Explore Sweden with Zayera

Welcome to Stockholm – a city built on 14 islands, where history, art, nature, and modern design meet the sea. Whether it’s your first time here or your tenth, the Swedish capital never stops surprising. This post takes you through my handpicked mix of iconic sights, cultural gems, and day trips that give a real feel for Stockholm – and beyond.

Stockholm is more than a capital city – it’s a collection of stories, spaces, and contrasts. Modern yet historic. Calm yet creative. I hope this list gives you a taste of what makes this place so special. If you’re planning a trip, or if you’ve been and want to share your own tips, feel free to get in touch or follow along for more travel ideas and insider stories.

Thanks for reading – and hej då så länge!

Discover Stockholm: A City of Islands

🇸🇪 Stockholm – Quick Facts

Capital of Sweden and the country’s largest city.
Built on 14 islands, connected by over 50 bridges – surrounded by Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea.
Known as the "Venice of the North" because of its waterways and islands.
Has a population of around 1 million in the city, and about 2.5 million in the metropolitan area.
Founded in 1252 by Birger Jarl – you can still see traces of medieval Stockholm in Gamla stan (Old Town).
Home to the Swedish Royal Family, with their official residence at The Royal Palace in Gamla stan.
Swedish Parliament (Riksdagen) is also located here – in the heart of the city.
Hosts the Nobel Prize ceremonies each December (except the Peace Prize, which is awarded in Oslo).
Stockholm is one of the cleanest and most sustainable cities in the world, with a strong focus on green spaces and eco-friendly transport.
The city has over 100 museums, including world-famous ones like the Vasa Museum, ABBA The Museum, and Fotografiska.
Public transport is excellent, and the metro (Tunnelbana) is often called "the world’s longest art gallery" thanks to its colourful station designs.
English is widely spoken, and visitors often find it easy to get around and connect with locals.
Stockholm is a very LGBTQ+ friendly city – inclusive, open, and proud.
Summers bring long, light days (up to 18 hours of daylight), while winters are darker but full of cosy lights and fika moments.

Museums and Sites in Stockholm

Drottningholm is where the Swedish royal family actually lives – but visitors are welcome to tour parts of this beautifully preserved palace and its grand gardens. A UNESCO World Heritage Site Drottningholm feels like a proper escape with grand gardens, baroque architecture, and even a historic theatre.

Drottningholm Palace

Nobel Prize Museum

Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset)

Visit the Nobel Prize Museum in Gamla stan to dive into Alfred Nobel’s legacy and the lives of Nobel laureates. It’s small but packed with powerful stories, inventions, and interactive exhibits that will leave you inspired.

Interactive exhibits, short films, and a “try it yourself” approach to world-changing ideas.

Stockholm City Hall isn’t just where the Nobel Banquet happens. It’s also one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Take the tower tour for stunning views, and don’t miss the golden hall.

The Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet)

The Vasa Museum is home to a ship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 – and was raised centuries later, almost intact. It's a jaw-dropping experience and one of Sweden’s most visited museums for good reason.

A giant 17th-century warship, almost fully preserved. Kids love the story of how it sank and was rescued.

Skansen Open-Air Museum

Moderna Museet (Modern Art Museum)

Skansen is a living museum that brings Swedish history to life. Wander through traditional houses, watch craftspeople at work, and say hello to Nordic animals.

It’s great for families and anyone wanting to see Swedish culture in action.

Moderna Museet is a must for anyone who loves bold colors, thought-provoking installations, and the timeless works of Picasso, Dalí, Matisse, and Swedish icons like Siri Derkert. The museum itself, located on Skeppsholmen island, is a piece of modern architecture with beautiful water views.

The Royal Armoury (Livrustkammaren)

Millesgården Museum

Swedish History Museum (Historiska Museet)

Inside the Royal Palace, Livrustkammaren holds centuries of royal history. Think coronation outfits, swords, and even royal carriages. It’s dramatic, beautiful, and a great peek into Sweden’s monarchical past.

Explore the Vikings, medieval Sweden, and the stunning Gold Room at Historiska Museet. I always recommend this to anyone curious about Norse mythology or Sweden’s journey from runestones to nationhood.

If you love art, water views, and peaceful gardens, Millesgården is for you. Located just outside the city center, this was sculptor Carl Milles’s home. His statues, especially when dusted with snow or glowing in the evening sun, are unforgettable.

ABBA The Museum

Rosendals Garden (Rosendals Trädgård)

Djurgården Island

Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just curious, ABBA The Museum is pure fun. Dress up, sing along, and dance through the decades. It’s interactive, nostalgic, and a celebration of Sweden’s biggest pop export.

For a peaceful fika break, head to Rosendals Trädgård. Surrounded by flowers and apple orchards, this biodynamic garden is pure joy in spring and summer. Try their sourdough and homemade cakes – all locally sourced.

Djurgården is one of Stockholm’s best-loved escapes. A perfect mix of nature and culture, you’ll find green parks, peaceful walking paths, and some of the city’s top museums – all within walking or biking distance.

