10 scenic walks around Stockholm

1. Walk through Kungsholmen island

This walk offers beautiful views of the water and cityscape.

The Kungsholmen island walk is a beautiful urban exploration that offers a glimpse into authentic Stockholm life. This scenic route takes you through a charming residential area with beautiful waterfront views, architectural highlights, and local character.

Walking time: ~50 minutes
Distance: 3.6 km (2.2 miles)

Begin at Oscarsteatern, located at Kungsgatan 63. This teater is designed in Art Nouveau style and was in fact designed by the same architect that designed Stockholm’s opera house. From the theater head west along Kungsgatan.
Walk across the Kungsbron bridge and turn left (south) onto Kungsbro strand (the street along the canal), following the path toward Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset).
City Hall detour (optional): When you arrive at the City Hall entrance, you have two options:
- Continue west around the building toward Norr Mälarstrand, or
- Enter the City Hall’s inner courtyard for a brief visit, then walk through to the City Hall Park (Stadshusparken). From the park, turn right and exit directly onto Norr Mälarstrand, joining the waterside promenade.
Walk west along Norr Mälarstrand, enjoying the waterfront views. Continue until you reach Rålambshovsparken, a large green park.
Walk northwest through Rålambshovsparken and follow the paths leading toward Thorildsplan subway station, where this walk ends.

Points of interest

Stockholm City Hall: A defining landmark of Stockholm’s skyline, completed in 1923. The 106-meter tower offers panoramic views of the city during summer.
Kungsholmen Police Station: A well-known landmark in Kungsholmen district, with its distinctive center tower.
Norr Mälarstrand: The walk along Norr Mälarstrand provides stunning views of Lake Mälaren and Södermalm. This is one of the longest and most charming tree-lined boulevards in the city.

2. Walk around Långholmen island

Take a walk on a charming island with a captivating and unique history.

Långholmen is a picturesque island in central Stockholm, offering a unique blend of nature, history, and urban charm. This used to be a prison island in the 18th century and you can still visit the old prison building, which is a museum today. This 4.1 km walk takes you around the island’s perimeter, showcasing beautiful waterfront views, lush green spaces, and remnants of its intriguing past as a former prison site.

Walking time: ~1 hour
Distance: 4.1 km (2.5 miles)

Begin your walk outside Hornstull metro station. Head north along Långholmsgatan.
Before reaching the Västerbron bridge, turn right onto Pålsundsbacken and follow the curve of the road downhill toward the water.
Cross the Pålsundsbron bridge to reach Långholmen island.
After crossing the bridge, turn right and follow the path northeast along the island.
Continue east until the road curves west at the northern tip of the island.
Walk west along the shoreline, enjoying views of Norr Mälarstrand across the water.
As you approach the Västerbron bridge, you can take a short detour south to visit the JAS Memorial Statue, commemorating Swedish aviation history.
Return to the main path and continue west under the Västerbron bridge.
Walk southwest past the small beach area. For a short stretch, the path will lead slightly away from the shoreline.
When you reach the allotment gardens (koloniträdgårdar), turn right and head northwest.
Follow the shoreline with Carl Hällsgård Park on your left. Continue west around the island’s tip as the path curves southward.
The path merges onto Sofiebergsvägen, a street near the private boat harbor. Walk east along the harbor, passing parked boats.
Walk past Långholmen’s Boat Club, then turn right and cross the Långholmsbron bridge back to Södermalm.
After crossing the bridge, continue south and turn left onto Högalidsgatan. Walk east along Högalidsgatan until you reach Långholmsgatan, the street where you started. Turn right on Långholmsgatan and return to Hornstull Subway Station.

Points of interest

Långholmen Prison Museum: Housed in a former prison building, this museum offers insights into the island’s 250-year history as a correctional facility.
Långholmsbadet: A popular sandy beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing during summer months.
Långholmen Kajak: Rent kayaks or book a guided tour to explore Stockholm’s waterways.
Allotment Gardens (Koloniträdgårdar): Charming small garden plots tended by local residents.
Västerbron: The large bridge spanning Lake Mälaren offers panoramic views of the city.
Former prison building: Now converted into a hostel, bar, and conference facility.

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3. Walk along Norr Mälarstrand

One of Stockholm’s most beloved walkways.

