15 Best Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden

15 Best Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm, the Swedish Capital, is a place where centuries of Swedish history meet modern-day innovation, spread across 14 picturesque islands between Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea. From the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan to the sleek lines of the Ericsson Globe, the city offers a unique experience for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning a return trip, there’s no shortage of world-class museums, iconic landmarks, historical buildings, and beautiful gardens to explore. It’s a great place to enjoy a mix of cultural discovery and outdoor adventure—especially during the summer months. This guide covers the 15 best things to do in Stockholm, plus where to eat vegan, where to stay, how to get around, the best time to visit, and a couple of easy day trips to enhance your adventure.

Stockholm is home to some of Sweden’s most famous tourist attractions, including the Vasa Museum—the country’s most visited museum—the Nobel Museum, and the ABBA Museum, all within a short walk or boat ride from the city center. The island of Djurgården, a perfect place for nature lovers, is also where you’ll find Skansen Open-Air Museum, Rosendals Trädgård, and several historical landmarks. Don’t miss the royal apartments at Stockholm’s Royal Palace or a guided tour of the Stockholm Cathedral, both located near Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, the city’s narrowest alley. With its metro stations forming the world’s longest art gallery and its rich collection of contemporary art at Moderna Museet (featuring works by Henri Matisse), Stockholm is a cultural capital in every sense of the word.

15 Best Things to Do in Stockholm (List of the Best Things to Do in Stockholm)

1. Gamla Stan (Old Town)

Gamla Stan, dating back to the 13th century, is the heart of Stockholm and one of the best places to begin your exploration. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, admire colorful historic buildings, and stop at Mårten Trotzigs Gränd—the city’s narrowest alley. Don’t miss the Stockholm Cathedral and the changing of the guard at the nearby Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Sweden.

2. Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is Sweden’s most visited museum, housing a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage. With its massive wooden hull and over 95% of original materials intact, it’s an awe-inspiring look into maritime history. Interactive exhibits and multilingual tours make this an engaging stop for all ages.

3. Skansen Open Air Museum

Skansen is the world’s first open-air museum and still one of the best activities for families and history lovers. Located on Djurgården Island, it features over 150 historical buildings from all over Sweden, complete with costumed interpreters. You’ll also find Nordic animals, beautiful gardens, and traditional crafts—making it a unique way to step into the past.

4. Fotografiska

Fotografiska is Stockholm’s premier destination for contemporary photography, set in a waterfront warehouse in Södermalm. With constantly rotating exhibitions featuring renowned international photographers, it offers a different theme each visit. The top-floor café offers plant-based dishes and panoramic views—perfect for a post-exhibit fika.

5. ABBA The Museum

Get your disco on at the ABBA Museum, an interactive tribute to Sweden’s most iconic pop group. Try on virtual costumes, remix your favorite ABBA hits, and walk through the band’s history from humble beginnings to global fame. It’s much more fun than your average museum and a must for music lovers.

6. Djurgården Island

Djurgården is a lush green escape just a short walk or tram ride from the city center. It’s home to many of Stockholm’s top attractions including Skansen, the Vasa Museum, and the ABBA Museum. A great way to explore it is by bike or a peaceful stroll along the water, ending with lunch at Rosendals Trädgård among the flowers.

7. Stockholm City Hall

This iconic red-brick building on the shores of Lake Mälaren is where the Nobel banquets take place each year. You can take a guided tour of the grand Blue Hall and Golden Hall, adorned with over 18 million mosaic tiles. Climb the tower (open seasonally) for panoramic views over the city’s islands and rooftops.

8. The Nobel Prize Museum

Located in Stortorget Square in Gamla Stan, the Nobel Museum celebrates ideas that have changed the world. Through multimedia exhibits, original artifacts, and engaging stories, you’ll learn about the lives and work of Nobel laureates. It’s a compact but fascinating stop that offers a different perspective on science, literature, and peace efforts.

9. Boat Tour of the Archipelago

A boat tour is one of the best ways to see the different islands that make up the city of Stockholm and the surrounding archipelago. Choose from short city canal tours to full-day trips to remote islands like Vaxholm. It’s a perfect way to relax and experience the city from the water, especially during the summer months.

10. Monteliusvägen

This cliffside walking path on Södermalm offers one of the best views over Lake Mälaren, Gamla Stan, and City Hall. It’s a perfect place for photos, particularly at sunset or during golden hour. Bring a coffee and enjoy a stroll while watching boats glide across the water.

