stockholm right time to visit

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

Best Time to Visit Stockholm: Month-by-Month Guide

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 29, 2024

Most known for its stunning old town and scenic waterside setting, Stockholm is built atop a sprawling archipelago in the Baltic Sea. Each year, millions visit Sweden’s cool capital to explore its many art galleries, museums and islands.

To make the most of its gorgeous green spaces and sparkling waterways, the vast majority of visitors head here between May and September. This is when the weather is warmest, the days are longest and you can actually see the sun shining! Winter too has its charms as the cold, dark days are brightened up by cosy Christmas markets and the possibility of snowfall over Gamla Stan.

To help you plan your trip to the ‘Venice of Scandinavia’, let’s take a look at what its climate is like each month. We’ll also cover what cultural events are going on and when it is more or less expensive to visit.

What’s the Weather Like in Stockholm?

Lying on the country’s southeast coast, Stockholm has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Despite its northern location, temperatures remain quite mild throughout the year and its low level of precipitation is pretty evenly distributed across the months.

While winters are dark and cold with snow sometimes falling, temperatures average around 20 to 22°C (68 to 71°F) in summer. June and July also have up to 18 hours of daylight for you to stroll about or swim in the sea.

Although the days are shorter and there is less sunshine, both the cooler spring and autumn months are also quite pleasant in Stockholm. This is either when the flowers in its parks are blooming or all the trees’ leaves have a radiant golden hue to them.

Best months to visit Stockholm

As the weather is best, May through September is the peak tourist season in Stockholm. Aside from ambling about the center, you can hike, cycle and sail around the archipelago or enjoy outdoor events and music festivals. While a lot is going on, this is the most expensive and crowded period to visit.

Despite the freezing temperatures and very short days, winter can also be magical as lights and decorations are strung up and there is a very cosy atmosphere everywhere inside. If it snows, Gamla Stan looks even more picturesque if that’s possible! You can also ice skate or sip Glogg wine and buy gifts at Skansen’s cheery Christmas markets.

Stockholm in January

After the Christmas holidays and New Year’s Eve celebrations are over, January is one of the quietest months tourist-wise in Stockholm. With temperatures often dropping below freezing at night and there being just 1 hour of sunshine a day, most people stay away. The holiday lights and decorations usually stay up though for the first couple of weeks with both airfares and hotels also being cheaper.

While conditions aren’t great for wandering around the old town, there are no crowds in any of its museums. Be aware though that many close quite early at 5PM. Aside from warming up over Fika – with a coffee and maybe a cinnamon bun – you can also always ice skate or snap photos of the city in the snow.

Stockholm in February

Although there are now a couple more hours of daylight per day, February is still very much the off-season. It still drizzles quite a bit – for 14 days on average – and its skies are usually grey and overcast. Snow can still fall over the capital but is never as thick as further north in the country. Many Swedes go skiing during their ‘sportlov’ or ‘sports holidays’ in February.

With very few people around, you can visit Stockholm’s Nordic, Viking and Vasa museums to get a better feel for its rich history and culture. If the cold gets too much, you can enjoy hot saunas at Sturebadet or the traditional Satra Brunn spa town. Before Lent begins, bakeries have lots of delicious seasonal treats like cream-filled semlor buns to try.

Stockholm in March

While spring is just around the corner, the days are still very chilly and gloomy in March. On the plus side, it is one of the driest months of the year and there are around 12 hours of daylight each day. You’ll still need to wrap up warm though and spend more time indoors at places like the Royal Palace and Ostermalm Saluhall.

Prices do remain low – like its temperatures – as most tourists are put off by the city’s rather bleak, unwelcoming weather. When the sun is out though, you can take relaxing boat tours around the archipelago or amble about its pretty parks and gardens. You can also catch the end of Djurgardens’ ice hockey season or watch AIK play a thrilling football match.

Stockholm in April

Before the summer crowds arrive and its hotels become more expensive, April is really not a bad time to visit Stockholm. As there is a lot more sunshine and the flowers are blooming, it is a lovely month to stroll about the Bergius Botanic Garden or Kungstradgarden. Many also explore the Skansen Open-Air Museum or take trips to see Drottningholm Palace.

While flights are pricier during the Easter holidays, there are very few crowds at all its main attractions and museums. Many of these stay open late or host special events for Stockholm Culture Night. The last day of the month also has traditional songs and bonfires take place for Walpurgis Night. Also known as Valborg, this wards of evil and celebrates the passing of spring into summer.

Stockholm in May

With average temperatures rising to 15°C (59°F), the sun shining brightly and days lasting longer, May is when tourists finally return to the city. There is a lively yet laidback feel about the old town with more people now spending time outside. Other than exploring its peaceful gardens and green spaces, it’s well worth taking day trips to Uppsala , Sigtuna or Marifred.

As there are now 8 hours of sunshine and 17 of daylight per day, you have loads of time to cruise about its sparkling waterways. While you’ll still need a coat, cycling about Djurgarden or strolling along the Monteliusvagen are also very pleasant pastimes. The downside is that flights and hotels are much more expensive in May and the centre is way more crowded.

Stockholm in June

June is when summer really starts in the city as almost everyday seems to have one festival or another going on. While it still drizzles a bit for around 10 days on average, that doesn’t put a damper on things. Airfares and accommodation prices are higher though and queues do form at some of its main museums.

All its exciting, interesting events more than make up for this however. Besides taking part in its Sweden National Day celebrations, you can run the Stockholm Marathon or enjoy tasty treats at A Taste of Stockholm. Traditional dances, music and food all celebrate the summer solstice with Midsummer being a massive event in this part of the world.

What’s more, the Sweden Rock Festival, Lollapalooza Stockholm and Department Festival all have incredible music acts to listen to. From June through September, dozens of free dance, music and theater shows are also put on for its Parkteatern summer program.

Stockholm in July

While July and August are the peak tourist season when prices are highest, the capital empties out for a month after Midsummer. This is when many Stockholmers head to their summer cottages to relax in the pristine nature. As such, fewer events are held despite the center being packed with people, making the most of the good weather.

With its sunny days seeming almost endless, you can sunbathe on the beach or swim, kayak and sail about its waters. Visiting the Bjorno Nature Reserve or seaside resort of Sandhamn is particularly lovely though they both will be quite busy. As the humidity rises at the end of the month, July actually sees the most amount of rain in the year.

Stockholm in August

With most locals now back from their summer holiday, August is by far the busiest month in Stockholm. Most people spend a lot of time in its picturesque parks or out on its islands and cruising about its countless waterways. All kinds of outdoor concerts, theater performances and film screenings only add to its already lively ambience.

While there is definitely a great vibe about Gamla Stan and Grona Lund, prices remain high with the days also starting to shorten a bit. The humidity also means that rain showers occur maybe 13 days of the month. That doesn’t stop people from partying at Pride or enjoying all the fun events put on for Stockholm’s Culture Festival.

Stockholm in September

As the summer holidays are over and the kids are back in school, September in Stockholm is a much quieter and cheaper time to visit. While averages of 15°C (59°F) are still great for exploring the old town, the sun shines a lot less as autumn sets in. All its parks and gardens look absolutely incredible with their fiery fall colors making for some fantastic photos.

With plenty of daylight hours in which to explore, you can take boat tours of the archipelago or amble around the Skansen Open-Air Museum. There are also both the Stockholm Design and Stockholm Beer & Whisky weeks to attend. The country’s ice hockey league also starts up again while Parkteatern puts on the last of its concerts and plays.

Stockholm in October

With the days shortening and the weather turning colder, fewer people visit Sweden’s capital in October. If you’re looking for some deals, it’s not a bad time to go as accommodation is cheaper and attractions like the Vasa Museum and Royal Palace are less crowded. The parks and gardens at Djurgarden and Drottningholm Palace also look epic thanks to their amazing autumnal foliage.

Other than wandering about Gamla Stan or Millesgarden, you can catch some fabulous acts at the Stockholm Jazz Festival. Its Craft Week also has some interesting exhibitions to check out while the world’s top tennis players all battle it out at the Nordic Open. The Grona Lund amusement park is also delightfully decorated for Halloween with scary parades taking place before its haunted houses.

Stockholm in November

November is even quieter in the city as most tourists are put off by the worsening weather. Temperatures drop to just 5°C (41°F) with it also raining for 17 days on average. Aside from wrapping up warm, you’ll want to spend more time indoors at attractions such as ABBA The Museum or Fotografiska Stockholm. Prices are lower though before the holiday season.

With the sun now peeking through the clouds for just 1 hour a day, November is often quite a bleak month in Stockholm. You can, however, watch an action-packed game of Bandy – a traditional winter sport – or enjoy its International Film Festival. Later on in the month, snow may fall with Skansen’s Christmas markets bringing some much-needed cheer to the capital.

Stockholm in December

The darkest month of the year, December has just 6 hours of faint daylight a day for you to explore the city in. As temperatures also often fall below freezing at night, everyone retreats inside or wears big coats when out and about. It also drizzles a bit for around 18 days with snow sometimes coating the capital too. Many monuments and buildings are magically lit up for its Nobel Week Lights Festival.

Candlelit processions and choir performances also celebrate the ancient mythological figure of Lucia; the bringer of light in the dark Swedish winters. Otherwise there are fun Christmas markets to peruse and, of course, colourful fireworks displays and concerts for New Year’s Eve. While prices do increase a bit, December can be a memorable time to visit if you want to experience a cold but hopefully snowy Christmas in Scandinavia.

Share this post:

8 Best Day Trips from Stockholm

23 Top Tourist Attractions in Stockholm, Sweden

Where to Stay in Stockholm: 7 Best Neighborhoods

15 Most Charming Small Towns in Sweden

10 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

12 Best Things to Do in Uppsala, Sweden

14 Best Things to Do in Malmo, Sweden

16 Best Things to do in Gothenburg, Sweden

10 Most Beautiful National Parks Sweden

14 Best Things to Do in Gotland, Sweden

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

When is the best time to visit Stockholm?

Sep 2, 2021 • 5 min read

Summertime parties on Skinnarviksberget Mountain in Stockholm © bruev / Getty Images

Stockholm’s high season is almost tragically brief, with its perfect weather and long, sunny days that demand nothing from you other than sitting on a beach or a park bench with an ice-cream cone. Don’t be surprised if it’s a little quiet outside the major tourist attractions, and you might find that higher-end restaurants are closed for weeks in July and August — many locals will be enjoying their own holidays in the country or on the islands .

But as lovely as the city is in summer, don’t underestimate the pleasures of visiting in the deep midwinter, when candles, mulled wine and holiday markets ease the locals through cold, sunless days, or in spring and fall, when the weather is still fairly mild but nothing is crowded and it’s easy to get a dinner reservation.

High Season: June to August

Best time for being outdoors

Peak season sees long, long days and sunshine. The city comes to life shortly after Midsummer, with active park life and urban beach swimming, cultural festivals, island excursions, cheaper hotels and a celebratory feel.

Summer starts to wind down in August and Stockholmers who haven’t already gone on vacation do so now, so a lot of restaurants and shops may be closed. The weather is excellent. A great time for biking the islands or cruising the archipelagos. Plus: crayfish parties!

Shoulder Season: September to October, April to May

Best time for hiking, cycling, and dining without fighting crowds.

Fall is lovely throughout Sweden, and in Stockholm it means a better chance of finding that hotel room or getting a table at that restaurant you've heard about. Outdoor activities are especially inviting now – some of the most popular outdoor races are scheduled for this time of year.

The springtime shoulder season sees brighter weather but temperatures remain pretty low. It's the perfect time to visit quiet museums and enjoy family-focused events at major tourist attractions during the local spring holidays

Low Season: November to March

Best time for holiday shopping, ice skating and mulled wine.

Odds are good for snow between November and March, turning the Swedish capital into a winter wonderland. Ice skating and bandy games replace the summer festivals in public squares like the central Kungsträdgården. The weather may be cold and the sunshine is a hazy memory, but the city is surprisingly beautiful in darkness.

Festive Christmas markets bring a lovely atmosphere even if copious amounts of knitwear are required. Locals start to come out of hibernation in February and the social scene livens up a little to alleviate the cabin fever of winter.

Stockholmers are fully hunkered down for the dreary winter, but on the plus side, everyone gets to break out their stylish scarves and cold-weather gear for errands and commutes.

Key Events : Kungsträdgården Ice Skating

Having been cooped up for a couple of months, Stockholm is starting to get restless and wants to show off what it’s been up to all winter.

Key Events : Stockholm Design Week, Stockholm Fashion Week

The weather is still quite chilly, but it's a good time to beat the tourist rush and visit museums in relative solitude. The Djurgården gallery’s annual springtime launch of the new year in art brings to the fore up-and-coming artists as well as new work from established names.

Key Events : Liljevalchs Spring Salon

The city is waking up but it’s still mostly indoor-activities weather. Many of the city’s prominent museums and galleries launch pop-up events during this weeklong celebration of Nordic visual arts and venues.

Key Events : Spring Holidays, Stockholm Art Week

The days are getting longer and the locals are starting to think about the possibility of summer. The Archipelago Convention celebrates all things boat- and island-related, with market stalls and displays at Wasahamnen, the harbor on Djurgården.

Key Events : Skärgårdsmässan

The city finally begins to remember what summer feels like; it can still be cold and rainy, but the end of a long winter is in sight, and outdoor celebrations signal the approach of summer. Arguably the most important Swedish holiday, Midsummer's Eve traditionally falls on the Friday between 19 and 25 June; revelers head to the countryside to raise the maypole, sing and dance, drink and eat pickled herring. Midsummer Day is primarily spent recovering from the long night.

Key Events : Swedish National Day, Smaka På Stockholm, Midsummer

High season fully kicks into gear with one of the most exuberant and popular Pride festivals in Europe. The warmer weather results in an explosion of outdoor events that bring a wonderful atmosphere to the city.

Key Events : Stockholm Pride

Swedes celebrate the end of summer by wearing bibs and party hats while eating lots of crayfish and drinking snaps (usually aquavit). In the north, parallel parties take place but with surströmming (strong-smelling fermented Baltic herring).

Key Events : Crayfish parties

Stockholm puts on its running shoes this month to hit the trails in slowly cooling weather. Tjejmilen is Sweden's biggest sporting event for women and Lidingö is the place to be for another popular race. The atmosphere is incredible even if you'd prefer to watch from the sidelines.

Key Events : Tjejmilen, Lidingöloppet (world's largest terrain race)

As fall turns into winter, crowds vanish and the few visitors get to enjoy the last scraps of warm sunlight. Music festivals involve pop-up gigs all over the city and a major tennis event draws an international crowd.

Key Events : Stockholm Jazz Festival, Stockholm Open

What could be more Swedish than ice-skating on a pond in the middle of a city park? It's quiet, but a great time to visit if you want most of the place to yourself. The film festival draws an eclectic crowd and early bookings are advised to avoid disappointment. Christmas markets begin to open up and create a festive atmosphere.

Key Events : Stockholm International Film Festival, Gamla Stan's Christmas Market

Though the weather is sure to be frightful, Stockholm is surprisingly pretty in the dark of winter, as candles grace every available surface and shops and homes are lit up. The story of St Lucia is celebrated on the longest night of the year (13 December) and choirs perform all over the city. The arrival of Jultomten, the Christmas gnome, is the biggest celebration of the Christmas period.

Key Events : Luciadagen, Julafton

You may also like: The most unmissable experiences in stunning Stockholm The best things you can do for free (and nearly free) in Stockholm How to get around in Stockholm

Explore related stories

Wildlife & Nature

Jul 28, 2023 • 6 min read

Both Nordic countries are objects of worldwide fascination. We asked a pair of expert writers to make the case for why their pick has the edge.

Jul 3, 2023 • 3 min read

Dec 20, 2022 • 3 min read

Dec 9, 2022 • 9 min read

Oct 13, 2022 • 2 min read

Jul 26, 2022 • 7 min read

May 6, 2022 • 8 min read

Feb 7, 2022 • 7 min read

Nov 25, 2021 • 5 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 10 min read

The Best Time to Visit Stockholm 2024: The Ultimate Guide

Self-proclaimed the capital of Scandinavia, Stockholm is the largest city and capital of Sweden. It prides itself as an open city that welcomes new ideas and different perspectives and as a vibrant destination filled with innovations not only in technology but also in music, design, and fashion. It is built on 14 islands, packed with activities, historical attractions, museums, top-rated restaurants, and a booming nightlife scene. So the best time to visit Stockholm comes down to what you want to do and experience in such a beautiful city.

You can visit Stockholm year-round, allowing you to experience four distinct seasons, from a long, snowy winter to a warm, comfortable summer. Summer is the peak season, offering long daylight hours and perfect weather for walking tours, kayaking, exploring the city on two wheels, and enjoying outdoor events. But if you want to avoid the crowd, visiting Stockholm in the off-season gives you the opportunity to see the city in a different light. Once you’ve taken care of your suitcase and placed it with Bounce luggage storage in Stockholm, you don’t have to worry about anything while getting lost in the city.

With about ten sunshine hours per day, June is the sunniest month in Stockholm, while the sun shines the shortest in December. On average, it receives 170 days of precipitation, especially during the winter and fall months, receiving a mix of rain and snow. The city’s annual average temperature hovers between 22°F(-5.6°C to 72°F (22.2°C). But during its chilly winters, temperatures rarely drop below 6°F (-14.4°C) or go above 81°F (27.2°C) at the height of summer.

Love discounts and traveling?

Sign up for our newsletter and get 10% off your next booking.

Summer in Stockholm: June – August

While most European cities melt in the scorching summer sun, Stockholm enjoys warmer weather where you can spend your days in urban nature. Its daily high temperatures reach 68°F (20°C), rarely exceeding 81°F (27.2°C and an average low of 56°F (13.3°C). It’s the sunniest season of the year when the sun rises early and sets late in the evening. June and July have the highest UV index, and although July is one of the hottest months, it’s the rainiest in Stockholm, with nine rainfall days.

Summer in Stockholm is the high season, with many tourists attending festivals and open-air activities and discovering its major attractions. So pack a pair of comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the great outdoors. Also, bring shorts, t-shirts, sandals, skirts, or any light clothing to keep cool. Since it can get humid in Stockholm around July or late August, be sure to bring a raincoat or umbrella.

Water is virtually everywhere in Stockholm, and it’s so clean and clear that anyone can swim in the middle of town. You won’t have trouble finding a lovely beach to bask on in and around the city. So, even if you don’t plan to swim, bring your bathing suit or favorite beachwear. That’s because you’ll likely be tempted to dive into those crystal-clear waters and do some water activities in the summer months.

Along with pleasant weather in the summer, many tourist spots and cafes open in the city to welcome visitors. Locals clock off as early as possible from work to spend the weekends hiking, sailing, or boating. For outdoor enthusiasts, Björnö nature reserve is a favorite destination in the Stockholm archipelago with its mix of green islands and the open sea. It’s a beloved nature reserve, especially among swimmers and hikers, with a lovely forest trail, kayak rentals, and an underwater snorkel trail.

When the temperature starts rising and the sun shines brightly in early June, there’s probably no better way to enjoy smörgåstårta than being surrounded by nature. Head to a garden café, like Äppelfabriken, and savor a home-brewed beer to combine relaxation and wellness with great food in green surroundings. You can also go camping with your friends and family or alone to unplug, recharge, and break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Perhaps, one of the downsides of being in the city around this time of the year is not being able to sleep. It’s primarily because of long sunlight hours during midsummer, with sunrise occurring as early as 3:30 am and setting as late as 10 pm. But it also means you’ll have more time sightseeing and taking advantage of the high season. Just don’t expect to have a particular place or attraction to yourself because summer in Stockholm is the busiest time with big crowds and high accommodation and hotel room rates.

Fall in Stockholm: September – November

 Many argue that early fall is the best time to visit Stockholm with mild weather and softer light. The weather starts getting cold, and daily temperatures decrease from 65°F (18.3°C) to 38°F (3.3°C), rarely exceeding 73°F (22.8°C) or dropping below 29°F (-1.67°C). Between early September and early November, you’ll still see plenty of light, but the Swedish capital also becomes cool and cozy when the sun sets.

