Choose from 48 Fun Things to Do in Sweden
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 48 listings.
ABBA: The Museum
Stockholm’s ABBA: The Museum is an interactive space for ABBA fans to learn about the legendary Swedish band’s history and trivia. Housing plenty of the band’s costumes, gold records, and memorabilia, the museum invites visitors to experience the feeling of being “the fifth member of ABBA.”
The Basics
Fully dedicated to the biggest pop group ever to come out of Sweden, the ABBA Museum allows visitors to try on some of the band’s stage costumes, sing with them in the recording studio, interact with holograms, and even go on stage with the band. Interactive exhibits include Waterloo, where you’ll be transported back to 1974 Brighton; the Polar Studio, where you can get hands-on with the mixing board; and Benny’s Piano, the self-playing piano that has some special tricks in store for you. The original members of ABBA speak directly to you through the audio guide, sharing stories and memories from their careers. The audio guide was specially written for the museum by the screenwriter for Mamma Mia!
Most hop-on hop-off bus or boat tours of Stockholm stop at the ABBA Museum, which allows unlimited time to explore the museum at your leisure.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The ABBA Museum is a must-see for music lovers.
- Plan on spending 90 minutes to two hours at the museum.
- The entire museum is cash-free, so be sure to have a credit card on hand.
- Children under seven years old are admitted for free. Strollers are not allowed, but you can borrow a child carrier from the museum.
- The museum offers free small lockers and lockable hangers.
- Elevators to every floor enable easy wheelchair accessibility.
How to Get There
To get to the ABBA Museum by public transit, take either tram nr 7 and stop at Liljevalchs/Gröna Lund or take bus nr 67 and stop at Liljevalchs/Gröna Lund. A ferry also runs to Djurgården; stop at Allmänna Gränd. Parking on Djurgården is limited, so driving is not recommended.
When to Get There
The ABBA Museum is open daily, with later hours in the summer when travelers flock to Stockholm to explore during the longer daylight hours.
Attractions near the ABBA Museum
The island of Djurgården is also home to several other popular attractions, such as the maritime Vasa Museum, Skansen (open-air museum and zoo), Gröna Lund theme park, and Junibacken children’s park. Just a short hop from the city center and Old Town (Gamla Stan), you could easily spend an entire day exploring the island.
Address: Djurgardsvagen 68, Stockholm, Sweden
Admission: Varies
From $ 24
Lilla Bommen
As Gothenburg’s principal marina, Lilla Bommen forms the focal point of the city’s waterfront and the scenic riverside stretch is home to a number of top attractions. The eponymous skyscraper, Lilla Bommen, takes center-stage, a 23-floor skyscraper alternatively nicknamed “The Lipstick” or the “Lego House” for its unusual white and red façade, and its top-floor café offers expansive views along the Göta River.
Additional highlights include the Barken Viking, an early 20th-century merchant ship permanently moored in the marina and now home to a floating hotel and restaurant, the grand Gothenburg Opera House (Goteborgsoperan) and the nearby Maritiman, a floating museum of around 20 restored ships. Lilla Bommen is also the launch-point for boat cruises to the island fortress of Nya Älvsborg.
Practical Info
Lilla Bommen marina is located opposite Gothenburg Opera House on the Göta River (Gota älv) waterfront and is reachable on foot from the city center (around 15 minutes walk from Avenyn).
Address: Lilla Bommen, Gothenburg, Sweden
Hours: Daily
From $ 26
Nordic Museum (Nordiska Museet)
The Nordic Museum (Nordiska Museet) is an institution dedicated to Swedish cultural heritage, ethnography, and folk art. Situated on the island of Djurgården in Stockholm, the museum’s collection includes textiles, clothes, dollhouses, and other objects spanning a 500-year period that illustrate Swedish life, culture, and traditions.
The Basics
Swedish teacher and folklore expert Artur Hazelius founded the Nordic Museum in the late 19th century. The vast collection gives a comprehensive survey of Sweden’s cultural history from the 16th century onwards. The massive building, the design of Isak Gustaf Clason, was originally intended to be a national monument housing the nation’s material inheritance. The grand main hall is dominated by an enormous sculpture of King Gustav Vasa, the founder of Sweden.