11. Nordic Museum

Housed in a castle-like building on Djurgården, the Nordic Museum focuses on everyday life in Sweden from the 1500s to the present day. Its exhibition rooms feature folk costumes, furniture, traditions, and even a room dedicated to fika. It’s a great place to understand Swedish culture beyond the royal headlines.

12. SoFo District in Södermalm

Short for “South of Folkungagatan,” SoFo is Stockholm’s hipster haven, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy coffee shops. It’s a great place to find local design, sustainable fashion, and vegan eats. The creative vibe and street art make it ideal for a leisurely afternoon.

13. Royal National City Park

The world’s first national city park stretches over six miles and includes parts of Djurgården, Haga Park, and Ulriksdal. It’s a paradise for nature lovers with forest trails, meadows, and birdwatching spots—right in the city. You can spot deer, go kayaking, or enjoy a picnic under the trees.

14. Hellasgården Nature Reserve

Just a 15-minute trip from the city, Hellasgården offers a peaceful escape for hiking, lake swimming, and winter ice baths. There’s also a wood-fired sauna on the lake’s edge, offering a very Swedish experience. It’s a great way to recharge after exploring the urban attractions.

15. Fika Like a Local

Fika is more than a coffee break—it’s a daily ritual and a cultural cornerstone of Swedish life. Sit down with a friend or book at one of the city’s many cozy cafés for a cup of coffee and a sweet treat, like a cinnamon bun or vegan pastry. Some top spots include Vete-Katten, Johan & Nyström, and the eco-friendly STHLM Raw.

Where to Eat Vegan in Stockholm

Stockholm is a vegan-friendly city with a variety of plant-based eateries:

• Hermans – Legendary all-you-can-eat vegan buffet with spectacular harbor views.

• ChouChou – 100% plant-based bistro inside the MOOD Stockholm mall.

• The Green Queen – Great for quick vegan bowls and smoothies.

• Mahalo – Vibrant tropical cafés in Södermalm and Vasastan with acai bowls, burgers, and salads.

• Kafé 44 – A cultural hub with affordable vegan meals and punk vibes.

Don’t miss mainstream spots like Espresso House or Wayne’s Coffee, which always have oat milk and vegan sweets.

Where to Stay in Stockholm

• For Boutique Comfort: Hotel Rival – A stylish hotel owned by ABBA’s Benny Andersson in Södermalm.

• For Budget Travelers: City Backpackers Hostel – Clean, central, and social, with free pasta and a sauna.

• For Luxury: Ett Hem – A dreamy, intimate 5-star boutique hotel in a converted townhouse.

• Eco-Friendly Option: Hobo Hotel – Trendy, sustainable design in central Stockholm, with a plant-forward breakfast.

Best Time to Visit Stockholm

• Summer (June to August): Long days, outdoor festivals, and archipelago adventures. Most popular time to visit.

• Shoulder Seasons (May & September): Mild weather, fewer crowds, and better prices.

• Winter (December to February): Cozy fika culture, Christmas markets, and a fairytale snowy backdrop—though very short daylight hours.

 

How to Get Around Stockholm

Stockholm has an excellent, efficient public transport system:

• SL Card: Get a travel card for buses, trams, metro (Tunnelbana), and ferries.

• Tunnelbana: The metro doubles as an art gallery—many stations are beautifully decorated.

• Boats: Ferries connect the city’s islands and make for scenic commutes.

• Walk & Bike: Stockholm is pedestrian and cycle-friendly, with rentals widely available.

• Taxi: Reliable but expensive—only use regulated taxis with clearly posted prices.

Easy Day Trips from Stockholm

 

1. Drottningholm Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Time: Half-day trip

• How to get there: 45 min by boat or metro + bus.

• The private residence of the Swedish royal family, with grand gardens, a Chinese pavilion, and an old theater.

• Located just 45 minutes from the city center by boat or metro plus bus, Drottningholm Palace is the private residence of the Swedish royal family and a stunning example of 17th-century architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace features beautifully preserved interiors, lush gardens, and a Chinese Pavilion that adds a unique flair to the grounds. The court theatre, one of the oldest still in use, offers performances and guided tours in summer. It’s a perfect place for a half-day escape into royal history and manicured beauty.

2. Vaxholm in the Stockholm Archipelago

• Time: Full-day trip

• How to get there: 1–1.5 hrs by ferry.

• A charming coastal town with colorful wooden houses, waterside cafés, and fortress views.

