Best Things To Do in Stockholm

During your stay in Sweden, you can't overlook Stockholm. It's a diverse city with entertainment options for the whole family - here are the most fun things to do in the city!

Ana Caballero

Ana Caballero

16 min read

Best Things To Do in Stockholm

Stockholm | ©Nadine Wuchenauer

Stockholm is one of Sweden's largest cities, characterised by its geographical variety, with 14 islands interconnected by bridges and canals. It is undoubtedly the Nordic Venice and has a wide range of entertainment, so you can spend many days without getting bored. I recommend venturing out to see the best local museums, as there are so many with different themes.

You should also take the opportunity to join some of Stockholm's best tours, which take you to explore the city's streets, gastronomy, archipelago and traditions. There is no shortage of water activities in the city, such as boat and speedboat rides. There are also plenty of interactive entertainment and learning spaces, as well as sightseeing bus tours with free stops that allow you to explore many locations at your own pace.

1. Tour Stockholm's Old Town

Old Town| ©Henrik Prüzelius
Old Town| ©Henrik Prüzelius

Stockholm's Old Town is one of the busiest areas of the city, due to its unique charm. It is known as Glam Stan and has brightly coloured houses that add life to its alleyways. It is also home to the Royal Palace, Stortorget Square and St. Nicholas Cathedral, known for being the oldest cathedral in the region.

This is where the city was built before 1250, so it holds interesting stories that you can't miss. You can walk around on your own, but if you prefer to optimise your time I suggest you take advantage of the best tours of Stockholm which cost around 35 euros and take you to see the most emblematic sites that have been preserved since the 13th century. It's ideal if you're looking for things to do in Stockholm in January, as after the festivities the tide of tourists comes out and you'll find bargains and discounts on handicrafts.

Book a guided tour of Stockholm's Old Town

2. Discover the wonders around Stockholm's Stureplan Square

Stureplan| ©cohodas208c
Stureplan| ©cohodas208c

Stockholm is a box of surprises and you'll probably want to take the time to get to know the city in depth. You can't miss Stureplan Square, located in a trendy local area, where I recommend you stop by the Humlegården Park with its great children's areas. This is also home to the Royal Library, which houses old book collections.

You can create an itinerary to explore the area at your own pace, or sign up for a personalised tour from 58 euros per person to discover the best of Stockholm. This is a great option if you want to explore the city on foot. Particularly close to the square, I recommend passing through Gamla Stan or the Old Town, Stockholm' s best museums and the hidden foodie spots among the canals and alleyways. It's a great option if you're looking for things to do in the city in November, as in autumn outdoor plans are a must.

Book a private tour of Stockholm

3. Take a scenic cruise around the Stockholm archipelago

Stockholm Archipelago| ©Егор Журавлёв
Stockholm Archipelago| ©Егор Журавлёв

Stockholm is a wonderful city, where it pays to disconnect from the everyday. The city's best boat trips take you to the beautiful archipelago that surrounds the region. It's the perfect opportunity to relax and take in the beautiful scenery, history and culture. This type of experience usually has a professional guide on board who will tell you more about the city and its monuments.

You will usually also get a quick glimpse of the harbour city of Vaxholm, which is surrounded by beautiful islands. In addition, from the sea you will see iconic landmarks such as the impressive facade of the Stockholm City Hall and the Royal Palace, which belongs to the monarchy and is the largest in Europe with around 600 rooms.

Book a sightseeing cruise in Stockholm

4. Sign up for the Tom Tits Experiment in Stockholm.

Tom Tits Experiment| ©Dai Deh
Tom Tits Experiment| ©Dai Deh

Of course, you can't miss the science outreach centre known as the Tom Tits Experiment. This place has interactive attractions and is an ideal choice if you are looking for things to do in Stockholm with children. You can learn about physics, mathematics, technology, geography and more. In addition, there is a curiosity section on random topics such as the human body, the world and nature.

There are also displays of optical illusions, learning workshops and demonstration shows. The most fun is that you can touch anything you want, as well as play with the objects on display. It's totally worth it and admission prices start at around 24 euros per person.

Buy Tom Tits Experiment tickets

5. Experience the magic of fairyland in Stockholm.

Junibacken| ©Dmitriy Fomenko
Junibacken| ©Dmitriy Fomenko

Junibacken is Stockholm's fairy world, where magic is present in every corner. It is inspired by the literary worlds created by the writer Astrid Lindgren. In fact, the exhibitions revolve around audio books narrated by the author herself. Its performances are ideal for the little ones, as there are around 5 shows with songs, dances and fun performances.

You can get on the Story Train, an interactive train that will take you to know the best stories of Astrid's tales, it is the ideal transport to go through the museum in a short time. It is also home to Stockholm's largest children's bookshop, with copies of traditional fairy tales. This family-friendly activity starts at 16 euros.

