The Old Town (Gamla Stan) is the historic heart of Stockholm. Officially known until 1980 as "the Town between the Bridges," this area is situated primarily on the island of Stadsholmen. Although the name Gamla Stan is colloquially used to refer to the entire Old Town, it also officially includes the surrounding islets of Riddarholmen, Helgeandsholmen, and Strömsborg. The area is home to approximately 3,000 residents.

Dating back to the 13th century, Old Town is a well-preserved medieval district, characterized by its narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and historical architecture. The influence of North German architectural styles is particularly evident in many of the buildings. The area has been shaped by some of Sweden’s most notable architects, such as Nicodemus Tessin and Carl Hårleman, who played key roles in the construction of significant landmarks like the Stockholm Palace.

Old Town is rich in historical buildings, including the Stockholm Stock Exchange Building, Bonde Palace (the seat of the Swedish Supreme Court), and the House of Nobility, which once hosted the Swedish parliament. In the heart of Old Town lies Stortorget, a picturesque large square surrounded by old merchants' houses and notable buildings such as the Stockholm Stock Exchange Building. Stortorget is also infamous as the site of the Stockholm Bloodbath of 1520, where Danish King Christian II ordered the execution of Swedish noblemen, leading to a revolt that eventually dissolved the Kalmar Union and saw the rise of King Gustav I.

Key landmarks in Old Town include the Stockholm Cathedral, the Nobel Museum, and the Riddarholm Church, which is the royal burial church. Another significant site is the Royal Palace, which was constructed in the 18th century after the previous palace, Tre Kronor, was destroyed by fire. The House of Nobility (Riddarhuset), located in the north-western part of Old Town, is another historic structure of note.

Old Town is also home to one of the world's oldest continuously operating restaurants, Den Gyldene Freden, located on Österlånggatan. Established in 1722, it has maintained its original environment and is now owned by the Swedish Nobel Academy, which holds weekly luncheons there. The Stockholm Cathedral houses the famous statue of Saint George and the Dragon, sculpted by Bernt Notke, while the Riddarholm Church (Riddarholmskyrkan) serves as the royal burial church.

Tip:
Some streets can be a bit too touristy to handle, so try and stay away from the beaten tracks and explore a bit, or come in the morning for a stroll.
If you look beyond the tourist shops, there are quite a few nice little fascinating stores.

The German Church (Tyska kyrkan), also known as Saint Gertrude's Church (Sankta Gertruds Kyrka), is a significant historic and cultural landmark in Stockholm. Established in the 1580s, it has served as the primary place of worship for the German-speaking community in Stockholm for over four centuries. Initially, the church was shared with Finnish parishioners, but it became exclusively a German ecclesiastical site in 1607. Since then, the church's carillon has filled the air of the Old Town with psalms each day, a tradition that continues to this day.

The church is particularly noted for its striking architecture. Its 96-meter steeple, completed in 1878, features a distinctive brick and copper design, crowned by Neo-Gothic gargoyles-an unusual but now iconic element in Swedish architecture. The southern portal is adorned with sandstone statues of Jesus and Moses, representing the New and Old Testaments, flanked by figures symbolizing Love, Hope, and Faith, crafted in the 1640s.

Inside, the church boasts a richly Baroque style. Large windows flood the white-vaulted interior with light, highlighting the angelic motifs adorning the ceiling. The marble flooring conceals the remnants of the original guild building's wine cellars, linking the church to its historical roots. A standout feature is the ten-meter Baroque altar, which commands attention within the sanctuary. The atrium’s stained-glass window, depicting Saint Gertrude holding a chalice and a church model, is another prominent feature, adding to the church's sacred atmosphere.

One of the church's most historically significant features is the "King's Gallery." This gallery, which includes a sacristy and overlooks painted windows from the early 20th century, is decorated with the monogram of King Charles XI and features a magnificent staircase and a painted ceiling, reflecting the church's deep connections to German history.

Beyond its architectural and historical significance, the German Church continues to serve as a cultural hub for Stockholm's German-speaking community, hosting regular services and preserving the traditions of its congregation. Its long-standing musical contributions further underscore its role as a cultural cornerstone in Stockholm.