The chance of rain during fall in Stockholm increases, so make sure to include an umbrella and waterproof shoes or boots in your suitcase. You’ll also need a good waterproof jacket and some warm sweaters, especially if you plan to stroll the parks and gardens. Like with other cities, layering is the key to remaining comfortable in the city, especially with its unpredictable fall weather. And as the months get closer to winter, you’ll need a hat, gloves, and a knit scarf.

Fall in Stockholm is a glorious season manifested by its colorful landscapes. As the season changes, you’ll also witness the changing color of leaves from yellow to golden and orange to red. The sunshine hours become shorter, crowds during the peak season start vanishing, and only the locals and a few visitors experience the last scraps of warm summer sunlight.

Rooftop hiking and wild mushroom picking are some of Stockholm's most popular activities during the fall months. Of course, there are also Halloween adventures you don’t want to miss. You'll also see Christmas markets opening at the end of the season.

But two of the longest-running cultural events in the city happen around this time, the Stockholm International Film Festival and Stockholm Jazz Festival . The film festival features films from multiple countries worldwide, whereas the jazz festival has been around since 1980, making it one of Sweden’s oldest festivals.

Also taking place in the fall is Stockholm Half Marathon, an annual event held every September. It runs an easy course through several inner-city areas and finishes in front of the Royal Palace. Then there’s the Stockholm Beer & Whisky Festival, which has been one of the world’s most significant and largest beverage festivals since its inception in 1992. It often starts from mid-September to early October.

Although fall is a low season with cheaper accommodation charges, the festivals draw an eclectic crowd, including the annual Stockholm Design Week. That’s why it’s best to buy your tickets and book your flights and hotels early to avoid disappointment.

Winter in Stockholm: December – February

Winter in Stockholm is long, cold, and mostly cloudy. Although December is the first winter month, it begins to transform into a snowy winter wonderland around early November or even late October. By December, temperatures can drop to as low as 26.6°F (-3°C) and 30.2°F (-1°C) in January, which is often the coldest month of the year. On average, the city’s temperature in winter ranges between 23°F (-5°C) and 48.2°F (9°C), with fewer sunny days.

Don’t underestimate the winter season in Stockholm. If you don’t bundle up while exploring, you might not last until you feel the chill. So cram those extra layers of clothing in your suitcase before leaving home. You’ll need winter coats, jackets, a raincoat for winter, and your hat, gloves, and scarves.

If you’re visiting Stockholm in winter, you’ll experience shorter and darker days, as the sun sets before 3 pm in December. It’s also common for the sun to rise as late as 8:30 am. However, though it may seem dark and bleak, it doesn’t mean you’ll be spending a lackluster winter in Stockholm. Swedes enjoy the outdoors and aren’t bothered by a snowy winter day, so why should you be? Brew a thermos of coffee or hot chocolate and take everyone on a winter adventure.

Shopping is a much-loved activity during the cold season, especially at the Christmas markets. Those stalls filled with infinite goodness can make the dark winter days brighter. Vendors offer tasty food, quality handmade products, and even fun activities. Check one of the biggest and oldest Christmas markets in the entire country, Skansen’s Christmas Market , which dates back to 1903.

December to February is the off-season and the best time to visit Stockholm for budget travelers. It may not be as lively as summer and colorful as fall, but winter in Stockholm has its charm worth discovering. Candles and Christmas lights brighten the dark days and choirs perform throughout the city. If you’re lucky, you might even witness the Northern lights.

There are also different winter sports you can enjoy, like ice skating or skiing cross-country. Plus, hotels are significantly cheaper, flight discounts are often available, and you can have a place to yourself.

Spring in Stockholm: March – May

 The weather during spring in Stockholm fluctuates as the temperature starts rising gradually. Days remain chilly and gloomy, and snowfall isn’t rare. In fact, you might experience snow at the end of March or early April. The temperature in the city during the springtime shoulder season ranges between 36.9°F (2.7°C) and 64.8°F (18.2°C), rarely exceeding 73°F(22.8°C) or dropping below 25°F (-3.9°C).

The beginning of the season is still pretty quiet, but as days become longer, locals and visitors are beginning to think about the summer festivities. The temperature will rise gradually in May, with an average high of 59°F (15°C) and an average low of 42.8°F (6°C). The Sweden capital will also receive more sunshine hours around this month, about 17 hours.

You’ll still need your winter coats and jackets at the beginning of spring or until early April. Then you can start taking off those heavyweight layers as the temperature rises. But still, bring a good jacket and a pair of waterproof shoes or boots, especially if you plan outdoor walks.

If you want to see colorful blooms, head to Bergius Botanic Garden at lake Brunnsviken. It’s a gorgeous paradise for nature lovers and plant enthusiasts. You can also witness the beautiful cherry blossoms at Kungsträdgården , a central park and plaza in downtown Stockholm. Another place worth visiting in spring is Djurgården . It’s an island in central Stockholm featuring greenhouses and orchards, as well as spectacular waterfront biking and walking paths.

However, if spring is too chilly for you to be outside, you can always visit the museums, galleries, palaces, and other cultural attractions around the city. Then, hop from one restaurant to another, and relish the local cuisines and tasty food unique to the country. If your palate has been satisfied, Stockholm also offers visitors art exhibitions, theater improv, and live music venues worth exploring in the cold springtime.

When is the best time to visit Stockholm for you?

There are several ways to make the most of your trip to Stockholm, no matter what time of the year you visit. If you want to enjoy the ultimate tourist experience, don’t hesitate to come during the peak summer months. It’s when the city comes alive with outdoor events, open-air activities, beach fun, and festivities.

But for those who prefer the low season with fewer tourists, we recommend that you come in winter or late fall. Besides the Christmas markets and strings of lights bringing life and vibrance to the city, numerous theaters, ballet, museums, and indoor attractions open their doors to provide the perfect escape from the freezing weather. Know what you want to do during your trip to Stockholm? Check out these guides for inspiration!

The Best Hikes In Stockholm Stockholm On a Rainy Day: Things To Do Music Festivals in Stockholm in 2022

Explore the world

Get the bounce app.

Instantly find locations nearby to drop off your luggage wherever you go.

Travelling is ultimately a tool for growth. If you want to venture further, click this banner and take the leap 😉

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Sweden » Stockholm

Insider STOCKHOLM Itinerary for 2024

Stockholm is Sweden’s intriguing capital city. It encompasses 14 islands on the extensive Baltic Sea archipelago, giving it a unique landscape that makes for exciting attractions and activities! Stockholm is a modern city that holds onto its medieval roots; a fascinating destination that everyone should have on their travel bucket-list!

Sweden is a neutral country, meaning it wasn’t involved in any of the world wars. Thanks to this, Stockholm’s architecture and attractions have been amazingly well-preserved! This makes touring the beautiful city that much more enchanting!

With this comprehensive Stockholm itinerary, it will be easy to find something to suit your interests! It doesn’t matter if you haven’t decided how many days to spend in Stockholm, as you can add to your itinerary and customize it to suit your Stockholm trip! Let’s get into the best way to spend your time in this charming Swedish capital!

A Little Bit about this 3-Day Stockholm Itinerary

Where to stay in stockholm, day 1 itinerary in stockholm, day 2 itinerary in stockholm, day 3 and beyond, best time to visit stockholm, getting around stockholm, what to prepare before visiting stockholm, faq on stockholm itinerary.

Stockholm’s history, culture, and delicious food make it a truly memorable city to explore! It has something for every traveler, from quaint cobbled streets lined with coffee shops to incredible museums and UNESCO world heritage sites, you’ll never run out of things to do in Stockholm!

If you’re not sure how many days in Stockholm you should spend, I suggest taking at least 2-3 days in Stockholm to explore all the very best of the city. If you want to see all of the important landmarks you might be able to fit everything into 24 hours, but that’ll guarantee a lot of running around. So do yourself a favour and set more time aside.

In this 3 days in Stockholm itinerary, you’ll find three days packed with iconic landmarks, culture, history, and relaxation. But don’t worry, you won’t have to rush from A to B, trying to fit everything in.

I’ve carefully structured this list, added times, routes to get there and suggestions on how long you should spend at each spot, so you can get around each place with ease. Of course, you can mix it up in a way that suits you best. Use this itinerary as inspiration instead of a fixed plan to get the most out of your trip!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

3 Day Stockholm Itinerary Overview

• Day One: Gamla Stan | Stockholm Cathedral | The Royal Palace | Stockholms Medeltidsmuseum | Drottninggatan
• Day Two: Östermalms Saluhall | Vasa Museum | Abba Museum | Skansen | Södermalm  
• Day Three: Drottningholm Palace | Nordic Museum | Gröna Lund | Hagaparken | Nobel Museum

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Save more and experience more. Get a city pass before you travel.

There are lots of accommodation options in varying styles and budgets around Stockholm! Choosing where to stay depends on how many days in Stockholm you’re planning to spend. For a quick trip, you’ll want to be centrally located. If you have more time in Stockholm to explore, you can consider staying in other areas of the city!

Gamla Stan is the best place to stay in Stockholm to be close to all the action! This area is ideal for first-time visitors, or anyone spending a quick weekend in Stockholm. You’ll be able to walk to many of the city’s attractions which will save you time on travel. There are also loads of stylish Stockholm Airbnbs in this area.

Since this is one of Stockholm’s more popular districts, you’ll also find an abundance of restaurants, bars, shops, and convenient transportation options!

Vasastan is located close to the popular areas of Stockholm but gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy the scenic open spaces of Stockholm! This area is known for its beautiful parks, like Vasaparken and Observatorielunden Park. It’s also close to art galleries, museums, and antique shops. This area provides a wonderful alternative to the busy city center of Stockholm!

Best Hostel in Stockholm – City Backpackers Hostel

The City Backpackers Hostel in Stockholm comes highly rated, and it’s not hard to see why! A few of the hostel perks include free pasta, a large, fully-equipped guest kitchen, and free sauna use! The location is perfect for exploring all of your Stockholm points of interest. Both Gamla Stan Old Town and the main shopping street, Drottninggatan is within easy walking distance!

Best Budget Hotel in Stockholm – Comfort Hotel Xpress Stockholm Central

This Stockholm hotel is a great value for money! Located directly opposite Stockholm Central Station, the City Bus Terminal and the Airport Express Train, you’ll be easily connected anywhere you wish to go! Guests will enjoy comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, and bathrooms with hairdryers, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Stockholm – At Six

For a bit of luxury, At Six is a great option for accommodation! The hotel is centrally located and features a restaurant, a wine bar with an outdoor terrace, and a well-equipped gym open 24-hours! A coffee machine and minibar are featured in every room as well as a flat-screen TV, a universal adapter, and much more!

The first day of your itinerary for Stockholm will see you mainly exploring the city’s historic heart, with the addition of a couple of modern attractions. We’ve traced out your day, so all of the Stockholm landmarks we’ve included are within easy walking distance to each other!

9:00AM – Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan is the old town and heart and soul of Stockholm! This is where you want to stay in Stockholm if you’re visiting for the first time. This bustling, compact island is the city’s old town. It represents quintessential Sweden, from its cobbled stone streets to its colorful building to its medieval cathedral!

If you’re looking for somewhere for breakfast, Airfur is a medieval Viking-themed restaurant filled with candles and wood benches! This restaurant creates a fun dining atmosphere and you’ll definitely get the real Viking experience if you put it on your Stockholm itinerary!

A number of the city’s top attractions can be found in this area, including the Royal Palace and the Cathedral of Stockholm. You’ll also find many of Stockholm’s modern attractions, from stylish bistros to trendy pubs to chic cafes!

Although this area might have a higher tourist turnout during the warmer months, as long as you’re bundled up, you’ll find that with a light dusting of snow this district looks like a scene from a storybook!

While you’re here, make sure to check out the historic public square of Stortorget. This is a charming area of Stockholm with gorgeous architecture. It’s a 13th-century square bordered by 17 and 18th-century buildings. This section of Gamla Stan is the oldest square in the city and is the postcard of Stockholm!

Insider Tip: If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Gamla Stan, join a free Stockholm walking tour! Many walking tours depart from Gamla Stan and are offered daily.

• Cost: Free!
• Getting there: Take the red metro line to Gamla Stan.
• How long should I spend there: 1-2 hours to walk around and get yourself a coffee and breakfast.

10.30AM – Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral)

Storkyrkan, also known as the Stockholm Cathedral is a medieval cathedral that was built in 1279. It is the oldest church in Stockholm and dates from the earliest days of the city! It has distinct character and history that makes it one of the most unique places to visit in Stockholm!

Although it may look like a fairly ordinary cathedral from the outside, the inside houses many great treasures!

The most famous of these treasures is the dramatic wooden statue of Saint George and the Dragon , created in 1489. The sculpture depicts Saint George taming and slaying a dragon. In the middle ages, a dragon was used to symbolize the devil!

The church also contains a copy of the oldest known image of Stockholm, the painting Vädersolstavlan (“The Sun Dog Painting”), from 1535. The painting that hangs in the church is a 1636 copy, but it is considered an accurate reproduction of the original painting that mysteriously vanished centuries ago!

This oil-painting depicts an atmospheric optical phenomenon – which is basically a unique light show that appeared in the sky over Stockholm on April 20, 1535.

The church serves as an important example of the Swedish Brick Gothic architecture. It’s situated next to the Royal Palace and has also served as a venue for royal weddings and coronations!

The massive columns and arches in the church are brick, and there is beautiful, intricate woodwork throughout the church. The silver alters and rich colored stained glass windows above the alter all merit attention as well!

Insider Tip: You can purchase an audio guide for just USD $2.00 more than the price of admission. The church also offers fun audio guides for children that are designed to take kids on an adventure around the church!

• Cost: Adult admission is USD $6.00, children 18 years old and younger visit for free.
• Getting there: It’s a short walk to Stockholm Cathedral from Gamla Stan.
• How long should I spend there: 45 minutes should be enough.

11:30AM – The Royal Palace

Located in Gamla Stan, the Royal Palace is the major royal palace and official residence of the Swedish monarch. The palace is a combination of the royal workplace and a cultural-historical monument, it’s also open to visitors year-round!

The palace is one of the largest in Europe. It was largely built during the eighteenth century in the Italian Baroque style and contains more than 600 rooms spread across seven floors!

A ticket allows you to visit the Royal Apartments, the Treasury, and the The Kronor Museum. During the summer months, the Gustav III Museum of Antiquities is also included, which is one of the oldest museums in Europe.

Guided tours of the palace last approximately 45-minutes and will allow you to experience the building and its rich history with the insight of a knowledgeable tour guide! 

A fun fact about the palace is that it’s said to be haunted! There have been many tales of ghosts throughout the years! The most noted of the palace’s ghosts is the Vita Frun (The White Lady)!

Outside of the Royal Palace, you can catch the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony led by the Swedish Military! Mondays-Saturdays the ceremony starts at 12:15 pm. On Sundays, it starts at 1:15 pm. This is a unique attraction everyone visiting the beautiful city should witness. Make sure your Stockholm itinerary at this stop coincides with the starting time!

The Royal Palace possesses well-preserved architecture inside and out, it’s open to the public and is very much a glamorous European castle in every sense of the word!

Insider TIp: The Royal Armoury is a popular museum located inside the Royal Palace, and it’s free to visit! It houses royal costumes, armor, and many other artifacts that showcase the Swedish military history and Swedish royalty.

• Cost: USD $19.00 for general admission.
• Getting there: It’s across the street from the Cathedral.
• How long should I spend there: 1.5-2 hours should be enough time.

1:00PM – Lunch at Gästabud

Stockholms Gästabud is an unassuming little cafe with a cheerful interior and a friendly staff! The food is traditional Swedish and you’ll find all the staples: meatballs, salmon soup, pickled herring, and hearty brown bread!

2:30PM – Stockholms Medeltidsmuseum

Stockholms Medeltidsmuseum (The Museum of Medieval Stockholm) is located north of the Royal Palace, just a quick 5-minute walk away! The museum is built around the findings from the largest excavation to ever take place in Stockholm.

The museum takes visitors on a journey through Stockholmers lives in medieval times. Discover the intriguing history of the city from the 1200s to the 1500s. Explore reconstructed brick buildings, warehouses, and workshops. See displays with period clothing, historic shipping vessels, and more!

Stroll through the medieval market square in the museum, see a medieval church, and glimpse into the workshops of craftsmen and traders! Step inside a medieval home and brave a trip to the gallows! This museum does a great job of bringing history to life and is designed for all ages to enjoy!

Before you leave, check out the museum shop where you can pick up medieval related souvenirs. Add this free addition to your 2-day itinerary in Stockholm and discover the unique medieval development of Stockholm!

This museum is closed every Monday. Make sure to add this stop to your Stockholm itinerary from Tuesday – Sunday only!

• Getting there: It’s a 5 minute walk from the palace.
• How long should I spend there: 2 hours at most.

4:00PM – Drottninggatan

A walk down the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Drottninggatan (“Queen Street”) is a must when you travel to Stockholm! This vibrant pedestrian-only shopping street will keep you entertained for hours with its large offering of shops, restaurants, cafes, and other popular attractions. It’s located in the downtown area of Stockholm and slices right through the heart of the city!

You’ll find all sorts of name brand name stores as well as local restaurants, bars, and cafes. This is a great place to pick up Swedish souvenirs, as the street contains many authentic Swedish keepsakes. It also contains many inauthentic souvenirs, so be sure to check the quality and origin before purchasing.

Ahlens Department Store is Sweden’s largest department store and can be found along this street. They offer competitive prices for all sorts of things, from clothing to beauty to food, and much more!

Stop at Börjes Blommor & Karamellaffär AB for a fantastic range of traditional candy! If you’re planning a Stockholm trip itinerary with kids, you can’t visit this city without trying out some Swedish sweets! 

This is also a great time to take a break and enjoy a Fika ! This is the Swedish tradition of taking time out of your day to relax with a cup of coffee or tea and a local pastry!

Vete-Katten cafe is located just two blocks from Drottninggatan and is an excellent place to enjoy a Fika ! This 1920’s style cafe serves some of the best coffee in town and all sorts of delicious Swedish goodies, from homemade bread to Swedish cakes!

• Getting there: It’s a 15 minute walk from Stockholms Medeltidsmuseum.
• How long should I spend there: 1-2 hours should be enough

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Now that we’ve covered all the highlights of the city near Gamla Stan, your 2-day itinerary in Stockholm will see you discovering more of the Stockholm islands! We’ve also made sure to include a nice blend of popular sites and local attractions!

9:00AM- Östermalms Saluhall

The Östermalms Saluhall is the perfect place to start day 2 of your Stockholm itinerary! Established in 1888, this historic market has served as a community hub for over 130 years!

You’ll find the best selection of local food products being served to you by local Stockholmers! From fresh produce to bread and pastries to meat and cheese, and even more, there’s something for everyone!

For breakfast, check out Roberts Coffee. This cozy cafe serves freshly roasted gourmet coffee that tastes great with their freshly baked pastries! If you’re a morning person, their cafe opens a little earlier than the regular market (weekdays only). Head in anytime after 7:30 am to get an extra early start to your day!

Another perk to coming a bit earlier in the day is that you can scope it out and see if anything intrigues you enough for another visit at lunch or dinner!

Note: this market is closed every Monday. If you’re only spending two days in Stockholm, just switch this stop with your day 1 Stockholm itinerary stop!

• Cost: Free.
• Getting there: Get the metro to Östermalmstorg.
• How long should I spend there: 1 hour should be enough.

10:00AM – The Abba Museum

The Abba Museum is an interactive museum that is perfect for both hardcore Abba fans, or anyone looking for a unique museum experience! Abba was a pop group that formed in Stockholm in 1972, they went on to dominate the pop charts, releasing songs like Dancing Queen , Mama Mia, and Take a Chance on Me!

Explore the history of Abba, learn about the band members, and have fun participating in interactive music exhibits! You’ll become the fifth member of Abba by performing on the museum’s large stage! You can try on Abba’s costumes, sing, dance, and listen to the original songs!

Many of the exhibits are interactive and everything is explained in detail. The museum is laid out very thoughtfully and a usual visit lasts approximately 2-hours. Make sure to check out the gift shop before you leave, you’ll find anything you could possibly imagine that is Abba related!

