votes in the House.

Town Hall (Stadshuset)

City Hall is one of the top places to put on your list of places to visit in Stockholm. The historic brick building with its square silhouette and distinctive tower dating from 1911 defines the city’s skyline. They used 8 million dark red bricks to build the town hall. The tower is famous for its 3 golden crowns, which form the Swedish coat of arms.

But the main thing is inside. The glittering golden hall, frescoes by artist Prince Eugene and the Nobel Prize banquet room. Many ceremonies and ceremonies are held here, so the Town Hall is only accessible for guided tours.

Tours are available all year round at 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15:00 for an entrance fee of SEK 140 (students and seniors SEK 120 and children 7-19 years SEK 60). In summer, tours are every half hour from 9:30-16:00. You will see the official areas, learn more about the history of the place and the local government.

The tower is also open from May to September for an additional fee of SEK 80.

Along the Town Hall is the Town Hall Park, which is free of charge. The park is open daily 8:00-20:00 (June-September) and 8:00-18:00 (October-May).

TIP: Would you like to go for something good? Try the famous Vete-Katten pastry shop on the corner in the Norrmalm district near Central Station. They have excellent cakes, pastries, pralines, but it’s usually crowded early, so it’s better to go here on the weekend or to sleep in.

From the town hall you will have a beautiful view of Riddarholmen Island, which is located next to Gamla Stan. The spire of Riddarholm Church, which has already been mentioned today, peeks above the buildings on Riddarholmen Island. The view from Riddarholmen Island on the town hall is just as good.

Natural History Museum (Naturhistoriska Museet)

The Naturhistoriska Museet is a wonderful interactive museum where you can have hours of fun even with children. You will learn a lot of information about nature, animals and dinosaurs in a fun way. We like natural history museums in general – there are great ones in London or Vienna.

Open Tuesday-Sunday 9:00-17:00 (10:00-18:00 in summer). Admission to the exhibitions is free.

Millesgården Museum (Millesgården Museet)

Millesgården Museum can be imagined as Scandinavian art in a beautiful garden. It is located in the former house and studio of sculptor Carl Milles. The house is a work of art in itself.

It is open daily except Mondays 11:00-17:00 and the full admission fee is 170 SEK and 140 SEK for students.

Fotografiska (Fotografiska Museet)

Fotografiska is the name of the relatively new museum, which can be found in a former Art Nouveau red-brick customs warehouse. This museum is a must visit for every photography lover. Photographs by both local and international artists can be experienced in a changing series of 3-4 exhibitions at the same time, which change every few months.

Exhibitions often have a social overlap. On the top floor you will find a restaurant with panoramic views of the harbour and Gamla Stan.

The Fotografiska Museum is open daily from 10:00-23:00. Admission is SEK 150-225, students and seniors SEK 100-185, under 12 free.

ABBA Museum (ABBA Museet)

Looking for something fun? Try the ABBA Museum, which is dedicated to Sweden’s most famous pop group ABBA. You can sing, dance, try on costumes and even record your performance and download it within 30 days.

Admission is SEK 230-290, SEK 200-260 for students and seniors, and SEK 90-110 for children aged 7-15, depending on when you visit the museum ( discounted tickets are also available). Open daily 10:00-20:00.

Stockholm Public Library (Stadsbiblioteket)

The Stockholm Public Library is an example of Nordic classicism. The building is unique for its main rotunda, which is equipped with 360° shelves of books in more than 100 languages. Admission is free.

Open daily except Sunday 10:00-19:00 and Saturday 12:00-16:00.

TIP: We probably all love good food. And that’s exactly what they serve you at the Östermalms Saluhall market. Here you will find everything from seafood to vegetarian specialties. It is open every day except Sunday.

Globe Arena (Avicii Arena)

Globe Arena is one of the most beautiful arenas in Europe and the largest spherical building in the world. Plus, it offers stunning views of Stockholm. Admission is 170 SEK and 130 SEK for seniors and children 5-12 years old.

Stockholm Metro

The longest art gallery in the world. Yes, that’s exactly what the Stockholm metro is, with over 100 stations and 90 of them being perfect art. It is a pleasure to travel here by public transport.