• Vaxholm is a charming seaside town and the unofficial capital of the Stockholm Archipelago, reachable by boat or bus in about an hour. Stroll along the waterfront, visit the 16th-century Vaxholm Fortress (home to a museum), and explore its colorful wooden houses and boutiques. There are plenty of coffee shops and seaside restaurants where you can enjoy a relaxed lunch with Baltic views. It’s a great way to experience island life without venturing too far from the city.

 

Bonus Day Trip from Stockholm: Uppsala

• Time: 1 hour by train

• A historic university city with a grand cathedral, botanical gardens, and Viking history.

• Just 40 minutes by train, Uppsala is a city full of historical significance and academic charm. Visit Uppsala Cathedral—the largest in Scandinavia—alongside the 15th-century Uppsala University and its fascinating museums. You can also explore the botanical gardens, Viking burial mounds at Gamla Uppsala, and the Gustavianum Museum with its anatomical theatre. Uppsala is a great place to dive deeper into Swedish history and culture while enjoying a change of pace from Stockholm’s buzz.

 

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Stockholm

Here’s a helpful list of the Top 10 Tips for Visiting Stockholm to make your trip smooth, fun, and budget-friendly:

1. Get an SL Card for Easy Public Transport

Purchase an SL Access card for unlimited travel on buses, trams, ferries, and the metro (Tunnelbana), including routes to most tourist spots and nearby nature areas. It’s the best way to get around Stockholm like a local.

2. Explore the Metro—It’s a Free Art Museum

Stockholm’s metro is called “the world’s longest art gallery,” with over 90 of its 100+ stations featuring murals, sculptures, and installations. Ride the Blue Line for some of the most artistic stations. Or you could take this fun art tour: Metro Art Installations Tour

3. Plan Ahead for Museum Closures

Many museums are closed on Mondays and may have shorter hours in winter. Always check opening times in advance—especially for top sights like the Vasa Museum or Skansen.

4. Go Cashless

Sweden is nearly cash-free. Almost everywhere accepts cards and mobile payments, so there’s no need to exchange large amounts of cash.

5. Embrace Fika Like a Local

Take time for “fika,” the Swedish ritual of coffee and cake, at least once (or twice!) a day. It’s a perfect way to rest between attractions and enjoy local culture.

6. Book Boat Tours Early in Summer

If you’re visiting in the summer months, reserve your archipelago or canal boat tours in advance—they sell out quickly on sunny days.

7. Use Google Maps + SL App for Navigation

Google Maps works well in Stockholm, but for the best transport info, download the “SL – Journey Planner and Tickets” app for real-time schedules and route planning.

8. Bring Comfortable Shoes

Stockholm’s charm is best discovered on foot, especially in Gamla Stan’s cobblestone streets and the paths of Djurgården and Södermalm. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

9. Take Advantage of Free Attractions (Top Tip to Save Money)

Many of Stockholm’s churches, parks, and viewpoints (like Monteliusvägen) are free to visit. Walking tours, street art, and open-air experiences offer great value.

10. Consider a Stockholm Pass (Better Way to Get Around)

If you plan to visit multiple museums, take boat tours, and use public transport, the Stockholm Pass may save you money. It includes entry to top attractions like the Royal Palace, Nobel Museum, and more.

Top 5 Hidden Gems in Stockholm (Interesting Things to Do in Stockholm)

1. Mårten Trotzigs Gränd (The Narrowest Street in Stockholm)

Tucked away in Gamla Stan, this quirky alleyway is just 90 cm (35 inches) wide at its narrowest point. It’s easy to miss, but it’s a fun photo spot and a unique piece of the city’s medieval layout. Find it between Västerlånggatan and Prästgatan—it’s a short walk from the Royal Palace. This old town walking tour sounds amazing! Click here: Old Town + Stories Walking Tour

2. Skinnarviksberget (Best Free Viewpoint)

Located in Södermalm, Skinnarviksberget is the highest natural point in central Stockholm. It’s a favorite sunset hangout for locals, offering panoramic views over Lake Mälaren, City Hall, and the skyline. Bring a picnic or a coffee and enjoy a peaceful escape from the crowds.

3. Stigbergets Fot (Street Art & Hidden Café Scene)

This quiet corner of Södermalm is a haven for art lovers, with vibrant murals, indie cafés, and small galleries. It’s also where you’ll find Fotografiska nearby, but unlike the museum, the surrounding streets are calm and colorful. It’s perfect for a slow stroll and a spontaneous fika.