The walk along Norr Mälarstrand is a delightful blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. As you stroll, you’ll encounter a mix of functionalist architecture, lush parklands, and charming waterside cafes. This walk is particularly magical during sunset, when the golden light reflects off the water, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. The path is popular among both locals and visitors for leisurely walks, jogging, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Walking time: ~30 minutes
Distance: 2.1 km (1.3 miles)

Begin your walk just west of Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset).
Walk west along Norr Mälarstrand, enjoying the scenic views of the water and the islands beyond.
Continue until you reach the beginning of Rålambshovsparken, a popular park with open green spaces.
Turn right and head north through the park toward Fridhemsplan Subway Station, where this walk ends.

Tips for this route

You can avoid having the sun in your face by switching the walking direction, depending on the time of the day.

Morning walks: If you walk westward (i.e. start at the City Hall) in the morning, the sun will rise behind you, illuminating the waterfront and enhancing your view.
Evening walks: For a sunset experience, reverse the route and walk from west to east. This way, the setting sun will be at your back, casting a warm glow over the water and City Hall.

Points of interest:

Stockholm City Hall: The walk begins near this iconic building, known for hosting the Nobel Prize banquet.
Mälarpaviljongen: A floating restaurant and bar perfect for a refreshing break with waterfront views.
Functionalist architecture: Admire the distinctive 1930s residential buildings lining the street.
Rålambshovsparken: An expansive park at the end of the promenade, ideal for picnics or relaxation.
Västerbron: This large bridge offers panoramic views of the city and lake.
Waterfront sculptures: Keep an eye out for various art installations along the route.

View this route on Google Maps

4. Walk along Södermälarstrand

Enjoy fantastic views of Riddarfjärden.

Södermälarstrand is a picturesque waterfront promenade that stretches along the northern edge of Södermalm island in Stockholm. This 2.2 kilometer (1.4 miles) walkway offers stunning views of Riddarfjärden, the easternmost bay of Lake Mälaren. As you stroll, you’ll encounter a mix of historic buildings, modern architecture, and charming boat life, all set against the backdrop of the sparkling waters of Riddarfjärden.

Walking time: ~43 minutes
Distance: 3 km ( 1.9 miles)

Start point: Begin outside Slussen Subway Station.
Ryssgården Square: Head north through Ryssgården Square, with the Stockholm City Museum on your left.
Onto Slussbrogatan: After passing the museum, turn left onto Slussbrogatan. Continue straight, crossing the first intersection, and proceed onto Hornsgatan.
Turn onto Pustegränd: Walk about 200 meters (656 feet) along Hornsgatan, then turn right onto Pustegränd. Follow this narrow street north until you reach the water.
Cross the street toward the water, using the pedestrian crossing under the Centralbron bridge.
After crossing, you’ll arrive at Söder Mälarstrand. Turn left and walk west along the shoreline, keeping the water on your right.
Continue along Söder Mälarstrand until you see Långholmen Island on your right.
Keep walking until you spot the first bridge to Långholmen (on your right).
Just after passing this bridge, turn left onto Pålsundsbacken. The Västerbron bridge will be visible ahead.
Walk uphill along the curving road of Pålsundsbacken. At the first intersection, turn left onto Långholmsgatan.
Continue straight along Långholmsgatan until you reach Hornstull Subway Station, where this walk ends.

Points of interest

Stockholm City Museum: Located near the starting point, this museum offers insights into the city’s history and culture.
Centralbron: This prominent bridge provides an interesting contrast of urban infrastructure against the natural waterfront.
Moored boats: Along the quay, you’ll see various boats and houseboats, some of which have been converted into unique accommodations or cafes.
Västerbron: This iconic bridge offers a striking visual landmark as you approach the western end of the walk.
Långholmen Island: Visible from the promenade, this green oasis was once home to a prison but is now a popular recreational area.
Waterfront cafes: Several cozy cafes along the route offer perfect spots for a Swedish fika break with water views.

5. Walk around Djurgården

It’s a popular area with a mix of nature and cultural attractions.

This 3.4 km (2.1 miles) walk takes you around the Djurgården island’s perimeter, showcasing stunning waterfront views, lush parklands, and glimpses of some of Stockholm’s most popular museums and attractions. As you stroll along the shoreline paths, you’ll encounter a mix of serene forests, open meadows, and charming waterfront vistas, all while being just a stone’s throw away from world-class museums and entertainment venues.

