While planning things to do in Stockholm, I realized I had completely underestimated the Swedish capital. I was floored by how many things were on my list to see and do in Stockholm!
It’s easy to focus on perennial European favorites like Paris, Madrid, Rome, and London and up-and-coming places like Budapest and Romania. But Stockholm is a classic Scandinavian city with historic, cultural, and artistic sights and experiences that shouldn’t be missed.
So, I’ve put together this list of my favorite things to do in Stockholm to help you plan your Stockholm itinerary. You’ll also find important Stockholm travel tips, my Stockholm hotel recommendations, and transportation advice.
Let’s plan your trip to Stockholm!
20 Fantastic Things to Do in Stockholm
Words like clean, pretty, and smart come to mind when you think of Scandinavian countries like Sweden.
Stockholm is no exception whether we’re talking about its streets, architecture, people, or culture. But, it’s Stockholm’s understated vibe and effortless elegance that draws you in.
Stockholm is a very welcoming cosmopolitan city. It’s situated on 14 islands alongside the waters of Lake Malaren and the Baltic Sea, with its 57 bridges serving as links.
Even as a first-time visitor, the city feels familiar and easy, like catching up with an old friend. Stockholm’s sensible balance of old and new, chic and classic, not only distinguishes it from other Nordic capitals but stirs up a lasting fondness that entices visitors to return…which is exactly what I did!
I’ve taken 2 trips to Stockholm and this guide is full of Stockholm travel advice that comes from my own travel experiences. I’ve seen first-hand how much Stockholm has to offer visitors, whether it’s a first visit or not.
1. Be amazed at the Vasa Museum.
You don’t have to be a museum-lover to be totally awed by the Vasa Museum! I’ve visited the Vasa each time I was in Stockholm because I was so fascinated by this unique ship and its story.
The Vasa is a 17th-century ship that sunk on its maiden voyage in 1628. The ship was top-heavy and had a second row of cannon portholes too close to the water. When the ship began to list, water rushed in and sank the Vasa in just over 100 feet of water right in Stockholm’s harbor.
After more than 300 years submerged in the cold, brackish waters of the Baltic Sea, the Vasa was pulled to the surface. It has since undergone decades of preservation and restoration. Visitors to the custom-built museum can admire the Vasa, which is more than 95% original.
You can see the ship from the museum’s different levels, as well as learn about the crew artifacts and skeletal remains discovered along with the ship. Make time to see the Vasa no matter how many days are part of your Stockholm itinerary. It’s that incredible.
Pro Tip: Go when the museum first opens. The Vasa is a top Stockholm sight and crowds form quickly. Use your Stockholm Pass to save money and quick and easy entry!
2. Discover Gamla Stan.
Meaning “old town” in Swedish, Gamla Stan’s narrow winding streets and alleys are lined with shops, eateries, and history. The architecture is from centuries past and gushing with old-world charm dating back to the 13th century. The colorful buildings lining the streets add to the charm, especially around Stortorget Square—a popular spot for snapping photos and people-watching.
Also, you can find Stockholm’s narrowest street, the Mårten Trotzgiz Gränd, in Galma Stan where you can easily touch the walls with your arms spread open.
Begin in or find your way to Stortorget, the main square lined with classic, colorful merchant houses. Stroll along (without your map) and take in the charming atmosphere.
When it comes to must-see sights in Stockholm, Gamla Stan takes center stage. This historic district is home to iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Stockholm Cathedral, and the Nobel Prize Museum. And since Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s oldest district, too, you’ll find historic buildings that today are home to niche stores, cafes, and more.
3. Admire the Royal Palace.
A visit to Old Town isn’t complete without stepping inside the grandeur of the Royal Palace, boasting over 600 rooms spread across 11 floors. Highlights include the opulent Royal Apartments, the Treasury showcasing crown jewels, and the impressive Royal Armory. Located in Gamla Stan, the Royal Palace welcomes visitors to glimpse Swedish Royal history.
The present-day Palace was built in the 1700s after an older castle was burned in a fire. It is the official residence of the Swedish Monarch, as well as home to government offices.