Tip:
Check the schedule – you may be able to catch a musical performance.
Visitors can hear the carillon every day, at 8 am and 4 pm.
If timing allows, you may see the inside with good lighting and be treated to the spectacular stained glass scenes.

Eastern Long Street (Österlånggatan) is a historic thoroughfare located in the Old Town (Gamla Stan) of Stockholm. Its origins trace back to the 13th century when it served as a pathway along the eastern shoreline just outside the city's original walls. Over the centuries, significant changes transformed this street from a coastal road into a central artery of urban life, as land reclamation projects pushed the shoreline further eastward. This evolution turned Eastern Long Street into a bustling area lined with workshops, stores, and residences.

During the 17th century, the street became famous for its numerous taverns, which were particularly popular among the business crowd of the time. Of these taverns, only "The Golden Peace" (Den Gyldene Freden) at Number 51 remains today. Established in 1722, it holds a place in the Guinness Book of Records as one of the oldest restaurants with its interior largely unchanged since its founding. Despite its now peaceful and charming ambiance, Den Gyldene Freden's history is steeped in the rough and tumultuous life of the area, which was once notorious for its filth, stench, and frequent brawls.

As the centuries progressed, the street's connection to the shipping trade dwindled, and by the early 20th century, nearly all maritime-related activities had vanished. Today, Eastern Long Street is much quieter than in its bustling past, yet it still retains a significant amount of its historical charm.

Notable landmarks along the street include the Royal Coin Cabinet, which houses a collection of coins dating back to the 16th century, the Stockholm Concert Hall, and the Stockholm School of Economics. Additionally, Skipper Karl Alley (Skeppar Karls Gränd), named after a 16th-century skipper, serves as a reminder of the street's maritime heritage. Despite the passage of time and the changes that have occurred, Eastern Long Street remains a fascinating blend of history and modernity, offering a unique glimpse into Stockholm's rich past.

The Royal Armoury (Livrustkammaren) in Stockholm is a fascinating museum located within the Royal Palace, rich with the history of Swedish royalty and military exploits. Established in 1628 by King Gustavus Adolphus, it is the oldest museum in Sweden. The museum was founded to preserve the king's clothing from his military campaign in Poland, setting the stage for a remarkable collection that spans centuries of Swedish history.

Among the museum's most notable artifacts is a drinking horn made from the horn of the last aurochs bull, taken as war booty from Jaktorów, Poland, during the Swedish invasion of Poland (1655–1660). Despite the Treaty of Oliwa in 1660, which stipulated that these items be returned to Poland, only a minuscule fraction has been returned, leaving most of these historical treasures in Sweden's possession.

Visitors to the Royal Armoury are invited to delve into Sweden's royal history in the evocative setting of the Royal Palace's dark cellar. The museum displays an array of splendid costumes, glittering carriages, and other ceremonial objects that tell stories of royal coronations, weddings, and funerals. Noteworthy items include the horse Streiff, belonging to Gustav II Adolf, Karl XII’s muddy uniform from 1718, and the clothing Gustav III wore to the masquerade ball where he was assassinated in 1792.

The Royal Armoury is not only a journey through the opulence of the Swedish monarchy but also a poignant exploration of its darker moments. The museum is particularly renowned for its collection of blood-stained garments, preserved as a testament to the courage and tragic fates of their royal wearers. Alongside these, visitors will find a vast array of weapons, saddles, and diplomatic gifts that further illustrate Sweden's political and military history.

For younger visitors, the museum offers a unique, hands-on experience in the Play and Learn Room. Here, children can engage with history by trying on royal costumes, playing, and discovering the world of Swedish royalty through interactive exhibits. This inclusive approach ensures that the Royal Armoury offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the grandeur and complexities of Sweden's past.

Stockholm Cathedral, also known as the Church of Saint Nicholas (Sankt Nikolai Kyrka), is the oldest and one of the most historically significant temples in Stockholm. Centrally located at the highest point of Old Town (Gamla Stan), it is flanked by the Stock Exchange Building and Stockholm Palace, forming an integral part of the city's Baroque architectural landscape.