Walking time: ~46 minutes
Distance: 3.4 km (2.1 miles)

Begin at the big blue gates just beyond Djurgårdsbron (Djurgården Bridge). Walk through the gates and head east, keeping the water on your left.
After a short distance, you’ll pass Kärleksudden (“Cape of Love”), a slightly elevated lookout point offering a scenic view over the water.
Keep walking along the shoreline past Kärleksudden, with the water still on your left.
After about 1.6 km (~1 mile), you’ll arrive at a crossing where you’ll see a bridge to your left. Turn toward the bridge and cross it, heading north over the water.
Once you’ve crossed the bridge, turn left again to follow the path along the shoreline. The water should remain on your left as you continue.
Walk past the FN-Monument (United Nations Monument) and keep following the shoreline path.
After walking for a while, you’ll reach the end of the greenery and arrive at a crossing where the path meets Strandvägen.
Turn left onto Strandvägen and walk straight ahead. You’ll soon see Djurgårdsbron again.
If you wish to return to the city, after crossing the street near the bridge, look for a bus stop and tram stop on the right side of the road, just before the bridge begins.

Points of interest:

Djurgårdsbron: This ornate bridge marks the entrance to the island and offers beautiful views of the surrounding waters.
Kärleksudden: A romantic lookout point providing panoramic views of Stockholm’s waterfront.
Rosendals Trädgård: An organic garden with a popular café, perfect for a mid-walk fika break.
Skansen: The world’s oldest open-air museum, showcasing Swedish history and culture.
Vasa Museum: Home to the impressive 17th-century warship Vasa.
Gröna Lund: Stockholm’s historic amusement park, adding a touch of excitement to the island’s atmosphere.
Nordic Museum: A grand building housing exhibitions on Swedish cultural history.
Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde: A former royal residence turned art museum with beautiful gardens.

6. Walk around Skeppsholmen and Kastellholmen

These small islands offer historical landmarks and great city views.

Skeppsholmen and Kastellholmen are two charming islands in the heart of Stockholm that have both history, culture, and some beautiful scenery. This 3.7 km (2.3 miles) walk takes you around both islands, providing stunning views of the city skyline and waterfront, while showcasing some of Stockholm’s most iconic landmarks and museums.

As you stroll along the shorelines of these islands, you’ll experience a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center, despite being just a stone’s throw away. The walk offers a balance of urban and natural landscapes, with historic buildings, modern art installations, and lush green spaces dotting the path.

Walking time: ~51 minutes
Distance: 3.7 km (2.3 miles)

Begin at the southern end of Kungsträdgården Park.
Head toward Strömkajen bay, crossing the street.
Walk past the Grand Hôtel, with the hotel on your left and the water on your right.
Continue south and cross Skeppsholmsbron bridge.
1. Photo Tip: Stop for a view of the Royal Palace to your left across the water.
After crossing the bridge, follow the shoreline south.
Pass the iconic Af Chapman ship, a beautiful white vessel that serves as a hostel.
Continue along the shoreline as it curves eastward at the island’s southwestern tip.
When you reach a crossing with a bridge on your right, turn right and cross onto Kastellholmen.
After the bridge, go straight up the road (away from the shoreline).
Pass the church-like brick building on your left as the road curves uphill.
Ahead, slightly to your left, you’ll see the red-orange Citadel (Kastellet).
Follow the road toward the Citadel.
Walk past the Citadel, with the water on your left and the building on your right.
Behind the Citadel, enjoy an incredible view of Gröna Lund and Djurgården across the water.
This popular lookout spot is a great place for photos.
Retrace your steps past the church-like building, cross the same bridge back to Skeppsholmen, and turn right to continue northeast along the shoreline.
Follow the shoreline as it gradually curves northwest.
At the northern tip of the island, turn southwest and continue along the waterfront.
Cross Skeppsholmsbron again and head north past the Nationalmuseum.
Turn right onto Hovslagargatan.
Continue until you reach the waterfront at Nybrokajen.
Turn left and follow the shoreline, curving along the bay.
At the end of the bay, you’ll see the Royal Dramatic Theatre (Dramaten).
Nearby, you’ll find bus and tram stops for public transport. Alternatively, it’s a short walk to T-Centralen. This is where the walk ends.

