Essential Travel Information for Stockholm: Insider Tips

Discover Stockholm: Expert Travel Information and Tips

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a vibrant and modern city brimming with history and culture. This stunning city is built on 14 islands, connected by 57 bridges, creating a unique and picturesque landscape. With its charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and pristine waterfront, Stockholm offers a delightful mix of old-world charm and contemporary style.

There are a number of different historical sites to explore, from palaces to old churches and monuments. The Royal Palace of Stockholm is the official residence of the Swedish royal family and a popular tourist attraction. Other places to visit include the Vasa Museum which shows off a warship from the 17th century, the Drottningholm Palace, and the old Dutch quarter of Gamla Stan. Stockholmers flock to the outdoor mall of Skeppsbron which offers a variety of shops, restaurants and street vendors. Other popular sites are the City Hall where the Nobel prize banquet is held, the SkyView ferris wheel and open air museum of Skansen.

Don't miss the opportunity to stroll along the lively streets of Södermalm, browse the fashionable boutiques of Östermalm, or indulge in delicious Swedish cuisine at one of the city's many Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply enjoying the beauty of the city, Stockholm is a must-visit destination. Here are some must-see attractions in Stockholm, completed with hotels nearby.

GAMLA STAN

Gamla Stan, or 'Old Town,' is a historic area located Stockholm-Central. Founded in the 13th century, it is the oldest part of the city and harkens back to a time when Stockholm was still growing and making its own identity. Because of this, many of the buildings here date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, when the city was flourishing and becoming the bustling metropolitan center it is today. Walking through Gamla Stan’s cobblestoned streets, it’s easy to imagine the days of Swedish royalty, such as Gustav II Adolf and Charles XII, who occupied the area during the 17th and 18th centuries. The overall atmosphere can be quite romantic and picturesque. Gamla Stan is home to many iconic buildings and landmarks, such as Stockholm Cathedral, Stortorget, the Royal Palace, the Nobel Museum, and more. It is also a popular tourist spot, and one can often find crowds of people admiring the many sights. Though it has retained its old-world charm over the centuries, Gamla Stan has also evolved, becoming a hub of Swedish culture, with its cafes, restaurants, shops, and art galleries. HOTELS AND ACTIVITIES NEARBY

VASA MUSEUM

Spanning across five floors and over 4,500 meters of exhibition space, the Vasa Museum in Galarvarvsvagen, near Fridhemsplan is an incredible sight to behold. Founded in 1990, the museum houses the Vasa - a large Swedish warship which sunk in 1628. This museum is the home to the only surviving 17th-century ship in the world. It is believed that around 500 people died when the ship went down in the harbor of Stockholm but the museum aims to honor these souls by preserving the Vasa as it is. Visitors to the museum can view the fully-intact warship up close, a truly incredible sight. The museum also showcases artifacts and items discovered in and around the wreckage. Highlights of the museum include the ship's stern section, interior decorations, and cannons. The museum is home to a collection of over 10,000 objects, many of which are the personal belongings of those onboard. Additionally, the museum houses several interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to learn more about the history of the Vasa and the people who sailed onboard the ship. Visitors can also climb onboard the ship to get a closer look. Guests can tour the museum with the help of Audio Guides that are available in several languages. With its incredible collection of maritime artifacts and interactive exhibits, the Vasa Museum is a must-see destination when visiting Stockholm. HOTELS AND ACTIVITIES NEARBY

