A Comprehensive Guide to Stockholm Things to See and Do

The capital of Sweden, Stockholm, is a vibrant and diverse city bursting with culture, history, and natural beauty. With over a million inhabitants, it is the most populous city in the country and is set on fourteen islands, connected by fifty-seven bridges. The city is full of vibrant colors and parks, offering an array of activities for both tourists and locals alike. From the beautiful old town of Gamla Stan to the art-filled island of Skeppsholmen, there is something for everyone in Stockholm.

History of Stockholm

The first written references to Stockholm date back to 1252, when it was referred to as a fishing village located on an island on the Baltic Sea. Over the centuries, the city has seen its fair share of upheaval, with its location changing many times due to wars and political unrest. In 1634, the Swedish Empire was established and Stockholm was named its capital. By the late 19th century, Stockholm had become an important industrial center and the city continued to grow throughout the 20th century. Today, Stockholm is a modern city with a rich cultural heritage and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

Things to See in Stockholm

From historical monuments to modern art galleries and museums, there are plenty of things to see and do in Stockholm. Here are some of the top attractions:

Gamla Stan

One of the best-preserved old towns in Europe, Gamla Stan is the oldest part of Stockholm. Located on its own island, Gamla Stan is home to cobblestone streets and beautiful buildings dating back to the 13th century. Highlights include the Royal Palace, Storkyrkan Cathedral, and Gustav Adolfs Torg square. Don’t miss the Nobel Museum, which celebrates the achievements of Nobel Prize winners.

Vasa Museum

Located on Djurgården island, the Vasa Museum houses the world’s only surviving 17th-century warship. The Vasa sank on her maiden voyage in 1628 and was salvaged in 1961 after 333 years underwater. Visitors can explore the ship and learn about the fascinating engineering behind it. Other highlights include a collection of maritime artifacts from the ship.

Skansen

Skansen is an open-air museum located on Djurgården island, where visitors can learn about Swedish history and culture. It is home to an array of traditional buildings, including farms, homes, and churches from different parts of Sweden. There are also several restaurants, cafes, shops, and craft workshops on-site. Skansen also has an amusement park with rides for all ages.

Moderna Museet

Located on Skeppsholmen island, Moderna Museet is a modern art museum with an impressive collection of contemporary art from around the world. It also houses an extensive collection of Swedish art from the 20th century, featuring works by Dali, Picasso, and Warhol. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Things to Do in Stockholm

From sightseeing tours to outdoor activities, Stockholm has plenty to offer visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in the city:

Boat Tours

A boat tour of Stockholm is a great way to explore the city from a different angle. Visitors can see landmarks like the City Hall and Royal Palace from the water’s edge. Many boat tours also offer lunch or dinner on board with breathtaking views of the cityscape. Book a boattour in Stockholm here.

Royal Palace Tour

The Royal Palace is one of Stockholm’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for visitors to the city. A guided tour of the palace gives visitors a glimpse into Swedish court life over the centuries. Highlights include the Royal Chapel and Hall of State, as well as several galleries and museums. Book a Royal Palace Tour here.

Food Tours

Food tours are a great way to explore Stockholm’s culinary scene and sample some traditional Swedish dishes. Most tours take visitors to some of Stockholm’s best restaurants and cafés for tastings of local specialties like herring, salmon, cheeses, and pastries. Book a food tour in Stockholm here.

Kayaking Tours

For those looking for an active adventure in Stockholm, kayaking tours are a great option. These tours take visitors around some of the city’s most scenic waterways and offer stunning views of the skyline from a unique angle. Book a kayaking tour in Stockholm here.

Cycling Tours

Cycling tours are a great way to explore Stockholm at your own pace. These tours take visitors through some of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods with stops at landmarks like Gamla Stan and the Vasa Museum. Book a cycling tour in Stockholm here.

Conclusion

Stockholm is a vibrant city bursting with culture and history. From historical monuments and museums to outdoor activities and culinary experiences, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. Whether you are looking for an active adventure or a relaxing day out exploring Stockholm’s sights, this city has it all. With its stunning waterfront views, vibrant culture, and diverse range of activities, it’s easy to see why so many people flock to this beautiful city each year.