The Top 15 Things to Do in Stockholm

Stockholm, Sweden’s enchanting capital, is a city where the past and present seamlessly intertwine. Spread across a cluster of islands, it’s a place where medieval streets meet modern design, from the trendy corners of Södermalm to the historic allure of Gamla Stan. Today at Civitatis, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Stockholm, showcasing everything from iconic landmarks to world-class museums and breathtaking waterfronts.

Before diving into the must-see attractions, let’s take a moment to explore Stockholm’s fascinating history. While Viking influences left their mark on early Scandinavia, it was in the 13th century that the city of Stockholm was officially founded. Starting on the island of Gamla Stan, the city has since evolved into a vibrant metropolis renowned for its sustainability and rich culture, as well as being the annual host of the prestigious Nobel Prize banquet.

With the scene set, let’s explore the top things to do in this captivating city!

1. Stortorget – The Heart of Gamla Stan

Start your Stockholm adventure at Stortorget, the main square in Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town. Surrounded by colourful 17th and 18th-century buildings, this picturesque square is one of the most photographed spots in the city. It’s also home to the Nobel Museum, which honours the history and winners of the world-renowned Nobel Prize.

If you’re visiting during the festive season, Stortorget transforms into a charming Christmas market, with wooden stalls and a beautifully decorated tree. It’s the perfect place to warm up with some gingerbread biscuits and mulled wine while soaking in the holiday cheer.

2. Storkyrkan – Stockholm’s Oldest Church

A short walk from Stortorget is Storkyrkan, Stockholm’s cathedral. This historic church has witnessed numerous royal coronations and is home to the famous St George and the Dragon Statue, symbolising Sweden’s triumph over Denmark in the Middle Ages. Another highlight is the Vädersolstavlan, the oldest known painting of Stockholm.

If you want to explore the interior of this magnificent cathedral, check out the Go City: Stockholm All-Inclusive Pass. As well as entry to Storkyrkan, it includes entry to more than 60 of the city’s must-see attractions!

3. Stockholm Palace and the Changing of the Guard

Stockholm Palace, Kungliga Slottet, is the official residence of the Swedish monarch, although the current King doesn’t live here. With over 1,400 rooms, including the Royal Apartments and the opulent Banqueting Hall, this sprawling palace is one of Sweden’s most visited sites!

The building also houses several exhibitions such as the Gustav III Museum of Antiquities and The Museum Three Crowns. The royal stables are particularly enchanting, with carriages that look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale.

While at the palace, don’t miss out on seeing the lively Changing of the Guard, where soldiers parade in full regalia, often accompanied by military music—and sometimes even tunes by ABBA! Check the Swedish Armed Forces website for timings based on the season.

4. Riksdag – The Swedish Parliament

On the small island of Helgeandsholmen, you’ll find Riksdag, Sweden’s Parliament building. Surrounded by bridges and canals, this neoclassical structure is at the heart of Swedish politics. If you’re interested in Swedish politics, our Free Walking Tour of Stockholm tour is an excellent way to delve into the country’s political history and architectural wonders. For an even more in-depth experience, opt for our Private Walking Tour of Stockholm.

After seeing Riksdag, take some time to see other attractions in the area, such as the Royal Opera House and the façade of the Sager House, the official residence of the Prime Minister of Sweden.

5. Riddarholmen Church – A Royal Resting Place

Riddarholmen Church is one of Stockholm’s oldest buildings, dating back to the 13th century. Though the interior is more austere than other churches, its historical significance is undeniable—many Swedish monarchs are buried here, including members of the Bernadotte dynasty.

Inside Riddarholmen, there is a large collection of coats of arms and, of course, the numerous tombs of previous kings and queens. The current lineage of the Swedish Crown rests in the so-called Bernadotte Chapel, an annexe building that was built between 1858 and 1860. One of its sarcophagi weighs no less than 15 tons!

6. Stockholm City Hall – Home of the Nobel Banquet

The Stadhuset, or City Hall, is one of the most unique buildings in the Swedish capital. Every December, it hosts one of the most eagerly awaited ceremonies of the year, the lavish Nobel Banquet. Its unmistakable exterior architecture, covered in striking reddish bricks, is visible from different islands. Admire it for yourself by taking this boat trip around the Stockholm archipelago.