The Nordic Museum is a stop on many Stockholm city tours, and is often combined with other attractions in Djurgården and the surrounding area. A Stockholm red bus hop-on hop-off ticket or a boat tour frequently includes the Nordic Museum along with other Stockholm sights such as Old Town, the Royal Palace, Gröna Lund Tivoli, the open-air museum and zoo Skansen, the maritime Vasa Museum, and more.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Children under 18 years old enjoy free admission to the museum. The on-site Children’s Playhouse charges an extra fee.
- Free audio guides in 11 languages are available at the museum entrance.
- The café offers freshly baked pastries and bread.
How to Get There
You can reach the Nordic Museum by buses 67, 69 and 76. If arriving by Tunnelbana, get off at the Karlaplan stop. Ferry service is to Allmänna Gränd from Slussen, and in the summer there is a ferry stop at Nybroplan.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily 10am to 5pm Thursday to Tuesday and until 6pm on Wednesday. In summer, when most travelers visit Stockholm, it is open from 9am to 8pm. If visiting Stockholm in the winter, a day at the Nordic Museum could provide a welcome respite from the bitter Scandinavian weather. Summertime takes most area residents out of doors, and a visit to the museum could easily be combined with other Djurgården sights in walking distance.
Special Exhibitions
The Nordic Museum has a rotating roster of special exhibitions on different time periods in Scandinavian life. Check the museum’s calendar for dates of exhibitions focusing on Sweden in the 1950s, Swedish holiday traditions, Sami (Sweden’s native population) life, and other special topics.
Address: Djurgårdsvägen 6-16, Stockholm 115 21, Sweden
Admission: Varies
From $ 26
Grona Lund Tivoli
Located on Djurgården island in Stockholm, Gröna Lund Tivoli is Sweden’s oldest amusement park. Most of its structures are old commercial and residential buildings dating from the 19th century, giving it a uniquely historic look and feel. From roller coasters to rock concerts, Gröna Lund entertains visitors of all ages.
The Basics
Gröna Lund’s attractions, although compact in size, are varied—the theme park includes roller coasters, a haunted house, a fun house (Lustiga Huset), a Tunnel of Love, a spooky train ride (Blå Tåget), and nearly a dozen children’s rides. Gröna Lund also plays hosts to various events, including popular summer concerts. Bob Marley set the capacity record in 1980 when he attracted 32,000 people to the venue. Other notable performers have included Kiss, Damian Marley, Ella Fitzgerald, Paul McCartney, Jimi Hendrix, and Lady Gaga. The park has three different entertainment venues: Dansbanan (Lilla Scenen), Gröna Lundsteatern, and Stora Scenen.
Gröna Lund is a stop on many bus and boat tours from Stockholm, including some hop-on hop-off sightseeing tours that allow you to spend as much time as you like at the theme park before moving on. Gröna Lund’s admission is also included as part of the popular Stockholm Pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gröna Lund is a must-do for families visiting Stockholm.
- Children three years old and under can enjoy rides for free if accompanied by a paying adult.
- Concerts are part of Gröna Lund admission; you cannot buy concert tickets separately.
- There are a number of restaurants and picnic areas on the grounds.
- Paid lockers for bags and personal items are located by the main and Tyrol entrances.
- The park is wheelchair and stroller accessible via the main and Tyrol entrances.
How to Get There
You can access Gröna Lund by boat from the central Stockholm islands Slussen, Nybroplan, and Skeppsholmen. Take tram #7, bus #44, or the ferry.
When to Get There
Gröna Lund is open May through September with varying hours; check the park’s website for hours and concert schedules.
History of Gröna Lund
Originally a city park, Gröna Lund was rented out by Jacob Schultheiss to install carousels and other amusement rides in 1883. The park was operated by Schultheiss' descendants until 2001. The park’s longest-operating ride is the Blue Train (Blå Tåget), running the tracks since 1935.
Address: Lilla Almanna Grand 9, Stockholm 115 21, Sweden
Admission: Varies
From $ 24
Kungsholmen
One of the largest and least touristic of Stockholm’s many islands, Kungsholmen is a popular retreat for locals during the summer months, when its scenic walkways and waterfront restaurants offer a tranquil alternative to the lively shopping and nightlife districts of Södermalm or Gamla Stan.
