Stockholm is one of those cities that takes your breath away the moment you arrive. Built across 14 islands, connected by bridges and surrounded by shimmering blue waters, Sweden’s capital blends old-world beauty with contemporary style in a way few other cities can. It’s clean, organized, and effortlessly stylish, yet warm and welcoming at the same time. Whether you’re drawn to history, art, architecture, food, or simply the joy of exploring beautiful streets and waterfronts, there’s something here for everyone.
Having spent weeks wandering Stockholm’s neighborhoods, from the cobblestone alleys of Gamla Stan to the creative corners of Södermalm, I’ve put together a guide to the best things to do in Stockholm. This list mixes famous landmarks with local favorites, so you can experience the city’s true spirit the way I did slowly, thoughtfully, and with curiosity.
Best Things to do in Stockholm 1: Explore Gamla Stan – The Old Town of Stockholm
No trip to Stockholm is complete without spending time in Gamla Stan, the city’s Old Town and one of the best-preserved medieval centers in Europe. Wandering its narrow, winding streets feels like stepping into a storybook. Colorful 17th-century buildings line cobblestone alleys, tiny boutiques display handblown glass and local crafts, and cozy cafés serve freshly baked cinnamon buns.
Start your visit at Stortorget, the oldest square in Stockholm, surrounded by the city’s most photographed buildings. From there, visit the Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet), still an active royal residence and one of the largest palaces in Europe. Inside, you can tour the Royal Apartments, the Treasury, and the Royal Chapel. Make sure to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a local favorite. Just nearby, you’ll find Storkyrkan Cathedral, where Swedish monarchs have been crowned for centuries.
I love exploring Gamla Stan early in the morning, before the crowds arrive. The quiet streets, golden light, and smell of coffee from the bakeries make it one of the most peaceful and magical moments you can have in Stockholm.
Best Things to do in Stockholm 2: Visit the Vasa Museum – A Masterpiece of History
Located on Djurgården Island, the Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet) is one of the most fascinating museums I’ve ever visited. It houses the only fully preserved 17th-century warship in the world. The ship sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was recovered from the seabed 333 years later, astonishingly intact. Walking into the museum, the sight of the massive Vasa ship is breathtaking. It feels like standing in front of a time capsule.
The museum’s exhibits tell the story of the ship’s construction, the people who built and sailed it, and the incredible recovery process. The lighting, the craftsmanship, and the historical detail make it one of those rare museums that truly bring history to life. It’s a must-see for all visitors, whether or not you’re a history enthusiast.
Best Things to do in Stockholm 3: Discover Djurgården:- Stockholm’s Green Oasis
If Stockholm had a heart, it would be Djurgården. Once the royal hunting grounds, this lush island is now a peaceful escape filled with museums, gardens, and walking trails. It’s one of my favorite places in the city because it captures everything Stockholm stands for—nature, culture, and relaxation.
Beyond the Vasa Museum, you’ll find ABBA The Museum, a fun and interactive celebration of Sweden’s most famous pop group. Even if you’re not a big ABBA fan, it’s impossible not to smile while singing along in one of the recording booths. Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum, is another must-visit. It showcases traditional Swedish life, complete with historical buildings, artisans, and a zoo featuring Nordic animals like moose and bears.
In summer, I love walking along Djurgården’s waterfront paths, stopping for coffee at Rosendals Trädgård, an organic café set in a garden full of apple trees and flowers. It’s a place where you can slow down and feel the calm rhythm of Stockholm life.
Best Things to do in Stockholm 4: Climb City Hall Tower and Visit the Nobel Banquet Hall
Stockholm’s City Hall (Stadshuset) is not just an administrative building; it’s one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built from red brick and topped with golden spires, it dominates the waterfront skyline. The interior is equally stunning, home to the Blue Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquet is held each year, and the Golden Hall, decorated with millions of mosaic tiles depicting scenes from Swedish history.
I highly recommend climbing the City Hall Tower for a panoramic view of Stockholm’s islands and waterways. On a clear day, you can see as far as the archipelago. The view from the top is spectacular at sunset, when the city glows in warm shades of orange and pink reflected in the water.
Best Things to do in Stockholm 5: Wander Through Södermalm – Stockholm’s Coolest Neighborhood
If you want to experience Stockholm’s modern creative culture, head to Södermalm. This island neighborhood is stylish, laid-back, and full of life. It’s where artists, designers, and writers find inspiration and where visitors discover a more local side of the city.