Visitors can walk through the public areas on their own or opt to take a guided tour. I particularly loved seeing the state reception rooms and the Queen’s silver throne.
Pro Tip: Time your visit for the Changing of the Guard, which happens every day. The full ceremony with the military marching band is best seen between May and August.
4. Take a moment at Stockholm Cathedral.
Storkyrkan, as it’s known in Swedish, is the oldest church in Gamla Stan dating back to 1279, and is located near the Royal Palace.
The brick design combined with the wooden carvings and sculptures makes this Cathedral unlike many others made of stone found in Western European cities.
From the moment you enter, you’ll be greeted by a stunning array of artwork and craftsmanship that spans the ages. Don’t forget to look up and marvel at the scale and intricacy of the art adorning the walls. Most notable is the carving of St. George and the Dragon.
Overall, I found it interesting to see the organ with its smooth silver pipes, the rough-faced bricks, and the ornate wooden carvings blending in the same space for a design all its own.
Whether you’re a devout worshiper, an art enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler seeking to immerse yourself in history and culture, take the time to admire Stockholm Cathedral.
5. Learn at the Nobel Prize Museum.
The Nobel Prize Museum, conveniently located on the north side of Stortorget Square in Gamla Stan, showcases the works and ideas of 900+ brilliant minds who have been honored with the Nobel Prize.
As you wander through the exhibits, you’ll have the chance to watch short films, see original artifacts, and deepen your appreciation for centuries of ideas and innovation that have shaped the world we live in today.
To get the most out of the Nobel Prize Museum, I highly recommend doing a guided tour offered by the museum and included with your entry ticket. Tours last for 30 minutes and happen 3 times a day in English.
If you prefer a more flexible experience, the museum offers a free audio guide that you can listen to on your phone.
Individual entry tickets are available, with discounts for students and seniors. If you have the Stockholm Pass, entrance to the Nobel Prize Museum is included in this bundled sightseeing pass.
6. Join a Stockholm Walking Tour.
If you’d rather explore Stockholm’s Gamla Stan with a local guide, you’ve got plenty of options. I’ve listed a couple of my favorites below.
Walking tour options combine unique sights, history, culture, food, and even ghosts depending on what type of angle you’d like. In particular, these tours focus on the Gamla Stan area because of its hundreds of years of history.
This popular history and ghost tour tells stories about Stockholm’s darker, spookier past. For a deeper look at Stockholm’s and Sweden’s history, this Gamla Stan tour takes you to the neighborhood’s highlights, as well as tucked-away spots you might not stumble upon on your own.
7. Take a Fika break.
You must have fika or simply fika while you’re in Stockholm.
Swedes love and value their coffee breaks or fika. Tea can serve as a substitute for non-coffee drinkers. A baked sweet treat alongside your beverage is a must.
You might rush to think fika is just another coffee break. However, fika speaks to the belief in the Swedish culture of slowing down, even pausing. It’s a daily ritual, perhaps happening more than once.
Fika is all about taking a break and savoring the moment, the exact opposite of running with a cup of coffee in hand. Whether you’re in Stockholm for a day or a week, do as the Swedes do and fika.
8. Plan time for an Archipelago Tour.
When you first imagine Stockholm, you might not fully realize the size of the archipelago that it sits on in the Baltic Sea. I know I didn’t on my first trip to Stockholm.
Stockholm itself sits on a series of islands and as you move away from the harborfront, you start to grasp the number of islands and waterways that make up the city and its surroundings. It’s almost a bit surprising to see the amount of natural beauty that is just steps from this iconic Scandinavian capital city.
In the summer months, Stockholmers retreat to the archipelago to enjoy the summer sun. As a visitor, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to do a Stockholm Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise.
I visited the city twice, once in summer and another time in very early spring. I did an archipelago cruise both times to see how the landscape changed with the seasons. It was so fascinating to see the last of the ice in the Baltic Sea after a long winter season, as well as bask in the blue skies and fresh air that comes with every season.
The round-trip tour is about 2 1/2 hours and departs from Stockholm harbor and heads out to the islands in the archipelago closest to the city. The guide will narrate as you pass private homes and landmark sights.