The star attraction of Kungsholmen is the grand Stockholm City Hall, which famously hosts the annual Nobel Prize ceremony, and visitors can not only tour the legendary building, but take in the views from its 100-meter tall bell tower. Other highlights include the scenic waterfront promenade of Norr Mälarstand, which stretches all the way to Rålambshovs Park, the central Scheelegatan, crammed with bars and restaurants, and the harbor by City Hall, from where boat cruises head out to explore the islands of the Stockholm archipelago.
Address: Kungsholmen, Stockholm, Sweden
From $ 70
Liseberg
Whether you prefer a nostalgic ride on the spinning teacups or a stomach-churning rollercoaster descent, there’s something for all ages and tastes at Liseburg amusement park, Gothenburg’s most thrilling attraction. Since opening its doors back in 1923, Liseberg has been consistently voted among Europe’s top amusement parks, drawing in over 3 million annual visitors and hosting a range of live music, dance and theater events during the evening hours.
Of course, the main draw is the amusements and there are around 40 hair-raising rides to choose from. Thrill-seekers can defy gravity on the award-winning Balder wooden roller coaster or the 1.4-kilometer Helix roller coaster; brave Europe’s tallest free falling ride, the AtmosFear; or enjoy the views atop the iconic Liseberg Ferris Wheel.
Liseberg is also the center of Gothenburg’s yuletide festivities with the amusement park getting a festive makeover during the holiday season, serving up seasonal delicacies, mulled wine and traditional handicrafts at its atmospheric Christmas market, and even erecting an Icebar, built with ice blocks shipped in from Swedish Lapland.
Practical Info
Liseberg amusement park is located just southeast of Götaplatsen in central Gothenburg and is open from April until mid-September and mid-November until Christmas Eve. Entrance is SEK 90 for adults at the time of writing (or free with the Gothenburg City Card), while children under 3 feet, 6 inches go free.
Address: Örgrytevägen 5, Gothenburg, Sweden
Hours: Open from April until mid-September and mid-November until Christmas Eve. Hours vary.
Admission: Adults SEK 90, Children Under 3'6
From $ 26
Uppsala Castle (Uppsala Slott)
Uppsala is one of Sweden’s most historic cities; squatting on the banks of the River Fyris, it sophisticated, leafy and dominated by its landmark castle, cathedral and university. The royal castle overlooks the town from its perch at Kasåsen and began life in 1549 at the behest of King Gustav Vasa, who built his fortified home in neat, symmetrical Renaissance style. Over the centuries, it has seen its share of ceremony, intrigue and violence, from coronations to political assassinations and abdications. The shocking murder of three members of the Sture family by the despotic and schizophrenic King Erik XIV took place here in 1567 and their tattered doublets and breeches are on show in Uppsala Cathedral.
The castle was virtually burnt down in 1702 – and much of its fragmented remains plundered to build the Royal Palace in Stockholm – but was subsequently reconstructed in 1740 with its dusty pink façades punctuated by towers on each wing. Today it has a distinctly more peaceful role as the home of three museums: Uppsala Art Museum, where funky modern ceramics from Uppsala Ekeby pottery are displayed along with contemporary Swedish artwork; the Fredens Hus (House of Peace), which highlights social and political conflicts and attempts to resolve them; and the fascinating Vasaborgen in the ruined bastions of the original castle, where the dark deeds of past Swedish monarchs are recounted in graphic detail.
Practical Info
Drottning Christinas väg 1E, Uppsala. Open Tue, Fri–Sun 12pm–4pm; Wed 12pm–6pm; Thur 12pm–8pm. Admission free. Best accessed on foot.
Address: Drottning Christinas väg 1E, Uppsala 75237, Sweden
Hours: Open Tue, Fri–Sun 12pm–4pm; Wed 12pm–6pm; Thurs 12pm–8pm
From $ 137
Riddarholm Church (Riddarholmskyrkan)
One of the oldest buildings in Stockholm, Riddarholm Church is the traditional burial church for Swedish royalty. Originally built as a monastery, parts of the church date back to the late 13th century. It was transformed into a Protestant church after the Reformation and the congregation was eventually dissolved at the start of the 19th century. Today, it is used only for burial and commemorative purposes. Nearly every Swedish ruler from Gustavus Adolphus (1632) to Gustav V (1950) has been buried in the Riddarholm Church, as well as Magnus III (1290) and Charles VIII (1470).
