Stockholm – Best Things To Do

Stockholm is a vibrant city that combines modernity and traditional elements in its culture. Located on the east coast of Sweden, it is the country’s largest city and its capital. The city is made up of 14 islands that are interconnected by bridges, and its landscape is full of parks, forests, and waterways. With a population of over 870,000, Stockholm has a lot to offer to visitors.

History and General Information

Stockholm has a long and varied history, stretching back to the early 13th century when it first became an important trading port. The city has been ruled by several different countries, including Denmark and Russia, and it was also the site of a key battle in the Thirty Years’ War in 1648. In 1720, Stockholm was annexed by Sweden and it has remained the country’s capital ever since.

Today, Stockholm is known around the world for its rich cultural heritage and modern attitude. It is home to some of the most famous museums in Europe, such as the Vasa Museum and the National Museum, as well as numerous art galleries, theaters, and other attractions. It is also a popular tourist destination, with over 8 million visitors annually.

The city is divided into several districts, each with its own unique character. The Old Town (Gamla Stan) is filled with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, while the trendy Södermalm district is known for its hip bars and cafes. The Östermalm district is home to some of the city’s most luxurious shopping and dining options. No matter where you choose to stay in Stockholm, there’s something for everyone.

Things to Do in Stockholm

When visiting Stockholm, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Swedish experience or want to explore some of the city’s more modern attractions, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Stockholm:

Visit the Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s most popular attractions. Located on the island of Djurgården, it houses the world’s only surviving 17th-century warship, the Vasa. The ship was salvaged from the bottom of Stockholm harbor in 1961 after sinking on its maiden voyage in 1628. Today, it is one of the most visited museums in Scandinavia, with over 1 million visitors every year.

At the museum, you can learn about the fascinating history of the ship and see its intricate carvings up close. You can also explore the various exhibits that explain the history of Swedish maritime life and the shipbuilding techniques used at the time.

Book a tour of the Vasa Museum here.

Explore Drottningholm Palace

Located on an island just outside of Stockholm is Drottningholm Palace, a stunning 18th-century estate and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is currently the official residence of the Swedish royal family, but it is open to visitors as well.

At Drottningholm Palace, you can explore the palace’s extravagant interiors and its expansive gardens. There are also guided tours available that take you through different parts of the palace and explain its history in detail.

Book a tour of Drottningholm Palace here.

Take a Boat Tour

One of the best ways to experience Stockholm is to take a boat tour around its 14 islands. A boat tour will take you past some of Stockholm’s most famous sights, such as the Vasa Museum and Gamla Stan. You can also explore some of Stockholm’s lesser-known gems, such as Skeppsholmen Island and Djurgården Island.

Taking a boat tour is a great way to learn more about Stockholm’s history and culture while getting an up-close look at some of its most beautiful sights.

Book a boat tour of Stockholm here.

Go Shopping

Stockholm is a paradise for shoppers. There are numerous shops in the city selling everything from designer clothes to traditional Swedish handicrafts. The two most popular shopping areas are Östermalm and Gamla Stan. Östermalm is home to a number of luxury stores and designer boutiques, while Gamla Stan features a wide range of souvenir shops and local craft stores.

No matter what type of shopping you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Stockholm.

Book a shopping tour of Stockholm here.

Visit ABBA The Museum

ABBA The Museum is one of Stockholm’s most popular attractions and it is a must-visit for fans of the legendary Swedish pop group. Located on Djurgården Island, it is an interactive museum that allows visitors to explore ABBA’s history and their impact on pop culture.

At ABBA The Museum, you can see various exhibits about the band’s career and their influence on music history. You can also take pictures with life-size replicas of ABBA members and sing along to their hit songs in an interactive karaoke booth.

Book a tour of ABBA The Museum here.

Tours in Stockholm

In addition to exploring Stockholm on your own, there are also plenty of tours available for visitors who want to get an in-depth look at some of the city’s top attractions or who want to experience some traditional Swedish activities. Here are two popular tours in Stockholm:

Old Town Walking Tour

The Old Town Walking Tour is a great way to learn more about Stockholm’s rich history and culture while exploring its picturesque streets and alleyways. The tour takes participants through Gamla Stan (Old Town), where they will visit iconic landmarks such as Stortorget Square and Riddarholmen Church. They will also learn about Sweden’s colorful past from their knowledgeable guide and take in the beauty of one of Europe’s oldest cities.
Book an Old Town Walking Tour here.

Traditional Swedish Cooking Class

For those who want to get an authentic taste of Swedish cuisine, a Traditional Swedish Cooking Class is the perfect choice. Participants will learn how to make traditional Swedish dishes such as herring salad and Swedish meatballs while tasting local ingredients such as lingonberry jam and cheese from nearby farms. By the end of the class, they will become experts in Swedish cooking and will be able to recreate some tasty dishes for their friends and family back home.

Book a Traditional Swedish Cooking Class here.

Conclusion

Stockholm is an incredible city full of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it one of Europe’s premier destinations for tourists from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for traditional Swedish experiences or modern attractions, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Hopefully this guide has given you some ideas on what to do during your visit to Stockholm!