Before visiting Stockholm, I had no idea how integral the islands of the archipelago near Stockholm and along Sweden’s coast were to the Swedish way of life. Doing this sightseeing cruise, I also saw very clearly the relationship between Swedes’ love of the outdoors and their dedication to protecting the environment.
You can book tickets individually or use your Stockholm Pass to do the archipelago tour.
9. Tour Stockholm’s Underground Art Gallery.
One of the most unique experiences in Stockholm is to explore the underground marvels of Stockholm’s metro system, also known as the world’s longest art gallery.
Unlike traditional galleries, these works of art decorate the walls, corridors, and platforms of the city’s subway stations. Street artists went to work decades ago and the result is totally cool and unique to Stockholm.
Spend a late morning (avoid rush hour if you want decent photos) or a couple of early afternoon hours hopping trains to see a sampling of the underground art. If you’re visiting when the weather is cold, this is one of the best things to do in Stockholm in winter because you can escape the chillier air at street level.
Check the red, blue, and green lines for station stops at Radhuset, Solna Centrum, Fridhemsplan, Thorildsplan, and Universitetet for some of the most beautifully designed stations.
Explore more stations if you have the time! Use my step-by-step DIY Stockholm subway art tour guide as a reference for planning which stations to visit.
10. Go back in time at Skansen.
Take a trip back in time and experience how Swedes once lived at the world’s oldest open-air museum, Skansen. This cultural heritage combines history, entertainment, and natural beauty in one place.
Skansen is a “working village” of sorts, with traditional buildings and farmsteads where you can go inside to see how people in Sweden lived long ago. There are people dressed in period clothing and “living” as people would have for a real interactive visit. But Skansen offers more than just a glimpse into the past and a connection with nature.
Guided tours and workshops through the historic buildings provide insights into and hands-on experiences about Swedish history, culture, and crafts. Through these experiences, you get to know the customs, traditions, and daily life of Swedes in ancient times. (Check which workshops are happening when you visit on Skansen’s website.)
These activities are especially fun for kids because they bring the history to life, but I had a great time, too, on my visit! Skansen is a great thing to do in Stockholm for anyone with an appreciation for life long ago.
Within the open-air museum, you’ll find the Children’s Zoo where you can see a range of animals including Nordic wildlife. You can also explore the Baltic Sea Science Center to learn about the diversity of marine life in the Baltic Sea.
If you get hungry during your visit, head to Stora Gungan Tavern for traditional Swedish food or grab a freshly baked treat from The Bakery, where time seems to have stood still since the 1870s. You can even set up a picnic in one of Skansen’s scenic spots for beautiful views of the city skyline.
11. Enjoy the exhibits at the Fotografiska Museum.
Fotografiska is a modern photography museum with poignant, provocative exhibitions that change throughout the year. The museum has locations in Stockholm, New York, Berlin, Shanghai, and Tallinn.
The museum stays open later than other museums making it a great choice for the late afternoon and evening hours, especially when you’re trying to squeeze extra value from your Stockholm Pass (See my full review). You can browse the exhibitions at night and then dine and have a fika in the restaurant upstairs.
The Fotografiska’s vantage point along the water is a fantastic spot to admire the city views. As a fan of contemporary photography, I loved visiting this space. It’s popular with visitors and locals alike and consistently in the top 10 sights to see in Stockholm.
Pro Tip: For another Stockholm viewpoint, head up the staircase along the cliff across from the Fotografiska. From this part of Sodermalm, there are great vantage points to photograph a city panorama. Save money on admission to the museum with the Stockholm Pass!
12. Have fun at the ABBA Museum.
Located close to the Vasa Museum, the ABBA Museum is an interactive ABBA experience with everything from the actual costumes the group wore to exhibits about ABBA’s rise to fame to replica dressing rooms.
You can even sing along in visitor-friendly recording studios and watch yourself later by entering an ID code from your entry pass!
This museum does a great job of combining music history and fun! You also have access to the Swedish Music Hall of Fame, which is also located inside. After your visit, go upstairs to enjoy a drink at the ABBA-themed bar and restaurant.
Getting to the ABBA Museum couldn’t be easier! Whether you prefer the convenience of public transportation or the scenic route via ferry, there are several options to choose from.