Enhancing the allure of Stockholm City Hall, its tower provides one of the city’s finest views from 160 metres (524 feet) above sea level, with the Gamla Stan district at your feet! Soak in the panoramic scenery, and you’ll see why Stockholm is often called the “Venice of the Baltic”. If you wish, you can purchase tickets for this stunning viewpoint at the City Hall’s ticket office.

7. Vasa Museum – Discover a Sunken Masterpiece

No trip to Stockholm is complete without a visit to the Vasa Museum, home to the world’s best-preserved 17th-century warship. The Vasa was a warship built to be the flagship of the Swedish empire. However, it sank on its maiden voyage on August 10th, 1628, after barely sailing one kilometre. After being salvaged 300 years later, it now stands as the centrepiece of one of the best museums to see in Stockholm.

The museum offers interactive exhibits that are as entertaining for children as they are for adults, and has undoubtedly become a family-favourite sight to see in Stockholm. As a matter of fact, the VASA Museum is one of the most visited museums in all of Scandinavia! Experience it for yourself by booking this VASA Museum Tour.

8. ABBA: The Museum – A Pop Music Pilgrimage

If you’re a die-hard ABBA fan, chances are that the main reason Stockholm was on your bucket list is to visit ABBA: The Museum. With hits like Dancing Queen, Honey, Honey, Waterloo, Mamma Mia, The Winner Takes It All and Chiquitita, it’s no surprise that ABBA have sold over 150 million records worldwide. If you want to know the story behind each melody and uncover fun facts about Sweden’s most famous pop group, the ABBA Museum is the place for you.

In the museum, you’ll get to see the original costumes worn by the band during their Eurovision victory, admire their many gold records, and even visit a recreation of their recording studio—what more could you want?

ABBA: The Museum is located very close to the Vasa Museum, on the island of Djurgården. In fact, other well-known exhibitions such as the Junibacken, which recreates the worlds of Pipi Longstocking, and the Viking Museum are also located here. No wonder it’s popularly known as Stockholm’s Museum Island.

9. Skansen – The World’s Oldest Open-Air Museum

For a unique glimpse into Sweden’s past, head to Skansen, an open-air museum that showcases life before the Industrial Revolution. Wander through traditional wooden houses, watch costumed actors re-enact scenes from history, and enjoy live folk performances.

Opened in 1891, it’s considered the oldest open-air museum in the world. In fact, it features authentic traditional buildings that were dismantled in different regions of the country and rebuilt by Skansen to give the museum complex an authentic look. You’ll love it!

10. Gröna Lund – Sweden’s Iconic Amusement Park

If you’re travelling with kids, or simply want to unleash your inner child, don’t miss Gröna Lund, Stockholm’s beloved amusement park. Located next to Skansen, it is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world! With thrilling roller coasters, merry-go-rounds and many other exciting rides, Gröna Lund is a true amusement paradise.

As with many other attractions in the city, admission to Gröna Lund is included in the Go City: Stockholm All-Inclusive Pass. Given its location on the seafront, it can be reached by conventional public transport, aboard the trams that run along the island of Djurgården, or even by boat.

11. Södermalm – Stockholm’s Trendy Hipster Hub

Stockholm’s hipster district, Södermalm, is known for its alternative vibe—perfect for anyone looking for a different view of the Swedish capital. With vintage shops, alternative theatres, and cosy cafés, you could spend an entire day in this neighbourhood alone. As if this were not enough, literature lovers are in luck, as its streets served as inspiration for the author of the Millennium trilogy, Stieg Larsson.

This area is also home to the Stockholm photographic museum Fotografiska and Maria Magdalena Church, which has a surprisingly curious yellow façade. To discover all of Södermalm’s nooks and crannies, we recommend booking our Free Walking Tour of Södermalm.

12. Monteliusvägen – Stockholm’s Best Viewpoint

If you’re looking to up your Instagram game during your trip to Stockholm, a visit to Monteliusvägen is a must. This picturesque promenade offers some of the best views in the city, making it a haven for budding photographers. From here, you can capture breathtaking shots of Stockholm’s skyline, with Lake Mälaren, Riddarholmen, and City Hall creating a stunning backdrop. It’s no wonder Monteliusvägen is a favourite spot, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the city truly shines.