The cathedral was consecrated in 1306, with its origins dating back to the 13th century. It features a late medieval hall interior, while the exterior showcases Baroque modifications added in the 18th century. As a crucial site during the Reformation, Stockholm Cathedral hosted the first Mass in the Swedish language. Since 1942, it has served as the seat of the Bishop of Stockholm, highlighting its ongoing religious importance.

The cathedral has a deep historical connection with the Swedish royal family, having served as the city's sole parish church for many centuries. It has been the venue for royal coronations and other significant ceremonies, including the wedding of Crown Princess Victoria in 2010. The cathedral continues to play a vital role in national events and memorials, such as the funeral of renowned Swedish author Astrid Lindgren.

Inside, the cathedral houses several significant artworks, including a medieval sculpture of Saint George and the Dragon and the Vädersolstavlan painting, one of the earliest depictions of Stockholm. The surrounding area of the cathedral is rich with historical courtyards and statues, including representations of Reason, Divine Love, Caution, and Hope. Additionally, a statue of Olaus Petri, a key figure in the Swedish Reformation, stands near the church's east facade, where the pavement also marks the former extent of a church choir demolished during the reign of King Gustav Vasa in the 16th century.

Why You Should Visit:
Architecturally interesting, culturally enriching, and very peaceful.

Tip:
Check for free organ recitals (usually at noon) and other events.
Make sure to pick up a brochure as it is very helpful in explaining several main focuses within the cathedral.

Contrary to its name, Stockholm's "Grand Square" (Stortorget) was never a stylish showpiece unlike the ones in many other European cities during the Middle Ages. It was created gradually, with the surrounding buildings added haphazardly throughout the years.

Nowadays, this is the city's oldest square and an artistic and shopping hub, particularly renowned for its annual Christmas market with fun shows, traditional handicrafts, and sumptuous culinary delights.

It is also the location of the Stock Exchange Building (Börshuset) – home to the Swedish Academy, the Nobel Museum, and the Nobel Library – built in 1773 through 1776. The nearby well dried up in 1856 due to land elevation. It was then relocated to another square (Brunkebergstorg) but eventually moved back to its original location in the 1950s, and has been connected to the city water conduit ever since.

Grand Square sits at the highest point in Stockholm and presents a carefully restored rendition of the historical buildings. Among them is house No. 3 constructed in the 1640s, commonly known as Grill House (Grillska Huset), named after its owner, Antoni Grill. The nearby building No. 5 was also Grill's property. The buildings at numbers 18 and 20 were merged into one in the 17th century and named for Johan Eberhard Schantz, the secretary of King Charles X Gustavus. House No. 22, on the left side of the square, once occupied by one of the closest friends of King Charles XI, was built in 1758 and is easily identified by its green color.

The square had a violent history, ill-famed as the location of the Stockholm Bloodbath, which took place in 1520 and resulted in the beheadings of over 80 noblemen. Their bodies were left there to bleed out, leaving pools of blood running throughout the town. Eww...(((

Indeed, the antique cobblestones of Grand Square make you feel like stepping back into the times of Old Sweden, with the pastel buildings mimicking the colors commonplace in those days.

Why You Should Visit:
The Old Town is by far the most picturesque area in Stockholm, and while this square seems unpretentious at first sight, it has a unique ambiance.

Tip:
Make sure to stand in the middle and look all around you.

The Nobel Prize Museum in Stockholm is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the legacy of Alfred Nobel, the Nobel Prize, and its distinguished laureates. Opened in 2001 to commemorate the centenary of the Nobel Prize, the museum offers an immersive experience into the world of this prestigious award.

The museum’s permanent exhibition showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts, personal stories, and historical accounts from Nobel Prize winners dating back to 1901. Visitors can learn about the lives and contributions of iconic figures such as Marie Curie, Nelson Mandela, and Winston Churchill.

