Wondering what you should see in Stockholm? If you’re short on ideas for things to do in this beautiful city, this guide has you covered. Stockholm, with its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a wide array of attractions that cater to every interest. Whether you’re planning a short weekend trip or a longer stay, this list of must-see sights in Stockholm will ensure you don’t miss out on any of the city’s highlights.
From the iconic landmarks like Gamla Stan to lesser-known hidden gems, Stockholm is a city full of surprises. And if you’re visiting Djurgården, you’re in for a treat—this island is packed with museums, parks, and plenty of fun activities that will keep you entertained for hours.
1. Old Town (Gamla Stan)
No trip to Stockholm is complete without a visit to Gamla Stan, the city’s historic heart. As you stroll through the narrow, cobblestone streets, you’ll be transported back in time to when Stockholm was just beginning to take shape. The centerpiece of Gamla Stan is Stortorget, the oldest square in the city, where you’ll find the iconic medieval buildings painted in vibrant hues, resembling giant LEGO bricks. It’s almost hard to believe that this charming square was once the site of the Stockholm Bloodbath, a grim chapter in Denmark’s history.
A short walk from Stortorget will bring you to the Royal Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe. Large parts of the palace are open to the public, allowing you to explore its grand rooms and learn about Sweden’s royal history. Don’t miss Storkyrkan, Stockholm’s oldest church, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try a rooftop tour on Riddarholmen for a unique perspective of the city.
2. Fotografiska Museum
Fotografiska is a haven for photography enthusiasts. This modern museum is dedicated to contemporary photography, featuring rotating exhibitions from some of the world’s most renowned photographers, such as Annie Leibovitz and Robert Mapplethorpe. Even if you’re not a photography buff, the museum’s stunning location by the waterfront offers one of the best views in Stockholm, especially from the café, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery after soaking in the art.
The museum’s exhibitions are always changing, so there’s something new to see every time you visit. From thought-provoking portraits to avant-garde landscapes, Fotografiska presents photography in its most powerful and evocative forms.
3. Spirit Museum (Spritmuseum)
Yes, you read that correctly—Stockholm has an entire museum dedicated to alcohol! The Spirit Museum (Spritmuseum) takes visitors on an engaging journey through Sweden’s history with alcohol. The exhibits are both educational and interactive, offering a unique glimpse into the cultural significance of spirits in Swedish society.
And if all that talk about alcohol makes you thirsty, the museum has you covered. You can sample a variety of drinks, including some unique homebrews, in the museum’s restaurant. The tastings are themed, with options like Captain Haddock’s drinking habits adding a playful twist to the experience. Just make sure to book your tasting session in advance to secure your spot.
4. Take a Dip at Saltsjöbaden
A short train ride from central Stockholm will take you to the serene coastal town of Saltsjöbaden. Established in the late 19th century as an exclusive seaside retreat, Saltsjöbaden was a haven for the wealthy, who built grand villas along the Baltic coast to escape the crowded city. Today, it’s still a popular spot for relaxation, especially during the summer months.
One of the highlights of Saltsjöbaden is Saltisbadet, the old bathhouse that has been welcoming swimmers for over a century. The historic wooden structure is perched on the edge of the water, offering a nostalgic setting for a refreshing dip. Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the coastal views, Saltsjöbaden provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Stockholm.
5. Brunkeberg Tunnel
The Brunkeberg Tunnel is one of Stockholm’s best-kept secrets, often overlooked by tourists. This 231-meter-long tunnel connects David Bagares Gata to Tunnelgatan and serves as a popular shortcut between Birger Jarlsgatan and Sveavägen. But it’s not just a convenient passageway—the tunnel’s striking yellow walls and unique design have made it a favorite spot for photographers and Instagrammers alike.
Walking through the tunnel feels almost surreal, as its curved walls and soft lighting create an atmosphere unlike anything else in the city. It’s a short but memorable experience, and if you’re looking to capture some unique photos during your trip, Brunkeberg Tunnel is the perfect backdrop.
6. The Centralbadet Spa
If you’re in need of some relaxation, Stockholm’s Centralbadet is the perfect place to unwind. Located on Drottninggatan, this historic spa has been a sanctuary for weary travelers and locals alike since the early 20th century. The spa’s Art Nouveau design adds to its charm, with beautiful mosaics, stained glass windows, and intricate details that transport you to another era.
At Centralbadet, you can enjoy a swim in the stunning indoor pool, which has retained its original design. The spa also offers a variety of baths and saunas, making it easy to find the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you’re treating yourself to a massage or simply soaking in the warm waters, a visit to Centralbadet is a must for anyone looking to escape the city’s busy streets.
7. Djurgården
Djurgården is more than just an island—it’s a hub of attractions, parks, and museums that could easily fill an entire vacation. As you step onto the island, you’ll be greeted by a harmonious blend of nature and culture, making it a favorite among both tourists and locals.
Getting to Djurgården is easy, and you have a few options. You can take the traditional tram, Djurgårdslinjen, from Norrmalmstorg, or hop on one of the charming old boats from Slussen or Nybrokajen. Once on the island, you’ll find an abundance of things to do, from visiting world-class museums to exploring beautiful parks.