This isn’t your ordinary museum! A trip here is bound to be a very fun addition to your Stockholm itinerary and something all ages will enjoy! The museum slogan is “Walk in. Dance out.”

If you want to see more about Sweden’s artists, Stockholm’s Photography Museum is just across the river and is also pretty cool, only if you have time though.

Insider Tip: Pick up an audio guide for just USD $2.00 more than the price of your admission ticket and gain even more insight into the band!

• Cost: USD $26.00
• Getting there: it’s a 5 minute walk away.
• How long should I spend there: 1-2 hours should be enough.

12:00PM – Skansen Open Air Museum

Located just a quick 5-minute walk from the Abba Museum is Skansen Open Air Museum. This fun Stockholm attraction allows you to experience what it would have been like to live in Sweden in the past!

Located on the island of Djurgården, Skansen is the world’s oldest open-air museum! The museum opened in 1891 and was created to show the way of life in different parts of Sweden prior to the industrial era!

Discover Sweden’s history in an engaging and entertaining way. Find out how Swedes once lived, see what their workday was like, and explore their festive celebrations and daily routines! 

The many exhibits found here span over 75 acres. The site includes a full-scale replica of an average 19th-century Swedish town. You’ll see actors wearing traditional attire from the time period, including tanners, shoemakers, bakers, glass-blowers, and more!

If you’re wondering what to do in Stockholm with kids, Skansen also contains the world’s only open-air museum with wild animals! You’ll see everything from Nordic wildlife to exotic creatures to regular house pets.

The Children’s Zoo features domestic animals such as cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and more! The exotic animals including monkeys, birds, reptiles, and insects.

The park also contains a variety of plants and gardens. There is even a small patch growing tobacco used for making cigarettes.

Add this stop to your Stockholm itinerary and journey into Sweden’s past! This large recreational space is a popular attraction year-round!

Insider Tip: Before you visit, make sure to check out their online calendar for their list of lively activities and festivals that take place throughout the year. VIsiting on these days is an added bonus!

• Cost: Adult tickets are USD $20.00, children tickets are USD $6.00
• Getting there: It’s across the road from the Abba Museum.
• How long should I spend there: 1-2 hours.

3:00PM – The Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum houses the only preserved 17th-century ship in the world, with roughly 95% of the ship being from its original state!

The 226-feet-long warship capsized and sank on its first voyage in Stockholm in 1628, because it was too top heavy and literally just toppled over. The ship was salvaged in 1961, 333 years later! It took nearly half a century for the ship to be slowly and deliberately restored to a state approaching its former glory.

Today, the Vasa Museum is the most visited museum in Scandinavia, with over one million visitors a year! There are different exhibitions around the ship that retell the history of what life would have been like on board. 

Popular exhibits include the women exhibit, which shows what life would have been like for the women around the Vasa time period. Always present, but hardly discussed, learn the invisible story of women in the early 1600’s. You’ll also be able to see the facial reconstruction of a few members on board the Vasa!

Discover the salvaging process of the ship – from when it was found, to the final restoration. Explore the process of building ships in the 1600’s, from the process of obtaining the wood, right down to the color selection! There are also interactive exhibits at the museum for some hands-on fun!

The museum is located on the island of Djurgården. This unique attraction can pique almost anyone’s curiosity, not just the history buff’s and is a stop on your Stockholm itinerary all ages will enjoy! If you’re interested in history, the Swedish History Museum is just a five-minute walk away from the VASA museum.

• Cost: An adult ticket is USD $16.00, children 18 years and under visit for free!
• Getting there: It’s a 20 minute walk from the Östermalms Saluhall and Abba Museum
• How long should I spend there: 1-2 hours should be enough to see it all.

7:00PM – Dinner at Södermalm

Södermalm is a southern island in Stockholm that’s known for its casual hipster vibe. You’ll find lots of alternative attractions in this area.

Fotografiska is probably one of the areas top attractions. This photography museum features changing exhibits of contemporary photography. The exhibitions displayed are first class and you could visit the museum many times and see something new every time! The museum is open every day. Adult admission is USD $17.00 and children under 12 years old can visit for free!

It’s also a great place to try out Stockholm’s creative food and drink scene. Check out Meatballs for the People for a wide variety of Swedish meatballs, from moose and deer to wild boar and lamb! Wash it all down with a beer from Akkurat, a well-known beer hall that boasts a huge selection of Belgian ales as well as Swedish-made microbrews and hard ciders!

If you’re spending a weekend in Stockholm, make sure to check out the Hornstull Marknad, a popular outdoor flea-market. Every Saturday and Sunday you’ll find vendors selling everything from clothes to jewelry to old records. This area also contains Stockholm’s thriving food truck scene! Come hungry, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, including lots of plant-based options.

The market has a fun retro vibe and is frequented by many locals. It’s one of the coolest places in Stockholm to visit, so be sure to add this stop to your Stockholm itinerary during the warmer months, as it’s only open from April until the end of September.

This area of Stockholm is veggie heaven! Even if you’re not plant-based, we recommend indulging in Södermalm thriving vegan culinary scene! Hermans is an all-you-can-eat vegan buffet restaurant where you can really sample the local selection!

• Getting there: Take the 76 bus to Södermalm from near the Vasa Museum.
• How long should I spend there: 2-3 hours to enjoy dinner and evening drinks.

City Backpackers Hostel

The City Backpackers Hostel comes highly rated, and it’s not hard to see why! A few of the hostel perks include free pasta, a large, fully-equipped guest kitchen, and free sauna use! For more hostel options, check out our list of our favorite hostels in Stockholm, Sweden.

• Outdoor Terrace

If you’re planning for more than 2 days in Stockholm, you’re going to need a few more activities to fill your time. Here are 5 more attractions we recommend checking out if you want to know what to see in Stockholm in 3 days or more!

Drottningholm Palace

• The private residence of the Swedish royal family since 1981.
• located in Drottningholm, on the island Lovön.
• Adult admission starts at USD $14.00, child admission starts at USD $7.00.

Drottningholm Palace is Sweden’s best-preserved royal palace! Construction of the palace began in the late 16th-century. Today, it is one of Stockholm’s three World Heritage Sites and both the palace and its lavish gardens are open to visitors year-round!

The most popular features of the palace are the exotic Chinese Pavilion, the palace theater, and the magnificent palace gardens. To see these attractions, make sure the ticket you purchase has them included.

The palace theater is one of the few 18th-century theaters in Europe to still use its original stage machinery. It has been kept amazingly well-preserved and is definitely worth a visit! The theater is also used to hold summer concerts, festivals, and events!

The palace is located about 6 miles outside of Stockholm. It’s easily accessible by public transportation. There is also a bike route that goes directly from the city center of Stockholm to Drottningholm!

You can purchase an admission ticket and wander certain sections of the building and grounds by yourself, or take a guided tour and learn more about the history of the palace and its residents from a knowledgeable tour guide.

The Nordic Museum

• Located on the island of Djurgården in Stockholm, next to the Vasa Museum.
• There is a cafe and restaurant on-site as well as a kid’s play area! 
• Adult admission is USD $15.00, children 18 years old and younger visit for free.

The Nordic Museum is a museum that invites you to explore the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of the Nordic regions. The museum contains over 1.5 million objects! You’ll see everything from home decor, to fashion, to jewelry, to photographs dating from the 1840s!

There is a fascinating history behind every item on display in the museum. These artifacts provide an interesting way to gain insight into the Swedish culture and discover how it has changed over the years!

The museum is comprehensive and well-organized. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed to retell the story of the Nordic people throughout the years. The museum offers a self-guided audio tour where visitors can gain more insight and dive deeper into the Nordic culture and history!

• A seasonal amusement park in Stockholm, Sweden
• Located on the seaward side of Djurgården Island
• 0-6 years old visit for free, adult admission is USD $12.00

This 9-acre amusement park was founded in 1883. It contains 31 attractions and is a popular venue during Sweden’s warmer months – from late spring (April/March) to September. The park also reopens during October for seasonal Halloween events!

There are attractions for both kids and adults, including 7 roller coasters and a selection of kiddie rides! The games area includes plenty of carnival-themed attractions!

The pentathlon area is great for the competitive spirit! For those who don’t know what a pentathlon is, it’s basically just a contest featuring several events. Compete against your friends and determine who the ultimate games master is!

You’ll find plenty of food and dining options in the park. From restaurants to snack counters to bars! If you’re vegan, or interested in the park’s plant-based options, make sure to check out their website, which lists every vegan food item available in the park, and where to find it!

You’ll also find their seasonal events listed on their website, from concerts in the summer to Halloween attractions during October – including a spooky haunted house! If you’re planning a 3-day itinerary in Stockholm during the warmer months, we highly recommend adding this amusement park to your list of stops!

• Situated just north of Stockholm in the suburb of Solna.
• Open every day 24/7.
• Part of Stockholm’s Royal National City Park.

Hagaparken is a large and beautiful English style park located just outside Stockholm’s city center. It’s one of Sweden’s most popular recreational areas and visited by both locals and tourists alike.

There are many trails that go through the park’s forest and around the lake. Enjoy a bit of serenity and take in the beauty of the natural Swedish landscape. This is also one of the best places to visit in Stockholm with kids, as they can run around and burn off some energy! Kids will also love the butterfly house, where they can hang out with hundreds of exotic butterflies!

The park is also the site of many Swedish historical landmarks. The Chinese Pavilion, The Turkish Kiosk, and The Royal Burial Ground are all found in the park. Probably the most famous building of the park is Haga Palace, the official residence of Crown Princess Victoria and her family!

Nobel Prize Museum

• Located on the north side of Stortorget Square in Gamla Stan.
• The museum has its own restaurant and gift store and is open every day!
• Adult admission is USD $12.00 while children 18 years old and younger visit for free!

The Nobel Prize Museum is dedicated to the women and men who have made some of the greatest achievements in mankind! The museum exhibit artifacts and interactive kiosks where you can browse through all the winners from all the Nobel Peace Prize categories during different decades. Read about their biography, work, and contributions!

The museum is relatively small but very informative and contains a wealth of knowledge! The museum is unique and innovative and teaches you about freedom fighters, writers, and researchers.

The Nobel Prize Museum has free Wi-Fi and you can use your smartphone to listen to the free audio guide when touring the museum. There are also daily tours given by the museum, offered in both English and Swedish. If you’re traveling with little ones, there’s even an interactive section for kids to play in.

Through films, exhibits, and guided tours you’ll discover the noble leaders who have contributed to the greatest benefit of humanity! You will definitely leave this museum inspired!

Stockholm City Hall

• Take a guided tour of City Hall’s grand ceremonial halls
• Relax afterward in City Hall park
• One of the most iconic landmarks in Stockholm

Stockholm’s City Hall is famous for its grand ceremonial halls, including the Blue Hall and Golden Hall, as well as for displaying unique pieces of art. It is also a working office for over 300 city council members.

It is known for hosting The Nobel Prize Banquet, or Nobelfesten in Swedish, every year in December. This annual banquet takes place in the Blue Hall of City Hall on the 10th of December, after the Nobel Prize ceremony. It’s a formal dress event for special guests and not open to the public.

Tourists are able to visit the hall by tour group only where they can witness the ornate detailing and stunning architecture in the halls where this momentous event takes place.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to backpack Stockholm !

The summer months (June – August) provide the warmest temperatures and the longest days! This is considered Stockholm’s peak travel season! Midsummer is one of the country’s biggest festivals and takes place during this season as well (June).

If you’re planning a trip to Stockholm during fall (September – November) travel rates will be cheaper in comparison to summer. You’ll also experience fewer tourist crowds, but temperatures will start to drop fast!

If you’re touring Stockholm during spring (March – May) don’t expect a whole lot of warmth. Temperatures drift between 40 – 50 °F and even May temperatures barely reach 60°F.

Winters in Stockholm (December – February) are extremely cold but offer plenty of winter sports options! December is a great month to plan a charming Christmastime getaway as the whole city turns into an enchanting winter wonderland!

Stockholm is a really easy city to get around in and offers plenty of transportation choices! The metro is probably the most convenient form of transportation, and coincidentally, the world’s longest art gallery! It can take visitors to various points of the city between the hours of 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. during the weekdays, and all night on the weekends! 

The bus system also makes stops all over the city, including areas like the Djurgården neighborhood that fall out of the metro’s reach!

Ferries service the archipelago’s main locations and provide a scenic alternative to the bus. They also run year-round!

In the warmer months, biking is another option for exploring the city, as Stockholm boasts numerous bike lanes. Neighborhoods like Gamla Stan are pedestrian-friendly and compact and you can reach all the Stockholm attractions in this area very easily!

Taxis operate in the city, but if you choose this option keep in mind that the price will be very high! It’s always a good idea to ask the driver for a price estimate before you agree to a ride.

Whatever option you choose, you’ll be able to carry out your Stockholm itinerary with ease thanks to the city’s punctual and efficient public transportation options!

Whether you’re spending one day in Stockholm or backpacking Scandinavia for a few months, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Luckily, safety in Sweden is nothing you need to worry about.

Overall, you should have nothing to worry about when you visit Stockholm. It’s not only one of the safest cities in Europe, but it’s also one of the safest cities in the world!

The city is well policed and officers usually speak excellent English, so you won’t have problems communicating with them if you are visiting the country and can’t speak Swedish. The whole of the city is also very well lit. This is especially important during the long winter months when seeing very limited sunshine each day.

Public transportation in Stockholm is well regulated and crimes that are reported are dealt with immediately. To keep yourself safe, I recommend following these tips:

• Stockholm is also generally safe for traveling solo, although we recommend avoiding the neighborhood of Rinkeby, after dark, as violent crimes and robberies have been reported in this area.
• Pick-pocketing and petty crimes can occur, but the rates are very low, especially compared to other large cities in Europe, but keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
• It is generally quite safe to walk around popular areas at night, but keep an eye out for dodgy characters.

 With a tremendously low crime rate, you should have very little to worry about when it comes to safety in Stockholm ! Just follow the rules of common sense and your vacation in Stockholm should go smoothly! 

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Stockholm itinerary.

Is 3 days in Stockholm enough?

Having 2-3 full days in Stockholm will allow you to explore all the top attractions.

What should you include on a Stockholm 2 day itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these Stockholm highlights: – Gamla Stan – Stockholm Cathedral – Östermalms Saluhall – Södermalm

Where should you stay for a weekend in Stockholm?

Gamla Stan is best if you want to stay in the heart of the action. For nightlife, Södermalm is the place to be.

What are the best day tours in Stockholm?

Discover Uppsala Viking History on a private tour , enjoy the countryside in Markim-Orkesta, or stretch your legs on a Nature Hike outside the city.

I hope you enjoyed my Stockholm itinerary, and that it will help you to discover Stockholm’s unique history , culture, and vibe! We chose the best of the best attractions to include, making sure to add both popular sites and hidden gems!

I’ve also made sure to include insider tips, my favorite restaurants, and other information we know you’ll find useful when you’re visiting Stockholm.

Thanks to the city’s year-round activities, unique attractions, and friendly locals, there’s never a bad time to plan a trip! Whether you’re looking for leisure, adventure, or culture, you’ll find it in Stockholm! Still haven’t booked a room yet? Check out our favorite Stockholm Airbnb’s.

Christina Grayt

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Destinations A-Z

Stockholm Travel Guide

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Don't be surprised if you find yourself contemplating a move to Sweden after a visit to Stockholm; the city makes traveling feel easy and effortless (even for newbies). Locals tend to be welcoming and friendly, English is widely spoken, and everything from the subway system to city streets are clean and straight-forward.

But beyond ease of travel, Stockholm delivers a one-of-a-kind experience thanks to its placement on an archipelago of 14 islands that each offer a distinct feel—from the colorful buildings and cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan to the nature-rich isle of Djurgården. It's a place where you can hop on a public ferry and find yourself in a different world without ever leaving the city. And no matter where you end up, you'll find yourself at ease in the contemporary, urban feel Sweden is known for. Just make sure to make time for fika , a coffee and cake break, so you can slow down and enjoy life like the locals do.

Central European Time (GMT+2)

Best Time to Go

Sweden can be chilly, making the summer months an ideal time to visit. Between May and September, the days are long, the weather is temperate, and the country's biggest national festival, Midsummer, kicks off—just keep in mind the summer is the city's busiest time as well. For good weather and fewer tourists, shoot for September to early November, when you'll experience the shift to fall and the coziness of Stockholm as the days begin to shorten. If you time it right, you might even catch the Stockholm Jazz Festival (October) and Stockholm International Film Festival (early November).

Things to Know

Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)

(Check the current exchange rate )

Language: Swedish

I don't speak Swedish: Jag talar inte svenska

I'm lost: Jag är vilse

I would like…: Jag skulle vilja...

Calling Code: +46

Capital City: Stockholm

How to Get Around

Trains: The city's underground subway network, known as the tunnelbana, is quick, easy, and much cheaper than hopping in a taxi. To ride, you can either buy a SL access card and load it with a single-use ticket (38 SEK, around $4) or pick up a travel card with unlimited access for a period of time (24 hours: SEK 160, around $18; 72 hours: SEK 315, around $36; and 7 days: SEK 415, around $48). Through the same transportation company you can get out of the city via an above-ground train.

Buses, Trams, Ferries: If you're just visiting Stockholm for a short time, you should be able to get around via subway, but if you need, the city also offers a bus system. In addition to buses, trams run on the island of Djurgården (where you'll find the Vasa Museum) and scenic ferries connect the islands. All three modes of transportation rely on the SL card (same as the subway and most trains).

Taxis: In addition to Uber, Taxi Stockholm offers a reliable track record and booking via their app. Just keep in mind that taking taxis around Stockholm can be expensive.

Car service: For a luxury private car service, check out Blacklane or Freys , who has been in operation for over 125 years.

Best Hotels

Address: Mariatorget 3 118 48 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 545 789 00 Website

It doesn't get more sunny and hip than The Rival, a luxury boutique hotel in the lovely neighborhood of Södermalm. In addition to designer rooms, you'll find gathering places for eating and drinking and an impressive theater showcasing some of the world's finest talent.

Lydmar Hotel

Address: Södra Blasieholmshamnen 2 111 48 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 22 31 60 Website

The Lydmar might be one of Stockholm's finest five-star hotels, but you won't find buttoned-up staff or a snobby air. The hotel strives for relaxed elegance in everything from their contemporary classic rooms (with pieces that will make you swoon) to the staff who are encouraged to share their local intel and let their personalities shine.

Red Boat Mälaren (The Red Boat)

Address: Södermälarstrand Kajplats 10 118 20 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 644 43 85 Website

As you might expect from a city built on the sea, Stockholm is home to a handful of boat hotels and hostels. The Red Boat and Ran of Stockholm offer both hotel and hostel-style rooms on Stockholm's most prevalent resource: water. Plus, the central location in the middle of Stockholm provides easy access to main tourist sites and the subway.

Villa Dagmar

Address: Nybrogatan 25-27 114 39 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 20 05 90 Website

This opulent property plops you right in the heart of Stockholm, minutes from the Royal Palace and Royal Swedish Opera. Each individually decorated guest room is as comfortable as it is lavish — and some have balconies. Don't miss a meal in the bright courtyard and garden for a visit to the gazebo with its curated gifts and fresh blooms.

Address: Sköldungagatan 2 114 27 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 20 05 90 Website

You won't find Sweden's iconic IKEA look at Ett Hem (which translates to "A House"). True to its name, the hotel is found in a private residence built in 1910 and offers up an at-home feel for each and every guest. The thoughtfully designed, cozy rooms are the perfect place to snuggle in when the weather cools and boast high-end features like marble bathrooms and local furnishings.

Hotel Skeppsholmen

Address: Gröna gången 1 111 86 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 407 23 00 Website

Surrounded by trees near the waterfront, this hotel is designed for lovers of clean simplicity and brunch (yes, you read that correctly). In addition to beautiful rooms and a central location you'll find Restaurant Långa Raden, which is known for its popular weekend brunch and brunch-inspired lunch menu.

Best Restaurants

800 grader (pizza).

Address: Sigtunagatan 17 113 22 Stockholm Phone: +46 70 858 95 98 Website

Even the Swedes need a reliable pizza spot, and this place is all that and more. Inside you'll find a cool, laid-back interior, friendly staff, and a simple menu of four or five pizzas. You can't go wrong. No reservation is needed and dining is indoors.