If you’re traveling by tram or bus, simply hop off at the Liljevalchs/Gröna Lund stop, which provides easy access to the museum. Alternatively, you can opt for the Djurgården or Emelie ferry and disembark at Allmänna Gränd, offering a picturesque journey to your destination.
13. Don’t miss seeing Stockholm City Hall.
This classic Stockholm building is famous for its large halls, most notably the Blue Hall where the Nobel Prize Banquet is held and the Golden Hall with its breathtaking 18 million mosaic tiles just upstairs. The building itself is a work of art!
Aside from the all gold room, pay attention to the details put into the walls, ceilings, and decor throughout the building. Be sure to climb the stairs to the top of the tower for gorgeous panoramic views over the city.
Stockholm City Hall can only be toured with a guide. When you purchase your entry ticket, you’ll join the next available public tour in your language. This is an absolute must-see while in Stockholm!
14. Taste local bites at Östermalm Saluhall Market Hall.
No trip to Stockholm is complete without diving into the local cuisine—it’s a great way to connect culture with delicious food. Your first stop should be Östermalm Saluhall Market Hall, where you’ll find stalls selling fresh food and numerous restaurants, cafes, and places to sit and eat purchased prepared foods.
This indoor market has an array of locally sourced and prepared foods. From hearty seafood dishes to freshly baked pastries and artisanal treats, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a full meal, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Personally, I couldn’t get enough of the artisanal cheeses and local seafood choices, which are an absolute must-taste when visiting Stockholm. But beyond the delicious eats, simply wandering through the market is an experience in itself. The stores are housed in a building built in the 1880s and served as the food hub in Östermalmstorg, Stockholm’s most upscale residential neighborhood, for over 130 years.
Östermalm Market Hall is conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from the Royal Dramatic Theatre.
15. Go for a Stockholm food tour.
Stockholm Food Tours offers several different food tours that highlight both local cuisines, as well as the range of ethnic foods available throughout Stockholm. Some tours focus on a neighborhood while others are all about an experience.
I took the Culinary Södermalm Food Tour which featured the neighborhood’s diverse and trendy food scene. Tastings included Chinese, Italian, Indian, and Swedish bites with, of course, chocolate, sweets, and fika to finish.
The guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and adapted the tour to meet everyone’s dietary needs, including mine as a sometimes pescatarian/mostly vegetarian. In the end, it was one of my favorite tours in Stockholm! I highly recommend it as a way to go local and get to know Stockholm through its food.
Even though I didn’t get a chance to do it, this Nordic Food Tour is also quite popular.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have the time or budget for a food tour, still make time to eat in Sodermalm. From ethnic cuisine to classicly prepared Swedish fish to sweet treats, Södermalm is a foodie’s delight.
16. Explore the neighborhood of Södermalm.
Looking to escape the tourist crowds in central Stockholm? Add Södermalm to your list of things to do in Stockholm.
This neighborhood offers an alternative to the classic, historic feel of Old Town. Södermalm, on the other hand, is artsy, fun, and laid-back with plenty of places to explore.
Södermalm has scenic public parks like the Vita Bergen and Tantolunden that are perfect for a leisurely stroll surrounded by green space and sweeping views of Stockholm. From the Fjällgatan and Monteliusvägen viewpoints, you can capture beautiful photos of the city and its harbor.
Södermalm has a creative vibe with small cinemas screening indie flicks to the Fotografiska, the Museum of Photography. You can spend time watching local musicians perform or admiring the work of up-and-coming artists at the neighborhood’s art galleries. If you’re looking for a vintage souvenir, this is the place to look!
In addition to Södermalm’s eclectic food scene, the neighborhood comes alive with a buzzing nightlife scene—perfect for unwinding with drinks and good company.
Södermalm is easy to reach via Stockholm’s subway. From the city center, you can get to Södermalm on the red or green lines by stopping at the Slussen, Mariatorget, or Medborgardplatsen stations. It’s a quick and easy ride from Stockholm Central Station and the Gamla Stan area.
