If you're planning your very first trip to Sweden’s capital, then welcome to one of the most charming, laid-back, and seriously underrated cities in Europe. Stockholm is a city that dances between old-world beauty and modern Nordic cool. Both historical gems and trendy neighborhoods abound in Stockholm places, so if you are anything like me, you want to do it all.
Let me take you on a personal tour of the best things to do in Stockholm, laced through with some no-nonsense recommendations and a few surprises I didn't see coming during my first days here, jetlagged and grasping a cinnamon bun for dear life.
1. Wander Through Gamla Stan (Old Town)
Start your Stockholm adventure with a walk through Gamla Stan, the city’s storybook-perfect old town. Cobblestone streets? Check. Cozy little cafés? Double check. It’s one of the oldest medieval city centers in Europe, and trust me, the vibe here is straight out of a Scandinavian fairytale.
While you’re at it, pop by the Royal Palace Stockholm—yes, it’s still a working palace, and it’s one of the largest in Europe. Watching the changing of the guards here gives Buckingham Palace a run for its money. Visiting this spot is hands down one of the iconic things to do in Stockholm.
2. Visit the Vasa Museum – A Sunken Treasure
You wouldn’t think a massive warship that sank on its maiden voyage would be the pride of a nation, but here we are. The Vasa Museum is unlike anything you’ve seen—housing a 17th-century ship that was salvaged almost entirely intact.
It’s oddly moving and honestly one of the coolest Stockholm places to explore. You’ll find yourself lost in stories of shipwrecks, royal blunders, and meticulous restorations. If museums are your thing (and even if they’re not), this one’s a must.
3. Chill on Djurgården – Nature in the Middle of the City
You know those magical parks where you can bike, have a picnic, visit a zoo, and hit up a few museums all in one afternoon? That’s Djurgården.
This lush green island is perfect for anyone looking to soak up some sun, especially during Sweden’s gorgeous summer months. The ABBA Museum and Skansen (an open-air museum and zoo) are right here too, so your Instagram feed won’t know what hit it.
And yes, lounging in Djurgården is definitely one of the more peaceful things to do in Stockholm—ideal for recharging after hitting the busier tourist spots.
4. Take a Fika Break—Because Coffee Is Practically a Ritual
Let’s talk fika. It’s not just coffee and cake—it’s a lifestyle. And once you’ve tried it, you’ll never settle for a rushed coffee run again.
Head to Kaffekoppen in Gamla Stan or drop by Vete-Katten, a Stockholm classic. Savor a kanelbulle (cinnamon bun) and soak in the Swedish chill. Fika isn’t just a snack break—it’s a cultural experience and, dare I say, one of the sweetest things to do in Stockholm (pun very much intended).
5. Cruise the Archipelago – 30,000 Islands Worth Exploring
Stockholm is much more than just one city; actually, it's made up of a handful of islands, and that's where the real magic happens-within the Stockholm Archipelago. Whether ferrying off across these waters in summertime or taking a guided tour, one definitely will not forget all the pleasures.
Throw in a light jacket (yes, even in July), pack your camera, and prepare to see some views you never knew you needed to know. Exploring the archipelago is one of the most exciting things to do in Stockholm, especially when bathed in that glowing golden light of the never-ending Scandinavian sunset.
6. Discover Södermalm-Stockholm's Hipster Heart
If Gamla Stan is Stockholm's soul, Södermalm is the artist's cousin with a twist of coolness. This area is simply filled with indie shops and vintage markets and cafés to make any Parisian weep.
It feels like a treasure hunt—all the time sipping a matcha latte, then flipping through vinyl at a local record store. Wandering around Södermalm is one of those things to do in Stockholm that somehow becomes an entire-all day affair before you know it.
7. Fotografiska – A Photography Museum with a View
Even if you are not a museum person, Fotografiska will certainly change your mind. This contemporary photography museum is truly a delight for the eyes, while their exhibits are both astoundingly beautiful and thought-provoking.
Oh—and don’t skip the café upstairs. The panoramic view of the water is unreal. Among all the Stockholm places to visit, this one is quietly powerful and surprisingly emotional.
8. Take a Dip Like a Local
This one might catch you by surprise, but swimming is somewhat of a thing in Stockholm—even in the city center.
In summer, locals take a dip at Långholmen or Tantolunden. The water is clean, the atmosphere relaxed, and there is just something very Swedish about swimming next to these historical buildings without a care in the world. Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your list of spontaneous things to do in Stockholm.
9. Hit the Metro—Yes, Seriously
The best part about Stockholm is that it's not only an efficient transport system but also an underground art gallery. Stations like T-Centralen, Kungsträdgården, and Solna Centrum have all been visualized and sculpted into dreamscapes.
Hop on a train and make a game of station-hopping just to admire the art. It’s oddly satisfying and weirdly calming, plus it counts as one of the quirkiest things to do in Stockholm.
10. Sunset Views from Monteliusvägen
The town still feels perfect as you step to Monteliusvägen, a scenic walk above Lake Mälaren, together with tourists and locals alike for that golden hour.
You take a snack, get a breath, and just be for a moment. It is that kind of place that quietly traces a line over your memory. And if you are keeping a tally, then yes, that comes pretty close to being on the top of things to do in Stockholm.
So there you have it, an exciting introduction to the very best things to do in Stockholm. You're either broadbanding the Viking ships or sipping espresso with the locals; however, this city takes you back home and casts a spell on you.
Stockholm is not just a place to visit; it is a way of life. A blend of frosty sea air, royal fineness, casual chic, and undisturbed sorcery that forever lingers in the memory.
And if you’re looking for a cozy, central place to stay with breakfast that’ll make you cancel lunch? Try Scandic hotels. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
1. What is the most famous thing in Stockholm?
The Royal Palace Stockholm is one of the most famous landmarks, along with the charming streets of Gamla Stan.
2. What famous tourist attraction is found in Sweden?
The Vasa Museum in Stockholm is one of Sweden’s top tourist attractions, showcasing a 17th-century warship.