Vina (wine bar)

Address: Sofiagatan 1 116 40 Stockholm Phone: +46 70 406 66 26 Website

Vina—as the name suggests—is all about the wine, but the food menu stands on its own. The tiny space is near Nytorget, one of Stockholm's trendier areas, and will draw you off the street and into its cozy, romantic atmosphere. Dining is both indoors and outdoors (depending on the weather) and reservations are recommended.

K25 (food hall)

Address: Kungsgatan 25 111 56 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 21 29 29 Website

Have you really been to Stockholm if you haven't experienced one of their food halls? These spacious markets packed with food stalls offer everything from traditional Swedish cuisine to international classics. At K25, one of the city's best halls, you'll find sushi and dumplings alongside Swedish meatballs and burgers. Dining is indoors and market-style (no reservations needed).

Asian Post Office (Asian fusion)

Address: Regeringsgatan 66 111 39 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 20 60 10 Website

Half the fun of eating at the Asian Post Office is kicking back in the restaurant's sleek, modern interior. You can pair innovative cocktails (and mocktails) with Asian fusion bites like pork buns, gyoza, and udon noodles with kimchi and lobster. To make sure you snag a seat, book a table in advance.

Knut Bar (Northern Swedish)

Address: Regeringsgatan 77 111 39 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 30 40 57 Website

You can't leave Stockholm without trying out traditional Swedish cuisine, and when you're ready to try the local delicacies, this is the place to go. You'll find good northern Swedish dishes including venison, moose sausage, deer tartare, and plenty of local fish. Not into wild game meat? They have amazing northern Swedish-style pizza flatbread and lingonberry sorbet. Just make sure to book a table in advance and come expecting indoor seating.

Woodstockholm (contemporary)

Address: Mosebacke Torg 9 116 46 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 36 93 99 Website

Woodstockholm takes food seriously, so much so that they constantly change the menu theme, delivering fresh dishes under a broad theme—like 'Art'. no matter what "theme" you find when you visit, you're guaranteed local, sustainable foods paired with a wine menu that showcases smaller producers.

Things to Do

Vasa museum.

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Address: Galärvarvsvägen 14 115 21 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 519 548 80 Website

The Vasa Museum's main draw is the almost fully intact 17th-century warship—the Vasa—which sank on her maiden voyage in 1628. The boat has been preserved beautifully and is the main event, but you'll also get a realistic look at life aboard and get to know the people who went down with the ship.

Fjäderholmarna

Address: Fjäderholmarna 100 05 Stockholm Website

Taking a ferry in the archipelago is a must, and the island of Fjäderholmarna is an easy destination both in what it offers and its ease of access. It's a breezy, 20-minute boat ride to the island, which has a restaurant and cafe and small shops along with trails and swimming.

Fotografiska

Address: Stadsgårdshamnen 22 116 45 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 509 005 00 Website

If you like photography, even a little bit, this is the place to be. Heralded as the "largest photography museum in the world" you'll find a vast collection of thought-provoking photography around every corner.

Stockholm City Hall

Address: Hantverkargatan 1 111 52 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 508 290 00 Website

City Hall is one of Stockholm's most famous buildings, but beyond that, it gives anyone willing to climb the stairs in the tower an unparalleled view of the whole city.

Best Shopping

Address: multiple locations in Stockholm (Götgatan 31, Kungsgatan 42, Humlegårdsgatan 20, Långholmsgatan 36) Phone: +46 8 21 92 85 Website: granit.com/se

Granit has a West Elm feel paired with an eco-conscious mindset and that distinct clean Scandinavian look. Swing by for homegoods, gifts, and a calming escape from the city streets.

NK Stockholm

Address: Hamngatan 18-20 111 47 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 762 80 00 Website

NK—short for Nordiska Kompaniet—is a high-end department store with everything from Balenciaga and ba&sh to Hermès and HUGO. It's the place to go for a day of shopping at high-end retailers set in a relaxed environment.

Gina Tricot

Address: Götgatan 30 118 46 Stockholm Phone: +46 8 411 29 70 Website

Also known as Gina T, this Swedish boutique has a crisp, modern look that's coveted by women all over the world. The brick-and-mortar shop gives you easy access to the brand's feminine, stylish look.

Address: multiple locations in Stockholm (Drottninggatan 63, Götgatan 21) Phone: +46 8 642 02 59 Website

For an edgier take on Scandinavian style, check out Weekday, a beloved Swedish brand known for their minimal, street-inspired clothing.

Neighborhoods to Know

Gamla Stan (Old Town): It makes sense that the center of Stockholm, a city that's built on islands, is found on a compact island marked with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Gamla Stan, also called Old Town, is so picturesque, you won't be able to put down your camera. Swing by the medieval Storkyrkan cathedral or watch the changing of the guards at the Royal Palace before stopping for a fika at Stortorget, the oldest square in Stockholm.

Djurgården : To the east of Gamla Stan is the much-larger island of Djurgården, best known for the Vasa Museum. But the island houses more than the city's most famous museum, the tranquil island is full of parks with walking trails and green meadows perfect for midday picnics. For a next-level experience take a ferry from Slussen (in Gamla Stan), so you can arrive via water.

Södermalm : It doesn't get more hip than Södermalm, also known as "Söder" or "The South Side." In this uber-trendy neighborhood south of Gamla Stan, you'll find endless cafes and restaurants alongside boutiques and shops. If you're looking for an escape from the busy city streets, grab a sandwich to-go and find a nook in Rosenlundsparken, a sprawling neighborhood park.

Norrmalm : Stockholm's "downtown" is a must for first-time visitors. In Norrmalm, you'll find yourself smack dab in the middle of Stockholm's commercial area, home to everything from the opera and ballet to giant department stores, hotels, and trendy cafes. Make time to rest your legs and people watch at Kungsträdgården park and enjoy the views over the water toward Gamla Stan.

Östermalm : To the east of Norrmalm is Östermalm, a large district with high-end residential areas sprinkled with smart restaurants and classy bars. It's a great place to explore if you're looking to get away from the buzz of Norrmalm and Gamla Stan.

Spring: The start of spring marks a happy time for the Swedes, who welcome the longer days and first signs of color and life. Temperatures vary greatly—March and April tend to be cooler—with averages typically hovering between 30 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. There's usually not a ton of precipitation, but you can expect a couple rainy days each month.

Summer: Summer may be tourist high season, but there's a reason for that—the months of June, July, and August are warm and pleasant, averaging temperatures in the low 50s to low 70s. The month of July tends to be the rainiest month of the year (around three inches of precipitation).

Fall: The weather starts to dip in the fall, when temperatures can get as low as the 30s and November marks the shift into winter. That being said, you'll find weather in the late 50s and early 60s in September. Precipitation is moderate, but might show up as snow in the later months.

Winter: As you might guess, winter in Stockholm can be chilly and dark. Temperatures range from the low 20s to mid 30s, and snow is a reality. When the weather shifts and winds blow in from the Baltic Sea, it's a good time to huddle in and enjoy a lavish fika.

Apps to Download

Uber: Ride hailing, electric bikes and motorized scooters, food delivery. iOs | Android

Google Translate: Word translation with offline capabilities. iOs | Android

SL – Journey Planner & Tickets: Stockholm metro map, route planning, route updates. iOs | Android

Bookatable: Restaurants near you with table booking. iOs | Android

Keyflow: What's going on in Stockholm nightly with in-app ticket purchasing. iOs | Android

Related Articles

Stockholm   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Domingo Leiva | Getty Images

Why Go To Stockholm

One of the most visually arresting cities in Scandinavia, Stockholm is situated on an archipelago containing roughly 30,000 islands that eventually lead to the Baltic Sea. Among the various islands positioned throughout the city's vast amount of waterways, bays and rivers visitors will find an assortment of architectural, cultural and natural gems begging for further exploration. From the quaint and pristinely preserved 13th-century-old  Gamla Stan, or Old Town , to the sprawling, attraction-packed Djurgården park island, Stockholm is a floating, visual treat that has the power to leave sightseers awestruck at its incredible landscape.

The city's uniqueness isn't only tied to its grand topography – Stockholm also features an astonishing climate and setting. Visit in summer to experience close to 24 hours of sunlight, a phenomena celebrated with a Midsummer Festival that will leave you with a hearty knowledge of Swedish cuisine and tradition. Or, test your tolerance during one of Sweden's notoriously freezing winters for a chance to ice skate on one of the city's many frozen rivers. Whenever you choose to visit, know that you'd be hard-pressed to find a city like it anywhere else in Europe. Maybe even the world.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• # 9 in Best Family Vacations in Europe
• # 19 in Best Places to Visit in Europe for 2023-2024

Best of Stockholm

Best hotels in stockholm.

• # 1 in Grand Hôtel
• # 2 in Hotel Diplomat
• # 3 in Bank Hotel, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of The World

Best Things to Do in Stockholm

• # 1 in Gamla Stan (Old Town)
• # 2 in Djurgården
• # 3 in Monteliusvagen

Popular Tours

Stockholm Archipelago Cruise with Guide

(661 reviews)

from $ 37.17

Stockholm Top attractions all-inclusive Gran Tour

(109 reviews)

from $ 284.81

Viking History, Fika & Countryside 9h Tour to Sigtuna & Uppsala

(124 reviews)

from $ 204.68

Stockholm Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Stockholm is in the summer – albeit the city's priciest season – because the temperatures are warmest and daylight lasts the longest. Average summertime highs range between 68 and 71 degrees Fahrenheit, with the hottest weather occurring in mid-July. It's important to bring layers, however, as temps can sometimes drop by 10 to 20 degrees come nightfall. The fall and spring seasons are chillier, with highs barely reaching 60 degrees, and that's only during September and May. Winters in Stockholm tend to be extremely cold but are ideal for travelers interested in winter sports or a picturesque Christmastime getaway.

Weather in Stockholm

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Take off your shoes In Sweden, it's expected that you remove your footwear when entering someone's home. It's such a cultural staple that if you didn't do so, you'd be seriously offending someone.

It will be cold Sweden's winters are notorious, but it can still get chilly during the warmer months. If you're visiting during the summer, wear layers as temperatures drop 20 degrees lower at night.

Sunrise and sunset varies During winter, the sun sets as early as 3 p.m. while in the summer the sun rises well before 4 a.m.

How to Save Money in Stockholm

Stay away from Gamla Stan The city's Old Town is also known as the tourist district among locals, so expect room rates and restaurant prices to be way more than what they would be elsewhere in the city.

Rely on your own two feet Stockholm is big and walking the whole city is not recommended. But many of the city's top attractions, including Gamla Stan, Djurgården and Fotografiska, are all a little more than a mile apart from one another.

Don't take taxis Taxis are incredibly expensive in Stockholm, with 6-mile journeys clocking in at almost $40. The city has plenty of great public transportation options, including metros, buses, ferries, light rail lines and trams.

Culture & Customs

Though Sweden is a part of the European Union, the country is more independent. It doesn't share the euro with other member countries, but rather has its own currency called the krona. If anything, the country identifies itself as more a part of Scandinavia than anything, which includes Sweden as well as neighboring Norway, Finland and Denmark. Due to its placement high up north, Swedes lives are completely dictated by the weather in ways that people in other countries with milder seasons just aren't. Winter is long, inches of snow are the norm for months and during certain times of year, the sun sets as early as 3 p.m. So for the few months that you don't need to wear a sweater outside, you'll see Swedes out in droves both during the day and night laughing and enjoying life to the fullest. This can definitely be seen during Midsummer. Midsummer is one of the most important holidays in Sweden, rivaling Christmas as the biggest. In short, it's a summer solstice celebration that takes place sometime between June 20th and 25th where family and friends come together to celebrate the season. There are a number of traditions carried out as well, but mostly it's a time to unwind, enjoy Sweden's beautiful surroundings and cook a big feast equipped with the most traditional Swedish dishes. All Swedes head to the countryside to celebrate, so if you happen to be in Stockholm during Midsummer, the city will be next to dead. If you want to be part of the festivities but don't necessarily know where to go, Skansen hosts Midsummer festivities. 

Swedes are a reserved bunch but are quite friendly to tourists, so if you need any directions they are likely happy to help out. The city is also practically fluent in English, so your chances of getting lost in translation with the Swedish language are about slim to none. Though Swedes are warm to visitors, it's worth noting they like order, especially on public transportation. To avoid ruffling any feathers, always remember to stand on the right when going up or down escalators on public transportation, to make way for anyone who wants to walk down the escalator on the left. When meeting Swedes socially, don't ever do the two kisses greeting commonly found in other parts of Europe. Much like other countries in northern Europe, such as Ireland and Germany, Swedes greet each other with a handshake when meeting for the first time. And if you're ever invited into a Swedish home, it's considered rude not to take your shoes after entering the house.

What to Eat

Though it's easy to find a wide variety of international cuisines in Stockholm, try to seek out Swedish food during your stay. And no, it's not all meatballs (though the Swedes do love their meatballs). Swedish food tends to be on the heavy side, and is a very meat-and-potatoes-type diet filled with lots of proteins and starches, as well as some fruits and veggies. Sweden's close proximity to the coast yields lots of fish-focused meals too, including herring, one of the most traditional dishes in the Swedish palate. Herring can be found in bulk off the Baltic coast and as such has been eaten by the Swedes for centuries. Though it can be prepared in a variety of ways, the most popular form is pickling, with the most common flavors being mustard, onion, garlic and dill herring served with a side of potatoes, boiled eggs, sour cream or sharp hard cheese. Other popular seafood dishes are Jansson's Temptation, a potato and anchovy casserole, and toast Skagen, which is toast topped with a mixture of shrimp, mayo, dill and lemon.

Along with seafood, another staple in Swedish cuisine is bread. In the 1970s, the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare and the Swedish Bread Institute ran a campaign recommending Swedes eat between six to eight slices of bread a day. You'll likely see bread in various forms on many Swedish menus, with the most popular being open-faced sandwiches (sandwiches with just one piece of bread) and crispbreads, or big crackers served either with meals as a light side or covered with toppings. If you really want to feel like a Swede, get some crispbread and top it with Kalles, a cod roe spread squeezed from a tube, typically consumed for breakfast. Those who have an adventurous appetite should definitely try surströmming, or herring which is fermented for months in a tight, tin can. The dish is widely considered one of the world's most pungent, with some comparing it to the stench of raw sewage. The smell is so strong, most won't allow it to be served indoors.

If you're not one for seafood, Sweden still has something for you. Meatballs are as beloved here as they are at Ikea, and pancakes are another delectable option as well. In Sweden though, pancakes are thin and made with ground potato instead of flour and eggs. Lingonberries, the same sweet sauce you may remember being served with your meatballs at Ikea, are almost always served with pancakes. Sweets are kind of a big deal in Sweden, so much so that there is a day dedicated to indulging called lördagsgodis, or "Saturday sweets." While in Stockholm, pick up a cinnamon bun (buns are to Swedes what biscotti is to Italians), try a slice of princess cake (yellow sponge cake with jam and vanilla custard covered with green marzipan), or saffron buns (pastries made with golden saffron and sprinkled with dark raisins).

Stockholm has a reputation for being a very safe city, for locals and visitors alike. Make sure to exercise common sense practices both day and night, including keeping your bags secure and walking along lit streets.

Getting Around Stockholm

The best way to get around Stockholm is by the excellent public transportation system; several bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries cover the big city very efficiently. Biking is another popular option for getting around, as the city boasts numerous bike lanes and paths. Neighborhoods like Gamla Stan are certainly walkable, but the expansive city is tough to cover solely on foot. Although we don't recommend driving, rental cars are available at the Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) – about 30 miles north of the city. But it's easier to take the commuter rail or the Arlanda Express high-speed train into town instead. Taxis from the airport to the city center charged a fix fare of 450 to 500 kronor (about $52 to $58).

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens will need a passport to enter Stockholm and it must be valid at least three months past your stay. A visa is not required unless you plan to visit for longer than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for more information on entry and exit requirements. 

Sweden's biggest city sits on the Stockholm archipelago, which consists of about 30,000 islands big and small.

Explore More of Stockholm

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

# 2 in  Best Day Trips from Florence

# 1 in  Best Places to Visit in July 2024

St. Petersburg

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

3 Days In Stockholm: The Ultimate Stockholm Itinerary

Last Updated: March 12 2024

Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and one of the most beautiful cities in Scandinavia. Stretching across fourteen islands, this incredible destination lies on the scenic Lake Mälaren which flows into the Baltic Se a.

Known for its incredible architecture, culture, and history, Stockholm has so much to offer. You’ll find an endless amount of attractions here ranging from historical museums to the beautiful archipelago , so there’s something for everyone.

If you’ve only got 3 days in Stockholm but still want to see the best sights, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll take you through the very best things to do, how to get around, and other helpful information!

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you buy or book something through these links, we earn a small commission, but at no extra cost to you! If you want to learn more, you can take a look at our privacy policy!

Table of Contents

The Cheapest Way to See Stockholm’s Top Sights 

Some of Stockholm’s attractions are relatively expensive, but luckily there’s a cheaper way to see the city.  If you’re looking to save some cash, we’d recommend getting the all-inclusive city pass .

It covers over 45 attractions and experiences and can save you up to 55% off standard ticket prices.  Depending on the duration of your trip, you can purchase a Stockholm pass that lasts between 1 – 5 days. 

Here are just a couple of attractions/activities the pass covers: 

• Archipelago tour
• Royal Canal tour
• Vasa Museum
• The Nobel Prize Museum
• Fotografiska
• The Viking Museum
• Drottningholm Palace boat tour

So, for example, if you were planning to visit the Vasa Museum and Haga Ocean, as well as go on an archipelago tour, you’d usually pay around 755 SEK (£60) in fees alone. That’s without visiting any of the other fantastic attractions included with the pass.

If you’re travelling to Stockholm between April and October, the city pass also covers the hop-on hop-off bus tour. This is a great way to get around the city and means you’ll save money on public transport too.

Also, Stockholm is primarily a cashless city, so many of the attractions won’t take cash. As such, a pre-paid pass is a good way to go! However, it’s important to check which attractions are included during your trip, as some are only covered during the summer months.

A Quick Overview of Your 3 Days in Stockholm

Gamla Stan, the Nobel Prize Museum, Riddarholmen Church, Stockholm Cathedral, the Royal Palace, the Underground Metro System, Skinnarviksberget

Skansen Open Air Museum, the Vasa Museum, the Nordic Museum, the ABBA Museum, Royal National City Park, Grona Lund

Astra Lake, the National or Medieval Museum, Archipelago tour, Fotografiska, Strandvägen, Vitabergsparken, the Monteliusvagen Cliff Path

Your 3 Days in Stockholm: Day One

The first day of this 3-day Stockholm itinerary primarily focuses on the city’s old town. You’ll then end your day on the island of Södermalm.

Explore Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s old town and dates back to the 13th century! Many of the buildings here are from the 1700s so as you can imagine the architecture is pretty incredible. It’s one of the best-preserved medieval centres in Europe and attracts millions of people every year. 

Stortorget is the primary (and oldest) square in Gamla Stan. It’s home to beautiful coloured houses, quaint cafes, and plenty of restaurants.  You’ll also find popular attractions off the square including the Royal Palace and the Royal Chapel.

If you’re spending 3 days in Stockholm then this area needs to be at the top of your list!  Mårten Trotzigs Gränd (the narrowest street in the city) is also found here, and is just 90cm wide at its narrowest point so it’s quite the squeeze! Västerlånggatan is another popular spot.

Gamla Stan is super easy to explore independently, but if you want to learn more, this old-town walking tour  is a great option !

Visit the Nobel Prize Museum

The Nobel Prize Museum is found within Gamla Stan and is a must-visit for any Stockholm itinerary . Located just off Stortorget Square, this museum is one of the city’s top attractions !

The Nobel Prize is considered to be the most prestigious prize in the world and is a celebration of excellence.  At this museum, you’ll find a ton of exhibits about it including the permanent ‘Cultures of Creativity’ exhibition.

However, one of the coolest exhibits at the Museum is the Nobel Prize Banquet where you’ll get a sense of what it’s like to attend the iconic gala. This includes the clothing, food, and even the decorations! 