The interior of the church features dozens of coats of arms of the knights of the Order of Seraphim, a tradition that dates back to the middle of the 18th century. When a knight dies, his coat of arms is hung inside the church.
Practical Info
Riddarholm Church can be reached by taking the T-bana (subway) to Gamla Stan and walking five minutes to Riddarholmen, or by taking bus 3 or 59 to Riddarhustroget. Guided tours are available during from mid-May to mid-September, daily at 11:30 a.m. They last about 45 minutes and cover everything from the early history of the church to a history of the royal family and the history of Stockholm.
Address: Riddarholmen, Stockholm, Sweden
Hours: From mid-May to mid-September, open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; from mid-September to late November, open Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed from late November to mid-May.
Admission: SEK 50 (credit card only); tour SEK 20.
From $ 70
Nobel Museum
The history of the world’s most distinguished awards ceremony is the subject of Stockholm’s ever-evolving Nobel Museum, with fascinating exhibitions chartering some of history’s biggest milestones. Located in the Old Town of Gamla Stan, the museum opened in 2001 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the prestigious Nobel Prize, which has been awarded to pioneers in the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, literature and peace since 1901.
Visitors can’t help but be inspired by the exhibitions on award recipients and Stockholm-born inventor Alfred Nobel, whose unique vision led to the foundation of the prize, along with multi-media presentations of the Nobel Laureates’ achievements. Gain a deeper insight into famous honorees like Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Marie Curie, Niels Bohr and Henri Dunant, then go behind-the-scenes during the candidate selection process and the annual Nobel Banquet held across the water in the Stockholm City Hall each December 10th (the anniversary of Alfred Nobel's death). Finally, pay a visit to the on-site cafe and be sure to check the underneath of your chair - Nobel Laureates visiting the museum are asked to sign the bottom of their chairs before leaving, so you might find you’re sat in the seat of one of the greats.
Address: Stortorget 2, Stockholm 103 16, Sweden
Hours: Sep-May - Tuesday 11am-8pm, Wednesday-Sunday 11am-5pm; Jun-Aug - Daily 10am-8pm
Admission: Adults SEK 100, Children to age 18 Free, Students/Seniors SEK 70
From $ 23
Maritiman
Whether peeking into the engine rooms and crew’s quarters of a North Sea freighter, learning how to navigate a submarine or sipping coffee on the deck of a 1960’s passenger ferry, there are few better ways to discover Sweden’s rich maritime history than with a visit to Gothenburg’s Maritiman. Much more than just a museum, the Maritiman ranks as the world's largest floating maritime museum, comprising around 20 vessels, which are moored along the Gota River waterfront and linked together by a series of walkways.
The museum’s star attraction is the huge naval destroyer Smålan, measuring in at 121 meters long, but other notable vessels include the Sölve, the museum’s oldest ship, which dates back to 1875; the 69 meter long submarine Nordkaparen; and the 1915 lightship, Fladen. Highlights of a tour include visiting Småland’s secret cryptograph room, getting a glimpse of life at sea in the medical rooms, cabins and kitchens, and stepping onboard everything from fireboats and U-boats to local fishing boats. The best part is that visitors are allowed to freely roam the ships, so you can climb the ladders and ramps, check out the views from the top deck or lose yourself in the labyrinth of cargo rooms, while enjoying the interactive exhibitions.
Practical Info
The Maritiman museum is located in Gothenburg Harbour, just west of Gothenburg Opera House and Lilla Bommen, and can be reached on foot from Gothenburg city center. The museum is open daily from May to September from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. It is also open on weekends from October through April 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Adult admission costs SEK 100.
Address: Packhusplatsen 12, Gothenburg, Sweden
Hours: Daily from May to September from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Open on weekends from October through April 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Admission: Adults 100 SEK, Students & Seniors 70 SEK, Children (5-15) 50 SEK
From $ 39
King's Park (Kungsparken)
King’s Park, also known as Kungsparken, became the first large park in Malmo when it was established by King Oscar II of Sweden in 1872. Originally called Castle Park, it was developed on ground that was once home to the Malmohus Castle fortifications. Covering more than 21 acres in the center of the city, the park was inspired by the English-style of landscape gardening at the time.
