Imagine a capital city where the air is crisp, the water is pristine, and history meets modernity. Welcome to a destination like no other, where 14 islands connected by 58 bridges create a unique urban landscape.

You’ll find a vibrant city that’s a treasure trove of experiences, from medieval streets to museum-rich islands. As a traveler, you’ll be captivated by the blend of history, art, and outdoor activities that this Scandinavian destination has to offer.

Whether you’re looking to explore the local culture or simply enjoy the natural beauty, you’ll discover that this capital is a standout on the world stage.

Discovering Stockholm’s Island Charm

With its foundation on 14 distinct islands, Stockholm presents a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. The city’s unique geography, where the Baltic Sea and Lake Mälaren meet, creates a captivating landscape that is both serene and vibrant.

A City Built on 14 Islands

Stockholm’s unique geography spans 14 islands connected by 58 bridges, creating a city where water is an integral part of the urban landscape. You’ll be captivated by the distinct character of each island neighborhood, from the medieval streets of Gamla Stan to the museum-rich Djurgården and trendy Södermalm. The proximity of both the Baltic Sea and Lake Mälaren contributes to Stockholm’s unique island charm, offering different views and atmospheres as you move through the city.

Navigating Stockholm’s Waterways

Taking a ferry between islands isn’t just transportation—it’s one of the best ways to experience Stockholm’s beauty and understand its maritime heritage. Navigating Stockholm’s waterways by ferry, boat tour, or water taxi gives you a perspective of the city that can’t be experienced any other way. As you travel through the waterways, you’ll discover stunning vistas at every turn, with waterfront promenades perfect for strolling and admiring the colorful buildings reflected in the calm views, making your journey a memorable one, finding the best way to enjoy the city.

Exploring Gamla Stan: Stockholm’s Historic Heart

As you step into Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s historic heart, you’ll be transported to a world of cobblestone streets and medieval charm. This historic district is a treasure trove of experiences, with its colorful buildings, narrow alleys, and significant landmarks.

Wandering Through Medieval Streets

Gamla Stan, literally meaning “Old Town” in Swedish, is one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved medieval city centers. As you wander through its narrow, winding cobblestone streets, you’ll feel like you’re back in time, surrounded by buildings dating from the 13th century, painted in warm shades of gold and terracotta.

Stortorget Square and Its Colorful Buildings

Stortorget, the main square, is surrounded by colorful merchant houses and has witnessed significant historical events, including the infamous Stockholm Bloodbath of 1520. The square is a must-visit, especially during the Christmas season, when it’s filled with festive atmosphere.

Hidden Gems in the Old Town

Beyond the main tourist paths, Gamla Stan hides charming courtyards, cellar restaurants, and small boutiques selling traditional Swedish crafts and design. Be sure to explore the narrowest alley in Stockholm, Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, which is just 90 centimeters wide at its tightest point.

Gamla Stan is a place where you can spend hours discovering historical treasures, from the Nobel Prize Museum to Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan) and the Royal Palace. It’s a significant part of the city‘s history, making it a must-visit destination in Stockholm.

Must-Visit Museums in Stockholm County

Stockholm County boasts an impressive collection of museums that are sure to captivate visitors from around the world. You can explore a wide range of exhibits that showcase the region’s rich history, culture, and innovative spirit.

The Vasa Museum: A 17th-Century Warship

The Vasa Museum is home to the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship, the Vasa warship, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was recovered after 333 years underwater. You can marvel at the ship’s grandeur and learn about its history through interactive exhibits.

ABBA Museum: Dancing Queen Experience

At the ABBA Museum, you can immerse yourself in the world of Sweden’s most famous musical export. Enjoy interactive exhibits where you can try on costumes, sing karaoke to ABBA’s hits, and even record yourself performing with holographic ABBA members.

Fotografiska: Contemporary Photography

Fotografiska, located in a former customs building on Södermalm, is one of the world’s leading photography museums. You can explore rotating exhibitions by internationally acclaimed photographers, showcasing the latest trends and innovations in contemporary photography.

These world-class museums offer a unique glimpse into Swedish history, art, and culture, making them a must-visit during your trip to Stockholm County. Whether you’re interested in maritime history, pop culture, or contemporary photography, there’s something for everyone.

The Royal Experience in Stockholm

Stockholm offers a regal experience like no other, with its majestic palaces showcasing the city’s rich royal history. You can explore the grandeur of the Swedish monarchy through its magnificent buildings and historic sites.