Take your time to wander around the museum as you’ll get to learn about the ideas of 900 geniuses through modern technology, short films, and artefacts.

Opening hours vary depending on the time of year, so please check this in advance!

Admire Riddarholmen Church

Heading to Riddarholmen Church is a must during your 3 days in Stockholm. The church has been around since the late 1200s and is the city’s only surviving medieval Abbey.

Except for one Monarch, all kings and queens of Sweden from the 1630s onwards are buried in Riddarholmen Church. You’ll also find that some kings from the Middle Ages are buried here, so it’s got an important place in Sweden’s history books.

The design of Riddarholmen Church is simply incredible and will take your breath away.

It’s the perfect place to catch some awesome shots of Stockholm’s architecture, but you’ll want to head there early. This way you can get some great photographs without people in!

If you head to Stockholm during the summer months, you can explore the interior of Riddarholmen Church. Concerts are also held here throughout the year if you’re lucky enough to time your visit right.

Visit Stockholm Cathedral

Stockholm Cathedral was built in 1279 and has been used for royal weddings and coronations since the 14th century. 

Located in the city’s old town, the cathedral is home to an array of unique objects. This includes the Parhelion Painting and a wooden sculpture of St George and the Dragon. 

The sculpture ‘Joseph and Mary’ by Lena Lervik is also here, as well as the esteemed Vädersoltavlan which is one of the oldest paintings in Stockholm. It’s been around since 1535 and is an impressive sight! 

If you’re a fan of unique architecture and historical artefacts, this is a must-visit during your stay in the city. To understand more about the cathedral, you can take a guided tour, although these need to be pre-booked in advance. 

The opening hours of the cathedral are 10 am – 6 pm, but this differs during the summertime. So just double-check the opening times before you plan your 3 days in Stockholm !

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is one of the largest palaces in Europe and is the King of Sweden’s official residence. With over 600 rooms and 11 floors, this palace is enormous and there’s plenty to see !

The Royal Palace is open to the public all year round and there are five different museums within.  These include the Treasury, Museum Three Crowns, Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities, and the Royal Chapel.

However, one of the highlights has to be the Royal Apartments! Here you’ll be able to explore gorgeous staterooms that were once home to former members of the Swedish Royal Family.

The furniture dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries, and you’ll find fascinating items including Queen Christina’s silver throne. 

If you want to learn more about the Royal Palace then it’s best to go on a guided tour! This way you’ll get to learn about its history from a knowledgeable tour guide.

Marvel at Stockholms Underground Art

Stockholm’s metro system covers a total length of 110 km (68 miles) and is one of a kind. There are 100 subway stations within the city, and each one is home to some kind of art – whether that be installations, murals, or statues.

Considered to be the ‘world’s longest art exhibit’, this is one of the coolest things to see in Stockholm. Here are a couple of metro stations you’ll want to put at the top of your list :

• T-Centralen Station: One of Stockholm’s busiest metro stations, and one of the most beautiful. It’s located along the Blue Line and is covered in blue leaves. 
• Stadion Station: Located along the Red Line, and just a few stops from T-Centralen. This metro station is located near the main festival area for pride, so you’ll find beautiful coloured rainbows painted on the walls. 
• Solna Centrum Station: Solna Centrum is found along the Blue Line and is painted red for the evening sky and green for the treetops. Small details are continuously being added to the artwork too. 
• Kungsträdgården Station: This is one of Stockholm’s most stunning metro stations and one of the most popular. Its colour scheme (green, red and white) is designed after the Old French Garden that can be found above.
• Tekniska Högskolan Station: Found along the Red Line, this metro station celebrates scientific advances and discoveries. This is seen in its artwork and installations.

Head up to Skinnarviksberget for Sunset

Walking up to Skinnarviksberget for sunset is the perfect way to end your first day in Stockholm! 

Skinnarviksberget is the highest natural point in the city and is a must for any Stockholm itinerary. From the top, you’ll get panoramic views of Gamla Stan, Kungsholmen, Stockholm City Hall, and Lake Mälaran. 

It’s the perfect spot to take a picnic or a takeaway, enjoy the scenery, and watch the sunset over this beautiful city. 

This spot is incredibly scenic at any time of year – whether you’re visiting during summer or the height of winter.  However, during the peak season, this place gets pretty busy, so you might want to get there early and secure yourself a good spot! 

Skinnarviksberget is a 30-minute walk from Gamla Stan, or you can take the metro to Zinkensdamm stadium. From there it’s just a 5-minute walk to the top! 

Your 3 Days in Stockholm: Day Two 

Day two of this Itinerary focuses on the popular island of Djurgården. If you’re looking to see the best of Stockholm in three days, you’ll want to visit these attractions! We’ve included several museums below, but you may only have time to visit one or two, depending on how long you spend at Skansen.

Visit Skansen Open Air Museum

If you’ve only got 3 days in Stockholm then make the Skansen Open Air Museum a priority! It’s the oldest open-air museum in the world and is home to historic farmsteads, manors, and miniature historic villages. 

However, the most popular attractions include the Skansen Aquarium, Stockholm Zoo , and the Baltic Science Centre. The latter will teach you all about the Baltic Sea, the marine life that lives here, and the threats to its ecosystems.

As you can see, there’s lots to do so you’ll want to allow at least a couple of hours to explore. You can also download a map for when you get into Skansen, which will show you where you are. This open-air museum is HUGE so having the map on you is incredibly handy! 

Skansen is open daily, all year round, although opening hours may differ depending on the time of year.

Explore the Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Stockholm. It’s home to the best-preserved 17th-century ship in the world – the famous ‘Vasa’.

Although Vasa was the most powerful warship in the Baltic Sea, it unfortunately sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. The ship was then left underwater until 1961 and has been painstakingly restored ever since. Today, you’ll get to see Vasa in its former glory as over 98% of the ship is still original. 

Not only will you get to see this impressive warship for yourself, but there are plenty of exhibits to explore.  Some of the most popular exhibitions at the Vasa Museum include ‘the Salvaging’, ‘Life on Board’, and ‘the Stockholm Shipyard’. 

It’s one of the more expensive attractions in Stockholm, but if you purchase the city pass you’ll be able to save plenty of money on the entrance fee.

Head to the Nordic Museum

If you’re wondering what to do in Stockholm then make sure you head to the Nordic Museum . The Museum or ‘Nordiska Museet’ as it’s known, is the largest Museum of Cultural History in Sweden. 

It’s one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and is the best place to visit if you want to learn about Stockholm’s history.  Around 500 years of events are depicted in this museum, as it showcases Sweden’s history from the Early modern age to the contemporary period.

You’ll find tons of exhibits at the museum ranging from traditional celebrations to Nordic fashion, so there’s something for everyone. The Nordic Museum also has an exhibition dedicated to the Sami; the only indigenous people in Sweden. 

Not only are the exhibits incredible, but the building itself is pretty spectacular too! When it comes to visiting, the museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm every day, including Christmas Eve.

Visit the ABBA Museum

If you’re spending 3 nights in Stockholm then you just have to visit the ABBA Museum ! 

ABBA is Sweden’s most successful music group and is one of the most famous bands in the world.  Founded in 1972, this iconic pop group rose to fame after they won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974. 

The Museum is a permanent interactive exhibition that celebrates ABBA by bringing together plenty of memorabilia including stage outfits, instruments, and gold records. 

There are also exhibits within the museum where you can dance, sing, mix music, and try on virtual stage outfits. You can even record your performances and download them by using your entrance ticket. 

Visiting the ABBA museum is a must-do in Stockholm, and you’ll want to give yourself at least 1-2 hours to explore and have some fun! The museum can get pretty busy, but this ticket will allow you to skip the entrance line.

Wander around Royal National City Park

The Royal National City Park is the best place to take a stroll, have a picnic, and take some time out from your action-packed 3 days in Stockholm.

It’s the first national urban park in the world and stretches for over 9.6 km (6 miles) throughout the city. 

Extending from Djurgården and Fjäderholmarna in the south to Sörentorp and Ulriksdal in the North of the city, there’s plenty of green space to explore. In fact, visiting here is one of the best free things to do in Stockholm !

If you’re lucky you might even get to spot some wildlife including deer, hare, foxes, and rare birds.  Not only that, but the scenery is beautiful ranging from stunning lakes to lush forests. 

You could easily spend a couple of hours wandering around the Royal National City Park, so make sure you allow yourself some extra time to relax and do just that.

Have some fun at Gröna Lund (if visiting during the summer)

Gröna Lund is the perfect family day out, especially if you love rides. It’s the oldest amusement park in Sweden and offers 30 rides ranging from the carousel to adrenalin-pumping rides like the Monster. If you’re a thrill-seeker, you’ll also want to go on Jetline, Insane, and Fritt Fall. 

After you’ve spent a couple of hours taking on the rides, head to one of the theme parks’ bars and restaurants. There are also some great fast food options.

Visiting Gröna Lund will depend on the time of year you head to Stockholm as the amusement park is only open between spring and September. However, it does open again during Autumn break and on Halloween. This amusement park also runs concerts throughout the summer.

Whether you’re looking to tackle some of the extreme rides or take a ride on the ghost train – this place is a must-visit during your 3 days in Stockholm.

Your 3 Days in Stockholm: Day Three

Day three of this Stockholm Itinerary primarily focuses on the island of Södermalm, and you’ll also be heading out on a cruise of the archipelago too.

Head to Arsta Lake (Arstaviken) in search of beavers

If you’re a fan of wildlife like us, then Stockholm is one of the best European cities to visit. Not only do you have the opportunity to spot deer, eagles, and foxes, but beavers also call this city home!

They were thought to be extinct here just 100 years ago, but have since been sighted at Karlbergskanalen and Arsta Lake among other locations within the city.

After doing some research on beavers in Stockholm, we decided to head to Arsta Lake which is found on the island of Södermalm. There’s a path that runs right by the lake shore which gives you the best chance of spotting these elusive creatures, although they’re notoriously difficult to find.

We figured heading down there at sunrise would give us the best chance but unfortunately, we didn’t get to spot any . Hopefully, you’ll have better luck than us!

Explore the National Museum or the Medieval Museum

Although 3 days in Stockholm sounds like plenty of time, you’ll still need to prioritise some sites. That’s why we’ve given you a choice here, as you may not have time to visit both museums.

The National Museum and the Medieval Museum both offer something unique, and it’s personal preference which one you head to. Of course, you can always visit both if you have the time.

The National Museum reopened its doors in 2018 after years of renovations and is now one of the best museums in the city.  Focusing primarily on art and design, this museum has a ton of exhibits on offer and the majority of them are FREE to enter! 

If you decide to visit the Medieval Museum instead, you’ll get to learn all about Stockholm during the 16th century. There’s even a part of the city wall still preserved in the museum that’s thought to be from the 1520s.

Go on a cruise of the archipelago

If you’re spending a weekend in Stockholm – don’t miss out on an archipelago cruise. 

The Stockholm archipelago is made up of nearly 30,000 islands and islets, so there’s plenty to see. This makes it one of the top attractions in the city, and is an experience not to be missed – trust us! 

We chose this cruise and couldn’t have been happier with the experience! We were out on the water for between 2.5-3 hours and got to see plenty of fantastic sights along the way. This included Vaxholms Fortress, the Fjäderholmarna Islands, and Tynningö.

Not only that, but as you cruise along the Baltic Sea you’ll head past private islands, lush forests, and sandy beaches so keep your eyes peeled.  If you’re lucky, you might even spot eagles – we did! 

There’s an onboard cafeteria on the cruise offering pies, sandwiches, salads, and beverages, and there’s also commentary running throughout the tour in both English and Swedish.

Head to Fotografiska

Fotografiska is located on the island of Södermalm, just 2.3 km (1.4 miles) from Slussen Metro Station. It’s not your usual gallery, but instead is an important centre for contemporary photography. 

There can be up to four large exhibitions, and 20 smaller exhibits at any given time here, so there are plenty of interesting pieces to look at.

There’s also a bistro and bar on-site that offers stunning views of the city, so take a breather and grab a drink! If you’re looking for a souvenir then head to the gift shop as they sell fantastic replica posters and photo books among other items.

Fotofrafiska is one of the more unique places to visit in Stockholm, but it’s definitely worth the trip. So, grab yourself a ticket and prepare to witness some awesome photographs.

However, you won’t need much time here as the gallery isn’t very big so you’ll have plenty of time to fit in more destinations. 

Admire the beauty of Strandvägen

Strandvägen is a boulevard located on the island of Östermalm.  The Boulevard stretches for 1 km (0.6 miles), and is a great place to take a stroll – especially on a sunny day! 

Strandvägen is one of the most beautiful (and exclusive) areas in Stockholm and is full of incredible architecture and luxury boats. 

There are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants found along the boulevard too, making it the perfect place to relax and admire the city. You’ll also find some benches along Strandvägen, so make sure you take some time to sit down and simply enjoy the views.

If it’s a nice day, you’ll get fantastic views of Gamla Stan, Skeppsholmen, and Djurgården, so we’d recommend bringing your camera along. This is generally the place you’ll head to for boat tours and water taxis too.

Visit Vitabergsparken

Vitabergsparken is one of the most scenic parks in Stockholm. It’s the perfect place to relax and have a picnic, so make sure you spend some time here during your trip.

Vitabergsparken also offers stunning city views and there’s a church located within the park called Sofia Kyrka. This church is located on top of a hill within the park, and you’ll also see traditional Swedish houses here , so take some time to wander around.

There’s even a restaurant and bar where you can grab something to eat and drink. Throughout the summer months, Vitabergsparken also hosts free concerts and there’s an open-air theatre too. 

Despite not being one of the most popular spots in the city, it’s a great place for some downtime.

Walk the Monteliusvagen Cliff Path at sunset 

Heading up Monteliusvagen Cliff Path for sunset is a must for any Stockholm 3-day itinerary! 

Located on the island of Södermalm, this cliff path offers stunning views of the city skyline including Stockholm City Hall and Riddarholmen. You’ll also get breathtaking views of Laka Mälaren.

Although the path is only 500 metres (1,640 feet) long, it’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Stockholm. However, the walk up to Monteliusvagen is pretty steep and can be slippery during the winter so mind your footing.

During your time walking this cliff path, make sure you take plenty of photographs as this is an experience you’ll want to remember. There are also benches located here, where you can sit back and watch the sun go down.

Honestly, don’t miss out on Monteliusvagen Cliff Path during your 3 days in Stockholm! The closest metro station is Slussen and it’s just a 12-minute walk away.

Helpful Information for Your 3 Days in Stockholm

How to get to stockholm.

Stockholm Arlanda Airport is just 39 km (24 miles) away from the city centre and is the entry point for all international flights. There is another smaller airport just 9 km (5.5 miles) outside of Stockholm called Bromma Stockholm Airport but that’s mainly used for domestic flights. 

There are several ways you can get to the city from Arlanda Airport. The quickest way is by catching the Arlanda Express as the journey only takes around 18 minutes. You can also catch a commuter train to Stockholm city centre , or take the airport coach which takes around 45 minutes.

Two companies operate these coaches; Flygbussarna Airport Coaches and Flixbus . If you purchase tickets in advance through the apps, you’ll also get a discount. 

If you’re not catching a flight to Stockholm, you can travel overland or by ferry. Ferries run from Estonia, Finland, Latvia, and Poland, and will arrive at the ports in and around Stockholm. Bus and train services also run from Norway, Denmark, and other destinations within Europe.

How to get around Stockholm

There are plenty of transport options within the city centre so you’ll have no problem getting around.

Here is a quick rundown of the most popular ways to get around:

Metro: The city’s metro system is the BEST way to get around Stockholm. There are over 100 stations and the majority of the metro lines operate between 5 am to 1 am. 

Bus: There are several bus routes across the city, and many of them head to areas that the metro can’t reach. You’ll also find that most of the bus lines run through the night when other modes of public transport have already shut down .

Tram: Stockholm has several tram lines that connect the city centre with the outer suburbs. The most popular line is generally Line 7 as it stops on the island of Djurgården.

Ferry: As the city is made up of so many islands, there are various ferry routes throughout Stockholm. Many of them are included on the SL card too which is a great way to save money. 

Electric Scooters & E-Bikes: As you wander around Stockholm you’ll see that this is one of the most popular ways to get around. They are located all around the city, and you can just hop on and hop off whenever you feel like it.

Hop-on Hop-off bus & boat: This combined bus and boat ticket will allow you to easily travel around Stockholm. You can purchase a 24-hour ticket or a 72-hour ticket that will give you full access to the boat and bus tours throughout the city. 

The SL Travel Card

If you’re looking to save money on transport costs then your best bet is to get the SL Travel Card . There are 24-hour, 72-hour, and 30-day travel tickets so it all depends on the duration of your trip. 

Or if not, you can purchase a single ticket. Buses, metro trains, commuter trains, trams, and certain ferry lines are all covered by Stockholms’ transportation network. 

You can get a single ticket on any of these forms of transport (although only specific ferry lines are covered). It covers a journey of up to 75 minutes and can be purchased at the turnstiles, through the app, or on a ticket machine.

Looking for another awesome way to get around Stockholm?

This tour will allow you to explore Stockholm’s islands and waters by Amphibious Bus.

Before starting your cruise on the water, you’ll first drive through the city centre and see some popular attractions including the Royal Palace, the Royal Theatre, and the Old Town. 

Then, you’ll head along Lake Mälaren for a close-up view of the city’s many islands including Djurgården and Södermalm.

The best time to visit Stockholm

Stockholm is a city that you can visit during any time of year – it all depends on what you’re after! 

The city’s peak season is between June and August. Temperatures during this period range from 11°C (52°F)  to 22°C (71°F) so the weather is very pleasant. This is also when you get the longest hours of daylight. 

However, this is the priciest time to visit Stockholm and you’ll be paying over the odds for accommodation. 

If you’re looking to save some cash, you can travel to Stockholm in the shoulder season instead. This is between April to May and September to October. Although be prepared for temperatures to be a bit chillier. 

You can also head to Stockholm during December for the Christmas markets, but temperatures can drop as low as -3°C (27°F). The city doesn’t see much daylight during this time of year either with the sun setting as early as 3 pm.

Exploring Stockholm by tour

Wandering around the city self-guided is one of the best ways to experience Stockholm. You’ll get to explore all the small alleyways, find hidden gems, and take your time to see all the best sites.

However, if you head out on a tour you’ll get to learn so much about the city from one of the locals. 

Here are some of the most popular tour options in Stockholm:

• Stockholm Old Town Walking Tour : This private walking tour will take you to the Old Town’s most popular spots including Riddarholmen Church. You’ll get an insight into the historic landmarks, hear stories about the city’s past, and enjoy the best viewpoints so it’s a great option.
• Stockholm Bike Tour : If you’re looking for a more active way to explore Stockholm, then this bike tour may be for you! You’ll pedal past various attractions in the city including the Royal Palace, the Parliament building, and the National City Park.
• Stockholm: Sightseeing Tour by Segway : This is one of the more unique ways to see the city! You can take a segway through the Old Town and along the waterfront to see some of the city’s most popular sites including the Royal Castle and the shipyard.
• Stockholm: The Nordic Food Walk : If you’re a big foodie and looking to taste traditional Swedish cuisine  – this is the tour for you! During this walking tour, you’ll head to the old market hall, a local chocolate store, and wander around Gamla Stan. 
• Stockholm: Under the Bridges Boat Tour : If you want to explore the city by water, this boat tour is a great choice. This cruise will sail along the Baltic Sea and Lake Mälaren, where you’ll get to see some of Stockholm’s main landmarks.

Where to stay in Stockholm 

There’s no denying that Stockholm is an expensive city, however, you can still find some great deals.

Here are a couple of our recommendations!

Luxury: Grand Hôtel Stockholm

Grand Hôtel Stockholm is situated right by the waterfront and is opposite the Royal Palace and Gamla Stan. There are a variety of gorgeous suites to choose from, some of which overlook the waterfront.

The hotel is the definition of luxury with a Michelin-star restaurant, luxury spa, an indoor pool, and chauffeur-driven limousine transfers. The rooms are also beautifully designed with plenty of amenities. 