17. Do a DIY Millennium Series tour.
Have you read Steig Larsson’s Millennium Series beginning with The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo? The books were written and set in Stockholm, as well as other areas of Sweden. Admittedly, I was glued to their pages and had read this series of books before I visited Stockholm.
If you’d like to do your own DIY Millennium tour and retrace the steps of the lead characters, Mikael Blomkvist and Lisbeth Salander, stop by the Stockholm City Museum gift shop to buy a Millennium City Walk Map.
You can follow the map stops from Bellmansgatan to Sodermalm, and even pass by the Millennium Office where Mikael and Lisbeth lived. The map gives the specific address of each stop and information about how the place fits into the context of the Millennium Series.
When I returned home, I reread the first book. Wow! The story sprung off the pages with the images of Stockholm fresh in my mind.
18. Be thrilled at Grona Lund.
You don’t see an amusement park as part of a city skyline every day! Gröna Lund sits on the shoreline of Djurgården Island (along with the Vasa, ABBA, Nordic, and Skansen Museums) and is visible from Stockholm’s harbor.
The amusement park is the oldest in Sweden and smaller than other amusement parks you might have been to with just 30 rides. Gröna Lund is open from mid-spring through the summer and into early September so you’ll have to visit during this time to visit the park. The park hosts a calendar of concerts, too.
It’s certainly a great break from museums and traditional sightseeing if you’re traveling with kids. But if you have the time, I highly recommend spending some time here. I loved the flying swings and how they zoomed over Stockholm’s harbor. Especially on a sunny, blue-sky day, the views of the city from the swings are breathtaking!
19. Marvel at Drottningholm Palace.
Just a short journey away from Stockholm, sits the majestic Drottningholm Palace, the residence of Sweden’s Royal Family.
This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 17th century and offers a journey through the rich history of Sweden’s monarchy over the years. Not to mention, the rooms inside the Palace and the views of Lake Malaren from the property are stunning.
Spanning more than 400 acres, Drottningholm Palace not only has its iconic main building but also three sprawling gardens and other attractions. I would recommend dedicating half a day to visit Drottningholm Palace and its grounds. From the charming Chinese Pavilion to the Palace Theatre and Palace Gardens, there’s a lot to see and appreciate.
If you’re on a tight schedule, a visit to the main palace building alone offers a glimpse into the rich history of Sweden’s royal past. After all, Drottningholm is one of the best day trips from Stockholm regardless of how much time you can spare.
And if you’re a history buff, a guided tour is worthwhile if you want to know more about the stories of the monarchs who once lived in the palace. Alternatively, there are info boards that provide a comprehensive overview if you want to explore on your own.
While some areas may be off-limits due to ongoing royal activities, catching a glimpse of the vigilant royal guards patrolling the grounds is a reminder that Drottningholm is still an active Royal Palace.
For me, what really stood out about visiting Drottningholm were the lavish and ornate designs of the rooms and furnishings. I especially loved the reception rooms, the grand staircase, and the frescoed ceilings.
To truly embrace the charm of Drottningholm, take a boat trip from Stockholm to get to the Palace. With a Stockholm Pass during the summer, an hour-long scenic boat journey to the Palace is included. Otherwise, take the T-bana (metro) green line 17 to Brommaplan. From there, you can catch a bus from the Brommaplan bus terminal. The journey from the center of Stockholm typically lasts about 40 minutes.
20. Explore beyond Stockholm.
Head north to Skelleftea in Swedish Lapland. Regardless of the season, Swedish Lapland is spectacular.
In summer when I visited, the pristine wilderness and craggy coastline offered every imaginable outdoor activity from hiking and boating to quad adventures and husky excursions.
Prefer to just soak up Sweden’s perfect summer sun? Picnic and relax on one of the archipelago islands in the Bay of Bothnia. You’ll find yourself immersed in the local life, enjoying Scandinavia’s renowned natural beauty.
Where to Stay in Stockholm
I’ve stayed at a few different hotels for my Stockholm trips.
For a more budget-friendly option, take a look at the Best Western Plus Park City Solna, just 10 minutes by subway from T-Centralen, Stockholm’s main train station. I had a great stay here. The rooms were clean and cozy and came with a full breakfast. In particular, families may find this a great option because there are family rooms with bunk beds.