Grona Lünd Amusement Park

Grona Lünd amusement park on Djurgårdan Island offers more than 30 attractions, including a wooden roller coaster. Gröna Lund is Sweden’s oldest theme park and has been around since the 1980s. years 19. century. The park is easily accessible on foot.

Opening hours change frequently, so it’s best to check the Grona Lünd website before visiting. Admission varies by event (tickets can be purchased online). The park is only open from May to September.

Södermalm district

The Södermalm district (locals say Söder) is a hipster part of Stockholm that is one of the best in the world. Just walk around and enjoy the atmosphere. The most beautiful street is considered to be the ancient, cobbled Fjällgatan, which is lined with old houses with wooden panelling.

Stockholm archipelago

The Stockholm archipelago consists of 20 000 islands and islets scattered in the Baltic Sea. Only 200 of them are permanently inhabited, so you’ll experience perfectly untouched Scandinavian nature on most of the islands.

You can go to the islands with a guide, as part of Stockholm Pass or on your own, if you buy your own ferry ticket – prices range between 50-100 SEK depending on the island you are going to – Stockholm – Stockholm Archipelago tickets .

Popular cruises:

The town of Vaxholm is considered the focal point of the Stockholm archipelago, where you will also find the eponymous fortress.

Where to stay in Stockholm

Stockholm is large, so it is better to choose your accommodation strategically.

If you are planning to visit Stockholm for the first time, I would recommend staying in the Södermalm or Norrmalm districts. Norrmalm is a modern area where you have the huge shopping artery of Drottninggatan with its shops, restaurants and parks at your fingertips.

Södermalm has an artistic atmosphere with shops, boutiques and cafés. Locals often congregate here too, so you have the chance to get to know the real Scandinavian life better.

HIGHER CLASS: Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel : From this hotel you will enjoy the most beautiful view of Stockholm. Plus, it has a great central location, a short walk from the train station and within walking distance of Gamla Stan. Rich breakfast, great service and cosy rooms with comfortable beds and private bathrooms.

MIDDLE CLASS: Hotel Generator Stockholm Description : This sustainable and stylish hotel is located a short walk from the main train station in the Norrmalm district. Still, it’s quiet at night and you’ll sleep well. They have excellent breakfasts and offer a wide range of accommodation from rooms for 2 to larger family suites.

MIDDLE CLASS: Hotel Ibis Styles A: Cosy and clean rooms in the Vasastan district, which is ideal for those looking for a quieter area and affordable accommodation. With public transport you are in the centre in a few minutes, as well as at the main train station.

CHEAP/MID-RANGE: Castle House Inn Description : A comfortable, stylish hotel right in the historic center with everything at your fingertips. There is a choice of rooms with private or shared bathrooms, so even those travelling on a budget can choose.

LEFT: Den Röda Båten : Very popular accommodation in comfortable cabins on a boat in the centre of Stockholm. Within walking distance to the station and with a beautiful view from the cabin window. Breakfast, restaurant, wifi included.

Where to go shopping in Stockholm

The Norrmalm district is the commercial centre of Stockholm, where you’ll find department stores, shopping malls, luxury boutiques and plenty of nightlife.

In between shopping, you can relax in Kungsträdgården and Berzeli Park. But it’s not unusual to come across a piece of greenery in Stockholm. Parks and green spaces make up one third of the city’s area. Kungsträdgården Park hosts concerts in summer and ice skating in winter.

The most fashionable and luxurious boutiques can be found in the Östermalm district. While you’re here, take a stroll along the Strandvägen promenade. Quirky and interesting shops are located in the Södermalm district.

Things to see in Stockholm – map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map of Stockholm. Click at the top left of the map to see separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide and show the different layers or click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places I mention in the Stockholm guide. If you want to save the map, star it. For a larger version, click on the icon in the upper right corner.

If you have a question about tips on things to do in Stockholm, let us know in the comments below. Have a safe journey!

More information about Stockholm

STOCKHOLM: We have prepared a guide to Stockhol with practical tips. The Stockholm Pass is one way to save money in Stockholm.

COPENHAGEN: Get inspiration on things to do in Copenhagen and how to get around.

HELSINKI: Check out the best places to visit in Helsinki (including a map and information on entrance fees and opening times). The Helsinki Card is a way to save money in Helsinki.

Summary: Best Things to do in Stockholm