Mid-range: Victory Hotel

Victory Hotel is located in Stockholm’s Old Town and is just a 2-minute walk from Gamla Stan metro station. All the rooms at this hotel are navy-themed and generally sleep 1-2 people.

There’s an on-site restaurant that serves seafood and other tasty dishes and you’ll have breakfast included in your stay. Guests will also have access to a sauna and plunge pool.

Budget: STF Rygerfjord Hotel & Hostel  

This is where we stayed during our 3 days in Stockholm and it’s the perfect option if you’re travelling on a budget. The hotel consists of three ships docked on Lake Mälaren, and you’ll be staying in a cabin .

Guests also have access to a lounge area, shared kitchen facilities, and the onboard restaurant. You’ll be in a great location for exploring the city too!

Frequently Asked Questions about Stockholm

How many days do You need in Stockholm?

You could spend endless days exploring this city, but luckily 3 days in Stockholm is enough time to see the top attractions. Any less, and you’ll likely find yourself rushing around.

However, if you’ve only got one day in Stockholm , then you’ll need to prioritise the places you want to visit.  The city is spread across thousands of islands so you need to allow plenty of travel time too.

Is Stockholm Cheap To Visit?

Unfortunately, Stockholm isn’t cheap. In fact, it’s ranked as one of the most expensive cities in Europe and you’ll be paying over the odds for pretty much everything. 

However, there are ways to cut your costs and you shouldn’t skip out on visiting this amazing city just because you’re travelling on a budget.  We had an amazing time and didn’t spend too much!

Is Stockholm a walkable city?

We found Stockholm to be extremely walkable, so you’ll have no issues getting around the city. Many of the attractions are located close together, near the Old Town too which is super handy.

If you’re not a keen walker, then you can always take advantage of Stockholm’s fantastic public transportation system. The metro is extremely popular, but there are also buses, trams, and ferries.

Is Stockholm a good city break?

Stockholm makes for a fantastic city break! There are plenty of things to do here, as well as endless tourist amenities including hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops.

However, when planning an itinerary for Stockholm, it’s important to prioritise your top attractions. You won’t be able to see everything this city has to offer in just a few days so keep that in mind.

Final thoughts on your 3 days in Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is an incredible city and one that we’d 100% recommend! 

There are plenty of incredible sites to see, and you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice. However, if you’ve only got 3 days in Stockholm, these are the places you want to visit! 

In this Stockholm itinerary, we’ve grouped together the attractions in the best way we can. That means you can truly make the most out of your stay in the city, and leave with memories to last a lifetime. 

If you have further questions about where to visit in Stockholm then don’t hesitate to contact us via Instagram, Facebook, or in the comments below! 

Here are some other Europe guides you may find helpful:

• How To Spend 3 Days In Oslo
• The Best Fjord Tours From Oslo
• What Is Oslo Famous For?

PIN IT FOR LATER!

Jack Bolton

I’m one half of Acouplescalling. I'm passionate about all things travel and photography and I love sharing my experiences with others. I've seen a lot of the world already and I want to help as many people as I can do the same thing!

Similar Posts

2 Day Jaipur Itinerary (The Best Places To Visit In Jaipur, India)

Last Updated: November 17 2020 Jaipur city is the capital of India’s Rajasthan state and is located approximately 170…

2 Days In Edinburgh (The Ultimate Edinburgh Itinerary)

Last Updated: March 4 2024 It’s fair to say that when people think of Scotland their minds probably go…

The 20 Best Things To Do In Borneo (Malaysian Borneo)

Last Updated: May 28 2024 Borneo had been on our bucket list for some time and incredibly, it exceeded…

2-Day London Itinerary: How To Spend 2 Days In London

Last Updated: January 10 2024 Even though we’ve travelled around the world, we still consider London to be one…

The Top Things To See In Hoi An (The Best Hoi An Tourist Attractions)

Last Updated: December 6 2020 Hoi An is a beautiful romantic city and is a must when travelling through…

One Day In Oslo: How To Spend 24 Hours In Norway’s Capital

Last Updated: April 23 2024 Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a fascinating city famous for its impressive architecture,…

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

The 20 essential travel tips for visiting Stockholm

Wondering whether to use cash, or whether to bare all at the sauna? We've got you covered.

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Wikimedia Commons/<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Train_at_T-Centralen_T-Bana_station_in_Stockholm_Sweden.png" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Tim Adams</a>

You can plan out every minute of every day when visiting a city like Stockholm , and you’ll still get caught out by one tiny little thing. Train tickets. Cash only. That sort of thing. You might even get caught in an embarrassing foreign blunder, where you order a coffee at completely the wrong time. 

Anyway, this is as true in the Scandinavian capital of cool as it is anywhere else. Want to know which stations to avoid, and what time you should eat cake? Do you bare all at a sauna, or keep your pants on? From metro tickets to how to say ‘hello’, here is every travel tip you’ll need for your first time in Stockholm. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Stockholm 🍽️ The best restaurants in Stockholm 🏘️ Where to stay in Stockholm 🛍️ The best spots for shopping in Stockholm

This guide was updated by Madeleine Hyde , a writer based in Stockholm. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .  

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The ultimate Stockholm guide

1.  access the airport the sneaky way.

Many travellers don’t realise that apart from the expensive express train and coaches, you can get from Arlanda airport to the city centre by public transport. Follow signs to the local buses at any terminal, and look for the one that goes to Märsta station, which is on a commuter rail line. The whole journey to central Stockholm can be covered on a single ticket, which you can buy on the SL app.

2.  Don’t bring a ton of cash

Stockholm aims to become a cash-free city in the coming years, and in fact, many cafes, restaurants and hotels already enforce this policy. So on your trip, it’s best to bring your bank card and only use cash if you have to. 

3.  Look beyond the metro lines

Booking accommodation in Stockholm can be dizzying. Which island is best? How much should you spend? And most commonly asked: Can they all be accessed easily? In the inner-city, the answer is yes. But it’s worth looking further, too: the prices of accommodation go down if you look along the commuter rail lines, rather than just the metro lines. Don’t be intimidated by these local lines; they’ll often get you to the city centre just as quickly!

4.  Avoid the ‘stress tunnel’ at Centralen

An early sunset normally tempts Stockholmers to leave the office around 4pm and so for most of the year, this is our rush hour. Avoid the central station, ‘T-Centralen,’ at 4pm and at around 8 in the morning, if you can help it—this is when the ‘stress tunnel’ between the different metro lines is at its most congested.

5.  On weekdays, breakfast is simple and healthy

In cafes, you’ll find mostly muesli and yoghurt or bread rolls with ham and cheese served in the morning hours. On weekends, however, it’s a whole different story. Popular brunch spots like Kitchen & Table and Greasy Spoon fill up quickly, so be sure to book ahead!

6.  Pack your toughest boots

If you’re planning a winter trip, bring along some very sturdy shoes. From November through till March you can expect the ground to be covered in ‘slask,’ a grotty mix of melted snow and grit. It keeps you from falling over, but it will leave its mark on your footwear!

7.  Have a whole Swedish conversation with just two words

Swedes are well-known for their English skills; you’ll hear and see English all around you in Stockholm. Still, if you want to try out some Swedish, you can do so with minimal effort. You can say hello or goodbye with just ‘hej’ or ‘hej hej’ (where the ‘j’ is pronounced like an English ‘y’) and ‘tack’ means both thank you and please, so it’s extra easy to be polite.

8.  The flavours of fika

‘Fika’ is the Swedish coffee and cake ritual that means that the best cafes in the city will be full to the brim in the afternoons, especially on weekends. The traditional fika is with a cinnamon bun, but some cafes do their own variations: the rhubarb crumble buns at Fabrique, or the pistachio and blackcurrant version at Il Caffe are some favourites. It’s a crowded time, but well worth pushing in.

9.  Saunas are for revealing all

Another Nordic ritual is stripping down in the sauna. In Swedish culture, it’s generally encouraged to keep things private—except for when it comes to the sauna. Don’t expect to bring anything but yourself and a towel, which is mostly for drying yourself off after you plunge into an icy-cold lake.

10.  Save your clean-eating week for Stockholm

The vegan offerings in this city are unrivalled. You can order your coffee with oat, almond or soya milk in most cafes, get delicious vegan ice cream in stores or at Stikki Nikki, or try vegan pulled pork (called oomph ) in Max Burger, Vigårda and many other burger establishments.

11.  Spend late night at a gallery

If you’re a night owl looking for something more intellectually stimulating than a night on the tiles, thank goodness for Fotografiska, the photography exhibition on Södermalm’s northern waterfront. After the rest of the galleries have closed, this former factory stays open until 11pm.

12.  Lunch starts early in Sweden

Lunch is Sweden’s biggest meal of the day. Restaurants typically offer buffet lunches for a fixed price and start serving at noon sharp. Oh, and there won’t normally be any desserts on the table, but you can save your sweet tooth for later (see fika )!

13.  Down-time in the summer

Swedes take holidays very seriously—normally, by disappearing off to their countryside cottages or island retreats on the archipelago. This means that at certain times of the year, Stockholm is a bit of a ghost town, especially after Midsummer in June and July. On the plus side, visitors get the city to themselves!

14.  Island-hop in style for no extra cost

Your SL card (SL being the Stockholm transport system) can get you onto pretty much any transport, including some of the ferries that run between the inner-city islands. In the winter season, you can even use an SL ticket on ferries to the archipelago.

15.  Buying alcohol here is a bit… systematic

The Swedish government has a monopoly on alcohol—if it’s over 3.5% ABV, anyway. For the strong stuff, you’ll need to head to government-owned Systembolaget, which close early afternoons on Saturday and don’t open at all on Sundays. If you fancy a 2% beer (affectionately known to locals as folköl , or ‘the people’s beer’), you can get these in any regular store.

16.  Get a pint at 4pm

Rush hour is also the start of ‘After-Work’, a Swedish version of happy hour beginning around 4:30pm. Many pubs will serve a cheaper pint during these hours, and there’s even a club, Out of Office, that kicks off in the late afternoon instead of the late evening to cater to thirsty office workers. Download the club’s app for your free entrance ticket and dance your suit off.

17.  Culture without the entrance fee

If beer and sauna culture don’t cut it, you can spend your Tuesday afternoon at a museum instead, without spending anything. The Nordic Museum has free entry on Wednesdays from 5-8pm, and the Nobel Prize Museum from 5-8pm on Tuesdays. The Modern Art museum on Skeppsholmen, meanwhile, has free admission the whole week round.

18.  The two words you need for a cheap pint

Stockholmers are big beer lovers, and there are many great micro-breweries and craft beer establishments across the city to prove it. That’s not to say that your pint has to be anything fancy or expensive, however; at any bar, you can order their cheapest pint of beer simply by asking for a ‘Stor Stark.’

19.  Drink in the evening sunlight in summer

In the summer, drinking goes outdoors. Bars reveal themselves in all kinds of innovative outside spaces, including under a bridge: Trädgården (the garden) opens under Skanstull bridge at the end of May. As a bonus, if you get there before 7pm you’ll avoid any entrance free and be offered cheaper drinks deals.

20.  Plan ahead to avoid taxis

Taxis are very, very expensive in Stockholm. Especially boat taxis (yes, really!), which will come and get you if you’re stuck on an island in the archipelago. Plan ahead by checking the SL app for your best travel options. On weekends, the metro runs all night, but on weekdays your best bet after 1am might be a night bus.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Android app
• Time Out Worldwide

• Travel magazine

Best Time To Visit Stockholm

(0 - 12 years old)

Book a private experience

August 13, 2020

By Holly Stark

Whether you’re after frosty rooftops or sun-kissed lakes and evergreens, Stockholm has a plenty to offer. With four distinct seasons, Stockholm transfigures from a snow-covered playground with locals skiing its slopes and skating its frozen canals into a high-season, sunny paradise that’s perfect for long days spent outside, lakeside swimming, bike rides and picnics. Each season has a distinct vibe and Stockholm weather varies a lot, but with many of the city’s historical museums and cultural attractions accessible year-round; as well as cosy cafes, classy restaurants and the creative district, Stockholm makes a great place to visit at any time. 

The best time to visit Stockholm depends on how you want to spend your trip. Are you a nature lover longing for some summer sun or a winter adventurer craving frosty days wrapped up and exploring in the snow? Really, there is no best time of year to visit Stockholm as you can fill your itinerary whatever the weather. But unsurprisingly, Stockholm is its busiest in its summer months between May and September. Temperatures can reach up to 30 degrees and the sun sets late. Despite this, at night the temperature can drop drastically so its best to always be prepared. In winter, days are extremely short with the sun setting before 3pm. November is quite bleak, dark, cold and usually with no snow to brighten the city. Despite this, you’ll still find plenty of things to do in Stockholm in winter. If you’re here for snow, January and February are the best months to visit. For a chance of beautiful weather, book to arrive during July or August.

Wondering what to do in Stockholm in Spring? When the first spring flowers start to blossom and the first leaf buds bloom at the end of March, Stockholm transforms into a natural beauty. Dense with greenery and pink cherry blossom trees, Kungsträdgården park makes a great visit. It’s located in the city near Centralen and Östermalmstorg and offers the perfect break for some nature rehabilitation. March to May is the driest time of the year in Stockholm. Bars and cafes start opening their patios and locals head to them to soak up the sun and enjoy a few beers. Blå Porten on Djurgården, Mosebacke Terrace on Södermalm and Mälarpaviljonen on Kungsholmen are great terraces to check out. Although it’s likely to be sunny, the snow could still make an appearance, or days might be gloomy and chilly. So it’s always best to pack a hat and scarf. Head to Hornstull ’s weekly food and vintage market, which starts up in April, and Kulturnatt , an annual free celebration of music, art and literature.

Grab a bicycle with a picnic basket, or kayak down the river and enjoy the glittering waters, sprawling islands and sun-kissed parklands of Stockholm. The city is lively in summer, with tourists and locals alike wandering old town Stockholm’s cobbled streets and townhouses of Gamla Stan. With long evenings, Stockholm presents the perfect opportunity for enjoying the city’s nightlife : think bars, nightclubs, free music festivals, salsa and bachata dance classes, comedy clubs and book clubs in small cafes. The biggest national festival of the year, Midsummer , takes place around the summer solstice at the end of June. The sun never quite goes down in Sweden during the summer, and the long days make it an ideal time to visit Stockholm. If you like walking, a local can take you through Stockholm’s neighbourhoods. 

As the city cools off, you might consider visiting one of the many museums in Stockholm, the Fotografiska ; an absorbing exhibition-based photography museum showing a diverse group of artists, with a café on the top floor that has a great view of the lake and city. If you love the outdoors, wrap up and head to the scenic apple orchards at Edeby Gård in Drottningholm or Rosenhill in Ekerö. Autumn is Sweden's apple season. So soak up the fresh air, exercise, and then enjoy the fruity aromas or indulge in a delicious Swedish apple crumble, or äppelsmulpaj. Then spend the dark evenings inside the cosy Irish bar Wirströms on Stora Nygatan in Gamla stan, Vete-katten on Drottninggatan/Kungsgatan and Under Kastanjen on Brända Tomten in Gamla stan.

As well as being visually spectacular, the city offers a variety of great things to do during winter. It’s probably the best time to get a true perception of Stockholm life, as in summer many locals head to their summer houses in the archipelago. But if you want to explore a snow-covered playground, January or February is the best time to visit Stockholm. Winter is typically from early December to mid-March. During these months the average temperature is just below 0˚C, however there can be days where it drops to -15˚C. Stockholm gets six hours of daylight in peak winter months, and some days can feel completely absorbed by darkness, so it’s important to bear that in mind when planning your trip. Swedish locals combat the darkness with a plethora of fairy lights and candles, lighting up every window and doorway with a welcoming glow.

Hello, curious traveler! Embark on a unique experience with Hello, curious traveler! Embark on a unique experience with City Unscripted Stockholm. Our personalized, private tours, led by local hosts, make you feel like you’re exploring the city with a knowledgeable friend. We’ll take you to well-known sights and reveal Stockholm’s hidden gems, unveiling stories typically missed by traditional tours. So unscript your journey, and see Stockholm through the eyes of our local hosts!

Top private experiences in Stockholm

Half day in Stockholm with a local

Ultimate Stockholm food experience

Day trip to Uppsala

We’ll pair you with the perfect host

There is no better way to see a city than with a friend who lives there. This is why we carefully match guests with their perfect host based on interested, personality and type of experience so they can discover a city beyond the tourist trail.

Find your perfect host and experience using our nifty little tool

You may also like

10 Reasons to Fall in Love with Stockholm

15 Last-Minute Gift Ideas Inspired by the World

15 Unique gift ideas for travel lovers

Ultimate gift cards for the travel lover in your life

The Best Things to do in Stockholm in the Fall

10 Hidden Gems In Stockholm – A Local’s Recommendations

Explore our cities in sweden.

Popular destinations

San Francisco

Mexico City

Read more Stockholm articles

4 days in Stockholm itinerary and best time to visit

October 5, 2021 | Posted in: Sweden

Last June, my mom and I spent four days in Stockholm. To me, summer is the best time to visit Stockholm and I was looking forward to exploring the capital of Sweden in the sun.

I'd been to Stockholm for the first time just a few months before on a winter surprise trip but hadn't seen that much of the city because of the weather.

I wasn't just looking forward to visiting the city in warmer temperatures, though. Our Stockholm trip was squished in between two works trips and at the start of three months filled with travel. I'd decided that our time in Stockholm would be a proper vacation and so I left my camera at home, used a travel guide instead of researching everything on my own, and didn't even bring my laptop.

The Stockholm itinerary below includes everything we've done during our four days in Stockholm, but it's a little less detailed than the itineraries you're used to getting from me for exactly the reason I described above. Nevertheless, I hope you'll find it useful for planning your own trip to Stockholm.

Want to get the most out of your visit? Consider joining a walking town of the Old Town or a bike tour along all the city's highlights .If you rather take it easy, there's also this highly recommended boat tour along the Royal Canal .

What to see in Gamla Stan

Where to eat in gamla stan, take a tour of gamla stan, sights to see in riddarholmen, sights to see in norrmalm, where to eat in norrmalm, 1. visit drottningholm palace, sights to see in södermalm, 1. visit stockholm city hall, sights to see in östermalm, 1. the abba museum, 2. a bike ride around djurgärden, 3. day trips from stockholm, where to stay in stockholm, how to get around in stockholm, how to get to stockholm, arlanda airport, bromma airport, is stockholm expensive to visit, what should you know before you go to stockholm, 1. currency, 3. is stockholm expensive, 4. alcohol limitations, 5. midsummer activities.

I've put it together in such a way that it has four full days of things to do in Stockholm, but of course, you can also move some of the activities around depending on when you arrive and leave again. We actually had more like three days in Stockholm as we arrived by noon and left in the afternoon on our last day.  

Day 1: Gamla Stan, Riddarholmen and Norrmalm

1. gamla stan.

As our hotel was located in the famous old town of Stockholm, Gamla Stan, that's where we started wandering around. It's actually best to do Gamla Stan on a weekday in the morning if you don't want it to be too busy, though the area really comes to life when it's many terraces are filled with people.

The best way to explore Gamla Stan is by simply walking up and down its little streets. The neighborhood is located on a small island so you really can't get lost.  

Riddarhuset Riddarhuset or the “House of Knights” is a palace that houses the House of Nobility, an organization that aims to protect the historical heritage and interests of the Swedish nobility.

Riddarhustorget 10  

Bondeska Palatset The Bondeska Palatset or “Bonde Palace” was designed as a private residence and now houses the Swedish Supreme Court.

Riddarhustorget 8  

The narrowest alley of Stockholm Mårten Trotzigs Gränd is only 90 cm (35.34 inches) wide, making it the narrowest alleyway of Stockholm. It's a bit of a grungy street – dark, with graffiti on the wall – but it makes for a fun photo opportunity.

Mårten Trotzigs Gränd  

Stockholms Slott/Kungliga Slottet with the changing of the guard at Yttre Borggarden

Stockholms Slott or Kungliga Slottet in Swedish is the Swedish Royal Palace. It's unique in that it's not just the royal residence, but also the workplace of the royal court.

