Stockholm

Top Things to Do in Stockholm: A Walkable Route of Must-See Spots

You can let GeoQuestr guide you through the city as you learn more about these amazing places along the way.

Browse Stockholm activities

Built on 14 islands connected by bridges, Stockholm is one of Europe's most beautiful capitals. Below is a route-style list of stops you can follow through the city's medieval streets, waterfront views, and green islands.

1. Gamla Stan — The Medieval Old Town

Start in Gamla Stan, Stockholm's original medieval city center. Narrow cobblestone alleys, colorful 17th-century buildings, and the Royal Palace make this one of Europe's best-preserved old towns.

Why it's worth it:

• Stortorget (the main square) is postcard-perfect
• The Nobel Prize Museum is right on the square
• Mårten Trotzigs Gränd is the narrowest alley in Stockholm — only 90cm wide

2. The Royal Palace — Scandinavia's Largest Palace

Right in Gamla Stan, the Royal Palace is still the official residence of the Swedish king. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a daily spectacle.

What to do here:

• Watch the Changing of the Guard (check times — usually midday)
• The Royal Apartments and Treasury are open to visitors
• The palace courtyard offers great views toward Skeppsholmen

3. Stadshuset (City Hall) — Where the Nobel Banquet Happens

Walk across to Stadshuset, Stockholm's iconic City Hall with its distinctive tower. This is where the Nobel Prize banquet is held every December.

Don't miss:

• The Golden Hall with its 18 million gold mosaic tiles
• Climb the tower for one of the best views over Stockholm
• The waterfront terrace is perfect for a photo stop

4. Södermalm — Stockholm's Creative Heart

Head south to Södermalm, the island known for vintage shops, street art, rooftop bars, and the best viewpoints in the city.

Good mini-plans:

• Walk to Monteliusvägen for a panoramic view over Gamla Stan and the water
• Explore SoFo (south of Folkungagatan) for independent shops and cafés
• Fotografiska photography museum is world-class

5. Djurgården — The Green Island

Cross the bridge to Djurgården, Stockholm's island of museums and nature. The Vasa Museum, Skansen open-air museum, and ABBA The Museum are all here.

Why people love it:

• The Vasa Museum has the world's only preserved 17th-century warship
• Skansen is the world's first open-air museum
• Walking paths through oak forests right in the city center

6. Skeppsholmen — Art and Calm Water Views (Add-On)

If you have extra time, the small island of Skeppsholmen offers the Moderna Museet (modern art) and peaceful waterfront walks with views of the Royal Palace across the water.

Best for:

• A quiet contrast to the busier islands
• Free entry to Moderna Museet's excellent collection
• One of the best sunset spots in Stockholm

Simple Day Plan (Works for Most Visitors)

1. Gamla Stan (morning explore)
2. The Royal Palace (Changing of the Guard)
3. Stadshuset (lunch area + tower)
4. Södermalm (afternoon viewpoints + cafés)
5. Djurgården (museums + nature walk)
6. Optional: Skeppsholmen (sunset)

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