Stockholm: The Best Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss!

Last Updated on November 29, 2024 by

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Northern Europe. Built across 14 islands, with numerous canals and bridges, it stands out as a truly unique destination! If you’re planning to visit, get ready for a city that blends naturehistory, modern architecture, and, for fashion enthusiasts, the distinctive Scandinavian style, which is quite different from what we’re used to. Beyond all this, Stockholm offers a variety of incredible attractions worth exploring. Here are the top attractions in Stockholm!
 


gunnar wennerberg statue in stockholm

Stockholm at a Glance

Before choosing a destination, it’s always a good idea to ensure it’s the right fit for you. Having visited Sweden three times, I can confidently say this about Stockholm:

  • Yes, it’s expensive, but not as much as you think. Keep in mind that they use the Swedish krona, not the euro.
  • If you love clean, well-organized cities with plenty of greenery and access to the sea, you’re in the right place.
  • Endless art: museums, exhibitions, cozy cafés where you can peacefully read your book while enjoying kanelbullar, the famous Swedish cinnamon rolls.

STOCKHOLM’S ATTRACTIONS 

#1. The old town (Gamla Stan)

Gamla stan in the heart of Stockholm city

The Old Town of Stockholm, also known as Gamla Stan, is one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. Walking through it feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages! It may remind you a bit of Gozo’s Old Town in Malta, but here you are in the heart of Stockholm, surrounded by small cobblestone streets

This picturesque neighborhood is home to around 3,000 residents and is located on the island of Stadsholmen (don’t worry, it’s connected by a pedestrian-friendly bridge!). Gamla Stan is where you’ll find some of Stockholm’s most iconic landmarks. It truly is the heart of the city!

Highlights include Stortorget Square, which houses both the Swedish Parliament (Riksdagshuset) and the Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet)—the largest inhabited palace in the world—and Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan). The history of Gamla Stan dates back to the 13th century, with most buildings originating from the 16th and 17th centuries. One fascinating historical fact is that Stortorget Square was the site of the “Stockholm Bloodbath,” a massacre of nobles in 1520 ordered by Danish King Christian II.

One of Gamla Stan’s narrowest alleys is Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, just 90 centimeters wide. This charming alleyway features 36 steps that narrow as they ascend—don’t miss it!
 
Marten Trotzigs grand street in stockholm
 
 

 Pretty Travels Tip: The small cafés and souvenir shops here are a bit more expensive. You can buy souvenirs from this area if you like, but for better prices, enjoy your coffee a little outside the Old Town!

#2. The Royal Palace of Stockholm (Kungliga Slottet)

The Royal Palace of Stockholm is undoubtedly one of the must-see attractions. Even if you decide you don’t have time to go inside, you can still admire it from the outside. Since you’ve already started your visit to the Old Town, you’re already on Stadsholmen Island, where the Royal Palace is located. It serves as the official residence of the Swedish Royal Family.
 


It is one of the largest royal palaces in Europe and opens its doors to visitors to admire its stunning rooms and the royal art collection. The palace hosts numerous exhibitions and museums, with its highlight being the Changing of the Guard, undoubtedly one of the most impressive moments of your visit.

inside the royal palace of stokcholm

#3. Explore Stockholm’s Archipelago with a Cruise

girl in stockholm

If you want to experience the beauty of Stockholm’s archipelago, a cruise is an experience you shouldn’t miss! With over 30,000 islands, Stockholm’s archipelago is a unique natural treasure worth exploring. There are various cruise options, ranging from 1.5 to 3 hours. The most popular is the 2.5-hour cruise, which offers an excellent glimpse of the archipelago without taking up your entire day. Boats depart from Strandvägen, right in the heart of Stockholm.


stockholm view from sea During the cruise, a guide (in English and Swedish) narrates the history of the archipelago and points out its most interesting landmarks. Onboard, there’s a café where you can purchase sandwiches, sweets, and drinks.

My personal experience on this cruise was enchanting! As the boat sailed between lush green islands, it felt like traveling to another world. The view of picturesque cottages along the shores, pine trees leaning over rocky cliffs, and the endless blue sea created a fairytale-like setting. A particularly memorable moment was passing near Vaxholm Fortress, a historic stronghold that stands imposingly in the middle of the sea. 

Pretty Travels Tip: If you’re visiting Stockholm in summer, try booking an afternoon cruise to enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the archipelago. It’s an experience you’ll never forget!
 

#4. Τhe museum of photography (Fotografiska) 

If you love photography – even just a little! – Stockholm’s Photography Museum is one of the best destinations in the city. Located in the Södermalm district, which I adore, the museum hosts exhibitions by some of the world’s most renowned photographers. The museum is modern, and its exhibitions change frequently. The café on the top floor offers incredible views, making it a must-visit spot, especially if you’re there during cold or snowy weather. Known as Fotografiska in Swedish, the museum is housed in an impressive Art Nouveau building from 1906, which once served as a customs house. Now attracting over 500,000 visitors annually, it has become one of Stockholm’s most popular attractions. The museum is large, featuring 2,500 square meters of exhibition space spread over two floors. It hosts approximately four major exhibitions and 20-25 smaller ones each year.

My Pretty Travels Tip: The museum stays open late at night, specifically until 11 p.m., offering a unique nighttime experience! Additionally, the museum’s restaurant on the top floor is famous for its avant-garde cuisine and breathtaking views of the river and the city.

