Sweden impeccable style
Often called the “Venice of the North”, Stockholm has a list of things to do that could be made endless. There are more than a hundred attractions to choose from, big and small; well-known, popular and unique, with classics like the Vasa Museum.But what exactly should you see as a first-time visitor?
To make it easier we have picked out 10 Stockholm highlights.
1. Gamla Stan (Old Town)
Full of must-see sights, attractions, cafes, authentic restaurants and boutique shops, the area of Gamla Stan is a museum in its own right. For many this is the first stop on their journey of exploration. Visitors will have a great time in Stockholm being transported back to medieval times as they walk through a labyrinth of tiny streets. Mysterious vaults and ancient frescoes are found in every corners. Stockholm Cathedral, the Nobel Museum and the Royal Palace are all located here and should be high up on any sightseeing itinerary.
2. The Royal Palace (Sverige’s Kungahus)
Located by the water’s edge, this is the official residence of the King of Sweden. Interestingly, the Queen’s residence lies elsewhere, on the beautiful island and UNESCO World Heritage Site Drottningholm (Queen’s island). The real gems await inside, here you can see Queen Kristina’s silver throne and visit the Museum of Antiquities, the Armoury, the Tre Kronor (Three Crowns) Museum, and Treasury. Visitors can and should watch the daily change of the guard.
3. Vasa Museum
The Vasa battleship was intended to be the pride of the Swedish Imperial fleet but sank on its maiden voyage. An amazing salvage operation took place and now visitors can admire this glorious time capsule, 95 percent of it is original. The three masts on the roof of the museum are not just a tourist draw; they were reconstructed to the exact height and specifications of the original masts.
4. Djurgarden
Djurgarden island attracts particularly during the summer months of long lazy days and short nights. It’s a perfect place for a walk and picnic as well as being home to several of Stockholm’s top museums and attractions. There are plenty of pleasant cafes, restaurants and snack-bars.
5. Skansen Open-Air Museum
The oldest open-air museum in the world, Skansen, on the island of Djurgarden, is a wonderful attraction for families, particularly those with young children. Not only will visitors be treated to an authentic taste of Sweden as it once was, but also the wonderful Stockholm Zoo. More than 150 different buildings and houses were collected from all around the country and reassembled here.
6. Sky View – The Globe
You will have a great time in Stockholm at the SkyView that will take you to the top of the world’s largest spherical building, the Ericsson Globe, one of Stockholm’s modern landmarks. From 130 meters above sea level, there you will get an unforgettable view over the entire city.
7. The City Hall (Stadshuset)
Topped by three golden crowns, the City Hall is one of Stockholm’s most iconic buildings. It opened on that most Swedish of dates Midsummer’s Eve. The prestigious annual Nobel Banquets are held here. A particular treat is the chance to view the city from the famous tower.
8. Boat sightseeing
The sea flows through the arteries of Stockholm, and during the summer months, the city is quite literally full of boats. Many own summer houses on the islands of the skargarden and spend most of their weekends there.
9. Moderna Museet
One of Europe’s foremost collections of art from the 20th century to today, featuring works by artists including Picasso, Dali, Derkert, and Matisse. The museum exhibits everything from modern classics to contemporary art. The museum offers a world-class program of temporary exhibitions, a children’s workshop, a shop, a library, and a pleasant restaurant with beautiful views of Djurgarden and Strandvagen
10. Royal National City Park
Have a great time in Stockholm at the Royal National City Park. It is a six-mile-long green space surrounding and snaking into Stockholm. The forest harbors moose, foxes, deer, and many winged beauties, including rare birds. Visitors will find plenty of things to see and do, from museums, castles and theaters to sports facilities. Nature lovers will be in heaven exploring the wilderness areas.