The park is home to 130 tree species from three different continents, including a 29-meter tall Turkish oak tree, a 100-year-old sweet chestnut tree and a “tree of heaven” from China. The grounds also feature a variety of flowers, several ponds and an artificial grotto. A cast iron fountain was added to the center of the park in 1882 and a restaurant was built in 1912 that today is home to the Malmo Casino, one of only four legal casinos in Sweden. A 2008 renovation restored much of the park to its 19th century character.
Practical Info
King’s Park is located just west of Malmo’s Old Town, bordering Mariedalsvagen and Regementsgatan. Bus 24 runs along Regementsgatan and stops just outside the park. It is also a short walk (less than 15 minutes) from Malmo Central Station or the Malmo GustavAdolfs torg bus stop.
Address: King’s Park, Malmö, Sweden
Hours: Daily, 24 hours a day
From $ 19
Parliament House (Riksdagshuset)
Stockholm’s Parliament House is the seat of parliament in Sweden, better known as the Riksdag. Built between 1897 and 1905, the building was designed in a neoclassical style, with a Baroque Revival style façade. Today, it consists of two wings. The east wing is the original House of Parliament, while the west wing used to be the head office of the national bank. Occupying nearly half of the island of Helgeandsholmen in Stockholm’s Old Town, Parliament House also houses the Riksdag Library, which holds a variety of parliamentary documents and international legislation and is open to the public.
Visitors to Parliament House are welcome to observe everything that takes place in the parliamentary chamber, whether it is listening to debates and votes or attending public hearings or seminars. The public gallery to the Chamber holds 500 visitors, while the public gallery of the former first chamber holds 150 visitors and the gallery of the former second chamber holds 200 visitors. The latter two chambers are open for public hearings. Tours of the building are also available.
Practical Info
The entrance to the public gallery of the Chamber and tours is at Riksgatan 3. The entrances to the former first and second galleries are along Riksplan on either side of a large stone staircase. All visitors must present valid identification to enter Parliament House. Guided tours take about an hour and cover the history of the Riksdag and what is currently happening in parliament. No advance reservations are required, but space is limited.
Address: Riksgatan 1, Stockholm, Sweden
Hours: Guided tours are available in English from mid-September to early June on Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. and from late June to late August Mondays to Fridays at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.
From $ 23
Uppsala
With a history dating back to Viking times and a wealth of well-preserved medieval architecture, the picturesque city of Uppsala is a popular day trip from nearby Stockholm. The city is also home to the 15-century Uppsala University, and is the seat of the archbishop of the Church of Sweden.
The Basics
Uppsala's charming small-town atmosphere and close-knit attractions make it easy to explore on foot. As you stroll, admire landmarks such as the 15th-century Uppsala Castle, home to the Uppsala Konstmuseum; the grand Gothic Uppsala Cathedral; and Sweden's oldest university, which dates back to 1477. Other points of interest include the ancient burial grounds and stone churches of the Old Town of Gamla Uppsala, the Botanical Gardens, the Upplands Museum, and a museum dedicated to Swedish scientist Carl Linnaeus. Due to the city's rich history, Viking history tours from Stockholm typically stop in Uppsala.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tourist information centers located around town offer maps and brochures, answer questions, and give tips on current events, sights, and activities in Uppsala.
- Although Swedish is the country's official language, most residents also speak English.
- Sweden's culture is generally a very child-friendly; Uppsala offers many amenities for kids and the city center is stroller-friendly.
How to Get There
Located just an hour from Stockholm, Uppsala is an ideal day trip from Sweden's capital. While guided tours typically offer round-trip transportation, it's also possible to arrive by car via the E4 highway. Buses and trains also depart regularly from Stockholm's city center and Arlanda Airport.
When to Get There
You can visit Uppsala year-round, but Sweden sees its most pleasant weather in the late spring, summer, and early fall. Shops and museums are typically open during regular daytime hours, while Uppsala's student population provides a bustling nightlife.
