Stockholm, built across 14 islands, offers a unique mix of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and scenic waterfront views. From well-preserved medieval streets to modern hubs of art and design, the city has something for every type of traveler. This guide highlights ten key spots to help you plan your visit and explore the city’s distinctive character.
Gamla stan
Gamla stan, Stockholm’s Old Town, is a charming historic district. This is the city’s oldest settlement, dating back to the 13th century, with well-preserved medieval architecture and cobblestone streets that evoke centuries of history.
Here you’ll find some of Stockholm’s most significant landmarks, including the Royal Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe.
This district is also a good place for food lovers, you can enjoy everything from hearty local dishes to innovative takes on Scandinavian flavors. If you visit in winter, don’t miss the Christmas Market at Stortorget Square, where festive stalls and seasonal treats create a magical atmosphere.
For those curious about the stories behind the streets, guided tours offer deeper insights. Historical walking tours highlight key events like the Stockholm Bloodbath, while ghost walks delve into the darker, more mysterious sides of the Old Town’s past.
To learn more about this district, read our full article about Gamla stan.
The Royal Palace
The Royal Palace, located in the heart of Gamla Stan, is one of the largest palaces in Europe, with over 600 rooms spread across eleven floors. While it serves as the official residence of King Carl XVI Gustaf, parts of the palace are open to the public, allowing you to experience its grandeur firsthand.
An interesting fact is that the palace is standing on the site of the medieval Tre Kronor Castle, which was destroyed by fire in 1697.
You’ll find five museums within the palace, each offering a unique perspective on Sweden’s royal past:
- At Museum Three Crowns (Tre Kronor Museum) you can learn about the medieval castle that burned down.
- At Treasury’s royal regalia you can explore a fascinating collection of royal regalia and historic artifacts.
- At Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities you can view over 200 classical sculptures purchased by King Gustav III during his journey to Italy in 1783-1784.
- The Royal Apartments showcase opulent 18th- and 19th-century interiors
- While the Royal Armory features royal costumes and historic carriages. Don’t miss iconic highlights like Queen Christina’s silver throne.
You can also enjoy unique experiences, such as watching the daily changing of the guard ceremony, which is free and takes place in the palace courtyards. For families, activity trails like the Animal Safari provide an engaging way to explore the palace with children.
To Learn more read our full article about the Royal Palace.
Vasa Museum
The Vasa Museum, located on Djurgården island, is a rather unique museum. Its centerpiece is the Vasa warship, the world’s only nearly intact 17th-century ship, with over 98% of the original vessel preserved.
The Vasa tells a dramatic story – it sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and remained submerged for 333 years before being salvaged in 1961. Today, the 69-meter-long warship is displayed in stunning detail, allowing you to view it from six different levels, from the keel to the towering sterncastle.
The museum’s exhibits dive into various aspects of the ship’s history, including its construction, life on board in the 17th century, naval warfare, and the extraordinary archaeological effort to recover and preserve it. Multilingual audio guides, children’s programs, and a 17-minute film make the experience accessible and engaging for all ages.
As Scandinavia’s most visited museum, attracting over 1.4 million visitors annually, the Vasa Museum offers an unparalleled glimpse into Sweden’s maritime past.
To learn more read our article about the Vasa Museum
Djurgården
Djurgården is a picturesque island with lots of nature on the east side of Stockholm. Once a royal hunting ground, this green oasis has transformed into a public park and cultural hub. Its lush landscapes, scenic waterfronts, and open spaces, makes it an ideal area for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying nature.
Here you’ll find some of Stockholm’s most popular attractions. You can explore above the aforementioned Vasa Museum, where the 17th-century warship Vasa takes center stage, or visit Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum. If you’re a fan of ABBA, you will enjoy ABBA The Museum and if history is more of your thing, we recommend visiting the Nordic Museum. For a dose of fun, Gröna Lund amusement park offers a variety of rides and entertainment for all ages.
On weekends and holidays many locals come here to appreciate Djurgården’s tranquil walking paths and green spaces, which are part of Sweden’s first National City Park. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, charming spots like Rosendals Trädgård serve fresh, locally sourced food in a serene garden setting.
To learn more visit our page about Djurgården island.
Stockholm City Hall
Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset) is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, known for its characteristic architecture that has become a symbol for Stockholm. Located on Kungsholmen island, it overlooks the scenic Riddarfjärden bay, offering stunning views and a peaceful park area.
Designed by Ragnar Östberg, the building is a masterpiece of National Romanticism, blending modern and traditional styles with inspiration from Venetian and Byzantine architecture. Built between 1911 and 1923, its red brick façade required nearly eight million bricks, sourced primarily from Sweden. The 106-meter-tall tower, crowned with the Three Crowns, Sweden’s national emblem, is a defining feature of Stockholm’s skyline.
The City Hall is also famous as the venue for the annual Nobel Prize Banquet, held in the magnificent Blue Hall (Blå Hallen) and the dazzling Golden Hall (Gyllene Salen), the latter adorned with over 18 million gold mosaic tiles. Guided tours allow you to explore these grand spaces, as well as the Council Chamber and other assembly rooms, while learning about the building’s history and its role in Stockholm’s governance.