One of the museum's highlights is the "Cultures of Creativity Exhibit," which guides visitors through the intricate process of selecting a Nobel Prize winner, culminating in the grandeur of the Nobel Banquet. An integral part of this experience is the Nobel ice cream, a treat traditionally served at the annual awards ceremony, which visitors can sample during their visit.

The museum offers daily multilingual tours, including in English, and hosts a variety of public events, conferences, and workshops. These activities are designed to engage and educate visitors, making the museum a dynamic hub of learning and inspiration.

For those wishing to take home a unique souvenir, the museum's shop offers a range of exclusive items, such as dark fair-trade chocolate versions of Alfred Nobel's gold medal and Swedish “dynamite” candy flavored with jalapeño pepper. The shop also features educational toys, books by and about Nobel laureates, and other distinctive keepsakes.

Visitors can also enjoy a meal at Bistro Nobel, which serves a selection of Swedish cakes, Nobel chocolate, and the famous Nobel ice cream and tea-both of which are featured at the Nobel Banquet. The bistro provides a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the museum's inspiring exhibits while enjoying traditional Swedish cuisine.

Tip:
Join the English tour to get the most out of your visit.

Western Long Street (Västerlånggatan) is one of the most iconic and vibrant thoroughfares in Stockholm's Old Town (Gamla Stan). A bustling hub for tourists, the street's historical significance and picturesque charm make it a must-visit destination.

Historically, Western Long Street was part of a larger road known as "The Common Street" or "The Long Street," which connected both the western and eastern sides of the city, extending beyond the medieval city walls. Its current name was officially adopted in 1885, distinguishing it from its counterpart, Österlånggatan (Eastern Long Street).

In its earliest days, Western Long Street was a simple pathway tracing the shoreline, linking the northern and southern city gates. By the 15th century, it had evolved into a bustling, paved street, lined with homes and shops. The street played a vital role in the city's economic life, first hosting blacksmiths' and coppersmiths' workshops, which were pushed outside the city limits due to the risk of fire. Later, in the 17th century, goldsmiths established themselves here, bringing a touch of prestige to the area.

The 19th century saw significant transformations along Western Long Street. Medieval facades were modernized with plaster ornaments and imported cast iron colonettes, reflecting contemporary tastes. Large shop windows began to appear, showcasing lavish interiors and drawing the attention of passersby.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Western Long Street underwent further changes, as part of a broader revitalization effort. The arrival of hotels, upscale businesses, and restaurants replaced many of the older shops. These new establishments catered to the growing number of tourists, shifting the street's character but also ensuring its continued vibrancy.

Today, Western Long Street remains a lively blend of the old and new. It is a place where shoppers explore boutiques, pub-goers add to the street's boisterous atmosphere, and musicians provide a soundtrack to the daily life of both locals and visitors. Despite its evolution, the street has managed to retain its historic charm and continues to be a vital part of Stockholm's cultural fabric.

Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset) serves as the seat of the Stockholm Municipality and stands as one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Located on the eastern tip of Kungsholmen island, it overlooks Riddarfjärden and faces the islands of Riddarholmen and Södermalm, creating a picturesque backdrop that integrates the city's architectural heritage with its natural waterways.

The building is renowned for its striking National Romantic style, characterized by a blend of robust Northern European brick construction with elements reminiscent of Venetian Gothic architecture. Designed by architect Ragnar Östberg, the City Hall was the result of an architectural competition initiated in 1907, with construction taking place between 1911 and 1923.

A prominent feature of the building is its monumental tower, rising 106 meters and crowned with the Three Crowns, a symbol of Sweden. Visitors can access the tower by elevator or by climbing a 365-step staircase. At the base of the tower is a gold-plated cenotaph dedicated to Birger Jarl, a 13th-century Swedish statesman.

The interior of Stockholm City Hall is equally impressive, with its Blue Hall and Golden Hall serving as major highlights. The Blue Hall, despite its name, lacks blue decorations; instead, it features a grand organ with 10,270 pipes, the largest in Scandinavia, and is the venue for the annual Nobel Prize banquet. The Golden Hall, located above the Blue Hall, is adorned with magnificent mosaics made of over 18 million tiles, depicting scenes from Swedish history and created by the German firm Puhl & Wagner.