Buy tickets for Junibacken

6. Enjoy an evening under Stockholm's bridges.

Boat Tour| ©AntyDiluvian
Boat Tour| ©AntyDiluvian

A romantic evening not to be missed is a trip under Stockholm's bridges. Some of the city' s best boat tours sail along the canals to see the best of the island from a different perspective. You'll pass through the old town, while bobbing between the edge of the Baltic Sea and Lake Mälaren. This type of experience is usually very comfortable and practical, as you'll find an audio guide and WiFi on board.

All you have to do is relax and cruise around the city, while taking advantage of:

  • See Stockholm's 15 bridges.
  • Check out the island of Djurgården, better known as the island of museums.
  • See the hidden nooks and crannies on the shores of Gamla Stan.
  • Appreciate the boulevards of the Hammarby Sjöstad district.
  • See the hustle and bustle of everyday life on the islands of Lilla and Stora Essingen.

Book a boat trip under Stockholm's bridges

7. Lose yourself in the streets of Stockholm aboard the sightseeing bus

Sightseeing Bus| ©skandik2012
Sightseeing Bus| ©skandik2012

The sightseeing bus tour of Stockholm is a must especially if you are planning to spend less than 2 days in Stockholm. It's a perfect way to get to know one of Sweden's largest cities in a short time, with around 22 stops from which you can hop on and off at your own pace.

The ticket usually lasts approximately 24 hours and is activated after the first use, although you can also take advantage of the full tour which takes approximately one hour.

Along the way you can enjoy the commentary of an audio guide which is usually available in several languages. The experience costs approximately 31 euros. It is the ideal means of transport to visit:

Book a sightseeing bus tour

8. Take a speedboat ride around Stockholm's archipelago.

Stockholm Archipelago| ©Henrik Prüzelius
Stockholm Archipelago| ©Henrik Prüzelius

While cruising is fun, nothing compares to the adrenaline rush of a speedboat. This water vehicle is ideal for getting to know the Stockholm archipelago in detail. It's a tour that will take you to discover the fishing villages, while you explore the most important sites on the city's shores. You're likely to pass by the Vaxholm Fortress which was built in the 17th century.

It's ideal if you're looking for things to do in Stockholm in February, as there are few tourists and excellent weather conditions for sailing the Baltic Sea. You'll usually find this experience from 119 euros per person, which usually includes a life jacket and waterproof gear.

Book a speedboat tour

9. Learn about Fotografiska's exhibitions in Stockholm

Fotografiska| ©Maria Eklind
Fotografiska| ©Maria Eklind

If you plan to spend at least 3 days in Stockholm, then Fotografiska is worth a look. It is a photography gallery with changing exhibitions revolving around contemporary works. In its corridors you'll find creations by famous exhibitors and photographers, such as Annie Leibovitz. The gallery is perfectly lit, allowing you to admire every detail of the photographs on display.

Along the corridors you will find portraits, landscape and landmark photography. The building was formerly used as a customs house, due to its privileged location. In addition, many people visit for the panoramic views from the top floor. If you plan to visit it, keep in mind that the entrance fee starts at 18 euros.

Buy tickets for Fotografiska

10. Dare to experience a night safari in Stockholm

Night Safari| ©MEMANG RIZALIS ENT.
Night Safari| ©MEMANG RIZALIS ENT.

If you are looking for things to do in Stockholm at night, you must dare to experience a night safari. This is an experience that will put you in touch with nature. You can wander through a forest surrounded by lush trees, stumble upon traditional Swedish red houses and explore the city limits.

Of course, it is not recommended to venture out on your own as there are professional guides who can instruct you on the protocols for this adventure. You will spend about four hours outdoors, searching for wild creatures that live in the area. These types of experiences usually cost around 122 euros per person. Guiding, transfers and traditional Swedish food are usually included.

Book a night safari in Stockholm

11. Take a bike ride through the streets of Stockholm

Bike Tour| ©eGuide Travel
Bike Tour| ©eGuide Travel

There's nothing more relaxing than exploring Stockholm on a bicycle, right on the shores of the Baltic Sea. It's a relaxing experience that will allow you to get to the iconic sights that tend to get crowded with tourists at peak times. You can venture out on your own, or book a guided tour, which is usually for small groups. It's a great option for getting to know the central islands of the city, while visiting sites that are unreachable by car or bus.

If you're looking for things to do in Stockholm in March, this activity is ideal as it will help you keep warm and cope with the extreme temperatures this month. It usually takes you through the Old Town, past modern buildings, medieval squares and the Swedish Parliament building. The cost of this experience is around 44 euros per person, which usually includes a guide, bike rental, helmet, mackintosh in case of rain and a pre-arranged itinerary.

