When I visited Stockholm, these 5 experiences stood out the most—from the famous Vasa Warship harbor to lesser-known local favorites (like the Royal Armoury). Here are 5 things you can do in Stockholm that I recommend you add to your Stockholm itinerary!
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Intro
Stockholm is a charming city with cobbled streets and scenic waterfront views. So I can see how it’s hard to figure out what to prioritize visiting. During my visit, I found these 5 experiences to be the most interesting, fun and well worth my time! This list has 5 of the best things to do in Stockholm that will help you make the most of your visit.
5 Things to Do in Stockholm
The above map shows all the things to do mentioned in this Stockholm post.
HOW TO USE THE ABOVE STOCKHOLM MAP:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Click a Colored Point of Interest | Shows additional information and details of the selected Point of Interest |
| Click the Four-cornered Square at the Top Right | Opens the map in a Larger Map view in your personal Google Maps account |
| On Larger Map view, click the STAR ☆ under “Stockholm, Sweden“ | Adds the Map to your personal Google Maps account to access anytime on Computer* or on Phone App** |
| * On Computer: In your Google Maps, Click “Saved” on left bar → Click “Maps” → Click “Stockholm, Sweden“ | ** On Phone App: In your Google Maps app, Click “You” on bottom bar → Scroll to bottom → Click “Maps” → Click “Stockholm, Sweden“ |
1. Vasa Museum
At the famous Vasa Museum, you can marvel at the magnificent warship built in the 17th century.
On its maiden voyage in 1628, it sank in the shallow waters of Stockholm harbor and was left and forgotten for 300 years! Then it was recovered and wasn’t made available for the public to visit until 1990. Visiting this impressive and unique ship is a MUST while in Stockholm.
You can easily spend 1-2 hours here to admire the warship’s detailed design, take pictures, read about the ship’s history, and immerse into a replicated interior of the ship. They also have a shop where you can purchase a souvenir to remember your experience.
For me, visiting the Vasa Museum was definitely a highlight during my time in Stockholm. Check out my Vasa Museum Review for more information.
Vasa Warship • photos by Jeanie A
2. Explore Gamla Stan (Old Town)
Gamla Stan (Old Town) is a must-visit when in Stockholm. You can wander through Gamla Stan’s narrow cobblestone streets and chill in the vibrant central square, Stortorget.
The Stortorget has colorful buildings, lively shops and vendors, and the Nobel Prize Museum. If you wander and explore the area, you will find more cafes, local shops (especially for souvenirs), and even a Viking restaurant!
Exploring Gamla Stan • photos by Jeanie A
3. Drottningholm Palace + Changing of the Guard
The Drottningholm palace has stunning baroque architecture whose design was influenced by the Palace of Versailles in France. Around 12 PM, the changing of the Guards will take place here too, where you can observe Swedish military members dressed in military garb, switching places to guard this royal palace.
Here, you can explore the lavish interiors full of royal history. There are rooms complete with beautiful paintings, elaborate tapestries, and intricate chandeliers. The huge garden grounds also has a better look at the palace’s exterior.
You can easily spend 1-2 hours at Drottningholm Palace.
Drottningholm Palace • photos by Jeanie A
4. The Royal Armoury (Livrustkammaren)
If you are interested or are a fan of military history or royal intrigue, the Royal Armoury gives you a fascinating up-close look at the lavish and dangerous lives of Sweden’s monarchs, as well as the history of Swedish royalty. I highly recommend this museum since it contains real objects that were actually of value and used in the past.
The Armoury’s collection includes so many fascinating items. They hold incredible suits of armor that were worn by Swedish royal kings, even ones they wore in battle. There are also elegant royal garments (I especially admired the women’s dresses), ceremonial weapons, and other artifacts of Sweden’s regal past.
The Royal Carriage Hall contains several horse-drawn carriages that the royal family would ride during processions and coronations. They were beautifully crafted with intricate and elaborate designs (definitely my favorite pieces).
Fascinating Royal Swedish Items in the Royal Armoury • photos by Jeanie A
5. Riddarholm Island
On Riddarholm island at the Evert Taubes Terrass, you can get panoramic views of Stockholm. This is a serene and peaceful contrast to the bustling city. A short walk from Evert Taubes Terrass is the Riddarholmen Church with gothic spires, and is also the resting place of Swedish monarchs.
You can also take a scenic walk across the nearby Riddarholmsbron Bridge and reach Gamla Stan (Old Town). This bridge connects the Riddarholmen island right into the heart of Stockholm’s Old Town.
Getting to Stockholm
You can reach Stockholm by flying into Arlanda Airport (ARN). From here, Central Stockholm is almost 40 minutes by car, but the most convenient and fastest way to get there is by using the Arlanda Express! This train is a direct train line from the airport to Stockholm Central Station, right in Stockholm’s City center. And it takes only 18 minutes! For a guide on using the Arlanda Express train, check out How to Get to Central Stockholm via Arlanda Express Train.
Recommended Stockholm Tour
If you want to experience all the attractions mentioned with a live tour guide who also provides transportation, then book it by clicking here, or click “Book Now” in the widget below. I highly recommend booking a tour so you can have a driver/guide AND you can learn as much as you can about the Swedish landmarks, history, and culture.
Where to Stay in Stockholm
I stayed at Elite Hotel Adlon in central Stockholm which was conveniently located near Stockholm central train station, as well as restaurants and bars, all within walking distance.
Book the same stay by clicking here or add your dates and click “Search” for availability in the widget below:
Final Words
From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Stockholm offers a little something for every kind of traveler. You can explore royal palaces and roam cobbled streets full of old-world charm. Be sure to add these 5 best things to do to your Stockholm itinerary.
Have you been to Stockholm, Sweden?
What was your experience like – Let me know in the comments below!
(swedish “thank you!”)
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