The royal apartments and three museums housed inside the palace are open to the public. It's one of the most popular Stockholm points of interest.

Stockholms Slott  

Järnpojke, the smallest statue in Stockholm Järnpojke or “Iron Boy” is a statue that measures only 15 centimeters (5.9 inches). You can spot it in the garden of the Finnish Church (Finska Kyrkan) where it's visited daily by tourists.

The story goes that caressing the boy's head or bringing him gifts brings good luck. It's also said that tourists who caress him, will return to Stockholm. Every day, the Iron Boy is surrounded by different gifts that mysteriously get cleaned away during the night. It's probably one of the most quirky things to see in Stockholm.

Slottsbacken 2B-C  

The three churches Aside from the Finnish Church, Gamla Stan has two other churches: the German Church of St. Gertrude (Tyska Kyrkan) and the Great Church (Storrkyrkan) or the Stockholm Cathedral.

German Church, Svartmangatan 16 Stockholm Cathedral, Trångsund 1

Nobelmuseet You can find the Nobel Museum together with the Swedish Academy and the Nobel Library in the former stock exchange building in Gamla Stan. I haven't been here myself but read that while the material on display is interesting, the layout and organization of the museum could be better.

Stortorget 2  

As we were staying in Gamla Stan, it's also where we went for dinner. I'm sure there are tons of great restaurants in the restaurant, but let's be real: who wants to walk far in the evening when they're hungry?

My point exactly.

Because I didn't take notes (yup, I was really on vacation!), I don't remember all the places we ate and drank, but the following three I can recommend.

Ebenist Ebenist is located on the same square as Kaffekoppen en Chockladkoppen. I was hesitant to go in here as touristy squares are usually not where you want to have dinner (the restaurants there tend to be – in general – of lesser quality at a higher price), but Ebenist was an exception to that travel rule.

Its interior is designed to resemble a large cozy living room. The ambiance is cozy, with dimmed lights and dark furniture. The number of choices on the menu is limited – hopefully indicating everything is fresh – but the food refined and yummy.

My only critique would be that it got a little loud in there as the place filled up.

Stortorget 7  

Kaffekoppen en Chokladkoppen

You'll find fleece blankets draped over the chairs and the loveliest hot white chocolate milk on the menu. Order a big one. Take my word for it.

Stortorget 20 and 18  

Ristorante Paganini Mom loves Italian food and as Ristorante Paganini had good reviews, we decided that's where we'd go for some pasta. It's a rather large restaurant with a small sidewalk terrace outside.

My tip: try to get a table by the window. It's cooler and less noisy than sitting inside, yet not as chilly as really sitting outside. It might have been summer in Stockholm, I could definitely use a warm sweater at night!

Ristorante Paganini is run by Italians and our waiter was a real charmer. Mom and I first shared some antipasti before I enjoyed a lovely seafood pasta.

Västerlånggatan 75  

Would you rather take a tour of Gamla Stan and explore the old town with a guide? This walking tour comes highly recommended. Check it out.

If you prefer a private tour, this one can be customized to match your interests .  

2. Riddarholmen

Evert Taubes Terrass The Evert Taubes Terrass is a long square at the western edge of Riddarholmen from where you get great views on Södermalm to your left and the city center, with city hall, to your right. The park is named after Swedish artist, author, composer and singer Evert Taube who's been immortalized with a statue at the Terrass.

Evert Taubes Terrass  

Riddarholmskyrkan The Riddarholmen Church is one of the oldest buildings in Stockholm, dating back to the 13th century. It's also Stockholm's only remaining medieval abbey.

Good to know: it's only open to visitors from May to September.

Riddarholmskyrkan  

3. Norrmalm

Don't be fooled, though, because this neighborhood will keep you entertained even if you don't feel like digging up your wallet. You just have to pay attention a bit more than in Gamla Stan, where every pretty building snuggles up to another.

Yes, in my world, houses can snuggle.  

Adolf Fredriks Kyrka A beautiful white church known for its great acoustics.

Holländargatan 16  

Konserthuset with the statue Orfeusbrunnen The Concert Hall is one of those Stockholm landmarks you just can't miss. The massive blue-ish building dominates the square Hötorget, smack in the center of the city, and was built especially to house the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra. It hosts concerts as well as the famous Nobel Prize Award Ceremony.

Hötorget 8  

Kungstornen The Kungstornen or “King's Towers” are two skyscrapers standing each on one side of the Kungsgatan. With the bridge of the Malmskillnadsgatan crossing the Kungsgatan in the same spot, the whole creates the look of a big gate. If you like that big city feel, this is one of the top things to see in Stockholm.

Kungsgatan 33  

Hötorget and Hötorgshallen

At Hötorget (Haymarket Square), vendors sell fresh produce and flowers every day. On Sunday, the market transforms into a flea market. At the Hötorgshallen, you can find meat, fish, tea, coffee, and spices, but also all kinds of international foods. It's a great place to drop by for a quick lunch as well.

Hötorget – Hötorgshallen  

S:t Jacobs Kyrka Did you know the Swedes use “Jacob” both for the names Jacob and James? They do! This church's name is translated as the St. James's Church, not the St. Jacob's Church. Anyway, it's a bright red-orange church in the center of the city with an equally colorful altar.

Jacobs Torg 5  

Kungliga Operan I visited the Royal Opera House on my winter trip to Stockholm and had the chance to see a ballet performance there. It's a beautiful building – especially on the inside – and breathes that grandeur of bygone times. It's possible to take a tour of the building.

Gustav Adolfs torg 2  

K25 K25 is one of those modern food courts you see popping up in cities around the world. It's a popular lunch place for people working in the area as it serves a wide range of foods, both in terms of pricing and in terms of tastes. It's open all-day-long and the eleven present restaurants offer their dishes both to eat in or to go. A lot of them serve beer and wine as well.

Kungsgatan 25  

Take a food tour If you really want to get a taste of Stockholm (haha, see what I did there?) while learning about the city at the same time, consider taking a food tour. This one gets good reviews :

Day 2: Drottningholm Palace and Södermalm

When I asked my mom what she wanted to do when we'd go to Stockholm, she only had one demand: to do the boat tour to Drottningholm Palace.

Drottningholm Palace is a royal palace built in the 17th century. It's a Unesco World Heritage site and visiting it by boat is one of the top things to do in Stockholm. Aside from the palace – which is open to the public – visitors can also wander around the palace gardens, visit the Chinese Pavilion and catch a show at the Palace Theater.

As so much of the palace grounds is accessible to the public, it may come as a surprise that this is actually the permanent residence of the king and queen of Sweden. They live in the southern wing of Drottningholm, the only part that isn't open.

We visited Drottningholm Palace with an old steamboat from Stockholm's city center. We'd been advised to show up at the departure point by Stockholm's City hall half an hour in advance to make sure we got good seats on board, but that really wasn't necessary.

We couldn't get on until 10 minutes or so before the departure time and the boat wasn't overly full once we got on.

Now, that might have also been because we booked the first departure of the day, at 10 a.m. because that allowed us to spend the entire morning at Drottningholm Palace while still having the rest of the day to see more of Stockholm.

You can also visit Drottningholm Palace by bus (or taxi, or private transfer, or rental car, or bike), but I highly recommend the boat tour we did. It takes one hour to get to the palace and one hour to go back, giving you great vistas along the way.

Think little islands, tiny houses, wooden piers, lots of green and small harbors. Mom and I loved it.

The boat tour ticket includes your entrance to the palace, which is great because it means you can just walk in once you get there without having to queue. The palace is the first thing you come across when you disembark, so we visited that before going into the gardens.

In total, we spent about two hours on the castle grounds. This was enough to see both the rooms of the castle and the gardens. We even had a drink at the Drottningholm cafe before going back to the boat.

For up to date opening hours and dates, check the website .  

2. Södermalm

Södermalm was possibly my favorite part of Stockholm. It's known as the hip neighborhood of the city with its independent boutiques, cute cafes and vintage stores. It felt less busy and rushed than Norrmalm and more “real” than Gamla Stan.

Södermalm is also where you can find SoFo, a pun on New York and London's SoHo meaning “South of Folkungatan”. It's an area full of hip stores, restaurants and cafes located between Fokungatan in the north, Ringvägen in the south, Erstagatan in the east and Götgatan in the west.  

View from Monteliusvägen Taking the short 500-meter walk along Monteliusvägen is one of the best things to do in Stockholm on a sunny day. This walkway on the northern side of Södermalm has cute houses on one side and an amazing view of the rest of the city, including city hall, on the other side.

Monteliusvägen  

If you'd rather be on the water than looking at it, this Stockholm archipelago cruise gets great reviews.  

Katarina Kyrka This big yellow church has been rebuilt twice, each time after it had been destroyed by a fire. I guess its color is symbolic in that way.

Högbergsgatan 13  

The wooden houses

In certain places in Södermalm, you can still find the typical small wooden workers' houses from the 18th and 19th centuries. Often painted in colors like red and yellow, they're very photogenic and taking some photos of them is one of the free things to do in Stockholm.

Bergsprängargränd, Mäster Persgränd and Master Mikaels Grata  

Nytorgsgatan 5: the smallest house in Stockholm The title says it all: at Nytorgsgatan 5, you'll find the smallest house in Stockholm. Its red color contrasts nicely with the big yellow building next to it. It won't take much of your time but it's one of the more fun Stockholm things to see.

Nytorgsgatan 5  

Fotografiska Fotografiska is Stockholm's photography museum and center. It has changing exhibitions, a bookstore, a gallery, and a well-reputed restaurant. Buy your ticket online for easy entrance.

Stadsgårdshamnen 22  

The view from restaurant Erik's Gondolen This restaurant is located 33 meters up and can be accessed via a walking bridge.

Stadsgården 6  

Day 3: City Hall and Östermalm

I know, Stockholm's City Hall isn't exactly the most elegant building out there (sorry, Swedes, it just isn't) but you can't say it isn't impressive. And you know what they say about judging a book by its cover a building by its exterior.

I probably wouldn't have visited it if dad hadn't done so many moons ago and had recommended us to go as well. You can only visit Stockholm City Hall on a guided tour, which is a bit of a bummer, but I have to admit that the rooms we saw were worth it.

Did you know there's a golden room? Yup, there is. It's not just yellow or anything like that. The walls and ceiling are actually covered in gold. Don't get any ideas now.

There are guided tours in several languages and they run frequently throughout the day. Our tour lasted about an hour and my mom really liked it. While I have to say the girl who guided us was great, I just don't like guided tours that much. I need to be able to move on to the next thing when I feel like it.

On a practical note: use the toilet before the tour starts, as you won't be able to go during. There's both a toilet close to the ticket offices and at the end of the tour, by the cloakroom.

Hantverkargatan 1  

2. Östermalm

Östermalm is Stockholm's fancy neighborhood. This is where the rent is high and the shop windows don't show prices for the items on display. Nevertheless, we spotted some fun boutiques and cafes around here and enjoyed just wandering through the streets and taking in the ambiance.

Honestly, I think that's probably one of the most fun things to do in Stockholm: to simply walk around and take it all in.  

Historiska Museet The Swedish History Museum is one of the biggest museums in Stockholm and even in the whole of Sweden. Tens of thousands of people come here every year to see the exhibitions on Sweden's cultural history and archeology from the Mesolithic period until the present day. Especially the large Viking exhibition is popular.

Narvavägen 13-17  

Dramaten The building of the Royal Dramatic Theater of Stockholm dates back to the 18th century. It hosts national and international classical and modern plays for both children and adults. It has no less than five different stages.

Nybroplan, 111  

Hedvig Eleonora Kyrka The Hedvig Eleonora Church is an octagonal yellow church dating back to the 18th century. Fun fact: the father of famous Swedish movie director Ingmar Bergman was a vicar here when he was young.

Storgatan 2  

Other things to do in Stockholm

I know, I know, I can't write an itinerary for Stockholm without including the Abba Museum. I actually did visit it on my first trip to the city and yes, it was interesting. It isn't rated one of the best museums in Stockholm for nothing. It's located on Djurgärden together with a few other museums and a theme park.

You can get there by taking the ferry from Gamla Stan or Skeppsholmen.

Tip: you need to buy your tickets to the Abba museum in advance, as there's a timeslot attached to when you can visit.

Get your tickets for the Abba Museum here.  

Djurgärden is a beautiful and rather green island known as the home of the Abba Museum, the Skansen open air museum , and the Vasa Museum.

Vasa was a fearsome warship that sunk on its maiden trip in 1628, after going barely 1300 meters. The ship was salvaged in August 1959 and after years of treatment of the wood the Vasa Museum opened in 1990. Inside, you will find the restored ship. The museum is dark, to protect the wood from decaying.

Want to visit the Vasa Museum? Get skip-the-line tickets with this tour.

Djurgärden is also a great place to go for a bike ride in summer.

Want to know what you're seeing while cycling around stockholm? Then consider this 3-hour bike tour which gets great reviews.

And if you're traveling with kids or feeling a bit nostalgic, bike to the nearby Junibacken, a museum and children’s theater dedicated to the work of Astrid Lindgren. You can meet here with all the famous characters she created, including Pippi Longstocking.  

As we were only in the city for four days, we didn't do any Stockholm day trips, but if you'd be interested in doing a day trip from Stockholm, I looked up some of the best ones according to reviews from other travelers.

• Half-day Viking tour from Stockholm
• Kayaking day in the Archipelago
• Day-trip to Fjäderholmarna archipelago by boat

What's the best place to stay in Stockholm will depend on your accommodation preferences. Mom and I stayed at a boutique hotel in Gamla Stan, but I realize you might be looking for something else.

That's why I've gone ahead and done the research for you.

Below you can find my recommendations for different categories of places to stay in Stockholm, as well as some information about the hotel we stayed at.  

A boutique option in Gamla Stan: Collector's Lady Hamilton Mom and I stayed at the Collector's Lady Hamilton boutique hotel in Gamla Stan where we enjoyed free WiFi, a lovely breakfast buffet, and a central location in Stockholm's old town. Let me show you around:

Read reviews on TripAdvisor / Book a room  

A luxury option: the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel I love the Radisson Blu hotels because they alays have the best beds. The Radisson Blu Waterfront offers free WiFi and a delicious breakfast buffet. Guests have raved about the on-site gym and the great location in the city center.

Stockholm is a very walkable city, but it is rather big, so when you find yourself on one end and you need to be at the other, you can take a bus, tram, subway or even a ferry. Tickets can be purchased separately.

If want to see as much as possible without walking too much, the hop-on/hop-off buses and boats might be a good option. Depending on what you want to see, you can buy:

• a ticket for just the hop-on/hop-off bus
• a ticket for just the hop-on/hop-off boat
• a combo tour

Stockholm has two airports: Stockholm Arlanda Airport and Bromma Stockholm Airport.

From Arlanda Airport, you can take the Arlanda Express train into the city center. This takes about 20 minutes and runs every 15 mins. It's a bit more pricy than the regular commuter train that takes 45 minutes and only runs twice an hour.

Another budget option is to take the Flygbussarna bus that goes from the airport to the city terminal in 35-45 minutes.  

You can take the same bus company from Bromma Airport. The travel time to the city center is then only 20 minutes.  

Note that taxis are free to set their prices within a certain range. More on that here . When I flew to Bromma with mom, we'd booked a private transfer straight to our hotel in advance so we knew there was someone waiting at a fixed price. It also meant we didn't need to be lugging our suitcases onto public transportation.

Welcome Pickups is great for booking airport transfers. Their site is super userfriendly and you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand if needed.  

How many days are needed to see Stockholm?

The ideal days for a first visit to Stockholm is 3-4 days. This allows enough time to see the main attractions and neighborhoods at a comfortable pace without feeling rushed. In 2 full days, it's possible to see the highlights, but the visit may feel hurried. To appreciate Stockholm's history, architecture, museums, food scene and more, most travelers recommend at least three days. Four days in Stockholm gives more breathing room to dive into museums, relax at cafes or take excursions outside the city. Many itineraries recommend focusing the first 2-3 days on central Stockholm's islands and attractions. Then, the fourth day can be used for venturing to Drottningholm Palace, the university town of Uppsala or the islands of the Stockholm archipelago.

Is Stockholm worth visiting?

Yes, Stockholm is absolutely worth visiting. The Swedish capital strikes the perfect balance of historic charm and modern urban energy. Spread across 14 islands at the meeting point of Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea, Stockholm boasts a spectacular natural setting interwoven with abundant green spaces, canals and waterfront promenades. The cityscape mixes medieval alleyways in the Old Town (Gamla Stan) with striking contemporary architecture, dynamic culinary and design scenes and an archipelago of over 30,000 islands just offshore to explore.

Yes, Stockholm is certainly one of the more expensive cities in Europe to visit. Flights to Stockholm generally range from SEK 5300-15900 (€465-1395, $500-1500, £375-1125) round trip depending on season and departure location. Accommodation varies widely – budget hotels and hostels start around SEK 530/night (€46/night, $50/night, £37/night), while luxury hotels can run over SEK 3180/night (€279/night, $300/night, £225/night). Public transportation is efficient and affordable, using a transit pass that costs SEK 30-50 (€3-5, $3-5, £2-4) per ride. Food costs can add up when eating at nicer restaurants, but budget meals are available for SEK 93-140 (€9-14, $10-15, £8-12) per person. Museums and attractions range from free outdoor sights to SEK 140-186 (€14-19, $15-20, £11-15) for major museums like the Vasa. While Stockholm is pricier than other European capitals, it offers excellent public transit and free attractions to offset costs. Smart budgeting of around SEK 930-1860 (€93-186, $100-200, £75-150) per day provides a comfortable visit. Cost-saving tips include visiting during the shoulder season, getting sightseeing passes, eating cheap takeaway meals or grocery store food and limiting alcohol purchases, which are highly taxed.

Find below the most important things you should know before visiting Stockholm.

Even though Sweden is a member of the European Union, it doesn't use the Euro but the Swedish Kron. However, on both trips, I found that even the smallest coffee shop will accept credit cards. If you do prefer to use cash, I recommend just withdrawing it from an ATM upon your arrival.

Not sure what to do? Check the fees your bank applies for a transaction in foreign currencies and for withdrawing money abroad in a foreign currency. In some cases, it might be best to pay by credit card or debit card. In others, withdrawing money might be the smartest option.  

Although the weather in Stockholm in June – when we went – is generally good, you shouldn't expect the same temperatures as you'd get in the South of Europe. Mom and I could both use a cardigan and a light jacket in the mornings and the evenings. The afternoons were usually warm enough to walk around in a T-shirt.

My advice? Layer and bring something against the rain, just in case.  

I'd expected Stockholm to be super expensive but while it's not cheap, it definitely wasn't that bad either. Yes, alcohol is a lot more expensive than in most other European places, but Stockholm prices for foods and other drinks were similar, if maybe just a little higher than in Belgium.  

Speaking of alcohol: there are no cafes in Sweden where you can just get a drink. To be able to serve alcohol in Sweden, there has to be a food menu, so if you want a drink, you need to go to a restaurant or a restaurant-bar.

This sounds more limiting than it really is, as many places – like hotel bars – serve food as well.  

Midsummer is a big big thing in Stockholm and unless you like a bit of craziness and lots of drunk people, it might not be the best time to visit the city. Now, I haven't been during Midsummer, but I've had both locals and other travelers tell me that the otherwise so reserved and tempered Swedes really let loose during the Midsummer festivities.

They usually start the first Friday after June 21 and last a whole weekend.  

So is Stockholm worth visiting? I sure think so! And I hope this post gave you some ideas for things to do in Stockholm . Let me know if you end up using it to plan your own trip here.   

Find below our top travel guides about Sweden.

18 Fabulous Things to Do in Stockholm: Museums, History and Travel Guide

22 Terrific Things to do in Gothenburg: Museums, History and Travel Guide

20 Greatest Things to do in Uppsala: Museums, History and Travel Guide

18 Perfect Things to do in Malmö: Museums, History and Travel Guide

16 Best Destinations to visit in Sweden all year round!

Sweden Holidays Guide – Everything to plan your trip

The editorial team at Wonderful Wanderings brings together travel experts with backgrounds in travel writing, web development and digital marketing. The team, through their collaborative effort, provides readers with relevant travel experiences and up-to-date digital content. The vast expertise within the team ensures an informative blend of travel stories and useful online travel guides and trip experiences, built on a foundation of both industry recognition and hands-on global adventures. Learn more about Wonderful Wanderings

Russell says

Great read, Sofie A really comprehensive read and very helpful when planning a visit to Stockholm. I’ve not yet had the opportunity to visit Stockholm so will be following your tips when I do get to go

Thanks Russell, I appreciate that! :-) I hope you’ll enjoy it just as much as I did when you go.