Walpurgis Festival
The 30th of April is known as Walpurgis (Valborg, or Sista Abril) in Sweden and is celebrated as winter's absolute last gasp. Uppsala is known for its raucous Walpurgis Festival, which includes student floats running the Fyris river, herring lunches, the donning of the caps at Carolina Rediviva, and huge parties. It is well worth planning a visit to Uppsala around this event.
Address: Uppsala, Sweden
From $ 170
Djurgarden
The island of Djurgården is one of the Stockholm archipelago’s most visited islands, dominated by scenic parklands and former royal hunting grounds stretching along the picturesque Djurgården Canal. A haven for walkers, cyclists, and picnickers, Djurgården is also home to some of Stockholm’s top museums and cultural attractions.
The Basics
One of the highlights of Djurgården is Skansen, an open-air museum and zoo devoted to preserving Sweden’s native wildlife and traditional craftsmanship, with over 150 reconstructed 19th-century buildings displaying everything from baking to glass-blowing. Another popular draw is the neighboring Vasa Museum—an impressive naval museum that houses the world’s only intact 17th-century warship, Vasa, which famously sank on her maiden voyage. Additional highlights include Gröna Lund Tivoli (Sweden’s oldest amusement park), the Nordic Museum (Nordiska Museet), and the Rosendal Palace, all supported by a variety of atmospheric waterfront cafés and restaurants.
Djurgården is a stop on most Stockholm city sightseeing tours, boat tours, and bus or bike tours. The Royal Canal Tour focuses on the city’s bridges and canals that connect the different islands in the Stockholm archipelago, including Djurgården.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Djurgården is a must-do for first-time visitors to Stockholm.
- As Djurgården comprises a disparate set of attractions, the Djurgården Visitor Center is a great place to get your bearings.
- There are plenty of eating, drinking, and picnicking options on the island.
- Most museums and attractions on Djurgården operate on different schedules according to the season.
- Many Djurgården businesses are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Djurgården is best accessed by ferry, subway, or bus. Parking is not widely available, so driving is not recommended. The Tunnelbana from central Stockholm stops in Karlaplan, on the island.
When to Get There
Djurgården certainly comes alive in the summer, when the greenery is in full force and the locals are soaking up the sun. Skansen and Gröna Lund, two of the island’s top attractions, are most active during this time, with longer hours and lots of special events. But Djurgården’s array of museums stay open year-round, offering lots of activities and a respite from the bitter Scandinavian winter.
Djurgården History
Originally named Kungliga Djurgården, or the Royal Game Park, the island was a game park and hunting ground for King John III in the 16th century. Over the years it has seen different additions and iterations, such as yacht harbors, a naval shipyard, and the 1897 World’s Fair site. Today Djurgården is one of Stockholm’s most popular leisure destinations, hosting 10 million visitors per year.
Address: Djurgården, Stockholm, Sweden
From $ 23
Gamla Stan
With its tangle of cobblestone streets, brightly painted buildings, and bustling squares, Gamla Stan is one of Stockholm’s most photogenic districts. The historic center also boats the city’s oldest quarter, dating back to 1252, and home to some remarkably preserved medieval monuments.
The Basics
The many historic landmarks of Gamla Stan are easily explored on foot, starting with the Royal Palace, Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral), and the Riksdagshuset (Swedish parliament building). Other highlights include the central square of Stortorget, the main streets of Vasterlanggatan and Osterlanggatan, the Nobel Museum at Borshuset, and Riddarholmen Church.
Stockholm sightseeing tours and hop-on hop-off bus or boat tours typically stop at Gamla Stan, but the best way to explore the Old Town is by foot. Opt for a guided walking tour or biking tour; discover Stockholm’s dark history on an after-hours ghost tour; or maximize your chances of capturing the perfect snapshots on a photography tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There are free Wi-Fi spots located around Gamla Stan.
- Most of the main attractions of Gamla Stan are wheelchair accessible, but some of the narrow cobblestone lanes might be tricky to navigate.
How to Get There
Gamla Stan comprises the main island of Stadsholmen and the smaller islands of Riddarholmen, Helgeandsholmen, and Stromsborg. The pedestrianized district can be reached on foot from Norrmalm or by taking the Tunnelbana (subway) to Gamla Stan station.
