things-to-do-in-Stockholm

Stockholm: The Venice of the North

Located on the Baltic Sea, Stockholm is a stunning capital city that boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking architecture. As you wander through its charming streets, you’ll discover a plethora of exciting things to do in Stockholm.

Explore the Old Town (Gamla Stan)

  • Get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, one of the largest and best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe.
  • Visit Stortorget, the main square, which is surrounded by colorful buildings, cafes, and shops.
  • See the Royal Palace, although you might not be able to take a tour inside, the exterior is still impressive.

Museums and Galleries

  • Vasa Museum: Home to the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship, the Vasa, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628.
  • Moderna Museum: A modern art museum featuring an impressive collection of contemporary works.
  • Nordiska Museet: Dedicated to Swedish cultural history and design.

Nature and Parks

  • Djurgården: A tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, offering walking trails, gardens, and picnic spots.
  • Royal National City Park: One of the world’s first national urban parks, featuring forests, lakes, and wildlife.
  • Take a boat tour to explore Stockholm’s archipelago, comprising over 24,000 islands.

Food and Drink

  • Try traditional Swedish cuisine: Sample meatballs, gravlax, and Janssons Frestelse (a casserole made with anchovies and potatoes) at restaurants like Östermalms Saluhall or Tradisyon.
  • Indulge in coffee and pastries at cozy cafes like Vete-Katten or Saturnus.
  • Visit the Östermalms Saluhall food hall, offering a wide range of artisanal foods and drinks.

Shopping

  • Browse the boutiques and design stores on Biblioteksgatan, known as the “Design District”.
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Södermalm, featuring vintage shops, record stores, and street food.
  • Visit the iconic NK department store, offering high-end fashion and design.

Day Trips

  • Drottningholm Palace: A stunning royal palace located on an island in Lake Mälaren, featuring beautiful gardens and a Chinese Pavilion.
  • Uppsala: Sweden’s fourth-largest city, known for its Viking Age history, picturesque old town, and Uppsala Cathedral.
  • Skokloster Castle: A Baroque-style castle from the 17th century, located about an hour north of Stockholm.

Tips and Essentials

  • Get a Stockholm Card, which grants access to public transportation, museums, and attractions.
  • Learn some basic Swedish phrases, like “hej” (hello) and “tack” (thank you).
  • Pack warm clothing, as Stockholm can be chilly, even in the summer.

With so much to see and do, Stockholm is a city that will leave you enchanted and eager to return.