Museum of Technology (Tekniska Museet)

Fotografiska

The Royal Palace (Kungliga slottet)

The Museum of Technology is perfect for curious minds. From gaming and AI to sustainability and robotics, it offers hands-on fun for both kids and adults. A great place to see Sweden’s spirit of innovation in action.

Hands-on science, gaming exhibitions, and space to play and learn. A top spot for families.

Fotografiska Stockholm is not your average museum – it’s a vibrant space for world-class contemporary photography. Expect powerful exhibitions by both global icons and emerging talents. With a rooftop café offering some of the best views over Stockholm, it’s a great spot to reflect, relax, and be inspired.

The Royal Palace in Gamla stan is one of Europe’s largest palaces still in use by a royal family. Inside, you’ll find several museums, including the Royal Apartments, the Treasury, and Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities. Don’t miss the changing of the guard – a tradition loved by visitors

Trips in Stockholm region (1-2 hours from Stockholm City)

Junibacken

The Toy Museum (Bergrummet – Tidö Collection of Toys & Comics)

Nationalmuseum – Sweden’s Museum of Art and Design

Junibacken is a magical storybook world on Djurgården – perfect for kids and anyone who grew up with Astrid Lindgren. Ride the Story Train through scenes from her books, play in Pippi’s house, and explore Swedish children’s literature in a fun, creative space. A joyful place full of imagination and nostalgia.

The Toy Museum is located inside an old military bunker on Skeppsholmen. It’s a nostalgic and colorful place with everything from vintage toys to comic books and movie props. A real treat for kids – and for adults who want to reconnect with their inner child.

Nationalmuseum is Sweden’s national gallery and a stunning blend of classical and modern art, located right by the waterfront. It features everything from Rembrandt and Renoir to Scandinavian design and temporary exhibitions. The architecture and natural light alone are worth the visit.

Birka Viking City (Vikingastaden)

Vaxholm Fortress Museum

Sigtuna – Sweden’s Oldest Town

Take a boat trip to Birka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sweden’s oldest Viking trading town. It’s an ideal day trip for history buffs, with reconstructed buildings and guides in costume who make Viking life come alive.

Hop on a ferry and explore Vaxholm Fortress. This island fort tells the story of Sweden’s coastal defences. It’s scenic, quiet, and a great place for a picnic or photo walk.

Visit Gustavianum to see one of Europe’s oldest anatomical theatres, Viking artifacts, and highlights from Sweden’s scientific heritage.

Uppsala Cathedral (Uppsala Domkyrka)

Gustavianum – Uppsala University Museum

Gripsholm Castle – A Castle with Character

A short train ride away, Uppsala Cathedral is the tallest church in Scandinavia and steeped in history – including royal tombs and beautiful Gothic architecture.

Located in the lakeside town of Mariefred, Gripsholm Castle is full of dramatic interiors, antique portraits, and a rich royal past. The town itself is charming, with cobbled streets and great spots for lunch.

Just under an hour from Stockholm, Sigtuna feels like a fairytale. Founded in the 970s, it’s full of cobblestone streets, church ruins, runestones, and sweet cafés by the lake. A peaceful walk through Swedish history with small-town charm.

Bergianska Trädgården – Botanical Garden by the Bay

Tyresta National Park – Nature reserve

Sandhamn – Sailing, Sand, and Style

Located near Stockholm University, Bergianska is a botanical garden with beautiful walking paths, greenhouses, and a scenic café. Not far, but feels like a secret world in the city.

Tyresta is a real wilderness getaway just outside the city. Old-growth forest, peaceful lakes, and hiking trails for all levels. Bring a picnic, enjoy the silence, and breathe in the pine-scented air.

Sandhamn is further out but worth it if you want that real outer-archipelago feeling. It’s a hub for sailing, with long beaches, cute restaurants, and a mix of laid-back and luxury. Great for a full-day or overnight trip.

Offering Day Tours in Stockholm

In English, På Svenska, Auf Deutsch

Off the beaten path day tour

Hiking & Nature reserve in Stockholm region

Cultural & Sightseeing day tour in Stockholm region

We will go to places with historical and political significance as well as places for art and cultural experiences, based on your interests.

We can travel to a few chosen suburbs to experience Stockholm's urban lifestyle off the usual route.

Museum fees are not included in the price.

Adaptable and flexible to your preferences and areas of interest.

Off-the-beaten-path locations, museums, parks, nature reserves, and cafes. Transportation could be included upon request.

Museum fees and meals are not included in the price, however we will make stops at Cafés for a Swedish fika or a lighter meal upon request.

Hiking a nature reserve for three to five kilometres. Longer distance if you are capable and interested in a longer hike.

We will witness the accessibility of typical Swedish nature. Swedish laws and regulations pertaining to forests and nature.

Transportation could be included upon request. Meals are not included in the price, however we will stop for a Swedish fika on our excursion.

Pick up or meet up at your hotel.
The price depends on the number of participants and on which tour you select.
If more than 2 persons, prices will be adjusted to group prices.
Payment in advance via paypal or cash upon meet up.
Confirmation is sent via email.

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