Guide

Top 10 Things to Do in Stockholm

Stockholm rewards both the checklist traveler and the wanderer. This list mixes the landmarks every first-timer should see with a few quieter spots locals love — a balanced day in the Swedish capital. For deeper dives, browse our full attractions directory and events calendar.

1. 01

   Vasa Museum

   Classic

   Stand beside a 17th-century warship raised from the harbor floor — Stockholm's most-visited museum and a stunning piece of maritime history.

2. 02

   Wander Gamla Stan

   Classic

   Lose an afternoon in the cobblestone alleys of the Old Town. Stop at Stortorget, peek inside the Cathedral, and grab fika at a 1700s café.

3. 03

   ABBA The Museum

   Classic

   An interactive ride through pop history on Djurgården — equally fun whether you're a superfan or a curious first-timer.

4. 04

   Skansen Open-Air Museum

   Classic

   Sweden in miniature: historic farmsteads, a small zoo with Nordic wildlife, and seasonal festivals year-round.

5. 05

   Fotografiska

   Hidden Gem

   A world-class photography museum on the Södermalm waterfront, with a top-floor restaurant and views over the city.

6. 06

   Archipelago day trip to Vaxholm

   Hidden Gem

   Hop on a ferry from Strömkajen for a one-hour ride to the picturesque harbor town of Vaxholm — fortress, ice cream, and sea air.

7. 07

   Climb Monteliusvägen

   Hidden Gem

   A short walking path on Södermalm with the best free panorama of Gamla Stan, City Hall, and Lake Mälaren.

8. 08

   Stockholm Public Library

   Hidden Gem

   Gunnar Asplund's 1928 rotunda library — a quiet architectural marvel that's free to walk into.

9. 09

   Royal Palace & Changing of the Guard

   Classic

   One of Europe's largest royal residences, with a daily guard ceremony and several small museums inside.

10. 10

    Sauna and swim at Hellasgården

    Hidden Gem

    A 20-minute bus ride from town: a forest lake, wood-fired sauna, and a quiet plunge — pure Swedish ritual.