Book a Stockholm bike tour

12. Visit Stockholm's St. Nicholas Cathedral

St. Nicholas Cathedral Stockholm| ©Jorge Láscar
St. Nicholas Cathedral Stockholm| ©Jorge Láscar

An experience not to be missed in Stockholm is a visit to St. Nicholas Cathedral in Stockholm, known in Swedish as "Storkyrkan" and located next to Stockholm Castle. This majestic church, built in the 13th century, is one of the most emblematic places in Sweden's capital.

The area where this cathedral is located abounds with terrifying stories and legends involving paranormal activities, which is why it is one of the most popular places to visit on ghost tours. If you are brave and like to feel adrenaline rushes, you have to sign up for this kind of adventures.

In general, you'll explore stories from medieval times and get a glimpse of the oldest painting in the city, as well as the famous sculpture of St George and the Dragon. It's ideal if you're looking for things to do in Stockholm in October, as this time of year the tour emphasises exploring the apparitions of fairies, elves and other mythical creatures that live in the city's nooks and crannies. This activity costs approximately 30 euros.

Book a ghost tour of Stockholm

13. Taste the gastronomy of Stockholm

Food in Stockholm| ©chas B
Food in Stockholm| ©chas B

Stockholm's gastronomy will take your taste buds on a journey of sensations, as it offers a variety of options. It is a unique experience that will allow you to taste and savour traditional food as well as wines from the region. Dare to taste delicacies such as moose meat, seafood and the varied presentations of meatballs. You should also take part in a Swedish Fika: this is the tea time that takes place in the best local cafés.

This type of experience immerses you in Nordic cuisine, which has traditions acquired from the Vikings. It usually costs around 96 euros per person. It's an ideal plan if you're planning things to do in Stockholm at Christmas, as you'll be able to sample typical dishes of the season, such as julbord, which is served on tables on Christmas Eve and includes sweet ham, boiled eggs, sausages, meats, fish and more.

Book a culinary tour of Stockholm

14. Skate on natural ice in Stockholm

Skating in nature| ©Sara Melhuish
Skating in nature| ©Sara Melhuish

If you like skating then this is the ideal city to spend your holiday. In fact, ice skating is considered one of the best things to do in Stockholm in winter, although the activity is usually active all year round. You'll be able to learn the basics of this entertaining sport, so that you can practise it safely. It's an outdoor experience that takes place on naturally frozen ponds, lakes or rivers.

It's a Swedish tradition you can't afford to miss, as it will take you to explore the Scandinavian winter landscapes. These experiences start at 171 euros per person, and the best part is that you'll be provided with all the necessary equipment and the advice of a professional instructor. A traditional Swedish lunch is usually included, but check with your tour provider.

15. Visit Stockholm's best museums

Vasa Museum| ©Steve Haslam
Vasa Museum| ©Steve Haslam

In Stockholm you must take the opportunity to see the best local museums that stand out for being interactive and out of the ordinary. Many are concentrated on Museum Island or Djurgården Island, located about an hour away. As an added bonus, you can buy the Stockholm Travel Card which covers this type of entertainment as well as other attractions and sights.

Explore the Swedish Museum of Performing Arts

You can start by exploring the Swedish Museum of Performing Arts which takes you to experience different types of body arts such as theatre, music and dance. You can take a look at Swedish plays and discover what goes on behind the scenes. On the premises there are collections of objects, interesting facts about the history of Swedish art, costumes and scenography of important plays, among other things. The best thing is that it is kept up to date with permanent and temporary exhibitions, with a lot of useful information.

I recommend you stop by the interactive stations and take advantage of this great plan, where you will be free to touch objects, costumes and make-up that have made history in the art industry. You'll also find the Music Hall of Fame and multimedia exhibitions of short films. It's an experience for everyone, which can be found from 14 euros.

Buy tickets for the Swedish Museum of the Performing Arts

See the Museum of Spirits in Stockholm

If you're looking for things to do in Stockholm in winter, then I recommend you consider the Museum of Spirits. It's the perfect place to keep warm, as you'll be able to do tastings and learn about the distillation process of vodka, gin and rum. By the end of the tour, you'll feel like an expert on alcoholic strength, flavour development and appropriate combinations.

In Swedish culture the production of spirits is very important, here you can learn why. There are also art exhibitions, a souvenir shop and an area where you can explore the correlation between alcohol consumption and human beings. The museum is located on the island of Djurgården and admission costs approximately 14 euros per person.

Buy tickets for the Museum of Spirits and Spirits

Take the kids to see Stockholm Toy Museum

The Stockholm Toy Museum is a must-see, especially if you're looking for things to do with kids in the city. It's home to the largest collection of toys in Northern Europe. You can see rows of dolls from different eras, board games of many editions, comics, action figures and more. Not only can the little ones have a good time, you can bring out your inner child and explore objects from all generations.

