Stockholm has royal palaces you can walk through, a 17th-century warship, an open-air museum with elks and old farmhouses, and an amusement park on the water. Many of the sights are close together, linked by short walks and ferry rides. Here are our guides to them, grouped by type, so you can find what fits your trip and dig deeper from there.
Not sure where to start?
- Short on time: Top 10 must-see attractions in Stockholm – the sights we’d put first on any visit.
- On a budget: Free things to do in Stockholm – museums, viewpoints and walks that cost nothing.
- Bad weather: 10 great activities for a rainy day – indoor ideas for when the weather turns.
- Beyond the classics: 10 ways to experience Stockholm like a local – how Stockholmers spend their free time.
Palaces and landmarks
Sweden still has a working monarchy, and its palaces are open to visitors. Start with the Royal Palace in Gamla Stan, then take the boat out to Drottningholm, where the royal family lives. City Hall, where the Nobel banquet is held, is a short walk along the water.
The Royal Palace
August 1, 2024
Stockholm’s Royal Palace has an interesting history. The original castle, named “Tre Kronor” (Three Crowns) was initially constructed as a defensive fort – dating back to the 13th century. Over time, it evolved into a castle and eventually became the royal residence. Tre Kronor burned down on May 7, 1697, and from its ruins, the
Drottningholm Palace
July 28, 2024
Drottningholm Palace is the private residence of the royal family, and parts of the palace is open for public visits and tours. The palace was built in the late 16th century and has been the residence for several generations of the royal families and dynasties. The palace showcases Baroque and Rococo architectural styles and features
Stockholm City Hall
July 13, 2024
Yes, you can go inside Stockholm City Hall, but only on a guided tour: about 45 minutes, in English or Swedish, 150 SEK for an adult in 2026. The City Hall Tower is currently closed to visitors for renovation. Stockholm City Hall is one of the most prominent buildings in Stockholm, with its unique silhouette
Tyresö Palace
August 12, 2024
Tyresö Palace (Tyresö slott) is a palace in the southern Stockholm suburb, Tyresö. The palace is a good example of Swedish Renaissance architecture and is surrounded by a picturesque landscape that includes gardens, parks, and views of the nearby archipelago. Constructed in the early 17th century by Gabriel Oxenstierna, a prominent Swedish statesman and member
Museums
Stockholm has more museums than you could see in a week, and many of the biggest sit together on Djurgården. These are the ones we’d plan a visit around. For the full picture, see our overview of Stockholm’s museums and the Culture and art section.
Vasa Museum
March 23, 2024
The Vasa Museum displays the Swedish warship Vasa, which tragically sank on its maiden voyage in 1628, due to a flawed design. The sheer size of the ship is the first thing that strikes you as you enter the enormous indoor open area where the ship is displayed. It’s impressive, especially considering that the ship
Skansen visitor guide
July 13, 2024
Founded in 1891 as the world’s first open-air museum, Skansen draws over a million visitors each year. It’s the easiest way to experience Swedish history, wildlife, and traditions in one place. It’s also one of the sights we’d put first on any visit, and our guide to sightseeing and attractions in Stockholm shows what else
Nobel Prize Museum
July 20, 2024
At the Nobel Prize Museum you will learn a lot about Alfred Nobel, the Nobel Prize and many of the discoveries and people who have received the Nobel Prize through the years. You’ll find the museum right on the central square Stortorget in Gamla stan (the Old Town). The historic building was originally a stock
Fotografiska
March 8, 2026
Fotografiska in Stockholm is a contemporary center for photography and visual art, offering continuously changing exhibitions rather than a traditional museum’s fixed collection. Housed in the historic Art Nouveau–style Stora Tullhuset building on Stadsgårdkajen in Södermalm, it combines world‑class photo art with panoramic views over Djurgården. The space spans four levels filled with gallery rooms,
ABBA The Museum – visitor guide and impressions
April 12, 2026
ABBA The Museum is located on Djurgården in Stockholm, and draws visitors of all ages. It’s one of the city’s most popular attractions, so booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays. The museum is part of Pop House Stockholm and offers a mix of music history, nostalgia, and interactive experiences celebrating
Lesser known museums in Stockholm worth visiting
September 10, 2025
Stockholm has no shortage of major museums, but if you’re looking for something a bit different, there are plenty of smaller or more unusual options worth exploring. These places often focus on a single theme, person, or slice of history, and visiting them can give you a fresh perspective on Swedish culture. 1 Small and
Fun and family
For days with kids, or for anyone who needs a break from museums. More ideas in our guide to family-friendly activities.
