23 Fun Things to Do in Stockholm
Stockholm, Sweden's capital is a city that effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern flair. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, you can explore the city's highlights within a few days.
Stockholm offers a diverse blend of cultural treasures and outdoor adventures, catering to every type of visitor. With its unique character and vibrant atmosphere, this city has something special to offer everyone.
In this blog post, we'll explore the top fun things to do in Stockholm. From its rich historical landmarks to its cutting-edge contemporary attractions, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to this captivating Nordic gem.
Explore Gamla Stan (Old Town)
Gamla Stan, Stockholm's old town, is a must-visit area when you're in the city. This well-preserved medieval center features narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings and is one of Europe's largest and best-preserved medieval city centers.
As you walk through Gamla Stan, you'll find a variety of quaint cafes, boutique shops, and historical landmarks. It's an excellent place to experience Stockholm's rich history while enjoying modern amenities.
Gamla Stan offers many free walking tours, making it easy for you to explore this old town without breaking the bank.
Visit the Royal Palace
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When exploring Stockholm, don't miss the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Swedish monarch. This baroque building has over 600 rooms and is one of the largest palaces in Europe. Much of the palace is open to the public year-round, offering visitors a glimpse into royal life.
During your visit, you can explore the opulent royal apartments, marvel at the dazzling crown jewels in the Treasury, and witness the daily changing of the guard ceremony. The palace's rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-see attraction for anyone interested in Swedish culture and heritage.
Enjoy the Vasa Museum
The Vasa Museum in Stockholm displays the 17th-century Vasa ship, which sank on its first voyage. The museum shows the ship's history and restoration. Visitors can see the well-preserved ship up close, creating a strong link to the past.
Experience Skansen
Skansen is the world's oldest open-air museum, showing Swedish history and culture. Visitors can see old buildings, watch traditional crafts, and visit a zoo with Nordic animals. It's great for families and anyone interested in Swedish heritage.
Learn at the Nobel Museum
The Nobel Museum provides an interesting look into the history of the Nobel Prize and the remarkable individuals who have received it. Located in the heart of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan, the museum features exhibits that highlight the achievements of laureates in areas like peace, literature, science, and economics.
While some visitors appreciate the museum's displays and stories, others have mentioned that it’s smaller and less interactive than they expected. Still, if you’re curious about the Nobel Prize and the people behind these important contributions, it’s worth considering a visit.
Fotografiska
Fotografiska is a modern photography museum in Stockholm. It shows work by famous and new photographers. The museum has a restaurant with great city views and a shop selling photo books and prints.
Moderna Museet
Moderna Museet is Stockholm's modern art museum. It has art from the 20th and 21st centuries, including works by Picasso and Warhol. The museum also has changing exhibitions and a sculpture park.
ABBA Museum
The ABBA Museum celebrates Sweden's famous pop group. Visitors can sing ABBA songs, try on virtual costumes, and see band memorabilia. It's fun for ABBA fans and anyone interested in pop music.
Paradox Museum
The Paradox Museum has over 70 exhibits that trick your mind. Visitors can experience optical illusions and puzzles. It's good for families and anyone who likes brain teasers.
Drottningholm Palace
Often called the "Versailles of Sweden", this UNESCO World Heritage site is the Swedish royal family's home. Visitors can tour the palace, see old furniture and art, and walk in the gardens. There's also an old theater and a Chinese Pavilion to visit.
Explore many free museums in Stockholm
Stockholm has many free museums and is good for learning about different topics without spending money.
Boat tour through the archipelago
Stockholm's archipelago has over 30,000 islands. Boat tours let visitors see these islands up close. Some tours stop at islands where you can explore villages or swim.
Visit Djurgården Island
Djurgården is an island with many attractions. It has museums like Vasa and ABBA, and Skansen open-air museum. There's also an amusement park and nice parks for walking.
Relax at Hellasgården
Hellasgården is a nature area near Stockholm. In summer, visitors can swim, hike, or canoe. In winter, there's ice skating and skiing. It's a good place to enjoy Swedish outdoor life.
Visit one of the best viewpoints of Stockholm
Stockholm has many good spots to see the city. Monteliusvägen is a path with views of the old town. Skinnarviksberget is the highest natural point in central Stockholm. Both offer great views of the city and water.
City Hall's tower
Stockholm's City Hall has a tall tower visitors can climb. From the top, you can see the whole city and its waters. It's especially nice at sunset. The tower is open from May to September.
Stockholm Subway Art
Stockholm's subway stations are full of art. Over 90 stations have paintings, sculptures, or mosaics. Many tourists visit different stations to see the art. It's a cheap way to see lots of artwork.
SkyView at Avicii Arena (Ericsson Globe)
The Avicii Arena is a big round building. SkyView takes visitors to the top in glass gondolas. The ride gives 360-degree views of Stockholm. It's good for seeing the whole city from high up.
Bodyflight - indoor skydiving
Bodyflight lets visitors try skydiving without jumping from a plane. People float on air in a big vertical wind tunnel. It's safe and fun for many ages. Instructors help visitors learn to "fly."
Stockholm City Helicopter Tour
Helicopter tours show Stockholm from the air. Visitors can see the city, islands, and water in a short flight. It's more expensive than other activities but gives a unique view of Stockholm.
Icebar Stockholm by ICEHOTEL
The Icebar is made entirely of ice. Everything, including glasses, is ice from a northern Swedish river. It's kept very cold, and visitors wear warm capes. It's a unique place to have a drink.
Junibacken Children's Museum
Junibacken is about Swedish children's books. Kids can explore scenes from stories, especially those by Astrid Lindgren. There's a story train ride and places to play. It's good for families with young children.
Biocapitol
Biocapitol is a modern cinema in Stockholm. It shows new movies in different languages. Some screens have special seats, and there's a bar for drinks. It's good for movie fans who want a nice cinema experience.
Stadsbiblioteket (City Library)
Stadsbilioteket is Stockholm's main public library. The building has interesting round architecture. Visitors can see lots of books, read newspapers, or just enjoy the quiet space. Sometimes there are cultural events here.
Fika
Fika is a Swedish coffee break tradition. People pause to have coffee and a sweet snack, often with friends. Many cafes in Stockholm offer fika. It's a good way to rest and enjoy Swedish culture during your visit.