Overall, there are more than 40,000 toys that will make you feel nostalgic. The exhibits are arranged thematically and in chronological order, which makes it easy to browse. The best thing is that they are interactive and in several languages. While it's a lovely location today, it was once a World War II bunker. You can explore inside from 18 euros per person, and it's open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Buy tickets for the Toy Museum

See the most impressive exhibits at the Nobel Prize Museum in Stockholm

Getting to know the museum| ©Solis Invicti
Getting to know the museum| ©Solis Invicti

The Nobel Prize Museum in Stockholm is an enriching cultural experience, as it is a learning space whose exhibits break down the history of figures such as Albert Einstein. You can take the tour at your own pace, as the museum usually has a mobile app that includes an audio guide. Of course, there are also guided tours available where you can ask any questions you want.

Admission to the museum costs approximately 8 euros and is a must if you want to learn more about the most important contributions to history. Many ideas that changed the world are part of the exhibits, most of them revolving around physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, economics and the quest for global peace. Interactive displays and photographs throughout the facility make the experience more enjoyable.

Buy tickets for the Nobel Prize Museum

Take a historical tour at the Stockholm Shipwreck Museum.

The list of museums continues with the Stockholm Shipwreck Museum, which is an ideal visit to complement the best boat tours in Stockholm. This is because you get an interactive experience, which allows you to explore the Baltic Sea and discover the mysteries of the deep sea.

As well as exploring the Nordic waters, you can learn about archaeological discoveries in the region. This museum is very complete, with free WiFi, an audio guide so you can explore at your own pace, and five exhibits that provide answers to the main maritime curiosities. The cost of this experience is around 18 euros.

Travel back in time at Stockholm's Viking Museum

Another interesting museum is the Stockholm Viking Museum. It is the perfect place to learn about **Sweden'**s ancient culture, directly linked to Viking history. On the premises you will find ancient artefacts, relics and photographs. In addition, there is an interactive train known as Rage Friend's Saga that will take you through the transformation of Stockholm's population throughout history.

The best thing about the museum is that you get to talk to real Vikings and learn about their way of life. This activity costs approximately 19 euros, but it is well worth it because it is highly interactive and educational. It's definitely ideal if you're looking for things to do in Stockholm in October, as it's low season and this popular attraction is not very crowded.

Buy tickets for the Viking Museum

Breathe fresh air at Stockholm's Skansen Open Air Museum

For an experience with a difference, I suggest a visit to Stockholm's Skansen Open Air Museum, a building that encompasses the best of Scandinavian culture. In fact, it is a rural area with farms and houses typical of life in the country before industrialisation. It's ideal for learning about the artisanal process used to make shoes, glass, butter and textiles. The best thing is that there is a small zoo in the middle of the farms, where animals are preserved.

Being a place where Swedish traditions are honoured, you can't miss the fika time where you can have Swedish tea and coffee accompanied by pastries. And you won't just be a spectator: in some production areas you'll be invited to put your knowledge into practice. It's a recommended visit if you're organising things to do in Stockholm in May, as the weather conditions are ideal for outdoor activities at the end of this month. Please note that the approximate cost of admission is 18 euros.

Buy tickets for Skansen Open Air Museum

Let your imagination run wild at the Paradox Museum in Stockholm

Inside the museum| ©luitpold
Inside the museum| ©luitpold

In the centre of Stockholm you'll find the Paradox Museum Stockholm, which has more than 70 exhibits to test your senses. Throughout most of the building you'll find exhibits based on optical illusions and visual puzzles. You will also be exposed to sensory illusions, which will lead you to explore the limits of reality.

There are fun attractions such as the talking piano that reads the future, the tunnel where you have to keep your balance and the merry-go-round that appears and disappears challenging your imagination. Please note that the magic takes place in the basement of a building, specifically on Sergelgatan Street. Admission costs approximately 22 euros, the best thing is that you can stay as long as you like.

Buy tickets for the Paradox Museum

Interact with the activities at the Avicii Experience in Stockholm

A very special museum is the Avicii Experience, which honours the Swedish DJ and composer who made an impact on the music industry with his short legacy. After his death in 2018 different forms of tribute were offered in Stockholm, however this museum was created in 2022 in order to have a fixed space where you can learn more about his life and memory.

On the premises you can walk through the life of Tim Bergling, better known as Avicii. The attractions are interactive and you can experience a one-of-a-kind concert, co-create from his works and delve into his story. If you're looking for things to do in Stockholm in April, I recommend stopping by the museum as special activities are offered every April 20 in commemoration of his death. The entrance fee is approximately 21 euros per person.

Buy tickets for Avicii Experience