When to Get There
Gamla Stan is atmospheric both by day and night, but many visitors opt to time their sightseeing for midday, to coincide with the changing of the guards at Stockholm Royal Palace. The district is at its busiest during the peak summer season, but it’s also a popular destination during the holidays, when it hosts one of Stockholm’s most popular Christmas markets.
Address: Sweden
From $ 20
St Peter's Church (Sankt Petri Kyrka)
The oldest building in Malmo, St. Peter’s Church dates back to 1319. Built in a Gothic style with red and brown bricks, it was largely based on St. Mary’s Church in Lubeck, Germany. A 105-meter high tower was added in the 15th century, together with several chapels and the baptismal font. The simple white interior walls are embellished by an ornate altar and elaborate fixtures. The Tradesman’s Chapel is notable for its mural paintings from around 1520, which are some of the best preserved in Scandinavia; the rest of the church’s murals have been destroyed. Also worth checking out is the floor in the oldest part of the church, which is made of broke gravestones.
The church is still in active use and a project is currently underway to add a new organ by 2018 that would be the largest church organ in Scandinavia.
Practical Info
St. Peter’s Church, also called Sankt Petri Church, stands behind Malmo’s City Hall in the Old Town. It is a short walk from the train station; simply cross the Petribron bridge and head south on Goran Olsgatan. The church will soon be on your left.
Address: Göran Olsgatan 4, Malmo, Sweden
Hours: Daily, 10am-6pm
From $ 19
Nynashamn Cruise Port
Located less than 40 miles south of Stockholm, Nynashamn is a frequent jumping-off point and stopover destination for cruise ships and ferries servicing the region. Commerce in the area began to increase with the construction of a rail line to Stockholm constructed in the early 20th century. Once a flourishing spa town (it hosted the Olympic sailing regatta in 1912), Nynashamn ceased to function as much of a tourist draw in and of itself following the construction of industrial facilities and an oil refinery prior to the end of World War I.
How to Get to Nynashamn
Travelers issuing from Stockholm can access Nynashamn via the Pendeltåg, a commuter rail line, as well several bus lines. Many area residents make the approximately hour-long trip by car via Route 73.
One Day in Nynashamn
Many travelers on cruise ships bound for points beyond are loath to discover that they are in fact stopping in what amounts to a relatively small (with a population of a little more than 10,000), industrial town with little to offer in the way of entertainment. However, the surrounding natural landscape offers many opportunities for picturesque views and recreation. One of the most popular is the island of Gotland, which is accessible via a short ferry ride from Nynashamn. The island is home to more than 90 medieval churches, beautiful rock formations, and the UNESCO-listed town of Visby.
How to Get to Nynashamn
Travelers issuing from Stockholm can access Nynashamn via the Pendeltåg, a commuter rail line, as well several bus lines. Many area residents make the approximately hour-long trip by car via Route 73.
One Day in Nynashamn
Many travelers on cruise ships bound for points beyond are loath to discover that they are in fact stopping in what amounts to a relatively small (with a population of a little more than 10,000), industrial town with little to offer in the way of entertainment. However, the surrounding natural landscape offers many opportunities for picturesque views and recreation. One of the most popular is the island of Gotland, which is accessible via a short ferry ride from Nynashamn. The island is home to more than 90 medieval churches, beautiful rock formations, and the UNESCO-listed town of Visby.
Port Information
Many cruise ships take advantage of the somewhat larger port facilities
than those available in Stockholm and opt to stopover in Nynashamn
rather than her much more attractive neighbor to the north. Accommodations near the port are available for travelers who arrive late
or have early-morning connections to make.
Address: Nynashamn, Sweden
From $ 160
Drottningholm Palace
The private residence of Sweden’s royal family, Drottningholm Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s best-preserved 17th-century castles. Over the years successive royal residents have renovated the palace, which is inspired by French and Dutch styles and features lush rococo interiors and multiple baroque gardens.
The Basics
Today you can explore much of Drottningholm’s interior and stroll through its extensive gardens, including the French formal garden and English Park. It’s also possible to explore the Court Theatre, the Castle Church, and the ornate Chinese Pavilion. The royal family resides in the southern wing of palace, but the rest of the complex is open to the public for tours and independent exploration.