Stockholm Royal Palace and Changing of the Guard

The Royal Palace, or Kungliga Slottet, is a must-visit attraction in Stockholm’s Gamla Stan. With over 600 rooms, it’s one of Europe’s largest palaces and houses five museums, including the Royal Apartments, Treasury, and Armory. Time your visit to witness the impressive changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place daily at 12:15 PM (12:45 PM on Sundays).

Drottningholm Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Just a short boat ride from central Stockholm, Drottningholm Palace stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as the permanent residence of the Swedish royal family. Built in the 17th century in French Baroque style, Drottningholm features magnificent state apartments, a Chinese Pavilion, and one of the world’s best-preserved 18th-century theaters.

Both palaces offer guided tours that provide fascinating insights into royal life past and present, making them essential visits for anyone interested in European history and monarchy. By visiting these palaces, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Sweden’s rich royal history and the significance of these buildings in the country’s cultural heritage.

Djurgården: Stockholm’s Museum Island

Djurgården, one of Stockholm’s most charming islands, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in museums, attractions, and outdoor activities. This island is a cultural and recreational hub, featuring some of Stockholm’s most popular museums and attractions within walking distance of each other.

Skansen Open-Air Museum

Skansen, the world’s first open-air museum, founded in 1891, allows you to step back in time as you explore over 150 historic buildings relocated from across Sweden. You can watch craftspeople demonstrate traditional skills and visit a small zoo featuring Nordic wildlife.

Nordic Museum

The impressive Nordic Museum occupies a Renaissance-style building and houses extensive collections showcasing Swedish cultural history from the 16th century onwards. You can explore traditional costumes, furniture, and folk art, gaining insight into the Nordic lifestyle.

Gröna Lund Amusement Park

For a dose of excitement, Gröna Lund amusement park offers thrilling rides, games, and a concert venue that has hosted legendary performers. You can enjoy the park’s attractions and entertainment options, making it a great destination for families and thrill-seekers.

Stockholm County, Sweden: Best Things to Do for Nature Lovers

Stockholm County boasts some of the best things to do for nature lovers in Sweden. With its unique blend of urban amenities and accessible natural beauty, it’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Royal Djurgården Park

Royal Djurgården Park, once the king’s hunting grounds, now serves as Stockholm’s green lung. It features vast areas of forest, meadows, and shoreline where you can spot deer and other wildlife just minutes from the city center. The park’s beautiful walking paths along the water, including the scenic route from Blå Porten (Blue Gate) to Rosendals Palace, offer a chance to enjoy the changing seasonal landscape.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities

Beyond Djurgården, nature enthusiasts can explore Hellasgården in Nacka nature reserve, where you can hike, swim, and even experience traditional Swedish sauna followed by a dip in the lake. The area around Stockholm offers numerous opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and sailing in the warmer months, while winter brings possibilities for cross-country skiing, ice skating on frozen lakes, and snowshoeing adventures.

Stockholm County offers a perfect balance of urban life and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re exploring the royal parks or engaging in various outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

Exploring Stockholm’s Unique Neighborhoods

Stockholm’s neighborhoods are a treasure trove of diverse experiences, each with its own unique character. As you wander through the city, you’ll discover that each area has its own story to tell, reflecting different aspects of Stockholm’s rich history and culture.

Södermalm: Stockholm’s Hipster Haven

Södermalm, located in the southern part of Stockholm, is the hipster area of the capital of Sweden. Wandering around its trendy streets such as Götgatan or Slussen, you may want to visit Fotografiska, a museum dedicated to photography and visual art, or watch life pass by in Medborgarplatsen. One of the highlights is heading to Monteliusvägen, a 500-meter narrow path on top of Södermalm, offering breathtaking views of the city, especially around sunrise or sunset.

The SoFo district (South of Folkungagatan) is the epicenter of Södermalm’s cool factor, where you’ll find independent boutiques, record stores, and some of the city’s most innovative restaurants, giving you a taste of the vibrant city life.

Östermalm: Elegance and Luxury

Östermalm, situated in the eastern part of Stockholm, is known for its elegance. Some of the attractions you can’t miss when exploring this area include Armémuseum (a military museum), Kungliga Biblioteket (the National Library of Sweden) in Humlegården, and Östermalms Saluhall, which offers a vast array of delicious foodie stalls. If you’re in a shopping mood, wander around Grev Turegatan, Humlegårdsgatan, and Nybrogatan, which feature plenty of imposing brick buildings and stylish shops, showcasing the area’s luxury and sophistication.

Östermalms Saluhall, a historic food hall in a beautiful brick building, gives you a taste of upscale Swedish culinary culture with its gourmet food stalls and restaurants, making it a must-visit destination in this elegant part of the city.