Spend your morning exploring the boutiques around SoFo (short for “South of Folkungagatan”), where you’ll find vintage clothing stores, independent Swedish brands, and unique concept shops. Stop for fika at Café Pascal or Kaffebar, both beloved by locals for their cozy atmosphere and great coffee.
For one of the best views in Stockholm, walk up to Monteliusvägen, a scenic path overlooking Lake Mälaren and Gamla Stan. I love coming here at sunset to watch the city lights begin to shimmer. In the evening, Södermalm’s bars and restaurants come alive, offering everything from modern Nordic dining to relaxed wine bars with live music.
Best Things to do in Stockholm 6: Cruise Through the Stockholm Archipelago
Just outside the city lies one of Sweden’s most breathtaking natural treasures, the Stockholm Archipelago. It stretches out into the Baltic Sea, comprising over 30,000 islands, islets, and rocks. Taking a ferry or cruise is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Stockholm.
You can hop on a ferry from Strömkajen or Nybrokajen and be surrounded by stunning scenery in less than an hour. Islands like Vaxholm, with its pastel wooden houses and seaside cafés, and Grinda, known for its peaceful trails and beaches, are perfect for day trips. I spent a summer afternoon kayaking around Grinda, surrounded by calm blue water and pine forests—it felt like a slice of pure serenity. For longer adventures, multi-day archipelago cruises offer overnight stays on remote islands, where you can experience the magic of Swedish summer nights.
Best Things to do in Stockholm 7: Experience Swedish Culture at Skansen
Located on Djurgården, Skansen is part museum, part zoo, and all charm. It’s the world’s oldest open-air museum, founded in 1891 to preserve traditional Swedish culture. Spread across a vast park, Skansen features authentic historical buildings moved from across Sweden, farmhouses, workshops, and windmills, each staffed with costumed guides who demonstrate crafts like glassblowing, baking, and weaving.
It’s especially fun to visit during Swedish holidays. I once came during Midsummer, when locals danced around the maypole wearing flower crowns, and traditional music filled the air. Even if you’re not visiting during a festival, the on-site zoo, which features Scandinavian animals like lynxes and reindeer, makes it a great stop for families and nature lovers alike.
Best Things to do in Stockholm 8: Enjoy the Views from Katarinahissen and Fjällgatan
Stockholm is a city of stunning viewpoints, and two of my favorites are Katarinahissen and Fjällgatan, both located in Södermalm. Katarinahissen, or the Katarina Elevator, connects Slussen to the heights of Södermalm, offering sweeping views of Gamla Stan and the harbor. It’s a great spot for photos, especially at dusk when the city lights reflect off the water.
A short walk away, Fjällgatan provides another panoramic viewpoint, overlooking the archipelago and central Stockholm. There’s even a small café where you can sip coffee while admiring the view. It’s moments like these, standing above the city, feeling the cool Nordic breeze—that make you fall in love with Stockholm all over again.
Best Things to do in Stockholm 9: Explore Art in the Stockholm Metro
Stockholm’s Tunnelbana (metro) is more than just a transport system; it’s one of the largest art exhibitions in the world. More than 90 of its 100 stations feature murals, sculptures, and installations by Swedish artists.
Some of my favorites include Kungsträdgården Station, which resembles ancient ruins, T-Centralen, painted in calming blue vines, and Solna Centrum, where bright red ceilings create the illusion of descending into the earth’s core. Riding the metro is an inexpensive and unique way to experience Stockholm’s creative spirit while getting around the city.
Best Things to do in Stockholm 10: Take a Day Trip to Drottningholm Palace
If you have time for a short trip outside the city, visit Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the private residence of the Swedish royal family. Located on Lovön Island, it’s just a 45-minute ferry ride from central Stockholm.
The palace was built in the 17th century and is often compared to Versailles for its grand architecture and exquisite gardens. You can tour the lavish interiors, stroll through the manicured grounds, and visit the 18th-century Court Theatre, which still stages performances using original machinery. Walking through the gardens, surrounded by fountains and perfectly trimmed hedges, feels like traveling back in time.
Final Thoughts
Stockholm is a city that blends elegance with authenticity, tradition with innovation, and history with modern life. Every island, every bridge, and every waterfront path tells a story. Whether you’re sailing through the archipelago, exploring the art-filled metro, or simply sitting by the water enjoying a fika, you’ll find that Stockholm has a calm confidence that leaves a lasting impression.
For me, the best thing about Stockholm is how it makes you slow down. It invites you to walk, observe, breathe, and be present. It’s not a city you rush through—it’s one you savor, one view at a time.
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