There are no surprises that Stockholm is ranked pretty highly as one of the coolest European cities to explore. I mean, there are so many incredible experiences and best things to do in Stockholm for a weekend, a week or even longer! It’s one of those cities that’s just so fun to dive right into, especially with those quirky metro stations that’ll get you all across the city.
Now, if it’s your first time visiting Stockholm, it’s likely you’ll want to see some of the main sights but also take in some of the amazing cafes, bars and exhibitions that seem to be everywhere in the city. That’s why I wanted to show you some of the best things to do in Stockholm on your trip to Sweden. Even if you’re only connecting for a day, you’ll have ample opportunity to at least explore some areas of this epic city.
Honestly, the Swedes are also the kings of work-life balance, and it’s definitely apparent in Stockholm… those rooftop bars and cafe culture are something else. Anyway, I’m rambling, but take a look at some of the very best things to do in Stockholm on your next trip. Take a look at some of the best things to do in Stockholm.
1.) Skansen Open Air Museum
Skansen Open Air Museum is known for being the oldest open-air museum in the world and easily one of the best things to do in Stockholm if you love a little history. The whole outdoor aspect of this site makes it feel very much like walking back in time and is an ideal place to come to if you want to learn more about old-world Sweden.
The museum also houses a zoo as well as replica districts of ancient Sweden (ergo the whole “back in time” feeling when you’re here). Just be sure to book these tickets before arriving. This way, you’ll be able to secure your entry on your chosen day to visit.
2.) Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan is the name for the old town of Stockholm and dates back to the 1200s. It’s a picture-perfect area that’s a proper gem to see. It’s easily considered the ‘beating heart’ of Stockholm and one of the must-see and best things to do in Stockholm during your visit.
Filled with charming restaurants, cafes, and eclectic boutiques, this is a great place to come for a taste of old Stockholm. In fact, no trip to the city is complete without popping around here at least once (though, I bet you’ll be here quite a bit).
Also, if you’re looking for a gorgeous place to stay, check into At Six, which is super cool. I totally loved it when we stayed and the rooms are so chic. Plus, you can walk to so many of the main sights to see in Stockholm from this hotel.
And, if your tummy begins to rumble, head straight over to Kagges for a pretty creative Swedish menu – it’s so delicious.
Read more: Best places in Sweden to visit
3.) The artistic Metro Stations of Stockholm
The metro stations of Stockholm are an artistic (and photographic) paradise. Think of these Stockholm metro stations as an underground art gallery. Well, actually, it’s said to be the largest underground art gallery in the world! It’s so unique.
They are so cool and totally unique, unlike anywhere else in the world. Better still, there’s not just one to see… There are loads. So many, in fact, that I created a guide (with Google Map pins) on some of the best you should see.
Honestly, the artistic metro stations of Stockholm are just unreal! We ended up visiting around eight of them. It really is one of the best things to do in Stockholm if you’re an art lover.
Read more: Best artistic metro stations in Stockholm
4.) The Abba Museum
ABBA, the Museum is fairly self-explanatory, isn’t it? To be honest, it’s home to all things ABBA and a must-visit for fans of this best-selling, world-famous Swedish band.
Honestly, if you love ABBA, you’ll think this is one of the best things to do in Stockholm, hands down! No photos are allowed inside, but it’s a really fun experience. Just be sure to book these ABBA tickets in advance. It can get busy at peak times, and you want to make sure you guarantee entry.
5.) The Royal Canals
Stockholm is a city that lies virtually on the water (and lots of islands) with the sea running through this city itself. When you’re here, one of the best ways to explore the city (and see it from a totally different perspective) is via a canal boat tour, taking you around the main sights in the city.
Thinking of a wider boat trip tour around Stockholm and the wider area? Don’t forget to also book this archipelago sightseeing boat tour. It’s such a fun way to see the wider area and islands around Stockholm, and it’s honestly beautiful. We had the best time.
Read more: Best places in Sweden to visit
6.) The Royal Palace
Located close to Gamla Stan, the Royal Palace dates from the 18th century and is the official home of the King of Sweden. It’s well worth spending a morning (or afternoon) wandering around the palace and exploring the intricate beauty inside.
Best of all, you can tour the staterooms that are so much more impressive than the Palace’s exterior. The walls are home to some stunning pieces of period artwork that are beautiful to see. It really is one of the best things to do in Stockholm.