13. Stockholm Metro – Underground Art Galleries

Stockholm’s metro system is more than just a means of transport—it’s an underground art gallery in its own right. Many of its stations feature stunning, immersive artwork that transforms your journey into a cultural experience. Among the most striking are Kungsträdgården, with its lush, underground garden; Rådhuset, designed like a cave carved from rock; and the vibrant red forest scene at Solna Centrum.

For art lovers and curious travellers alike, hopping on and off the metro to explore these hidden gems is a must-do. Each station offers a unique visual story, making the Stockholm metro one of the most impressive public art installations in the world.

14. Katarina Elevator – A Historic Viewpoint

For another impressive elevated view of Stockholm, head to the Katarina Elevator, a 38-metre-high (124 feet) viewpoint offering fantastic panoramas of the city. Originally built in 1883, the structure has since been demolished and rebuilt, but it retains its charm as a historical landmark. At the top, you’ll also find a restaurant, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view, but keep in mind that the prices tend to be on the higher side.

While the Katarina Elevator might not be on every traveller’s must-see list, it’s certainly worth the visit if you have extra time. The stunning views make it a great spot for photography and a peaceful escape from the busy streets below. If you want to admire the view for yourself, you can buy tickets for the elevator directly at the site, offering easy access to this unique vantage point.

15. Drottningholm Palace – A Royal Retreat

Drottningholm Palace, originally constructed in the 16th century, served as the summer residence of the Swedish Royal Family for centuries. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as one of Sweden’s best-preserved palaces, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the past. The palace’s design is notably influenced by French aesthetics, reflecting the refined tastes of its era.

Visitors will be enchanted by the palace’s luxurious halls, rooms adorned with priceless artworks, a spectacular theatre, and grand staircases. The palace grounds feature meticulously maintained gardens, and even include an oriental-inspired fireplace, adding an exotic touch to this regal estate. Located around 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) from the city centre, the most convenient way to explore Drottningholm is by joining this Guided Tour of Drottingholm Palace that includes transport, allowing for a hassle-free visit to this stunning landmark.

Getting Around Stockholm

Stockholm is easy to navigate, whether you prefer walking, cycling, or using public transport. Public transport in Stockholm is provided by an extensive network of buses, trams, metros and boats. They are all very efficient ways to get around. You can choose to buy single tickets for a single journey, or you can buy tickets valid for several days. It all depends on the location of your accommodation and, of course, the number of trips you plan to make.

Generally speaking, the old town of Stockholm can be easily explored on foot. However, you may find public transport handy for getting to the island of Djurgården or the Södermalm district. Here are some activities and methods of transport that you might find useful:

• Stockholm Sightseeing Bus
• Stockholm Sightseeing Boat (in the summer months)

What to Eat in Stockholm

Stockholm’s cuisine is deeply rooted in traditional Swedish dishes, offering a delicious blend of comforting classics and unique local flavours. Iconic dishes like Swedish meatballs, smoked salmon, herring, and hearty elk stew are staples of the city’s culinary scene. Be sure to try kroppkakor, a potato dumpling filled with meat, and råraka, crispy potato pancakes typically served with caviar. For a more immersive experience, joining this Stockholm Food Tour is a great way to sample the city’s culinary delights.

If you’re a breakfast person, a must-try experience in Stockholm is the unique ‘breakfast screenings’ at some of the city’s indie cinemas. Here, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet while watching a film, offering the perfect blend of entertainment and a hearty start to your day.

Swedish desserts also deserve a special mention. Swedes embrace the lagom philosophy of balance and contentment, and at the heart of this is fika—a cherished coffee break, often accompanied by something sweet. This daily ritual offers a perfect opportunity to indulge in classic treats like kanelbullar, cinnamon buns, and chokladboll, chocolate balls, perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth!

So there you have it, our 15 top recommendations of things to do in Stockholm. Although we have introduced you to Stockholm’s rich history and most iconic landmarks, there is still so much more to uncover in Sweden’s captivating capital. If you’re eager to learn more about this charming city, be sure to check out the full range of guided tours and activities offered in Stockholm by Civitatis to discover even more hidden gems!