Surrounding the City Hall is a small park that features several notable sculptures, including works by Carl Eldh, such as the ensemble representing artists August Strindberg, Gustaf Fröding, and Ernst Josephson. Another striking sculpture is the pillar topped with a statue of Engelbrekt Engelbrektsson, a 15th-century Swedish rebel leader, facing Riddarholmen.

Why You Should Visit:
Imposing from the outside but once inside, with the free guided tour that runs every 30 minutes, the building reveals its treasures.
The wall art is interesting and well-preserved; courtyards are attractive and the gardens provide great views across the water.

Tip:
From May to September, for a small fee, you can climb the tower (or take the lift up if needed) where you have a wonderful 360-degree view of Stockholm.
If you're short on time and want to both take the tour and climb the tower, make sure you visit the website and make note of the time slots (entry only at scheduled times).

The Royal Palace in Stockholm, also known as Stockholm Palace, is the official residence of the Swedish monarch, although King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia primarily reside at Drottningholm Palace. Situated in the Old Town of Stockholm (Gamla Stan), adjacent to the Parliament building, the Royal Palace is a significant ceremonial venue for the King in his role as head of state.

This historic site has served as a royal residence since the mid-13th century, originally home to the Three Crowns (Tre Kronor) Castle. Following a devastating fire in 1697, the current palace was constructed, with its completion delayed until 1754 due to the Great Northern War. The palace is one of the largest in the world, boasting over 1,400 rooms, including state and guest apartments, the Hall of State, the Royal Chapel, and several museums.

Visitors are welcomed by the Swedish Royal Guard, a tradition rooted in medieval Sweden, adding to the palace's majestic atmosphere. The palace’s interior is notable for its exquisite copper roof and houses significant cultural artifacts, including the Bernadotte Library, the Royal Armoury, and the Three Crowns Museum.

One of the most distinguished features is Gustav III's Museum of Antiquities, one of Europe’s oldest museums, which displays over 200 sculptures acquired by King Gustav III during his travels in Italy. The palace also offers a unique shopping experience at the Royal Gift Shop, where visitors can purchase exclusive items linked to the Royal Collections. The shop is open daily with free entry, making it a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and those seeking distinctive souvenirs.

Tip:
While the rooms are well-marked in English, it's always good to go on a guided tour for a more personalized experience.
The Treasury room, with all the regalia, would justify taking the tour as you get to learn more about what you're looking at.

Guests to the Nordiska Museet located in Stockholm will be delighted to find over one and a half million items on display, which trace the rich cultural past of the country. The displays extend across centuries and eras, starting with the 16th century. Founded in 1873 by folklorist, Artur Hazelius, the museum was once known as the Scandinavian Ethnographic Collection. The building itself is a skillful example of Renaissance architecture. Made to resemble a palace, the museum opened its doors in 1907 after 19 years of construction.

After taking in the beauty of the structure, guests are greeted in the main hall by a large sculpture of the founder of Sweden, King Gustav Vasa. The uniqueness of the collections will captivate visitors for many hours, with displays filled with items which have been common to the Scandinavian culture, including clothing and the necessities of everyday life in a Swedish domicile. Broken into collections which reflect the class system of the past, the ground floor is known as the Royal Armory, a place devoted to the natural life and riggings of the affluent class. In other parts of the museum, guests will find cultural implements which were commonly used by the provincial class and regional society of the country.

Tip:
Get the free audio guide (available in 10 languages) at the main lobby and enjoy!
Audio guides are very easy to use; you only have to key in the exhibit's number.
They also have a great restaurant with good lunch as well as coffee & tea selection.
You might consider combining the Swedish History Museum & the Nordic Museum since the latter picks up where the former leaves off (Renaissance) in historical coverage.