Points of interest:

Af Chapman: A majestic white ship moored at Skeppsholmen, now serving as a unique hostel.
Moderna Museet: Stockholm’s modern art museum, housing works by renowned artists like Picasso and Warhol.
Östasiatiska Museet: The Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, showcasing Asian art and culture.
Kastellet: The small, picturesque citadel atop Kastellholmen, offering panoramic views of Stockholm’s harbor.
Skeppsholmen Church: A distinctive octagonal church with a unique architectural style.
Nationalmuseum: Sweden’s premier art and design museum, visible across the water.
Gröna Lund: Stockholm’s amusement park, visible from Kastellholmen’s viewpoint.

7. Walk around Gärdet

Nice choice for open spaces and park views.

This walk offers a mix of urban and natural landscapes, showcasing both the architectural features and open spaces that characterize this part of Stockholm. The total distance is approximately 3-4 kilometers (1.9-2.5 miles) and should take about an hour at a leisurely pace.

Walking time: ~52 minutes
Distance: 3.8 km (2.4 miles)

Start outside Karlaplan subway station.
Walk west along Valhallavägen, a wide avenue lined with trees.
Continue towards the open fields of Gärdet. As you walk, you’ll see Kaknästornet in the distance. This 155-meter tall TV tower is a prominent landmark5.
Turn left onto Greve von Essens väg. This street will take you along the edge of the Gärdet field.
As you walk back, you’ll pass Filmhuset (The Film House) on your right. This distinctive building houses the Swedish Film Institute and is known for its unique architecture3.
Continue along Greve von Essens väg until you reach Valhallavägen again.
Turn right on Valhallavägen and follow it back to Karlaplan subway station where your walk ends.

Points of interest

Filmhuset: Consider taking a closer look at this iconic building. It’s open to the public on both weekdays and weekends. For more information visit their site.
Gärdet fields: These open spaces are perfect for picnics or relaxation. You might see people jogging, flying kites, or having picnics, depending on the weather.
Kaknästornet: While you won’t be visiting the tower itself (it’s been closed to the public since 2018), it serves as a striking visual marker during your walk.

View this route on Google Maps

8. Walk from Tantolunden to Skanstull

Good urban walk with park and water views.

This walk offers a mix of urban and natural landscapes, showcasing the beauty of Stockholm’s waterfront and the charm of Södermalm. It’s particularly enjoyable on a sunny day, with opportunities for swimming or relaxing in the park.

Walking time: ~53 minutes
Distance: 3.7 km ( 2.3 miles)

Exit Hornstull Subway station and walk south along Långholmsgatan.
Just before Liljeholmsbron bridge, take the stairs on your left down to Tantolunden park.
Head southeast towards the water. You’ll enter Tantolunden, a beautiful park area with open spaces and small allotment gardens1.
Continue along the waterfront, passing Tantolundens utegym (outdoor gym).
You’ll reach Tanto strandbad, a small beach popular for swimming in summer. Next to it is Tantobastun, a public sauna.
Keep walking under two bridges, Årstabroarna. These railway bridges offer a picturesque view of the water and city.
Follow the shoreline as it curves. You’re now walking along Årstaviken, offering beautiful views across the water.
As you approach Skanstullbron bridge, the path curves left and goes uphill. Follow this to the intersection with Skansbrogatan.
Turn left on Skansbrogatan and head north.
Where Skansbrogatan turns left, continue straight onto Rutger Fuchsgatan.
After about 100 meters, look for stairs on your left.
Climb these stairs to reach Götgatan, a major street in Södermalm district. Continue north.
At the first intersection, you’ll see Skanstull subway station across the street.

Points of interest

Tantolunden: A large park area with small cottages and gardens cultivated since 1915.
Tanto strandbad: A small beach perfect for a summer swim.
Årstaviken: The body of water you’ll be walking alongside, offering scenic views.
Eriksdalsbadet: While not directly on the route, this large public bath complex is visible across Årstaviken.

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9. Walk around Hagaparken

Experience a beautiful park with historical significance.

This walk is approximately 3.7 km (2.3 miles) long and typically takes about 1 hour to complete at a leisurely pace. The park’s “English” landscape style, commissioned by King Gustav III in the late 18th century, offers a picturesque blend of nature and architectural features.