#5. The Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s most impressive and popular museums. Initially, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to visit (I thought, “Really, a ship?”), but it completely changed my mind because it’s truly worth it! Located on the island of Djurgården, the museum houses the world’s only intact 17th-century warship, the Vasa. This magnificent warship, equipped with 64 cannons, was built between 1626 and 1628 and has a truly tragic history. On August 10, 1628, the Vasa set off on its maiden voyage as cheering Swedes waved it off from the harbor. However, just 20 minutes after departure, having traveled only 1,300 meters, the ship began to sink! The sinking of the Vasa was a massive disaster and an embarrassment for Sweden, but it turned out to be invaluable for archaeologists. The brackish water of the Baltic Sea protected the ship from decay, preserving about 95% of its wood intact. In 1961, the Vasa was raised from the sea along with thousands of artifacts and the remains of at least 15 people.
 


vasa museum

The Vasa Museum opened its doors to the public in 1990 and has since become the most visited museum in Scandinavia. Visitors can view the ship from six different levels, from the keel to the top of the stern tower, essentially walking around it. The museum also features numerous exhibits and models that illustrate the ship’s construction, sinking, discovery, and recovery. It offers a unique opportunity to see an authentic 17th-century ship up close while learning about Sweden’s maritime history. With over 1.5 million visitors annually, 85% of whom are international, the Vasa Museum is undoubtedly one of Stockholm’s most significant attractions.
 

#6. Τhe Djurgården island

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If you’ve already made it to the Vasa Museum, then you’re on Djurgården Island, one of Stockholm’s most beautiful green spaces—perfect for walking or cycling. Djurgården is home to several museums, including the Vasa Museum, the ABBA Museum, and Skansen (more on that below), as well as charming open-air cafés and food stalls. If you have time, take a stroll around the island and enjoy its tranquility and natural beauty, which is quite unique for a city. Did you know? The name Djurgården means “Animal Garden” in Swedish, and its history dates back to the 15th century. Originally a royal hunting ground, it has since become a popular public park. If you visit Djurgården in spring, don’t miss the stunning Rosendals Trädgård gardens in full bloom. This biodynamic garden offers a café with produce grown on-site and a greenhouse where you can enjoy your coffee surrounded by flowers.
 
My Pretty Travels Tip: For a unique experience, rent a bike and explore the island at your own pace!
 

#7.  Skansen the world’s first Open-Air Museum

If the weather is nice, consider visiting Skansen, located on Djurgården. Founded in 1891, Skansen is the world’s first open-air museum and remains one of Stockholm’s most unique attractions. It features reconstructions of Swedish rural and urban homes from different eras, as well as native Scandinavian animals like reindeer, bears, and wolves—offering something entirely different from what you’d find in Greece! Skansen is ideal for families with children, as it provides plenty of open space for kids to run around while learning about Swedish history and culture. The museum also includes a zoo and various activities for children, making it a perfect outdoor destination. At Skansen, you can explore over 150 historical buildings relocated from across Sweden, including farmsteads, workshops, and even a Sami camp representing Sweden’s indigenous culture. You’ll also find traditional crafts being demonstrated by staff in period costumes—think glassblowing, butter churning, or baking in rustic settings. The Nordic Zoo is another highlight, home to animals like moose, brown bears, wolves, and lynxes in their natural habitats. In springtime, baby animals add an extra layer of charm to the experience!

Pretty Travels Tip: Skansen stays open year-round but has seasonal hours. For an unforgettable visit, check out their special events like Midsummer celebrations or Christmas markets. If you’re short on time or energy, take the funicular to the top of the hill and explore your way down!
 

#8. ABBA: The Museum

If the weather isn’t great, or if you’re traveling with older kids (or no kids at all!), there’s another fantastic option on the island you’re already exploring. If you love music and the history of the 70s, the museum dedicated to ABBA is a one-of-a-kind experience. This interactive museum allows you to sing and dance along to your favorite ABBA songs. It’s packed with memorabilia from the band’s career and the world of Swedish pop music. You’ll find everything: their iconic costumes, gold records, and personal items belonging to the band members. You can also learn how their songs were created and discover more about the lives of the band members before, during, and after ABBA’s golden era.

#9. The Södermalm neighbourhood 

The Södermalm neighborhood, known as “Söder” to locals, is an urban island that has transformed from a former working-class district into one of Stockholm’s trendiest and most vibrant areas. If you’re feeling museum fatigue and just want a place to stroll, eat, or grab a coffee, Södermalm is perfect. It’s full of life, with students, artists, hipsters, and more creating a lively atmosphere. The area boasts beautiful boutique shops, cozy cafés, stylish bars, and excellent restaurants. For a touch of greenery, head to Vitabergsparken, a charming park where you can relax and enjoy a quieter side of Södermalm amidst its buzzing vibe.

#10. Shopping in Stocholm

cafe stockholm
 
Stockholm is a haven for shopping enthusiasts, offering a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget.In the heart of the city, in the Norrmalm district, you’ll find Drottninggatan, a bustling shopping street filled with major retail chains and department stores. One highlight is the luxurious NK (Nordiska Kompaniet) shopping center, perfect for designer shopping. For more alternative and trendy options, head to Södermalm, particularly the SoFo (South of Folkungagatan) area. Don’t miss visiting Grandpa for stylish clothing and home goods or Beyond Retro for amazing vintage finds .If you’re a fan of Scandinavian design, make sure to stop by Design Torget in Norrmalm, where you’ll find unique items created by Swedish designers.
 

Accommodation in Stockholm 

park in stokcholm Stockholm offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. From luxury hotels to more affordable AirBnB options, there’s something for everyone. The average price for a double room is around €100 per night, but cheaper options can be found depending on the time of year. For budget-conscious travelers, consider visiting during the low season (February or March) when prices are lower.

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