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Stockholm Attractions: Best Places to Visit
Discover the best Attractions in Stockholm with our comprehensive guide. From historic landmarks to scenic views, explore the city’s iconic sights and hidden gems. Some of these attractions can be seen from our boat tours, offering a unique perspective of Stockholm’s beauty.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to the Swedish capital.
Photo by Alexandre Van Thuan on Unsplash
Gamla Stan - A Living Museum in Stockholm
Prevailing since the 1200s and filled with several must-see tourist attractions, which include restaurants that serve authentic taste, boutique shops, etc. This place is a living museum of Stockholm. Gamla Stan is a perfect place to get around the old town of Stockholm. The place is well-known for its antique gift and souvenir shops that you can buy and take with you as a keepsake. However, once you start wandering around the tiny maze of winding streets, it feels like you are in a memory lane to medieval times. Stockholm Cathedral, Royal Palace, etc., are some places that must be on your site-seeing itinerary. If you have a hobby of getting deep into the culture of the place you traveled, Gamla Stan, also called Old Town, is a must-visit place.
Location: Gamla Stan
Google Maps: Gamla Stan - A Living Museum in Stockholm
Photo by Sightseeing Ride
Sightseeing Ride - Stockholms best rated boat tour
Experience Stockholm from an unique perspective by taking our 1-hour open electric boat tour. Glide through the heart of the city, surrounded by mesmerizing water views and iconic landmarks. Our eco-friendly boats offer a relaxing and sustainable way to explore Stockholm's attractions from the water. Our guides tell you about Stockholm's history, current events and are always happy to answer your questions during the tour.
Location: Gamla Stan
Google Maps: Sightseeing Ride - Stockholms best rated boat tour
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Djurgarden´s World-class Museums
The people of Stockholm are true nature lovers, and DjurgĂĄrden, with its peaceful waterside and woodland trails, is a testament to this. This island boasts some of the most famous museums in the capital and offers a serene escape for those who appreciate art, history, and nature. While buying food here can be pricey, packing a picnic basket to enjoy among the woodland trails is a delightful alternative. The open-air Skansen museum provides a fascinating glimpse into five centuries of Swedish houses, farmsteads, and wild Nordic animals, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking culture and tranquility.
Location: DjurgĂĄrden
Google Maps: Djurgarden´s World-class Museums
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Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset)
Counted among the city’s most impressive landmarks, it dominates the skyline of Stockholm. Built with dusk-red bricks and gold spires of Stadshuset, this place is more popular for its Golden Hall, which is covered by 80 million gold mosaic tiles. With 200 politicians and officials working here, the Golden Hall is where Nobel Prize award ceremony guests dine. Unlike other sports, you cannot move freely here and need a guided tour inside. This political building can be your favorite tourist destination if you are interested in world politics.
Location: Norrmalm
Google Maps: Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset)
Photo by Bengt Oberger on Wikimedia
Artipelag
Situated within a pine forest on Värmdö island, Artipelag is a stunning combination of Swedish design and nature. This art gallery features rotating international art and photography exhibitions, including collections from renowned figures like Andy Warhol and Swedish fashion designer Lars Wallin. Visitors can enjoy a lavish restaurant offering weekday lunches and weekend brunches, or opt for the pastry shop or café. Artipelag offers a unique opportunity to experience art surrounded by natural beauty, making it a must-visit during your trip to Stockholm.
Location: Värmdö
Google Maps: Artipelag
Photo by Tom Samuelsson on Unsplash
The Royal Palace
The Stockholm Royal Palace, adorned with jewel-encrusted swords, crystal chandeliers, and gold-embellished coronation carriages, has been the residence of Swedish sovereigns since 1700. With 600 rooms, some open to tourists, visitors can explore its grandeur on a 45-minute guided tour. Regular military parades and the changing of the guard are ideal times to experience the palace’s regal atmosphere. Offering the splendor of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, this historic landmark is a must-visit for anyone with a passion for history and royal heritage.