Gröna Lund visitor guide: Rides, tickets & best time to visit
March 15, 2026
Gröna Lund is a historic, seasonal urban amusement park located right on the Djurgården waterfront in the heart of Stockholm. Founded in 1883, it combines vintage charm with high-energy rides, roller coasters, and iconic concert stages. Founded in 1883, the park wears its history proudly – not as a polished, manicured theme park, but as
Family-friendly activities in Stockholm
April 21, 2025
Stockholm has this whole family thing figured out, and we’re not just saying that. The Swedish capital hits that sweet spot where excitement meets easy-going, making it a place where both kids and parents can actually unwind (yes, really). Think of Stockholm as that super-organized friend who’s somehow made their place both exciting and totally
Swedish Museum of Natural History and Cosmonova in Stockholm
September 8, 2025
The Swedish Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in Sweden. The museum is in a grand early 20th-century building next to Stockholm University. It’s a popular destination for families and offers two floors of permanent and temporary exhibitions. The main attractions are the impressive dinosaur skeletons and fossils. The museum also
Discover the Sweden Solar System in Stockholm
July 11, 2026
The massive white sphere of Avicii Arena, still called “the Globe” by most Stockholmers, serves an unusual second purpose: it represents the Sun in the world’s largest permanent scale model of the solar system. The Sweden Solar System (SSS) stretches across the country at a scale of 1:20,000,000, where each meter you walk equals 20,000
Views, parks and walks
Some of the best of Stockholm costs nothing: a clifftop view over the water, a royal park, a long walk along the quays.
Where to find the best views of Stockholm: Scenic spots and rooftop Bars
December 23, 2024
For free views of Stockholm, go to Monteliusvägen or Skinnarviksberget on Södermalm, or any of the other public viewpoints below. Paid options are the Skyview gondola, Skansen and the rooftop bars. What's on in Stockholm this month, in one email. Seasonal tips and new guides from locals, straight to your inbox. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
The best parks and green spaces in Stockholm
December 27, 2024
As a city built on islands, Stockholm is not only surrounded by water but is also home to an abundance of green spaces where you can escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. From tranquil retreats to lively gathering spots, these parks offer a glimpse into the city’s harmonious blend of nature and modernity.
Escape the city at Bergianska trädgården, Stockholm’s botanical garden
October 19, 2025
Bergianska trädgården (Bergius Botanic Garden) is a botanical garden in the northern part of Stockholm, not far from the University metro station. It’s a peaceful place to step away from the city and wander among plants, trees, and green spaces. The outdoor garden is free to enter and open all year round, making it an
10 scenic walks around Stockholm
January 19, 2025
What's on in Stockholm this month, in one email. Seasonal tips and new guides from locals, straight to your inbox. No spam, unsubscribe anytime. Subscribe 1. Walk through Kungsholmen island This walk will guide you along the water, with beautiful views of lake Mälaren and the cityscape. The Kungsholmen island walk is a beautiful urban
On the water
Water surrounds the city, and seeing Stockholm from a boat is half the experience. Take a sightseeing cruise, swim off the rocks in summer, or head out to the archipelago for the day.
The best Stockholm archipelago cruises
August 15, 2026
The easiest way to understand why Stockholmers spend their summers on the water is to get on a boat. From the quays at Nybrokajen and Strandvägen, the city pulls back, the buildings give way to granite and pine, and within twenty minutes you’re somewhere that feels nothing like a capital city. The archipelago is the
Ocean Bus
July 28, 2024
Have you ever faced the dilemma of choosing between sightseeing by land or sea? With Ocean Bus, you don’t have to choose. This tour lets you explore Stockholm in an amphibious bus that travels both on land and water. Starting at Strömgatan 3, near the King’s Garden Park (Kungsträdgården), you’ll find the Ocean Bus parked
Guide to the best places for outdoor swimming when visiting Stockholm
July 7, 2025
Stockholm offers incredible outdoor swimming spots right in the city, including popular locations like Tantobadet, Fredhällsbadet, and Munkbrokajen. Built across 14 interconnected islands, Sweden’s capital transforms into Europe’s most swimmable city, where you can dive from medieval quays, sunbathe on sandy beaches, and cliff-jump into pristine waters, all within minutes of world-class museums and restaurants.