Also, don’t forget to grab this Stockholm Pass discount book. It gives up to 50% off on-the-door prices for Stockholm’s main sights to see like The Vasa Museum, The Royal Palace and the iconic Drottningholm Palace, too. It’s so worth it, and you can save heaps of money by grabbing this pass.
7.) The City Hall
The City Hall in Stockholm is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and is famed for being the place where the Nobel Banquets are held annually. When you’re here, in addition to taking a tour of the halls, you should definitely check out the adjoining tower. The views over Stockholm from here are incredible.
8.) The Vasa Museum
The Vasa battleship actually sank in 1628 on its maiden voyage, but fortunately, the ship was recovered and lovingly restored.
Now, you can tour this amazing piece of Swedish history in great detail and have a good nose around inside the amazing Vasa Museum, which is well worth a visit when on a trip to Stockholm. It’s incredible to see centuries of history, perfectly preserved in one easy-to-reach place in the city. You will love it.
9.) Fotografiska Museum
Fotografiska Museum is a museum of contemporary photography in Stockholm that’s well worth a gander at. Truth be told, before our visit, I wasn’t that bothered, but I’m so glad we went. It really is amazing and easily one of the best things to do in Stockholm.
Plus, the photography is pretty impressive and has some cool and totally thought-provoking exhibitions. You can grab your advance tickets here, and they are open really late – we visited around 9 pm. We loved it here, and the whole venue is amazing to visit when exploring Stockholm.
10.) Moderna Museum
If you are interested in art from the 20th century, then this is the place to experience it in Sweden.
At Moderna Museum, you will find pieces from a whole range of artists here from world-renowned and acclaimed painters like Matisse, Dali, and Picasso to more modern-day artists.
Read more: Best Scandinavian food to eat in Sweden
11.) The Royal National City Park
The Royal National City Park is a much-welcome belt of greenery in the city and stretches for over 6 miles.
The park feels almost like you’ve stepped hundreds of miles away from the city, especially as you’re surrounded by nothing but beautiful greenery. It’s the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon stroll.
Read more: Best castles in Sweden to visit
12.) Nobel Museum
For those who want to know more about the history of the Nobel Prize, this museum is the place to come. Expect exhibits that explain the significance of this honour and profiles of past winners.
You might be sceptical about visiting this one, but rest assured, you’ll leave impressed and awe-struck by some of the achievements chronicled in this museum.
13.) The Ericsson Globe
The Ericsson Globe is famous for being the largest spherical building in the entire world, and as you would imagine, it offers amazing views over the city. You can take a trip to the top of the globe by visiting the SkyView exhibit. Just don’t forget your camera.
Also, another gorgeous hotel (close by) is the Norbis Hotel, which is a five-star treat. It’s pretty near the Royal Opera House too. The hotel is stunning, and it makes for the perfect city break hotel for a trip to Stockholm.
14.) The Nordic Museum
If you want to delve beneath the surface of Nordic history, the Nordic Museum makes for an ideal stop on your tour around Stockholm. This museum takes you back to the beginning (we’re talking way, way back) before whizzing through to the present day and touches on all areas of Swedish cultural history.
Read more: Best places in Sweden to visit
15.) Swedish Army Museum
Military history may not be your first thought when you think of Sweden, but if you’re a real museum buff, this will be right up your street. This museum will fill you in on the history of Sweden’s army, including a range of interesting military memorabilia on display.
To be honest, given the other museums on this list (and the potential for ‘museum fatigue’), you’d be totally forgiven for giving this one a miss.
Read more: Best castles in Sweden to visit
16.) Candlelight Concert
Stockholm has a rich and long history of performance spaces within the city, with none quite so special as a Candlelight Concert at Musikaliska Kvarteret. You see, this Candlelight Concert is a tribute to ABBA and is so incredible to see.
Shows last around 60 minutes, and you’ll get to listen to some of ABBA’s biggest hits that are all played by the String Quartet in candlelight. It’s beautiful and easily one of the best things to do in Stockholm, especially if you love ABBA.
Top tip: Make sure to book your tickets in advance. This way, you can plan your day around the concert times and maximise your time exploring Stockholm.
17.) Drottningholm Palace
Drottningholm Palace is one of the grandest buildings you can visit in Stockholm, hands down. And as palaces go, this is definitely one not to miss out when you visit the city. (Sidebar – it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site, so there’s that too!).
Suffice to say, even if you were planning on walking everywhere (which is easily done in this city), this station is a reason in itself to hop aboard the metro, even if just for a little while.
Read more: Best metro stations in Stockholm to visit
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