The Vasa Museum is a unique maritime museum experience; in fact, it is said to be the most popular museum in all of Scandinavia. It houses a 17th-century 64-gun warship that has been meticulously restored and preserved. It is a grand lady of the sea, measuring 69 meters and was built under the rule of King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden. Intended to be the flagship of the Swedish Navy, the ship sunk on its maiden voyage, barely making it out of the harbor, when high seas and wind overtook its deck.

Vasa is filled with some of the most ornate and exquisite carvings ever seen on a ship of its kind. It is located in a climate and humidity controlled environment and is constantly monitored and maintained to keep it in the most ideal condition for a relic of its age. The ship is a terrific photographic subject but expect its interior to be dark, making it difficult to get that perfect photo. Besides the ship itself, the museum is filled with tools of the maritime trade and traces the history of Scandinavian maritime society.

Why You Should Visit:
It's not much of a stretch to say that there are not many ships available to examine that were built in 1628. Inside, there are several levels so you can see it from all angles.
As a bonus, at the back of the building, you can visit three interesting boats belonging to the Maritime Museum – and for free!

Tip:
Allow a couple of hours for the visit and therefore arrive 2/3 hours before it closes – it will be much quieter then.

This incredibly impressive museum was the first of its kind in 1891. The open-air museum was created to celebrate Swedish culture and its traditions. The brainchild of Artur Hazelius, the founder of the Nordic Museum, Hazelius acquired land and a collection of buildings over time, which has now come to be known as Skansen. Today, this living museum paints over 300,000 square meters of the Scandinavian landscape.

The museum consists of gardens, fantastic architectural pieces, walking paths and a zoo which houses a variety of animals. Hazelius sought architectural structures which told the story of Scandinavian society. He purchased over 150 buildings throughout the country and moved them to Skansen for display. The buildings represent everything from affluent society to provincial living.

Guests to Skansen can expect to spend many hours exploring the features of the museum or visiting during one of its many celebrations and festivals. Discover the crafts, which were common to Swedish society, by observing traditionally clad craftsmen or explore the zoo, which is filled with animals native to Sweden's ecosystem.

Why You Should Visit:
If you're looking to get a 'sense' of Sweden outside the confines of great halls, Skansen is the place!
Friendly docents will explain really interesting things about the time period or the structure you're visiting.
Plenty of food/drink outlets to keep you refreshed as you explore the 300,000 square meters site, or you can bring a picnic.

Tip:
A must is the Skansen Aquarium and the "monkey house" with everything from funny baboons to scary crocs.
On different Holidays, there are some very exciting traditional celebrations that take place there.

Royal Djurgården (Kungliga Djurgården), commonly referred to as Djurgården, is an island and district in Stockholm, forming part of the Royal National City Park. Historically known as Valdemar Island (Valdemarsön), Djurgården is renowned for its rich natural environment, featuring extensive parklands dotted with ancient oak trees, many of which have significant historical and cultural value.

The island is home to several urban settlements, with Djurgårdsstaden and Beckholmen located in its southwestern region. However, much of Djurgården is covered in park areas, which include a variety of museums, culturally significant villas, embassies, and other institutions. Notable landmarks include the open-air museum Skansen and the amusement park Gröna Lund, both of which attract numerous visitors annually. Djurgården has been historically associated with high-profile residents, including royalty, diplomats, and other prominent figures.

Djurgården is renowned for its oak trees, initially intended for Swedish Navy shipbuilding. Although many were slated for felling in the early 19th century, many were preserved, and new ones were planted by Israel af Ström in 1830. By the 1920s, botanist Rutger Sernander cataloged the most impressive oaks, some over 400 years old with circumferences of at least five meters. Despite a decline, Djurgården still has the largest stand of old oaks in Northern Europe.

Among the notable oaks is Prince Eugen's oak, located in the park north of Prince Eugen's Waldemarsudde, which is considered the largest living oak on the island. This majestic tree stands 21 meters tall with a trunk circumference of 920 centimeters and is estimated to be between 300 and 400 years old, with some sources suggesting it could be as old as 1,000 years.

Due to its historical and cultural significance, Southern Djurgården has been designated as a national interest for cultural environment conservation, further underscoring its importance as a treasured part of Sweden's heritage.