Kathy Hamilton Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and famous for its 14 beautiful islands and waterways, each with their own distinct character and charm. It’s a city that feels quiet and bustling at the same time and I loved exploring it. So much so that I thought I would share 10 things to do in Stockholm that will give you a sense of what this amazing city is all about. Let’s get started, shall we?
I can’t recommend a visit to Stockholm enough! It is a city that knows how to present itself well. From the cobbled streets and stuccoed charm of Gamla Stan (the Old Town) to the Hipster Paradise, hidden in the streets of Södermalm. I fell in love with this historic charm of Stockholm, as well as its leafy parks and delicious cakes. There’s truly something for every taste in this city.
However, it’s also has a reputation for being expensive to visit. Whilst it’s certainly true that you could blow through your budget pretty quickly here, €14 for a beer is no joke, it’s also possible to explore everything the city has to offer and keep costs down. In fact, many of the suggestions feature on this list of 10 things to do in Stockholm are free, or relatively cheap. I’ll mark anything free with a star, so look out for that.
1. Explore Gamla Stan ![1 star]()
The oldest and probably prettiest area of Stockholm, especially if you’re a fan of cobbled streets and really old buildings, is Gamla Stan. Framed on one side by the Royal Palace this beautiful array of winding streets is a perfect place to explore. Gamla Stan is also one of the best preserved old towns in Europe, thanks to the lack of cars. Things to look out for here include, ancient runes built into the side of a house, the tiniest statue in Europe and Den Gyldene Freden, a restaurant with the oldest unchanged interior in Europe that dates back to the 1700s.
2. Take a Trip by Boat
One of the unique features of Stockholm is its island structure. As mentioned above, the city is made up of 14 islands which can be accessed via and intricate network of metros, bridges and boats. By far my favourite way to travel here was by boat, which worked out only marginally more expensive that other modes of public transport. But what an experience! I stood on deck, watching the glistening waters speed by as we headed from island to island. There was a moment where my boat rounded a corner and I was gifted a breath taking view of Stockholm Old Town in the sparkling sunlight that I will never forget!
3. Eat Swedish Meatballs
Ah, the ubiquitous Swedish meatball. No trip to Stockholm, or Ikea, would be complete without trying these. Neither would a list of 10 best things to do in Stockholm as it happens! Swedish meatballs (or köttbullar) are usually made from beef and smaller than your average. Traditionally Swedish meatballs are served with a unique gravy, boiled or mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam and sometimes pickled cucumber. It might seem like an obvious choice but when in Rome and all that! Plus, they’re delicious.
4. Go on a Free Walking Tour ![1 star]()
Like many European cities, it’s possible to find a free walking tour. That’s what I’m going to recommend next on the 10 Best Things to do in Stockholm. You see, like Gamla Stan, some of the prettiest areas are pedestrianised. This means that a walking tour is the best way to get a sense of what Stockholm is really like. There’s also bus and boat tours available but if you’re looking to keep costs down then a free tour is also a good shout. Just a heads up though, these trips are tips based, so not technically 100% free, although tips are not required. The tours run each day and are organised by “Free Tour Stockholm” which is handy enough to remember! I did the Old Town, City and Söder Tours during my trip and really enjoyed them all.
5. See Changing of The Guard ![1 star]()
Changing of the Guard is a grand affair in Stockholm. Sweden is a monarchy, and every day at the Royal Palace there is a ceremony to mark the changing guards. It begins with the soldiers, complete with marching band, parading through the streets of Stockholm and ends with the official guard change at the Royal Palace. But be warned, although this is a hugely popular tourist attraction it’s also an official duty for the soldiers and they won’t hesitate to move you along if you don’t follow their instructions. Although this kind of adds to the fun!
6. Go to Långholmen![1 star]()
When you’re in Långholmen it’s possible to forget you’re actually in a city at all. This island is calm, pastoral and anything but bustling. It’s famous for Langholmsbadet, the sandy beach which Stockholmer’s flock to in good weather. However, cycling and walking trails are also a fantastic feature on this city oasis. The island was originally home to a large prison but today it’s a hostel! It also has a beautiful 17th century wooden house (Stora Henriksvik) and I highly recommend pausing here for a bite to eat in the beautiful gardens. Of all the delights of Stockholm, I think this was potentially my favourite.
7. Eat Pickled Herring
If there’s anything that the Swedes love to eat more than meatballs, it’s fish. Due to an abundance of herring in the seas surrounding Sweden, they’ve been pickling addicts since the Middle Ages! Pickled Herring is a mainstay of the Swedish smorgasbord and, if you’re up for it, it’s a delicious thing to try in Stockholm. It comes in a variety of flavours, including mustard, onion, garlic and dill and is often served with boiled potatoes, chopped chives, sharp hard cheese and crackers. I was surprised how much I enjoyed this delicacy, so do give it a go.
8. Visit a museum
In my opinion, no list of 10 best things to do in Stockholm would be complete without a museum because there is a fantastic choice. From the Abba Museum to the Vasa Museum, every aspect of Swedish life, history and culture is covered by the cornucopia of museums available in Stockholm. Aside from being a great way to learn about Stockholm and Sweden, they’re also a perfect way to while away an afternoon if you get hit by the unpredictable Swedish weather. Don’t forget, most galleries and museums in Stockholm are free for anyone under 18.
9. Fika
In case you haven’t worked it out yet from reading the rest of the suggestions in this list of 10 best things to do in Stockholm, the Swedes love their food. And there’s nothing, not a meatball or a pickled herring, that can compete with Fika. This beloved institution is key to any Swedish experience. I mean, I can get on board with any country that has developed a specific word for eating cake! Stockholmer’s can go for Fika up to five times a day. Some typical treats to look out for are Cardamom and Cinnamon buns, cake balls and delectable Princessa Torte. When you’re in Stockholm, you really can have your cake and eat it too.
10. Explore Södermalm ![1 star]()
Rounding up the 10 best things to do in Stockholm. It is one of the largest islands in Stockholm and used to be an extensive warren of slums. Nowadays, nothing could be more different. Södermalm is a trendy, dare I say, hipster neighbourhood popular with foodies. In the area surrounding Folkungagatan (or SoFo) you can find an array of interesting shops specialising in anything from clothing, design, knick-knacks, music and homewares. As with any fashionable neighbourhood the atmosphere is laid-back and uber cool and perfect for people watching! Fun fact, famous Swede, Greta Garbot, was born in this part of the city.
Top Tips for Visiting Stockholm
Finally, to round up this list of things to do in Stockholm, I thought I’d offer you some tips for having the most budget-friendly visit.
Use the metro system: The train system in Stockholm is extensive and will get you where you need to go quickly. As an added bonus, this subterranean world is also basically an art gallery of sorts. Many of the stations are decorated beautifully.
Drink the tap water: The fresh water in Stockholm is second to none and the city has many public fountains to fill your bottle up. Not only is this cheaper than buying expensive drinks, it’s also said to add years to your life as well!
Consider the Stockholm Pass: If you’re planning to visit a couple of attractions, including museums or the Royal Palace during your visit getting the Stockholm pass can work out cost effective. You can find more information here.