Walking time: ~46 minutes
Distance: 3.4 km (2.1 miles)

Begin at the bus stop Haga Södra.
Head north and enter Haga Park through the ornate Haga south gates.
Follow the tree-lined road northward through the wooded area. This path offers a serene introduction to the park’s natural beauty.
At the fork in the road, keep left and continue northeast towards the shoreline of Brunnsviken lake.
As you reach the bay, turn right. You’ll soon encounter the Haga Echo Temple, a small neoclassical structure. Take a moment to test its acoustics.
Follow the road as it curves north. You’ll pass Haga Palace (Haga slott) on your left. This is the current residence of Crown Princess Victoria and her family.
Continue northward. The path will split just before reaching the Butterfly House (Fjärilshuset). Stay on the left fork. You’ll pass the iconic Copper Tents (Koppartälten) on your right. These striking buildings house a café and museum, offering a perfect opportunity for a traditional Swedish fika break.
Maintain your westward direction until you reach the Haga north gates, where you’ll exit the park.
Cross the highway carefully to reach the Haga Norra bus stop, where you can catch a bus back to the city center.

Points of interest

Haga Palace: While not open to the public, you can admire this early 19th-century building from the outside.
Echo Temple: Built in 1790, this small pavilion is known for its interesting acoustic properties.
Copper Tents: These unique structures, resembling military tents, were originally built as guards’ quarters and now house a café and museum.
Butterfly House: Although not part of the walk, this tropical greenhouse is home to hundreds of butterflies and is worth a visit if you have time.

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10. Take the SL ferry from Klara Mälarstrand to Ekensberg. From Ekensberg walk around Vinterviken and then to Liljeholmen

A bit of a hidden gem, south-west of Södermalm island.

This walk showcases a mix of natural beauty and urban life, from the ferry ride and shoreline views to the vibrant Liljeholmen area.

Walking time: ~43 minutes
Distance: 3.2 km (2 miles)

Board the SL ferry line 89 at Klara Mälarstrand (see on Google Maps), heading towards “Tappström (Ekerö)”. The boat ride takes 25 minutes, and regular SL tickets are valid.
Disembark at Ekensberg.
Walk west along the shoreline, following the boat’s direction.
Continue around the headland as it turns south and then west into Mörtviken bay.
At the tip of Mörtviken bay, head south on Mörtvikskroken through a forested area until you reach Vinterviksvägen.
At Vinterviksvägen, you’ll find Café Winterviken (a good place to stop for a lunch or coffee break). Turn left for the intended route.
Continue east on Vinterviksvägen. You’ll pass allotment gardens (kolonilotter) on your right and woods on your left. After about 300 meters (984 feet), you’ll reach a crossing with Vintervikens Trädgård café on your left (also a good place for a lunch or coffee break – ideal when good weather, because they only have outdoor seating).
Keep heading east on Vinterviksvägen.
Pass an outdoor gym (on your left) and then paddle and tennis courts on your right.
Go under the Essingeleden highway bridge and continue onto Blommensbergsvägen.
At the crossing (strangely also Blommenbergsvägen), cross the street heading east.
You’ll see Lake Trekanten. Follow the unnamed street along the shoreline to the left.
Pass a beach, which is popular for swimming in summer and ice skating in winter.
At the next crossing, turn right and continue east along the lake shore.
At the end of the lake, turn right and follow the shoreline briefly.
With a park (Trekantsparken) on your left, head south and follow the road as it curves left, moving away from the lake.
You’ll see winding stairs ahead.
Climb the stairs. At the top, you’ll see Thai Rung restaurant on your right and McDonald’s further ahead on the left corner.
Continue to the crossing to reach Liljeholmstorget square.
The subway entrance is on your right, next to the Liljeholmen shopping mall.

Points of interest:

Café Winterviken and Vintervikens Trädgård: Two great spots for a Swedish fika or lunch with both indoor seatings and a large outdoor garden café. The Winterviken café building is in fact Alfred Nobel’s old factory where dynamite was produced in the 19th century.
Lake Trekanten: Popular for swimming in summer and ice skating in winter.
Liljeholmen shopping mall: Offers various stores, restaurants, and cafés.

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10 scenic walks around Stockholm

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5. Walk around Djurgården

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7. Walk around Gärdet

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9. Walk around Hagaparken

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