Stockholm day trips: Best excursions beyond the city
January 10, 2025
If you’re looking for a bit of an adventure in close proximity to the city, a day trip is an excellent opportunity. Each of these day trips offers a unique glimpse into Swedish history, culture, and a chance to experience more of Sweden’s nature. Taking a day trip to a nearby location is a great
Saunas and spas
Sauna is part of everyday life in Sweden, and Stockholm has everything from public saunas by the water to classic city bathhouses.
Guide to the best saunas for visitors to Stockholm
September 26, 2023
Stockholm is built on water, which makes it one of the best cities in the world for a sauna: heat up on a wooden bench, plunge into a lake or the Baltic Sea, and repeat. This guide covers our favorite public saunas and spas that are easy to reach as a visitor, from wood-fired saunas
Guide to the best day spas in Stockholm
December 2, 2025
Visiting a day spa is one of the simple pleasures of spending time in Stockholm and works in every season. A few hours in warm water and a quiet relaxation room can ease jet lag and help you recharge after days spent exploring the city’s museums, restaurants, and sights. If you’d rather recharge outdoors, our
Explore by area
Most attractions are in a handful of central districts. Our area guides explain what’s where and how the neighbourhoods feel. To see everything on one screen, open our interactive map of Stockholm.
- Gamla Stan – the old town, the Royal Palace and the Nobel Prize Museum
- Djurgården – the Vasa Museum, Skansen, Gröna Lund and ABBA The Museum
- Skeppsholmen – a small island of museums and contemporary art
- Södermalm – viewpoints, Fotografiska and the city’s creative, laid-back side
- All Stockholm districts
What’s on this season
Stockholm changes a lot through the year, from bright summer nights to Christmas markets. See what’s happening in our Stockholm seasons guide and the calendar of seasonal events and festivals.
Shopping
Shopping is part of seeing Stockholm, and many Swedish brands have their flagship stores here. Our guide to the best shopping streets and markets in Stockholm takes you from the luxury boutiques on Biblioteksgatan to the Sunday flea market at Hötorget. For furniture, textiles and design gifts, where to shop for Swedish design compares the heritage showrooms of Östermalm with the concept stores on Södermalm. And for something to wear home, Swedish clothing brands to buy in Stockholm lists the labels we wear ourselves, from Acne Studios to Fjällräven, and where to find each store.
Plan the rest of your visit
- Itineraries: Day-by-day plans for a layover, one day or up to four days, plus the archipelago.
- Getting around: How to get between the sights by metro, bus, ferry and on foot.
- Where to stay: Which area to base yourself in for sightseeing.
- Eat and drink: Where to eat between the sights.
Frequently asked questions
Most first-time visitors put the Vasa Museum, the Royal Palace and Gamla Stan, Skansen, and Stockholm City Hall at the top of their list. Fotografiska and a boat trip on the water are also well worth the time. Our Top 10 must-see attractions guide covers them in more detail.
Many of the biggest sights are close together. Djurgården has the Vasa Museum, Skansen, ABBA The Museum and Gröna Lund. Gamla Stan has the Royal Palace and the Nobel Prize Museum, and City Hall is a short walk away on Kungsholmen. You can walk between most of them or take a short ferry ride.
The Stockholm City Museum is free to visit, and so are the streets of Gamla Stan, the parks, and viewpoints such as Monteliusvägen on Södermalm. You can also watch the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace without a ticket. See our guide to free things to do in Stockholm for more ideas.
Head indoors to one of the big museums: the Vasa Museum, Fotografiska, or the Swedish Museum of Natural History with its Cosmonova dome theatre. A sauna or day spa is another good option. Our rainy day guide has ten ideas.