Location: Stockholm
Google Maps: The Royal Palace
Photo by John Disandolo on Unsplash
Skansen Museum
Skansen is one of the largest open-air museums and a must-visit for history buffs who enjoy interactive experiences. This unique destination offers a glimpse into historic wooden homes and provides opportunities to meet artisans such as weavers and bakers, bringing history to life. Animal lovers will also delight in the chance to observe Nordic animals up close, making it an ideal spot for visitors of all interests. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion or simply looking to enjoy seasonal Swedish festivities, Skansen promises a memorable experience for everyone.
Location: DjurgĂĄrden
Google Maps: Skansen Museum
Photo by Haut Risque on Unsplash
Stadsbibliotek
If you have a passion for bibliophiles and architecture, you’ll easily spend hours at the Stockholm Public Library, which houses an impressive collection of 400,000 poems, novels, plays, and reference materials in multiple languages. The library is renowned for its iconic cylindrical tower, where books are stacked from floor to ceiling. Designed by Swedish architect Gunnar Asplund, the unique three-level structure was created to allow visitors to browse the shelves independently without needing assistance from librarians. If you're a bookworm, this place is a must-visit, and don't hesitate to snap some photos as the readers here are accustomed to tourists passing by.
Location: Vasastaden
Google Maps: Stadsbibliotek
Photo by Casper Hildebrand on Unsplash
Vasa-Museum
Designated as the most visited tourist attraction in Stockholm, the Vasa Museum is home to a 17th-century warship that many may not be familiar with. This 69-meter-long wooden vessel, adorned with intricate carvings, sank on its maiden voyage and was rediscovered 333 years later. The museum not only offers a chance to view this remarkable ship but also provides insight into the lives of the passengers who traveled aboard it and the rescue operation that followed. For a deeper understanding of Swedish history, a guided 30-minute tour is highly recommended to enrich the experience.
Location: DjurgĂĄrden
Google Maps: Vasa-Museum
Andrew Ebrahim on Unsplash
ABBA - The Museum
Gold discs, chunky platforms, and quirky memorabilia best describe the ABBA Museum, a fascinating tribute to the glitziest band in Swedish history. If you're an extrovert who loves to sing and dance, this place is perfect for you. Interactive exhibits let you perform alongside ABBA on stage and dress up as virtual versions of the band’s iconic sparkly outfits. Even if you're not a die-hard music fan, you can still enjoy spending a few hours here and leave as a humming, dancing enthusiast.
Location: DjurgĂĄrden
Google Maps: ABBA - The Museum
Photo by Ninara on Flickr
The National Museum of Fine Arts
Also known as the Nationalmuseum, this art museum is a must-visit for art lovers. Established in 1792 as Sweden's National Gallery and originally called the Royal Museum, it was renamed Nationalmuseum after moving to its current location in 1866. The museum underwent a full redevelopment and renovation in 2018, making it even more breathtaking. The massive central staircase and large galleries are stunning, and the architecture of the building itself is worth admiring. Additionally, the museum boasts the most extensive collection of portrait miniatures in the world. Visitors can also enjoy restaurants and gift shops on-site, making it an essential stop for both art and culture enthusiasts in Stockholm.
Location: Norrmalm
Google Maps: The National Museum of Fine Arts
Photo by Moderna Museet on modernamuseet.se
Moderna Museum
The art at the Moderna Museet spans from the 20th century to the present, offering a rich collection of modern classics and contemporary art. This museum features a wide range of artworks, including films, photography, drawings, whimsical outdoor sculptures, and prints, providing something for every art lover to enjoy. Designed by Spanish architect Rafael Moneo, the museum is located on the picturesque Skeppsholmen island. It’s a perfect destination for true art enthusiasts, as it also hosts temporary exhibitions of world-class programs, a library, and a children’s workshop. Visitors can also take in the mesmerizing views of Djurgarden and Strandvagen while exploring the museum.
Location: Skeppsholmen
Google Maps: Moderna Museum
Photo by Arild VĂĄgen on Wikimedia
Royal National City Park
The Royal National City Park is a six-mile long, 26 square-kilometer stretch that surrounds Stockholm, extending across the three municipalities of Stockholm, Solna, and Lidingö. As the world’s first National Urban Park, it offers a unique space for both tourists and locals to unwind and enjoy nature. The park is home to moose, foxes, deer, and many rare birds, including winged butterflies. For nature lovers, it’s a paradise, with wilderness areas featuring centuries-old oak trees, lakes, marshes, and craggy hilltops. If you're seeking adventure, the park also offers sports facilities for outdoor activities.