This hotel is outside of central Stockholm. But the Stockholm subway stop is right next to the hotel. It couldn’t be more convenient. There’s also a mall right there, if you need anything or would like to buy something to eat. The hotel also has 2 restaurants that serve food throughout the day.
I’ve also stayed at the Radisson Blu Royal Viking Hotel which is just a 2-minute walk from Stockholm’s central train station. This is very convenient when you arrive on the Arlanda Express train from the airport (more on this below.)
I really like the Radisson Blu brand of hotels and have stayed in several throughout Europe. The Royal Viking in Stockholm has comfortable modern rooms that feel upscale and sophisticated. I had a perfect stay here and wouldn’t hesitate to return on a future trip.
Lastly, if you need a hotel at the airport for an early departure or late arrival, look no further than the Radisson Blu Arlanda. It’ll easily be one of the best airport hotels you’ll ever stay at. I stayed here for 1 night and it was
How to Get into/around Stockholm
Arlanda Airport is Stockholm’s main international airport.
Several public transportation options exist for a seamless transfer into the city. Flygbussarna runs buses from the airport a few times an hour. Rides typically take about 40 minutes and drop you at City Terminal just next to T-Centralen, the central train station for commuter and metro trains.
The Arlanda Express also runs a speedy train service directly into T-Centralen
The express train is pricier than a bus transfer, but discounts are available by purchasing tickets in advance online or with bundle packages for multiple travelers. The train runs every 10 minutes during rush hour and every 15 minutes at other times.
The train whisks you into the city in just 20 minutes. I took the Arlanda Express train for my trips to Stockholm and it couldn’t have been easier. As a bonus, the trains come equipped with WiFi.
If you’re coming from Gothenburg, consider doing a river cruise on the Göta Canal up to Stockholm. The journey is on a historic passenger ship and allows you to see the Swedish countryside over 4 days.
While in Stockholm, the metro is known as the Tunnelbana, or T-Bana for short. It’s convenient and simple to navigate.
Buy a 24-hour or 72-hour travel card if you plan to use the T-Bana as your primary source of transportation while in Stockholm. It’ll work out cheaper than purchasing single-use tickets. The travel card can be used on buses and some ferries, as well.
Stockholm also has contactless readers at the point of entry in each subway station and on buses. You can tap your contactless-ready credit card or your smart device to pay with a digital wallet.
Stockholm has taxis, however, they’re extremely expensive. Considering how convenient and easy Stockholm’s T-Bana, buses, ferries, and trams are, there’s hardly a reason to justify spending so much to get around. I never found it necessary to take a taxi on either of my trips to Stockholm.
As an alternative to public transportation, the Stockholm Hop on Hop off Bus is also a great way to get around. It’s a combined ticket to include some of the city’s boats. With a ticket for the day, you can hop on and off as many times as you need. With the Stockholm Pass, you get access to the Hop on Hop off Bus for the duration of your pass.
Stockholm Travel Tips
Sweden is a member of the EU but uses its own currency, the Swedish Krona.
Credit cards are accepted everywhere, though. There is no need to have or carry large amounts of Swedish currency. In fact, some places do not accept cash.
English is widely spoken throughout Stockholm and Sweden. You’ll have no problem communicating with locals.
The Stockholm Pass is a card that can be used for 60+ places, museums, and tours around the city, including the Vasa, the Royal Palace, the Fotografiska, the Royal Canal Tour, and the popular Archipelago Tour.
Choose a 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5-day pass depending on what’s right for your Stockholm itinerary. Bundling the sights and experiences you’re interested in will save you money! Plus, the more you see and do, the better value you’ll get from the pass.
Best Things to Do in Stockholm Bottom Line
A trip to northern Europe to visit Stockholm is memorable for all the right reasons! The city has unique sites like the Vasa and Stockholm City Hall, world-class museums like the Fotografiska and the Nobel Museum, not to mention 2 Royal Places, a preserved Old Town, and natural beauty right at the harbor’s edge.
Layer this with the city’s culture, cuisine, and different neighborhoods and you’ll be planning your return trip to Stockholm before you know it!
So, what things to do in Stockholm are on your list?
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