Every November, Stockholm lights up with elaborate Christmas displays, turning the Swedish capital into an atmospheric winter destination. Streets and squares turn into open-air galleries of decorations, sculptures and light installations.
When you walk the streets this time of year, look up at the windows of residential buildings. You will see glowing Christmas stars, Advent candelabras and strings of lights hanging from balconies. Some residents keep it simple, while others go all in with plenty of seasonal decorations and colorful lights.
The Christmas lights are usually switched on from mid-November and stay up until mid-January. Best time to see them is after 4 pm, when it’s dark, or around 5-6 pm when most people have left work and the city comes alive with holiday atmosphere.
Dress warmly. In mid-November, daytime temperatures are usually around 0–5°C (32–41°F), but can feel colder depending on the wind. As we get to December and January, the temperature typically drops, ranging from -2°C to +3°C (28–37°F). The temperature can drop even lower during cold spells.
You’ll find many of the best photo spots in Norrmalm, Gamla Stan and Södermalm. Each of these districts also has plenty of cafés where you can take a break and have a fika. You’ll also find Christmas markets in these areas. Read our guide to Christmas markets for details.
Here’s what to see in each district.
Norrmalm
You’ll find some of Stockholm’s most elaborate Christmas decorations in Norrmalm. The squares Hötorget and Brunkebergstorg are lined with Christmas light installations. Large illuminated reindeer tower over Brunkebergstorg and a family of illuminated moose stroll by the waterfront at Nybroplan. Light strips run along the shopping street Kungsgatan, with a canopy of twinkling lights overhead. Christmas decorations also fill the vaulted spaces under the overarching bridges along the street.
Norrmalm is accessible via T-Centralen, Hötorget, or Östermalmstorg metro stations.
Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan shows off the charm of historic Stockholm winters. Walk through the winding passages between centuries-old townhouses and narrow medieval lanes. Lights twinkle along the main streets and down the narrow alleys. Stortorget square transforms into a charming Christmas market during this season.
To get here, take the metro to Gamla Stan station (red or green line).
Södermalm
Södermalm has several decorated streets, with Swedenborgsgatan street as the main highlight. The street becomes a pedestrian area with Christmas lights, decorations and winter plants. The street is lined with cafés, bars and restaurants. The Swedish Grace buildings (the architectural style of this street) feature elegant 1920s architecture with clean lines and soft colors. These early 20th-century buildings create an elegant backdrop for the Christmas decorations, giving the street a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. Along the street you’ll also find benches where you can sit down and take in the surroundings.
The decorated streets in Södermalm are reachable via Slussen or Medborgarplatsen metro stations.
Before you go
Plan for 2-3 hours if you want to see all three districts, or choose one area if you prefer a slower pace. Many of the locations are within walking distance of each other, so it’s easy to create your own Christmas lights walk route. For a nice break, warm up along the way at a café for a Swedish fika.
