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Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, is a city stretching across 14 islands connected by bridges and remains the most populous city in the Nordic countries. You’ll find plenty of history, cobbled streets, and lush forests, but also a thriving arts scene and great nightlife. Check out ten of the best places to visit in Stockholm, Sweden.

Djurgården

If you’re looking for some of that picturesque European countryside, look no further than Djurgården. This island is full of green space, a beautiful place for walking, biking, or canoeing. You’ll also find Isbladskärret, a lovely little lake perfect for a waterfront picnic. If you want to get to Djurgården, you can catch the ferry from Slussen or Gamla Stan, take a bus or tram, or just walk there from the city center. However you get there, be prepared for some delightful countryside.

Sveriges Kungahus, The Royal Palace

On the edge of the water near Old Town lies the Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Sweden. One of Europe’s largest palaces, it boasts over 600 rooms, various museums, and a wealth of royal relics. You could practically spend your whole day here, between the Armoury, Treasury, Museum of Antiquities, and Royal Apartments. The architecture is breathtaking, the décor phenomenal, and the sheer size mightily impressive.

Fotografiska

One of Stockholm’s newer attractions, Fotografiska has nonetheless earned a reputation as one of the best art venues in the city. This museum is dedicated to contemporary photography, boasting four large exhibitions and 15 to 20 smaller exhibits throughout the year. You’ll find a wide variety of styles and subjects, as well as a good assortment of big international names and unknown or local talents. There’s also a fantastic restaurant in case you get peckish.

Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan, or Old Town, is the perfect place to glimpse Stockholm’s past. This is where Stockholm was founded back in 1252, and the cobblestone streets and quaint architecture will transport you to a simpler time. The scenery and ambience are enough to draw you in, but you’ll also find plenty of shops, restaurants, and other attractions.

Skansen Open-Air Museum

On the island of Djurgården you’ll find the Skansen Open-Air Museum, the world’s first open-air museum. Founded in 1891, Skansen now displays 150 historical homes from various time periods, as well as an 18th century wooden church, farmstead, and some dining options. Talk to the historical interpreters, fittingly decked out in period garb, and check out the traditional activities like spinning and knitting. There’s also a zoo that’s home to 75 different species of Scandinavian animals.

Stockholm City Center

Downtown Stockholm is bursting with activity, providing the city’s best shopping and nightlife. Östermalm is Stockholm’s most exclusive district, filled with designer boutiques and swanky restaurants, while Norrmalm boasts Biblioteksgatan, a street packed with flagship shopping options. Downtown is also the place to find nightclubs and bars, where you can experience the exciting Stockholm nightlife.

Mosebacke Design District

Stockholm has a thriving arts scene, and creative types have gathered in Mosebacke for centuries. To reflect this fact, Mosebacke Design District was founded in 2017, showcasing a plethora of creative talents. Whether you’re interested in expanding your vinyl collection, buying some vintage homeware, or grabbing a craft beer, Mosebacke is sure to satisfy.

Stockholm’s Metro System

Stockholm’s metro system has been called ‘the world’s longest art gallery’, and with good reason. Over 150 artists have their work spread throughout the system, with over 90% of the stations displaying some kind of artwork. Check out Kungstrӓdgåden for one of the best examples: it features a ceiling of piano keys, modern day ‘cave paintings’, and the ruins of an old palace!

The Vasa Museum

For a truly unique museum experience, head over to the Vasa Museum. This establishment is home to the Vasa, which was once the most powerful warship in the Baltic. It is the only preserved 17th century ship in the world, and the oldest fully-preserved warship. More than 95% of the original ship is intact, which is absolutely incredible given that it sat on the seabed for hundreds of years. Makes sense that Vasa is the most visited museum in Scandinavia.

The Ericsson Globe

The Ericsson Globe is one of Stockholm’s modern landmarks, the largest spherical building in the world. It’s primarily used for ice hockey, but also hosts musical performances throughout the year. One of the most unique features is SkyView, an exterior inclined elevator that takes you to the top of the arena. The top of this massive building provides the perfect unobstructed view of Stockholm.

Whether you’re planning an executive meeting or travel incentive to Stockholm, Sweden contact Gavel International to learn more about our programs.

This article was last updated on September 21, 2022

Jeff Richards
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