DROTTNINGHOLM PALACE

Drottningholm Palace, situated on the island of Lovön in Ekerö Municipality, is a magnificent royal residence that has captivated visitors for centuries. The palace, which serves as the private home of the Swedish royal family, is often called the 'Versailles of the North' because of its breathtaking Baroque architecture and vast gardens. Originally constructed in the late 16th century as a Renaissance-style hunting lodge for King Johan III and Queen Catherine Jagiellon, the palace has undergone expansions and renovations by different members of the royal family, resulting in a unique fusion of architectural styles. The most notable changes and additions were overseen by Queen Lovisa Ulrika in the mid-18th century, further enhancing the palace's grandeur. The palace is renowned not only for its breathtaking architecture and interiors, but also for its magnificent gardens and parklands. The French baroque-style gardens, created by Nicodemus Tessin the Younger, a royal gardener, in the 17th century, are a true marvel. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll around the tranquil Lake Mälaren, admiring the palace's scenic views from the water. HOTELS AND ACTIVITIES NEARBY

NOBEL PRIZE MUSEUM

Opened in 2001 for the 100th anniversary of the Nobel Prize, The Nobel Prize Museum serves as the official museum of the Nobel Prize and is committed to highlighting the extraordinary contributions of Nobel laureates in diverse fields such as physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peace. Located close to Södermalm, the museum provides visitors with a one-of-a-kind chance to explore the history and importance of the Nobel Prize and to gain a profound insight into the groundbreaking work carried out by its recipients. One of the main attractions of the museum is the Nobel Prize Ceremony Hall. It is an exact replica of the hall where the prestigious award ceremony occurs annually on December 10th, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel's passing. The hall features a photo exhibition showcasing all the Nobel laureates from 1901 to the present, providing visitors with a chance to admire the diversity and worldwide influence of these extraordinary individuals. The Nobel Prize Museum provides also interactive experiences to its visitors. One of these experiences is the Nobel Lab, where visitors can engage in experiments and delve into the realm of science. Another interactive area is the Nobel Field, where visitors can share their ideas for building a better world, aligning with the values of the Nobel Prize. In addition to these interactive exhibits, the museum offers guided tours and educational programs catered to students, making it a perfect destination for both adults and children. HOTELS AND ACTIVITIES NEARBY

BEST TIME TO VISIT STOCKHOLM

When it comes to visiting Stockholm, one of the most beautiful cities of Scandinavia, there is no bad time to visit. The summer months from June to August are the most popular times to visit, however the winter months of December to February can be just as exciting. During the summer months, there is plenty of sunshine, and the city’s parks and outdoor spaces are full of life and activities. In addition, there are markets, festivals, and events taking place in abundance. A unique experience for visitors in the summer months is to enjoy the midnight sun, where the sunshine never seems to end. In the winter months, Stockholm is a magical sight, with Christmas lights adorning the streets and a festival spirit in the air. Sleigh rides and skating on one of Stockholm’s many frozen lakes are a popular pastime during the winter. The cold weather doesn’t stop visitors from exploring the city, as many attractions remain open year-round. Stockholm is an incredible city to visit no matter the season. From its stunning architecture and vibrant culture to outdoor activities for all ages, Stockholm has something for everyone. With so much to see and do, you can be certain your trip to Stockholm will be unforgettable.

TO OTHER CITIES BY TRAIN

Stockholm, Sweden is a major transportation hub in Europe, with many cities connected by rail from the central railway station. The high-speed X2000 train connects Stockholm with Gothenburg, Sweden’s second largest city, in less than three hours. From there, travelers can continue on to Malmo, Sweden’s third largest city. Other cities easily accessible by train from Stockholm include Copenhagen, Denmark; Oslo, Norway; Helsingborg, Sweden; and Uppsala, Sweden. Passengers can also take a daily train to Hamburg, Germany, and overnight services to Berlin. For passengers wanting to explore more of Sweden, regional train services connect Stockholm to popular destinations such as Umea, Falun, and Linkoping. Long-distance commuter trains also connect passengers to destinations in Uppland, Dalarna, Norrland, Varmland, and Ostergotland. Additionally, rail passes are available to make it even easier to explore Scandinavia and other parts of Europe. Whether you are looking to explore the sights in Stockholm, Sweden or discover the amazing cities and attractions Scandinavia has to offer, traveling by train from Stockholm is an easy and comfortable option.