During summer, you can climb the City Hall Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Stockholm and its islands. Along the way, a small museum displays sketches and models of the building’s design, offering a deeper appreciation of its architectural brilliance.
To learn more read our article about the Stockholm City Hall
Nationalmuseum
National Museum (Nationalmuseum) in Stockholm is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and design. Located on the Blasieholmen peninsula, the museum offers stunning waterfront views and is easily accessible from central Stockholm. Founded in 1792 as the Royal Museum, it moved to its current building in 1866, a beautiful example of National Romantic architecture designed by German architect Friedrich August Stüler.
Inside, you’ll find an extensive collection of approximately 700,000 objects spanning from the late Middle Ages to the present day. The galleries feature works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Swedish masters like Carl Larsson and Anders Zorn, alongside applied arts like ceramics, textiles, and furniture. The museum also houses the National Portrait Gallery, where you can explore portraits of significant figures in Swedish history.
Following an extensive renovation completed in 2018, the museum now boasts improved exhibition spaces, designed to guide you through a chronological journey of art history. For families and children, interactive exhibits and guided activities make the museum an engaging and educational experience. You can also relax at the café or shop for unique souvenirs inspired by the collections.
To learn more read our article about National Museum
Drottningholm island
You’ll find Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on the island of Drottningholm, just 10 kilometers (6 miles) west of central Stockholm. As the permanent residence of the Swedish Royal Family, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Sweden’s royal history and cultural heritage. Built in the 1600s and inspired by the grandeur of Versailles, the palace is one of Sweden’s best-preserved royal castles, designed by architect Nicodemus Tessin the Elder.
Step inside the palace to explore its magnificent salons, showcasing styles from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Don’t miss the Palace Theatre, the world’s only 18th-century theatre still using its original stage machinery, or the Chinese Pavilion, a stunning example of Chinoiserie design from the 18th century.
The palace grounds are equally impressive, featuring three distinct gardens: the formal Baroque Garden, the serene English Park, and the picturesque gardens surrounding the Chinese Pavilion. Each reflects the evolving tastes and styles of European landscape design.
You can join guided tours in English or explore the palace and gardens at your own pace. Open year-round, Drottningholm provides a unique opportunity to experience the elegance of Swedish royalty and the architectural legacy.
To learn more read our article about Drottningholm Palace
Stockholm’s archipelago
The Stockholm archipelago is a stunning natural escape just outside Sweden’s capital. Spanning over 30,000 islands, it stretches 80 kilometers into the Baltic Sea. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the archipelago is a must-see for its unique blend of nature and culture.
You can easily access the archipelago from Stockholm via regular ferries. Start with Fjäderholm islands (Fjäderholmarna), the closest islands, just 20 minutes from the city. Here, you’ll find artist studios, scenic rocky outcrops, and plenty of spots for picnics or short hikes. For a charming, historic vibe, head to Vaxholm, known for its pastel wooden houses, the Vaxholm Fortress Museum. Other favorites include Sandhamn, an international sailing hub with beautiful beaches, and Grinda, a nature reserve perfect for swimming and kayaking.
The archipelago is a popular destination especially in the summer, but is accessible all year round. Explore the islands’ lush forests and meadows, try sea kayaking or fishing, relax on sandy beaches, or taste the local cuisine at an island restaurant. Each season brings its own charm—summer is perfect for outdoor activities, while winter offers serene landscapes and cozy retreats.
To learn more read our article about the best islands to visit in Stockholm’s archipelago
Artipelag
Artipelag is a one-of-a-kind art museum and cultural venue nestled in the Stockholm Archipelago on Värmdö island, just 20 minutes from the city center. With 10,000 square meters (107,000 square feet) of space, including 3,000 dedicated to art galleries, and set on 9 hectares (22 acres) of stunning natural scenery, it offers a truly immersive experience.
The museum hosts a wide range of art exhibitions, from contemporary works to immersive shows like the Van Gogh experience. Outdoors, you can explore a sculpture garden that blends seamlessly with coastal walking paths and boardwalks, offering breathtaking views of the archipelago. You can visit the surrounding park and nature paths free of charge.
To learn more read our article about Artipelag.
Monteliusvägen
Monteliusvägen is a charming walking path on the northern edge of Södermalm district. It’s a popular vista because it has one of the best panoramic views of the city. Stretching about 400–500 meters (1300-1640 feet) along steep cliffs above the street Söder Mälarstrand, this tranquil path is free to access and open year-round.
From here you’ll have a stunning view of Stockholm City Hall, Gamla Stan, Riddarholmen Church, Lake Mälaren, and the Kungsholmen district. You’ll also see the twin North Towers (Norra Tornen) on the horizon, to the left from the City Hall.
The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons, when the light adds a magical glow to the views. If you’re visiting in winter, sturdy footwear is recommended for the cobblestone pathway. While it’s not wheelchair-friendly due to the terrain, Monteliusvägen remains a must-see for its unparalleled views, especially during events like New Year’s Eve fireworks.