Among Djurgården’s many attractions is Gröna Lund, Stockholm’s iconic amusement park. Open since 1883, Gröna Lund offers a mix of thrilling rides and live concerts that draw both tourists and Stockholmers alike. One of the park’s most popular attractions is Eclipse, a swing ride that takes you 121 meters above the city for breathtaking views.
If you’re a fan of pop music, the ABBA Museum is a must-see. This interactive museum lets you dive into the world of one of the world’s biggest pop bands. Sing along to your favorite hits, record your own song, and go behind the scenes of the Mamma Mia! movies. It’s impossible not to leave the museum with a smile on your face.
For a more literary experience, Junibacken offers a magical journey through the world of Astrid Lindgren’s beloved children’s books. Board the Fairy Tale Train and meet characters like Pippi Longstocking as you explore Lindgren’s imaginative universe. It’s a delightful experience for both children and adults.
History buffs will appreciate the Nordiska Museet, which showcases everyday life in the Nordic countries from the past to the present. The museum’s exhibits offer a fascinating look at Nordic culture and traditions, making it a great place to learn more about the region’s history.
Another must-see on Djurgården is the Vasa Museum, home to the Vasa ship. Commissioned by King Gustavus Adolphus, this massive warship famously capsized on its maiden voyage in 1628. It was salvaged in 1961 and is now one of Sweden’s most visited museums. The Vasa is remarkably well-preserved, and the museum offers detailed exhibits about the ship’s construction, sinking, and recovery.
Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum, is another highlight of Djurgården. Established in 1891, Skansen showcases traditional Swedish life with a collection of historic buildings, farms, and workshops. The museum also features a zoo with Scandinavian animals and offers a taste of Swedish cuisine in its many restaurants.
If you’re looking for a quieter spot, Rosendals Slott, a small castle from the 1820s, is a hidden gem on Djurgården. After touring the castle, you can enjoy an organic lunch at Rosendals Trädgård, a garden café that serves fresh, locally grown produce. The nearby farm shop is perfect for picking up some unique souvenirs or ingredients to take home.
8. Boat Trips in the Archipelago
To truly capture the essence of Stockholm, you need to experience the city from the water. Known as the Venice of the North, Stockholm is built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges, making it a city that’s best appreciated from the water. There are countless boat tours available, each offering a different perspective of the city.
If the short boat ride to Djurgården leaves you wanting more, consider taking a longer tour with Strömma Sightseeing Tours. They offer a variety of options, including archipelago tours, canal cruises, and the popular “Hop On – Hop Off” boat tours. These tours allow you to see Stockholm’s sights at your own pace, with the added bonus of traveling by water.
For those visiting Stockholm in the winter, be sure to bundle up—the cold can be biting, especially when you’re out on the water. But the experience is worth it, as the boats often sail through slush ice, creating a uniquely Scandinavian adventure.
Finding the Perfect Hotel in Stockholm
After a day of sightseeing, you’ll want a comfortable place to rest your head. Stockholm offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to quirky hostels. Whether you’re looking for something upscale or budget-friendly, you’ll find plenty of options in the city.
If you’re an ABBA fan, Hotel Rival is a must. Owned by Benny Andersson, one of the B’s in ABBA, this luxury hotel is located in the trendy Södermalm district. Housed in a former cinema, Hotel Rival features 99 rooms, with the Deluxe rooms offering views of the lively Mariatorget square. The hotel also has a concert hall where you can catch live performances, including ABBA-related shows.
For something truly unique, consider staying at the former prison on Långholmen. West of Gamla Stan, this small island was once home to Sweden’s Central Prison, where the last execution in the country took place. Today, the prison has been converted into a hotel and hostel, where you can sleep in the old prison cells. The rooms have been carefully restored, preserving the original features like the green doors and historical newspaper clippings about the inmates. Guests can also visit the prison museum for free.
If you’re looking for a hostel with a difference, Jumbo Stay at Arlanda Airport is a great option. This converted Boeing 747 has been turned into one of the world’s coolest hostels, with dormitories and private rooms available. For a special treat, you can even book a suite in the cockpit, but make sure to reserve early as it’s a popular choice.
Getting to Stockholm
Traveling to Stockholm is easy, whether you’re coming by train or plane. If you’re taking the train from Copenhagen, the journey takes about 5-6 hours, bringing you directly to Stockholm Central Station. Flying is even faster, with flights from Copenhagen taking just over an hour. There are also flights from Billund and Tirstrup Airport near Aarhus.
When booking your flight, pay attention to which airport you’ll be flying into. Stockholm has several airports, including Bromma Airport, the closest to the city center. Arlanda Airport is the largest and is just a 20-minute train ride from central Stockholm. If you’re flying into Stockholm Skavsta or Stockholm Västerås, both are about 1.5 hours by train from the city center, so plan accordingly.
No matter how you get to Stockholm, you’ll find that the city is easy to navigate, with an efficient public transportation system and plenty of options for getting around.
In conclusion, Stockholm is a city that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the medieval streets of Gamla Stan, soaking up the art at Fotografiska, or taking in the views from a boat tour, Stockholm is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to experience all that this stunning Scandinavian city has to offer!
