Known as one of the most welcoming cities in the world, Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden, located on the east coast of the country. With centuries of history and culture, its contemporary and urban appeal now attracts many tourists and corporate travellers every year. Nicknamed “Venice of the north”, Stockholm is an easy city to explore, spread across small islands, each with its own remarkable heritage. If you’re visiting the city soon and wondering what to do in Stockholm, here are 9 things you need to see and do in this lively capital.
Gamla Stan
On your trip to Stockholm, you’ll most likely head to the city centre first, known as Gamla Stan. This enchanting old town is home to pristine cobbled streets and colourful buildings with a rich array of bars, cafés, and shops. Dating back to the 13th century, this part of Stockholm offers historic attractions including the baroque- style Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet) as well as several churches and museums.
Why not take a guided walking tour around Gamla Stan and learn about the rich history each street offers? With free tours available every hour, this is a great way to start your trip in Stockholm. If you need to take a break, head to Kryp In, which is known as one of the best restaurants in the city. Located on a picturesque medieval cobbled street with a cosy, rustic interior serving homemade traditional food, Kryp In is a must try when visiting Stockholm.
Vasa Museum
Home to the 69m-long warship which sank on its maiden voyage in Stockholm Harbour in 1628, the Vasa was salvaged 333 years later in 1961. The ship is the best preserved seventeenth century ship in the world, with more than 98% of the ship being the original. The Vasa Museum opened in 1990 and offers a range of exhibitions around the ship on historical context and life on board. The museum walls surround the ship which is the centre piece of this must-visit site. Different levels allow close access to each layer and end of the ship, which makes for an entertaining family day out.
ABBA The Museum
With the slogan ‘Walk in. Dance out.’ ABBA the Museum is one of the top things to see in Stockholm. Located on the island of Djurgården, a brisk walk or short tram ride from the city centre, this museum showcases the iconic band, from their stage costumes to concert footage. This interactive museum is a great day out in Stockholm and the extensive memorabilia makes for a very informative trip. This sensory overload experience appeals to ABBA fans as well as general pop music lovers. With a real recording studio for visitors to use and rooms full of costumes you really do feel like the 5th band member during your visit.
Stockholm Canal Trip
If you’re looking to relax in Stockholm, we recommend a ride along the Djurgården Canal. Explore the historic hotspots of Slussen, Old Town and Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsuddle, and appreciate the stunning sites and architecture of this city.
There is the option to travel on a Hop On-Hop Off sightseeing tour boat which guides you out to the famous archipelago. This is the perfect way to discover Stockholm from the water and get a different picturesque perspective of Stockholm, its sights and surrounding nature.
Stockholm Royal Palace
One of the most exciting things to see in Stockholm is the Royal Palace, which is the official residence of His Majesty the King of Sweden. With over 600 rooms, making it one of the largest palaces in Europe, the Royal Palace is open year-round and offers five museums. Built in the eighteenth century in the Baroque style, the rooms are in superb condition. As well as this, the palaces contain the Armory with royal costumes and armour, as well as coronation carriages and coaches from the Royal Stable.
Explore the Culinary Scene
Stockholm has long been a haven for those with curious appetites, with an ever-increasingly diverse food scene. Offering both modern and traditional spots, this Swedish capital is not one to skip. If you're visiting Stockholm, here are our top 3 restaurants to try in the city.
800 Grader – If you’re a pizza lover, then you’re in luck. 800 Grader is a great spot for a quick bite after a long day of exploring. With a cosy atmosphere, you can choose from four rotating pizza options – the spicy Nduja served with refreshing mint is a Stockholm favourite!
Falloumi – Part of Södermalm’s street food scene, Falloumi is fast becoming a staple for locals and is a must try on your next trip to Stockholm. Falafel and halloumi are the stars here with a concoction of tahini yoghurt, and chili sauces served in a wrap, pitta or bow. With vibrant interiors, Falloumi is a top restaurant with delicious food and worth a try!
Mathias Dahlgren Matbaren – This popular gastropub in Stockholm is known for its small well-crafted plates designed to be shared. Classic dishes include the pumpkin and broccoli dish as well as the steamed beef buns. Or if you’re looking for a more filling dish, try the fresh salmon with soy and horseradish.
The Viking Museum
The Viking Museum is one of the best things to do in Stockholm for the whole family to enjoy. This lively exhibition is not your standard museum but instead features movies, scenery, projections, and sound effects to transport you into the world of the Vikings. Learn about this historic age, how they lived, age and what made them infamous seafarers. Feel the weight of a Viking sword and helmet and watch the action of their brutal conquests and everyday life.
Ride the Underground Art Gallery
Stockholm’s 110km long subway network is a primary form of public transport in the city. However, this underground system isn’t like any other. Regarded as the world’s longest art gallery, each of the 90 stations has its own theme of sculptures, patterns, coloured walls, mosaic tiles and faux rock formations. This is a great on the go activity between other sightseeing and immerses you into the bustling Stockholm culture. Or if you’re travelling for a business trip in Stockholm, take a look around during your commute.
Stockholm Kayaking Tour
When visiting Stockholm, kayaking tours are a great way to view the city and explore the different islands. The city is situated on fourteen islands and on the banks of the archipelago where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. The central islands of Långholmen and Kungsholmen are located to the west of the city centre and offer small boat harbours and forest surroundings.
Stockholm has so much to offer for those heading on a business trip or relocating for good. From exploring the city’s top sights to trying some traditional dishes, Stockholm is a vibrant and bustling city. Browse our range of serviced apartments in Stockholm and get in touch to speak to a member of our expert team, who will help find the perfect accommodation for you.