Philip says

Reading this article reminds me of my time as a student in Sweden. I lived in the smaller town of Jonkoping but made frequent visits during university trips, to the airport and for workshops in Sweden thanks to the Swedish Institute. Stockholm and the whole of Sweden looks great during summer and autumn.

I haven’t been yet in autumn, but now you’ve made me curious :-)

davide faggioli says

I’m just considering spending 4 days in Stockholm since beside being a beutiful city in this crazy year is not so COVID involved as other places. I went there a couple of times a lifetime ago and your article has been the most infortative one I found online. Thanks

Thanks for letting me know, Davide! I really appreciate that :)

Alan W says

Thanks for the heads up and comprehensive write ups. Will be heading there via Copenhagen and Oslo in May 2024. Thanks for the lovely write ups.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Join 58,000+ other Wonderful Wanderers!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Best Time To Visit Stockholm

Top hotel collections.

Near Stockholm Central Station

Best Hotels

Cheap Hotels

What is the best time to visit Stockholm?

The best time to visit Stockholm is in the summer season, from June to August. The hottest month is July with the average temperature at about 20°C to 26°C. During the spring and autumn seasons, the temperature of the city falls gradually. The winter season in the city is frigid. The average temperature would be about -5°C to 1°C. But these temperatures are again the ideal time for tourists who want to enjoy Christmas and also for those who are interested in winter sports.

Weather in Stockholm

Upcoming Stockholm Weather

Monthly weather in stockholm, stockholm travel packages.

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Ultimate Nordic Adventure: 10 Nights in Copenhagen, Voss, Bergen, Oslo, Stockholm, and Helsink

More about best time to travel to stockholm, stockholm in peak season, stockholm in shoulder season, stockholm in low season, stockholm in summer (june to august).

• Stockholm Marathon is an annual marathon that takes place in the city on 2nd June of every year.
• Stockholm Early Music Festival is another famous festival that happens during June.
• Midsummer festival is one of the famous festivals in Sweden. This festival takes place from 20th to 25th June.
• Smaka pa Stockholm is the food festival that takes place in the city every year from 5th June to 8th June.
• Parkteatern is an Art festival that takes place in various parks across the city in July.
• Stockholm Skateathon is the event where any skateboarder would be able to participate. The length of the full course would be about 12 km. Tourists who can skate could also participate and enjoy the fun of skateboarding.
• Stockholm Street Festival is another famous festival that takes place from 30th June to 3rd July. During these four days, many performers would perform their skills on the street.
• Kulturfestivalen is the annual music and cultural festival that place in August every year. This festival is a mixture of arts and culture. Every year a different theme is selected for the basis of the festival.
• Midnight Run is another event take place in Stockholm in August. The race covers about 10,000 Km across the whole city.

Stockholm in Autumn in Stockholm (September to November)

• Stockholm Beer & Whisky Festival is the festival is primarily for tasting fresh beer and whiskey. This festival starts from mid-September and ends in early October. 
• Stockholm Half Marathon is the annual marathon that takes place in September. The racecourse would pass through several inner parts of the city and would finish in front of the Royal Palace. 

Stockholm in Winter in Stockholm (December to March)

• Christmas shopping is one of the top attraction for tourist visiting during December.
• During the winter months, visitors would be able to watch northern lights. This phenomenon could be observed over the months of the entire winter season.
• New Year Eve is the time when the streets of Stockholm are vibrant with fireworks and night parties.

Stockholm in Spring (April to May)

• Walpurgis Night event takes place on 30th April everywhere in the country. This festival is to celebrate the arrival of spring into the country. This is one of the famous festivals in Sweden.
• Kulturnatt Stockholm is the cultural festival that takes place on 27th April every year. On this day different kinds of arts would be displayed in various places across the city. Admission to these venues is free of cost.
• Urban Connection Festival: This is a dance festival, where dancers from all over the world come to take part in May. 

Related Posts

Best Time to Visit Sweden

Things To Do In Stockholm

Vasa Museum

ABBA Museum

Drottningholm Palace

Nearby Places

Stockholm Photos

+ 48 photos

Browse Package Collections

Nearby destinations for packages.

St. Petersburg

Ho Chi Minh City

Kuala Lumpur

Browse Hotel Collections

By hotel type.

Bed And Breakfast In Stockholm

Wonderful boutique hotels in stockholm

By Budget Category

Cheap Hotels In Stockholm

By Star Category

5 Star Hotels In Stockholm

3 Star Hotels In Stockholm

With Specific Facilities

Hotels Near Stockholm Central Station

Hostels In Stockholm

Hotels In Stockholm City Centre

Villas In Stockholm

Camping In Stockholm

Similar Places

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

The Best Time to Visit Stockholm, Sweden for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Stockholm for ideal weather are

June 4th to August 26th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Stockholm Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Stockholm Travel Info

Weather in stockholm.

Average temperatures in Stockholm vary drastically. Considering humidity, temperatures feel cold for most of the year with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 23rd percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Stockholm, the hottest months are July, August, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late July where highs are regularly around 74.4°F (23.6°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 53.2°F (11.8°C) at night.

Stockholm Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Stockholm temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Stockholm Perceived Temperature (F)

Stockholm perceived temperature (c), average stockholm temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Stockholm are April, March, and then February. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around late April. For example, on the week of April 23rd there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in early December with an average of 2 days of significant precipitation the week of December 3rd.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Stockholm.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Stockholm (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Stockholm has some extremely humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is April (60.7% relative humidity), and the most humid month is November (85.7%).

Wind in Stockholm is usually calm . The windiest month is March, followed by December and May. March’s average wind speed of around 6.3 knots (7.2 MPH or 11.7 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in mid March where average top sustained speeds reach 11.8 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Stockholm.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to stockholm.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings for Sweden; exercise a high degree of caution. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Oct 26, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Stockholm, Sweden is August, followed by May and June. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Stockholm in December. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall stockholm travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel moderately cold. Highs range from 64.8°F (18.2°C) and 36.9°F (2.7°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 3 to 5 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have comfortably cool weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see moderate precipitation with 5 to 6 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Stockholm, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 64.4°F (18°C) and 38.1°F (3.4°C), which will feel chilly given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 5 to 7 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is far too cold this time of year in Stockholm to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 37.1°F (2.8°C) and 29.5°F (-1.4°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 4 to 7 times per month. These times of year are the slowest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Sweden › Stockholm, Sweden

Similar Destinations

• Norrmalm, Sweden
• Gamla Stan, Sweden
• Ostermalm, Sweden
• Sodermalm, Sweden
• Vasastan, Sweden
• SoFo, Sweden
• Hornstull, Sweden
• Arsta, Sweden
• Kungsholmen, Sweden
• Johanneshov, Sweden

Popular Destinations

• Koh Phangan, Thailand
• Hua Hin, Thailand
• San Sebastian, Spain

Photo: Anna Hugosson

9 essential travel tips for Sweden and Stockholm

Publish date : 13 June 2024

New in town, or just visiting? Here are some things that you should know.

• 1. No cash needed: The official currency of Sweden is SEK (There's no need to exchange a lot of currency – Stockholm is in large parts a cash-free city. Although you'll find ATMs (recognized by teal/blue-green-colored signs reading " Bankomat "), many restaurants, shops, and hotels don't accept bills or coins. With that said, don't forget to bring your debit or credit card!
• 2. Everyone speaks English: Swedes start studying English in school before age 10, and we never miss a chance to practice our learning. It's often said that we love speaking English so much, that people who move here find it hard to learn Swedish.
• 3. The Stockholm airports: Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) is the main international airport. It is located 42 kilometers north of Stockholm and 36 kilometers south of Uppsala. All major airlines and long-distance airplanes serve this airport. Bromma Stockholm (BMA) is the most central airport and is used by smaller aircraft. Bra, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, and Finnair serve this airport, located 8 kilometers from the city center. Stockholm Skavsta Airport (NYO) is located outside of Nyköping, and about 100 kilometers southwest of Stockholm. Ryanair and Wizz Air serve this airport. Stockholm Västerås Airport (VST) is located outside of Västerås, and about 100 kilometers northwest of Stockholm. Ryanair serves this airport. Read more about getting to and from the different airports here . 
• 4. Midsummer – the unofficial national day: Sweden's national day may be June 6, but the day we dress up for is Midsummer Eve, at the end of June. Many locals head to the archipelago for celebrations, so Stockholm City can feel quite deserted during the Midsummer weekend. But don't you worry – there are a lot of public events in the city center as well. You’ll find them in our events calendar . 
• 5. Systembolaget has an alcohol monopoly: If you want to buy a bottle of wine or liquor outside a bar, you need to head to government-owned Systembolaget. Plan your weekend drinking ahead – the stores close early in the afternoon on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays and during public holidays. Convenience and grocery stores sell low-alcohol beer, though.

Swedish emergency numbers:

The Swedish emergency number is 112 . Call 114 14 for all non-urgent police matters, such as providing information or reporting crimes that are not ongoing. If you are calling from abroad or from a foreign mobile in Sweden, call +46 77 114 14 00 . Information in English about the Swedish police .

• 6. The subway is an art gallery: The Stockholm subway system is said to be the world's longest art exhibit. Over the last few years, the interest has grown so big that SL (Stockholm Public Transport) now offers free guided art tours in English all year round. All you need is a valid subway ticket.
• 7. Getting around the city: Stockholm is built upon islands and bridges. Instagram-worthy vistas are everywhere; the best way to catch them while discovering the city is on foot. So pack your best walking shoes and a portable charger! Here are our best Instagram spots.
• 8. Island hopping in the archipelago: In the wintertime, you can use the SL card to go island hopping in between some of the 30,000 islands in the Stockholm archipelago. Just make sure you have a valid travel card. The travel card is valid all year round on the Djurgården ferries and the commuter ferries.
• 9. After work – the happy hour out of the office: "After work" is the Swedish version of happy hour. Locals head straight from the office to bars and pubs to enjoy a glass of wine or a beer, often at a slightly reduced price. Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays are the most popular days for an after work. (Often, signs outside the bars simply display the AW, followed by the hours.

Looking for more?

Anchors aweigh: enjoy stockholm from a boat.

Categories : Activities

Discover Scandinavian design through the hotels of Stockholm

Categories : Tourist attractions

Have a sustainable stay in Stockholm

Spend a night or two in the stockholm archipelago.

Categories : Excursions

Tourist information

Categories : Travel info

To and from the airports

27 handy apps to use in stockholm.

• Travel Guides
• Top Destinations
• Inspiration & Ideas
• Booking Tips
• Packing Guide
• Where to stay
• At The Airport
• How-to Guides
• First Times
• Travel Community
• World Flavours
• Travel Products

Why Summer is the best time to visit Stockholm

Stockholm in Sweden is a beautiful city with a lot to offer for travellers, and the summer is the best time to visit Stockholm.

In summer, Stockholm is generally warm and pleasant with long days and plenty of sunshine. The city is bustling with outdoor activities, such as picnics, boat rides, and festivals, and the streets are filled with people enjoying the warm weather. The waterways are also popular for swimming and relaxing, and the city’s many parks and green spaces provide a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

READ MORE : We rank the 7 best places to visit in Europe in 2022

Overall, summer in Stockholm is a lively and enjoyable time to visit.

A brief history of Stockholm?

The history of Stockholm can be traced back to the early 13th century when it was founded as a small trading post on an island in the Baltic Sea. At the time, the area was inhabited by the indigenous Sami people and was a part of the Kingdom of Sweden.

In the 14th century, Stockholm became an important centre for trade and commerce and began to grow in size and influence. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the city became the political and cultural centre of Sweden and was home to many important institutions, such as the Royal Palace and the Riksdag (parliament).

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Stockholm faced several challenges, including the Great Northern War, which saw the city occupied by foreign powers. However, it continued to thrive and became a major hub for trade, industry, and culture.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Stockholm continued to grow and expand, with new neighbourhoods and buildings being constructed. The city also became a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world with its beautiful architecture, museums, and cultural attractions.

Today, Stockholm is a vibrant and modern city that is known for its unique blend of history and contemporary culture. It remains a major centre for trade, commerce, and tourism, and continues to be an important hub for the arts and culture.

Why you should visit Stockholm in the summer

First, the weather in Stockholm during the summer is typically warm and sunny, which makes it ideal for outdoor activities. The temperatures typically range from around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.

The city has many parks and green spaces, such as the Royal National City Park, which is perfect for picnics, walks and jogging. Additionally, the city has a number of outdoor cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal while soaking in the summer sunshine.

Second, there are many events and festivals that take place in Stockholm during the summer. Some popular ones include the Stockholm Pride Parade, the Stockholm Jazz Festival, and the Stockholm Culture Festival. These events provide an opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant culture and to meet locals and other travellers.

READ MORE : Here’s our list of the top destinations for solo travellers

Third, the summer is also a great time to explore Stockholm’s many museums and cultural attractions. The city has a number of world-class museums, such as the Vasa Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, and the ABBA Museum, which offer a fascinating insight into the city’s history and culture.

The summer is a great time to take advantage of the city’s vibrant nightlife. With a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants, you can enjoy a range of local and international cuisine, as well as live music and entertainment.

Overall, the combination of warm weather, outdoor activities, events and festivals, and cultural attractions make Stockholm a great destination to visit in the summer.

Why is Stockholm known for its culture

Stockholm is known for its culture due to its rich history and vibrant contemporary arts scene. The city has a long tradition of cultural institutions, such as the Royal Opera and the Royal Dramatic Theatre, as well as a thriving contemporary arts community.

Additionally, Stockholm hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year that showcase a diverse range of cultural traditions, including music, theater, film, and dance. This combination of tradition and innovation has made Stockholm a popular destination for those seeking a cultural experience.

That is why Summer is the best time to visit Stockholm, as you can take advantage of the thriving scene in the city.

Is summer the best time to visit Stockholm?

Do you have any preference when visiting Stockholm? If you would like to share your thoughts and suggestions for the best time to visit Stockholm, please leave us a comment and we’ll be sure to include it in our list.

RELATED ARTICLES

The ultimate guide to the best destinations for digital nomads in 2024, 10 best destinations for a solo trip in europe, can you travel while taking weight loss medication, latest articles, 10 best destinations for a girls trip in asia, travel wanderlust reviews the kagami true wireless earbuds, most popular, 10 upcoming events in australia in june 2022, best countries to have a workcation for uk workers in 2022, best retro games for long flights, discovering kuching: a comprehensive travel guide for your sarawak adventure.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms Of Use

Copyright © 2024 Travel Wanderlust - All Rights Reserved.

StarsInsider

The summer destinations with the best accessibility facilities

Posted: July 4, 2024 | Last updated: July 4, 2024

Accessibility is an issue that is still rife across most urban landscapes. But did you know that there are many cities across the globe that have spent much time and money investing in making their attractions more wheelchair-friendly?

If there's somewhere you've always wanted to go but that worries about accessibility have held you back from, then think again! Here is a list of the cities that offer the best options for those with mobility restrictions. Click on to discover them all.

You may also like: Weird and wonderful laws that still exist in Australia today

Stockholm (Sweden)

Follow us and access great exclusive content every day

You may also like:

Vienna (Austria)

You may also like: America's secret airline the government doesn't want you to know about

Berlin (Germany)

You may also like: Indian actors making it big in Hollywood

London (United Kingdom)

You may also like: The surprising ways stars were discovered

Playa del Carmen (Mexico)

You may also like: How smart is your dog? This breed intelligence ranking will tell

Ljubljana (Slovenia)

You may also like: Ridiculously extravagant celebrity gift exchanges

Melbourne (Australia)

You may also like: The most adorable celebrity dads

Manchester (England)

You may also like: The secrets behind Robert De Niro's best performances

Barcelona (Spain)

You may also like: The controversial Sultan of Brunei, the current longest-ruling monarch in the world

Las Vegas (United States)

You may also like: Rare vintage photos of celebrities partying

Singapore (Singapore)

You may also like: The most undignified royal deaths in history

Seattle (United States)

You may also like: What normal life was like in the 1960s

Sydney (Australia)

You may also like: A timeline of royals in exile

Dublin (Ireland)

You may also like: Iconic North American wildlife

Montreal (Canada)

Apartments, public buildings, and tourist destinations such as museums, parks, and cathedrals all have good accessibility installations.

See also: How cool is Quebec?

More for You

If Mushrooms Are Growing in Your Lawn, This Is What It Means

The #1 restaurant chain in America, according to diners—and see if your favorite made the top 50

Enormous Crater 3x the Size of the Grand Canyon Discovered in U.S.

Ford CEO says American car buyers need to break this addiction

Do I have to pay off my spouse's debts when they die? Here's what you're responsible for after a loved one's death — plus ways to protect your family's finances

This North Carolina Mountain Town Has Picturesque Views, a Quaint Downtown, and the Best Resort in the South

How Much Do Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders Make? A Breakdown of Salaries Mentioned in “America's Sweethearts”

5 reasons I wouldn't buy a TV from Walmart

How America's largest buffet survived the death of all-you-can-eats

How Long Do The Batteries In Hybrid Cars Last?

The Bidens have refinanced their properties an 'astonishing' 35 times, the Daily Mail reports — is there anything wrong with that?

We're 60, Have $1.3 Million in 401(k)s and Will Receive $5,100 Monthly From Social Security. What's Our Retirement Budget?

Classic Movies from the 90s That Still Hold Up Today

I changed these 3 settings on my TV to dramatically improve the audio quality

Look inside the McNeal Mansion, an abandoned 10,000-square-foot home from the 1800s that nature is reclaiming

Buc-ee’s celebrates grand opening of largest travel center location

I Asked 5 Chefs To Name the Best Potato Chips, They All Said the Same Brand

Clarence Thomas Opinion Sparks Fury: 'My God'

Social Security: The Average Retiree Could Collect $740 More per Month With This Simple Move

Jayson Tatum Just Signed The Richest Contract In NBA History, But He Can’t Spend Any Of It Due To A Deal With His Mom

Labour Party set for a landslide win in the UK general election

Rudy Giuliani disbarred in New York for spreading Trump's 2020 election lies

Southern border crossings fall to lowest monthly number of Biden’s presidency

When is the best time to leave for a record July Fourth travel weekend?

Far-right party wins first round of French parliamentary election

Team USA officially has its Olympics gymnastics teams for Paris

July Fourth travel week is expected to be the busiest in history

Israeli forces bomb Gaza City neighborhood causing casualties

Olympic U.S. BMX racer Felicia Stancil hopes to bring back gold

Doctors urge people to get tested amid a summer Covid wave

Bolivian general is arrested after an attempted coup

Another child dies of malnutrition in Gaza

Study finds link between parents with high device usage and children with screen time

Sport climber Brooke Raboutou describes qualifying for Paris Olympics

WSJ reporter Evan Gershkovich's trial underway in Russian court

New CDC data shows up to 39 states are seeing a rise in Covid cases

How NYC’s Stonewall House exemplifies the growing need to keep LGBTQ+ elders safe

Comedy legend Judy Gold teases new documentary on history of LGBTQ+ stand-up

LGBTQ+ advocate Ashton Colby and his father promote transgender awareness campaign

Trump classified documents judge reprimand prosecutor over gag order request

Nbc news now.

AAA reports that nearly 71 million people will be traveling for the July Fourth holiday weekend, the busiest on record. NBC News’ Maura Barrett reports on the best times to hit the road and what destinations have the highest demand for rental cars. July 2, 2024

Best of NBC News

Hear what London voters are hoping for as the U.K. goes to the polls

Cayman Islands and Mexico prepare for deadly Hurricane Beryl

Watch: Main party leaders arrive to vote in U.K. election

12-year-old girl killed by crocodile, Australian police say

Looking at issues, controversies and characters in Britain's election