Stockholm’s Impressive Architecture

As you explore Stockholm, you’ll be struck by the city’s impressive architectural landscape. The city’s buildings tell the story of its evolution over time, showcasing a mix of historical and modern design.

Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset)

One of Stockholm’s most iconic buildings is the City Hall, constructed from eight million red bricks and crowned by a 106-meter tower. The City Hall is a perfect expression of the Nordic National Romantic style and features stunning halls, including the Blue Hall where the Nobel Prize banquet is held annually.

Stockholm Public Library

The Stockholm Public Library, designed by Gunnar Asplund, is considered one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. Its cylindrical main hall surrounded by art-filled bookshelves is a masterpiece of Swedish Classicism. The library’s design has changed the way people interact with books, allowing readers to seek out the book they need by themselves.

Throughout the city, you’ll notice the influence of different architectural periods, from medieval buildings in Gamla Stan to art nouveau structures in Östermalm. Stockholm’s architecture often incorporates art and functionality, with many public buildings featuring integrated artworks and innovative use of natural light.

Water Adventures in Stockholm County

A city built on islands, Stockholm is best appreciated from the water. Exploring Stockholm from this unique way offers a fresh perspective of its grandest streets and monuments.

Canal Tours and Boat Trips

Stockholm’s islands and canals are a treasure trove of exciting water adventures. Take a tour to discover the city’s hidden gems. You can hop on the Djurgården passenger ferry for a quick 7-minute trip between Slussen and Djurgården, or opt for a more informative Harbor Boat Tour around the islands of Kungsholmen and Långholmen.

Kayaking and Canoeing

For a more adventurous experience, rent a kayak or canoe to explore Stockholm’s waterways at your own pace. Paddle under bridges and alongside historic buildings for a different way to see the city, including the picturesque Lake Mälaren.

Whether you choose a guided tour or a self-paced kayaking adventure, Stockholm’s waterways promise an unforgettable experience.

Stockholm’s Underground Art Gallery

Stockholm’s metro stations are a canvas for artists, showcasing a diverse range of styles. As you travel through the city, you’ll encounter an array of artistic installations that transform the metro into an underground gallery. With over 90 of the 100 stations featuring installations by more than 150 artists, it’s a must-see attraction.

Exploring the Metro Art Stations

The Stockholm metro is home to the world’s longest art installation, making it a unique attraction in the city. You’ll be amazed by the diversity of art, from abstract paintings to mosaics and sculptures that bring the stations to life.

Most Impressive Stations to Visit

Some of the most dramatic stations can be found on the Blue Line, where artists have worked with the natural bedrock to create cave-like environments. Must-visit stations include T-Centralen, with its blue floral motifs, and Kungsträdgården, featuring an archaeological-themed installation. You can take a self-guided tour of the metro art with a regular transit ticket, making it one of Stockholm’s most accessible art experiences.

By exploring the metro art, you’re experiencing the city in a unique way. It’s a perfect activity for rainy days or anyone looking to discover a new side of Stockholm.

Experiencing Swedish Food Culture

Experience the best of Swedish food culture in Stockholm, where historic eateries meet contemporary culinary techniques. You can indulge in traditional Swedish cuisine not just at great restaurants but also at historic eateries like Den Gyldene Freden, which has been in operation since 1722.

Traditional Swedish Cuisine

Traditional Swedish cuisine features dishes like gravlax (cured salmon), herring prepared in various ways, Jansson’s temptation (potato casserole with anchovies), and reindeer with lingonberries. For an authentic historical dining experience, visit Den Gyldene Freden in Gamla Stan.

Fika: The Swedish Coffee Break Tradition

Fika is more than just a coffee break; it’s a social institution involving quality coffee and pastries. Enjoy the local coffee culture by visiting cafes that serve traditional pastries like kanelbullar or cardamom buns.

Shopping in Stockholm County

From luxury brands to unique Swedish designs, Stockholm County is a premier shopping destination that offers a diverse range of shopping experiences. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, vintage treasures, or local handicrafts, you’ll find it here.

Östermalms Saluhall Food Market

Östermalms Saluhall, housed in a beautiful brick building from 1888, is Stockholm’s most upscale food market. Here, you can shop for gourmet Swedish specialties, fresh produce, and artisanal products. It’s a great place to sample local cuisine and buy some unique souvenirs.

Swedish Design and Fashion

Swedish design is renowned for its minimalist aesthetic, functionality, and sustainability. You’ll find plenty of shops showcasing furniture, home goods, and accessories from both established brands and emerging designers. For fashion lovers, Stockholm offers both international luxury brands and Swedish labels like Acne Studios, Filippa K, and COS, exemplifying the clean, minimalist Scandinavian style.

