Discover Stockholm: A Guide to Sweden's Enchanting Capital

Stockholm, Sweden's capital, is a city interwoven with waterways and known as the "Venice of the North." Its unique geography spans across islands and peninsulas, offering a stunning mix of land and water, rocky isles, and scenic waterways.

Visitors can enjoy world-class museums, theaters, galleries, and lush parklands. Stockholm's efficient public transport, including the Tunnelbana (T-bana), buses, and bike lanes, makes exploring the city a breeze. The city center, a "levande stad" or "living city," is vibrant with locals and tourists alike.

For a taste of royal history, the UNESCO-listed Drottningholm Palace is a short trip away. Discover more about Stockholm's attractions with our guide to the best things to do in the city.

See also: Where to Stay in Stockholm

1. Explore Old Town Stockholm: Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan, the city's historical heart dating back to the 1200s, is a must-see with its sights, cafes, and shops. Wander through its maze of streets to find Stortorget, the main square, and don't miss the Christmas Market, Stockholm Cathedral, Nobel Prize Museum, and the Royal Palace.

2. Relive Sweden's Seafaring Past at the Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is home to the 17th-century Vasa warship, which sank on its maiden voyage. The museum is Sweden's most visited, with exhibitions and a film about the ship's history. Entry is free for those under 18.

Official site: www.vasamuseet.se/en

3. Get Your Bearings aboard a Stockholm Boat Tour

Experience Stockholm from the water with a boat tour. Options include trips under the city's bridges, the Royal Canal Tour, and hop-on, hop-off services.

Official site: www.stromma.com/en-se/stockholm/

4. Be a Star at ABBA The Museum

ABBA The Museum celebrates the iconic Swedish pop group with interactive exhibits. Visitors can sing and dance with virtual ABBA members, explore a replica of their recording studio, and more.

Official site: https://abbathemuseum.com/en/

5. Take a Stroll and See the Sights of Djurgården

Djurgården is a serene parkland that houses attractions like the Vasa Museum, Abba the Museum, Skansen, and Gröna Lund amusement park. Accessible by ferry, tram, or a short walk from the city center, it's a favorite for picnics and outdoor activities.

6. Skansen Open-Air Museum

Skansen, the world's oldest open-air museum, showcases Swedish life through historical buildings and a zoo. The Skansen Aquarium and Children's Zoo are highlights for families.

Official site: www.skansen.se/en/

7. Tour the Royal Palace (Sveriges Kungahus)

The Royal Palace, the King of Sweden's official residence, is a grand Baroque edifice with over 600 rooms. Don't miss the daily changing of the guard ceremony.

Official site: www.kungligaslotten.se/english.html

8. Fotografiska: Stockholm's Photography Museum

Fotografiska is a contemporary photography museum with a top-floor restaurant offering stunning city views. It's recognized as one of the world's leading photography venues.

Official site: www.fotografiska.com/sto/en/medlemskap/

9. See Historic Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset)

Stockholm City Hall, with its iconic golden crowns, is a landmark building where the Nobel Banquets are held. Visitors can enjoy views from the tower and marvel at the Golden Hall's mosaics.

10. The National Museum of Fine Arts: Nationalmuseum

The Nationalmuseum houses a vast collection of art, including works by Rembrandt and a large collection of portrait miniatures. The museum's architecture and central staircase are also noteworthy.

Official site: www.nationalmuseum.se/en

11. Moderna Museet

Moderna Museet, located on Skeppsholmen island, features a collection of 20th-century art, including works by Picasso and Matisse. The museum also has a second location in Malmö.

Official site: www.modernamuseet.se/stockholm/en/

12. Roam the Royal National City Park

The Royal National City Park is a vast green space where visitors can enjoy nature, museums, and historic sites. It's a perfect escape within the city.

Official site: www.nationalstadsparken.se/

13. Get Lost in Time at Stockholm Medieval Museum (Medeltidsmuseet)

The Museum of Medieval Stockholm offers a glimpse into the city's past with preserved structures and artifacts from the medieval period.

Official site: https://medeltidsmuseet.stockholm.se/in-english/

14. Visit Storkyrkan: The Great Church

Storkyrkan, Stockholm's oldest church, is a significant historical and architectural site with medieval artifacts and Baroque additions.

15. Shop 'til You Drop in Östermalm

Östermalm is Stockholm's most exclusive shopping district, featuring luxury brands, Scandinavian design, and antique shops.

16. Take in the Perfect "SkyView"

SkyView offers panoramic views of Stockholm from atop the Ericsson Globe. The gondola ride to the summit is a unique experience.

Official site: https://stockholmlive.com/en/skyview/

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Stockholm

Maximize your visit with sightseeing tours, ghost walks, and day trips. Save money with daily specials and indulge in the Swedish tradition of "fika" for coffee and cake.

Where to Stay in Stockholm for Sightseeing

Choose from luxury, mid-range, and budget accommodations, including waterfront hotels and convenient city-center locations.

More Delightful Swedish Destinations and Day Trips

Explore Sweden's picturesque countryside, historic towns, and vibrant cities like Uppsala, Gotland, Gothenburg, Helsingborg, and Malmo, each offering unique experiences and attractions.