First impressions of the capital of Sweden is that of a city that has found an incredible balance between modern progress, historic preservation and nature conservation. Spread across 14 islands, the Stockholm archipelago is home to 1.5 million people. With over 30% of the city made of up waterways and another 30% consisting of parks, nature is literally right outside every door.
Despite its natural beauty, Stockholm is an economic powerhouse, and the cranes silhouetted against its skyline usher in constant change. Yet with 85% of its citizens working in the services, and its lack of heavy industry, Stockholm one of the cleanest metropolitan cities in Europe.
Perfect for visits in all seasons. Stockholm, with its ochre buildings reflecting on its waterways, has gorgeous gardens and parks for sunshine-filled days and over 100 museums for the dark winter afternoons. There is always something to do in this exceptional city.
Check out the modern restaurants and shops in Old Town Gamla Stan
With its mustard-colored buildings, cobblestone alleyways and Royal Palace, no visit to Stockholm is complete without a stop in Gamla Stan (Old Town). The oldest settled neighborhood of the city, with most buildings dating to the 1700s, it still has its medieval street layout, with meandering alleyways leading to leafy squares. Pedestrian friendly and chock full of art galleries, unique shops, and fantastic restaurants, visit early in the day to beat the crowds.
During the summer you can watch the changing of the guards outside of the Baroque-style Royal Palace. Or you can visit the Nobel Museum, of literary prize winning fame, just off the main square.
The Hair Pig in Gamla Stan. A cozy little restaurant, and one of the more enjoyable meals we experienced while visiting Stockholm.
Take a chance on the ABBA Museum
Whether you are a fan of the 1970’s supergroup or just looking for a fun, interactive history lesson on the music and fashion of the time, the ABBA Museum is a must-do. You can easily spend several hours wandering this well-planned and meticulously curated museum that takes you along the life path of each of the band members, ultimately culminating in the musical sensation that became ABBA and then disbursing as everyone moved on their own unique path. You can see photos, watch videos, hear personal accounts from each band member and participate in karaoke and music video sessions.
Enjoy a history lesson and a picnic at the Skansen Open-air Museum
Combining Stockholm’s love of the outdoors and history, Skansen Open-air Museum is part zoo and aquarium, and part architectural and living history lesson. Located on the island of Djurgården, just a short ferry ride away, Skansen was founded in 1891 to show the way of life in the different parts of Sweden before the industrial era. Architecturally or historically significant buildings from across the country were relocated to this park. Each building has a unique history that can be read on the plaque outside. However, it may be more interesting to speak with the building “occupants,” people dressed in period clothing, well versed in its history, who share stories and answer questions.
Typical of Stockholm, the park has evolved over time while still maintaining is rooting in history and nature. On sunny days, families flock to the museum for picnics on its sprawling lawns, history lessons from the staff, bear sightings in the zoo, aquatic interactions at the touch-tank and a ride on the merry-go-round. Only a visit will allow you to appreciate this curious blend of experiences that will leave both adults and children ready for a nap on the ferry ride home.
Learn about the balance between ego and design at the Vasa Museum
Normally a maritime museum would not be on the list of top sights, but the Vasa Museum is unique. This stunning building on Djurgården island was custom-designed to display the only fully intact 17th-century ship that has ever been salvaged. The massive 64-gun warship Vasa, with its grandiose sculptures and intricate woodwork, sank in the first 20 minutes of her maiden voyage in 1628. Poor, top-heavy design and a strong gust of wind led to her demise. The Vasa was raised in 1961, and archeologists upon discovering that over 95% of its original wood remained intact, began the painstaking process of reassembly and restoration. Besides displaying the entire fated vessel, the multi-level museum shares the stories of the ship designers, crew, the 30 victims who lost their lives. Free guided tours are available every hour.
In an effort to continue the preservation of this massive ship, the museum has limited light and is kept on the chilly side. Forego the coat check as you will need it to keep warm while touring the building. A great place for a nice warm-up is the museum cafe which serves up your favorite Swedish foods and has fantastic soups and delectable Swedish pancakes.
Commune with nature in the Bergius Botanic Garden
Situated just a bit out of the city center on an inlet of the Baltic Sea, the Bergius Botanic Garden contains thousands of trees and plants as well as greenhouses featuring plants from lush rainforests to arid deserts and every climate in-between. On a sunny day the plant lovers and painters decent on the garden, which is part of the city’s national park system, to relax, admire the flowers and perhaps try to capture the beauty on canvas.
Dating back to the 18th century, the garden is today owned and managed by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences and Stockholm University. For a flora and fauna lesson, pair your visit to the Garden with the Swedish Museum of Natural History next door, or just take a few minutes to admire its architecture and grand staircase entrance.
Sail among the 30,000 islands of the Stockholm archipelago
Whether you are taking a guided boat tour of the islands or just commuting between them by ferry, the sea is synonymous with Stockholm. Each island has its own character and charm, from a bustling neighborhood to an untouched nature reserve. Viewing the city from the water provides a unique and reflective perspective.
Hang out at the King and Queen’s home at Drottningholm Palace
Located just outside of the city, Drottningholm Palace is the permanent private residence of the Swedish Royal Family. This gorgeous palace, with its sprawling and meticulously manicured grounds and delightful outbuildings, is classified as a UNESCO world heritage site. Built in the 1600s, it features fantastic examples of the numerous architectural styles of the day, with a heavy dose of the confectionary Rococo style. Purchase tickets to tour the palace, opera house, and fanciful Chinese Pavilion, or just enjoy the spectacular gardens which are open to the public for enjoyment year-round.
Appreciate art during your commute on the Stockholm subway
Most people see a metro system as a simple and efficient means of transportation. Stockholm has taken the mundane task of commuting and breathed vibrant life into the journey. The Metro opened in 1950, has been called the longest art gallery in the world, with its 110 kilometers of tunnels and tracks. During each station stop, riders who peel their eyes away from their phone screens will be treated to colorful and quirky displays. From futuristic escalators to magical rainbows, whimsical cartoons and gothic chambers, each stop is an exciting exploration of mood, color, and character.
Final thoughts
Stockholm is a study in harmony like none-other. Dazzling summers, cold winters, thriving industry and pristine nature, high art and fun entertainment, royal and familiar, all coexist and flourish in this fantastic island collective that beckons visitors to unlock its magic.
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