4. Rosendals Trädgård (Urban Garden Escape)

Located in Djurgården, this biodynamic garden, greenhouse café, and flower nursery feels like a countryside escape within the city. You can walk among apple orchards, enjoy vegan-friendly farm-to-table lunches, and shop for organic treats in the bakery. It’s a perfect place to relax after visiting nearby museums.

5. The Woodland Cemetery (Skogskyrkogården)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this serene cemetery blends architecture, nature, and philosophy. Designed by Gunnar Asplund and Sigurd Lewerentz, it’s a powerful example of Swedish minimalism and respect for nature. Come for a quiet walk and see the chapel where Greta Garbo is buried.

How to Get to Stockholm from Other European Countries

By Air: The Most Common Way

Stockholm is easily accessible by air from most major European cities, with direct flights arriving at three main airports:

• Stockholm Arlanda (ARN): The largest international airport, 40 km north of the city. Arlanda Express gets you to the city center in 20 minutes, or you can take cheaper commuter trains or airport buses.

• Stockholm Bromma (BMA): A small airport closer to the city, often used for domestic and short-haul European flights.

• Stockholm Skavsta (NYO) and Västerås (VST): Served mainly by low-cost carriers like Ryanair. Both are about 80–100 minutes away by airport bus.

Budget tip: Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights and book early for the best deals.

Via Train: Scenic and Sustainable

Train travel to Stockholm is a comfortable and eco-friendly option:

• From Copenhagen, Denmark: Direct SJ high-speed trains take around 5 hours.

• From Oslo, Norway: Direct trains take about 6 hours.

• From Gothenburg, Sweden: Fast trains arrive in about 3 hours.

• From Berlin or Hamburg, Germany: Take a train to Copenhagen, then transfer to a direct train to Stockholm.

By Bus: Budget-Friendly Travel

Long-distance buses like FlixBus, Eurolines, and Vy Bus4You connect Stockholm to cities like Berlin, Oslo, Copenhagen, and Warsaw. Buses are slower but significantly cheaper, often offering overnight routes with Wi-Fi and reclining seats.

Best for: Budget travelers with flexible schedules or those who want to travel overnight and save on a night’s accommodation.

Via Car or Campervan

Driving to Stockholm can be a great option if you plan to explore multiple destinations en route. You can reach the city via the Öresund Bridge from Denmark or take a ferry from Germany, Poland, Finland, or the Baltics.

Tip: Traffic is manageable, but parking in the city can be expensive—consider using Park & Ride areas outside the city center.

By Ferry: A Unique Experience

Stockholm is also well connected by ferry to Helsinki, Turku, Tallinn, Riga, and Mariehamn. Ferries are run by companies like Viking Line, Tallink Silja, and Stena Line and offer overnight cabins, restaurants, and entertainment onboard.

Why go by ferry? It’s a scenic and relaxing way to arrive—especially popular in summer and during the magical Nordic midsummer season.

Final Thoughts on Stockholm

The Capital City of Sweden, Stockholm, is a city that rewards both the curious explorer and the slow traveler. With its seamless blend of urban culture, history, nature, and progressive attitudes (including toward plant-based living), it’s an ideal destination for vegans, families, and solo adventurers alike. Pack your walking shoes, your sense of wonder, and your appetite—Stockholm won’t disappoint.

With its colorful buildings, open-air museums, scenic boat tours, and coffee shops that turn “fika” into a daily ritual, Stockholm is the perfect way to experience Swedish culture. Whether you’re taking a stroll through historical landmarks, following a walking tour with Google Maps, or catching great deals in the city center, the city of Stockholm offers something for everyone. If you have enough time, be sure to explore a few different islands or take in a concert near the official residence of the Swedish monarch. This travel guide to Stockholm will help you find the best ways to enjoy one of Europe’s most fascinating capital cities—because there’s truly no better place for a city break that’s full of history, beauty, and fun.

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THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:

1. Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
2. Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
3. North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
4. Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
5. Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!

OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:

1. DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Europe, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
2. iTalki – if you want to learn another language before traveling to Europe or while you’re there, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
3. NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
4. Airalo E-Sim – this let’s you use your phone anywhere in the world without having to get a physical sim! We use this all the time when we travel outside Europe!
5. Big Bus Tours – the perfect way to see the city when you first arrive!
6. Get Transfer – transfers between all of the airports and cities