Some Stockholm city tours include a visit to Drottningholm Palace, and options are available for both private and group tours. It’s also possible to visit the palace on a boat trip from Stockholm, or visit independently with a Stockholm Pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Drottningholm Palace is a must-see for history and culture lovers.
- Visitor facilities include a visitor center, gift shop, and onsite restaurant.
- The palace is accessible to wheelchairs, but strollers are not permitted.
- Photography and filming are allowed, but be careful not to use flash.
How to Get There
Drottningholm Palace is located roughly seven miles (11 kilometers) west of Stockholm via Route 275. Travelers can also take the subway (T-bana) to Brommaplan, then change to the bus for Drottningholm. Bus and boat tours from Stockholm are a convenient option and allow you to avoid the hassle of navigation and parking.
When to Get There
Palace hours vary by season, but the grounds tend to be most crowded in summer when Sweden’s weather is typically sunny and warm. During this season, arrive early or visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.
Drottningholm for Kids
Families with kids can enjoy child-focused events held at the royal palace throughout the year. Children aged seven and under get free admission to the palace and can partake in activities such as a scavenger hunt for specific animals and plants featured in the palace’s interior rococo decorations.
Address: Drottningholms Slott, Drottningholm 17802, Sweden
Admission: Varies
From $ 26
Uppsala Cathedral (Uppsala Domkyrka)
The laid-back and charismatic university city of Uppsala is bisected by the River Fyris and dominated by its landmark castle and cathedral. The latter began life in 1270 to house the reliquary of King Eric IX, who spread Christianity through Sweden and is the patron saint of the country. Constructed in austere red brick and today much renovated, the cathedral is Gothic in style and has two spiky spires that stand 120 m (394 ft) above the city’s rooftops. Its vaulted interior is delicately ornamented with biblical scenes and illuminated through slender stained-glass windows; the side chapels contain the relics of Eric IX in a gold-plated coffin as well as the marble tombs of several Swedish monarchs, including King Gustav Vasa, who commissioned the building of Uppsala Castle in 1549. The botanist Carl Linnaeus, who lived in Uppsala in the 18th century and introduced a classification system for plants that is still in use today, is also buried in the cathedral.
A small treasury museum in the northwest spire exhibits royal funeral crowns and a collection of medieval Far and Middle Eastern textiles. However, pride of place in the museum goes to the tattered doublets and breeches belonging to three members of the Sture family who were murdered at Uppsala Castle in 1567 by the schizophrenic King Erik XIV. Close inspection of the surrounding burial ground reveals Viking runes carved on several gravestones.
Practical Info
Domkyrkoplan, Uppsala. Open daily 8am–6pm. Admission free. Best accessed on foot through the pedestrianized old center of the city.
Address: Domkyrkoplan, Uppsala 75310, Sweden
Hours: Open daily 8am–6pm
From $ 170
Abisko National Park
Located on the North Calotte Trail in Sweden’s Lapland, Abisko National Park covers 77 square km (30 square miles) of sparkling fjords, stumpy mountains, birch forest, cave complexes carved into the rock, and spectacular waterfalls crashing through canyons. Elk and reindeer populate the landscape and the 440-km (275-mile) national hiking and Nordic skiing route of Kungsleden (King’s Trail) starts within the park.
During the endless days of summer, the reserve is a paradise for hikers and cyclists, carpeted with rare orchids and Alpine flowers; in winter there’s a permanent mantle of snow and the chance to ski or try out dog sledding and ice fishing adventures at the STF Abisko Mountain Station, which is 250 km (156.25 miles) north of the Arctic Circle. High above sea level on Mount Nuolja, the Aurora Sky Station is considered the best place in the world to view the elusive Northern Lights, thanks to the clarity of the air and lack of light pollution. The awesome cable-car journey up to the Sky Station provides amazing views over the wild landscape of the national park. Visit between June and mid-July to witness the midnight sun and from November through March to catch the Northern Lights.
Practical Info
STF Abisko Mountain Station and Aurora Sky Station: between Kiruna and Narvik in Abisko National Park. Open 24/7 all year around. Abisko has its own railway station, which is a 10-minute walk from the cable car up to the Sky Station. The park is also accessible by car on the E10 highway from Narvik, where a regular train service runs to Stockholm.
Address: Kiruna, Sweden
From $ 147