Location: Stockholm
Google Maps: Royal National City Park
Photo by Johan Bakker on Wikimedia
Storkyrkan - The Great Church
The Great Church, also known as Stockholms domkyrka, was built in the 13th century and is one of the oldest churches in Stockholm, offering an opportunity to explore medieval architecture. The church hall features a vaulted ceiling supported by brick pillars, with Baroque flourishes from the 1700s that add to its charm. The church serves as the venue for important national events, such as royal weddings and coronations. It is a must-visit destination for those interested in both medieval architecture and historical artifacts from that period.
Location: Gamla Stan
Google Maps: Storkyrkan - The Great Church
Photo by Arild VĂĄgen on Wikimedia
Ă–stermalm
Shopping enthusiasts who love branded outfits and luxury items will not regret visiting this area, one of Stockholm's most lavish districts. The streets are lined with various international luxury labels offering extravagant Scandinavian designs. As you reach Biblioteksgatan, you'll come across numerous flagship shops, designer boutiques, and upscale stores in the Stureplan neighborhood. If you're interested in art and interior design, you can explore Svenskt Tenn and Malmstenbutiken near Nybroviken. After your shopping spree, you can enjoy fresh Swedish food at Ă–stermalmshallen.
Location: Ă–stermalm
Google Maps: Ă–stermalm
Photo by Kallerna on Wikimedia
Ericsson Globe Skyview
Offering a mesmerizing view from great heights, this attraction takes visitors to the top floor of the world’s largest spherical building, the Ericsson Globe, located on the southern edge of Stockholm. Situated 130 meters above sea level, the panoramic view of Stockholm city is unforgettable. The place is usually busy during peak hours, and you can expect long queues at these times. After enjoying the spectacular view, you can dine at the restaurant and pick up souvenirs from nearby shops.
Location: Ă–stermalm
Google Maps: Ericsson Globe Skyview
Engin Akyurt on Unsplash
Spirit Museum
While some might assume this is a ghost house, it is, in fact, a museum dedicated to alcohol. Located in beautiful 18th-century naval buildings in Stockholm, the museum explores Sweden's complex history with booze. It houses well-known artworks from vodka makers, sponsored by Absolut. Not surprisingly, the museum also features a bar and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy drinks and have a good time.
Location: DjurgĂĄrden
Google Maps: Spirit Museum
Photo by Ries Bosch on Unsplash
MillesgĂĄrden
Presently an art museum and sculpture garden, Millesgarden is a true gem in Stockholm. It was created by the artistic couple, painter Olga Milles and her sculptor husband Carl Milles. Unsurprisingly, the place is filled with stunning paintings and beautiful sculptures. The home itself is a magnificent work of art, surrounded by terraces, fountains, stairways, and lush gardens. If you have a passion for beauty and artwork, you won’t want to miss a visit to this place, located just 20 minutes from Stockholm.
Location: Herserud
Google Maps: MillesgĂĄrden
Photo by Pudelek on Wikimedia
Drottningholm Palace
The royal family of Sweden resides in Drottningholm Palace, located on Lovön Island. Built in the 16th century, the palace’s name translates to queen’s islet. It was originally used as a summer residence by a royal couple, but in 1661, it was burned and left in decay. In the 19th century, it was rebuilt with a touch of modernization. The palace grounds also feature a church, constructed in 1736, which you can visit on the last Sunday of the month. Additionally, the gardens offer a beautiful sightseeing experience. There are many more stunning places to explore in Stockholm, so be sure not to miss out on any of these incredible destinations.
Location: Drottningholm
Google Maps: Drottningholm Palace
Experience Stockholm’s Beauty from the Water
Want to discover more of Stockholm? Our electric boat tours offer a peaceful and eco-friendly way to explore the city. Learn about Stockholm’s history from passionate guides while enjoying unbeatable views of the impressive architecture. Perfect for relaxing or capturing stunning photos. Book your tour now!
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