When shopping in Stockholm, a bit of exploration can lead you to unique boutiques and vintage shops. Södermalm’s SoFo district is particularly noteworthy for its one-of-a-kind designer boutiques and hip restaurants.

Day Trips from Stockholm

When you’ve had your fill of Stockholm, it’s time to explore the surrounding areas on a day trip. The city is a great destination, but there’s more to Sweden than the capital. You can discover the unique charm of the Stockholm archipelago by hopping on a ferry and enjoying the endless islands surrounding the Swedish capital.

Exploring the Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm archipelago consists of over 30,000 islands and islets, ranging from inhabited year-round communities to uninhabited nature reserves. You can reach some of the closest islands, like Fjäderholmarna, in just 20 minutes by ferry from central Stockholm. These islands offer restaurants, craft shops, and swimming spots, making them ideal for a half-day excursion.

Vaxholm: The Capital of the Archipelago

For a full-day trip, consider visiting Vaxholm, the “capital of the archipelago,” with its impressive fortress, charming wooden houses, and excellent seafood restaurants. Vaxholm is just a 45-minute boat ride from Stockholm, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the authentic charm of the archipelago.

In addition to the archipelago, there are other fascinating destinations within a short distance from Stockholm. Sigtuna, Sweden’s first town founded in 980 AD, makes for a fascinating historical day trip with its medieval church ruins, rune stones, and well-preserved town center, just 40 minutes from Stockholm. Uppsala, Sweden’s fourth-largest city and home to Scandinavia’s oldest university, offers impressive cultural attractions, including a 13th-century cathedral, and can be reached in just 38 minutes by train.

Seasonal Activities in Stockholm County

Stockholm transforms with the seasons, offering a diverse range of activities and experiences. Whether you’re visiting in the summer, winter, spring, or autumn, there’s always something new to explore.

Summer in Stockholm

In the summer, Stockholm comes alive with long, bright days perfect for outdoor activities. You can enjoy swimming in Lake Mälaren, picnicking in parks, or dining al fresco at one of the many outdoor cafés. The city’s open-air museums extend their hours, and numerous festivals and outdoor concerts take place throughout the summer months.

Winter Wonderland Experiences

Winter in Stockholm creates a magical atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes and festive Christmas markets in Gamla Stan. You can enjoy ice skating on frozen lakes or explore the city’s cozy cafés and indoor activities like museum visits. Despite the shorter days, the city’s beautiful lighting and warm ambiance make it a wonderful time to visit.

Practical Tips for Visiting Stockholm

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions, and with some practical knowledge, you can navigate it with ease. As you plan your visit, consider the various ways to get around the city.

Getting Around Stockholm

Getting around Stockholm is easy thanks to its efficient public transportation system. You can purchase an SL Access card for unlimited travel on buses, trams, and metros, which is the most economical way to explore the city. Alternatively, you can rent bikes or scooters from services like Bolt, but be sure to follow traffic laws and park in designated areas.

Stockholm Pass and Other Money-Saving Tips

The Stockholm Pass can be a good investment if you plan to visit multiple attractions, offering free entry to over 60 museums and sites, plus hop-on-hop-off bus and boat tours. To save time and money, consider purchasing the Stockholm Pass. Additionally, Stockholm can be a bit expensive, so save money by having lunch at restaurants, looking for “dagens rätt” specials, and using water fountains to refill your bottle.

Best Time to Visit Stockholm County

The best time to visit Stockholm is from May to September when days are long and temperatures are pleasant. Summer offers long days and pleasant weather but more tourists, while May and September provide a nice balance of good weather and fewer crowds. As the capital of Sweden, Stockholm is a popular destination, and planning your visit during the shoulder season can make your trip more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Stockholm County stands out as a captivating destination, offering a diverse range of experiences across its 14 islands. As you visit this vibrant city, you’ll discover a unique blend of historical charm and modern Scandinavian design. From the medieval streets of Gamla Stan to the museum-rich Djurgården and trendy Södermalm, each neighborhood offers its own unique character and things to discover.

The capital city’s relationship with water creates a special atmosphere, with ferries and boats becoming an integral part of the Stockholm experience. Whether you’re interested in history, art, outdoor activities, or culinary delights, Stockholm offers something for every type of traveler. As you leave this multifaceted city, you’ll likely find yourself planning your return to explore more of this destination that perfectly balances tradition and innovation.

In summary, Stockholm County is a capital that satisfies both city lovers and those seeking natural beauty, making it an unforgettable destination with many things to see and do.

—

The above is subject to change.

Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.