A Guide to Stockholm Things To See

Stockholm is a city of history, culture, and stunning beauty. Located on the eastern coast of Sweden, it is the most populous city in the country and the country’s capital. The city is home to more than 1.5 million people and has been ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world. From museums to parks, Stockholm has something for everyone. In this guide, we will explore the best of Stockholm and some of the most popular things to do and see for tourists visiting for the first time.

History of Stockholm

The history of Stockholm dates back to the 13th century when it was founded by a Swedish statesman named Birger Jarl. Since then, Stockholm has grown to become one of the largest cities in Europe and a major hub for business and tourism. In 1634, the city was made the official capital of Sweden, replacing the former capital of Uppsala. Stockholm has a rich history and many of its landmarks are reflective of its past. The city has seen a number of wars over the centuries and survived numerous invasions and occupations. In modern times, it has become one of the most important cities in Scandinavia, both politically and culturally.

Things to See in Stockholm

When visiting Stockholm, there are plenty of sights and attractions to see. Here are some of the top attractions that should be included on any visitor’s list:

Gamla Stan (Old Town)

The heart of Stockholm, Gamla Stan is a must-see for visitors to the city. It is home to many of the city’s oldest buildings, including the Royal Palace and Stortorget Square. Gamla Stan is a great place to wander around and explore its winding cobblestone streets. There are plenty of shops, eateries, galleries, and museums to explore, as well as beautiful views of Lake Mälaren.

Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is one of the most visited museums in Sweden and is home to a 17th century warship that was salvaged from the depths of Stockholm’s harbor. The ship was built in 1628 but sank just minutes after it left port due to heavy winds. The ship was raised from the seabed in 1961 and is now on display in a museum dedicated to its history. Visitors can explore the ship as well as learn about its construction and its ill-fated maiden voyage.

Drottningholm Palace

Built in the mid 17th century, Drottningholm Palace is the residence of the Swedish royal family. Located on the island of Lovön in Lake Mälaren, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved royal palaces in Europe. The palace gardens are also open to visitors and are home to some beautiful sculptures and monuments.

Skansen

Skansen is an open-air museum located on the island of Djurgården in Stockholm. It was founded in 1891 by Artur Hazelius and is considered to be one of the first open-air museums in the world. It contains more than 150 historical buildings from different parts of Sweden, including a replica of a Viking longhouse, a Sami hut, windmills, and traditional farms. The museum also has an aquarium, zoo, and botanical garden.

Moderna Museet

Moderna Museet is one of the most famous art museums in Stockholm and is home to one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in Europe. The museum has an impressive selection of works from artists such as Matisse, Picasso, Dali, and Warhol as well as an extensive collection of Scandinavian art from the 19th century onward. The museum also has an excellent selection of films and photography from all over the world.

Popular Tours in Stockholm

In addition to all these amazing sights, there are also plenty of popular tours to take while visiting Stockholm. Here are two popular tours that you should consider:

Stockholm Highlights Tour

The Stockholm Highlights Tour is an excellent way to explore some of Stockholm’s most impressive sights. This tour takes you around Gamla Stan and Djurgården Island in a comfortable bus, with stops at many of Stockholm’s most iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace, Vasa Museum, Skansen Open-Air Museum, and Moderna Museet. Along the way you will learn about Stockholm’s unique history and culture from your knowledgeable guide. You can also take a guided walking tour around Gamla Stan and explore its winding streets filled with charming cafes and shops. This tour is perfect for those who want to get a great overview of Stockholm in a short amount of time. Book a Stockholm Highlights Tour here.

Stockholm Food Tour

The Stockholm Food Tour is an excellent way to explore the Swedish capital through its food culture. On this 3-hour walking tour you will be taken to some of Stockholm’s best cafes, restaurants, markets, and food stores where you will sample some traditional Swedish dishes such as herring, gravlax (cured salmon), pickled vegetables, cheese, breads, and more. You will also learn about Sweden’s unique culinary history from your knowledgeable guide and hear stories about life in Stockholm. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience authentic Swedish cuisine and get an insight into Stockholm’s food culture. Book a Stockholm Food Tour here.

Conclusion

Stockholm is an amazing city full of incredible sights and attractions that will leave you feeling inspired and captivated. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. Whether you’re looking to explore its cultural heritage or taste its traditional cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Stockholm that will make your visit unforgettable.