Cool Destinations in Europe in July Stockholm, Sweden
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This Scandinavian Hub Is Built Across 14 Islands — and You Can Sing With ABBA Holograms in a Museum

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Stockholm is known as the “Venice of the North” for its 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. Whether you’re gliding through the Stockholm Archipelago’s 24,000 islands, wandering the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, or visiting the world’s first open-air museum at Skansen, Stockholm has something for everyone. 

To create this list of must-do activities, we combined personal experiences with recommendations from locals, insights from seasoned travelers, and top-rated guides. Each activity highlights Stockholm’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and modern Scandinavian flair.

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What’s the actual best thing to do in Stockholm? Asking for a friend who forgot their itinerary.

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Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Learn More About ABBA at ABBA The Museum © CanYalicn / Adobe Stock
ABBA karaoke session 1/5
Must-Visit Capitals in Europe Stockholm, Sweden © Freesurf / Adobe Stock
Stroll Stortorget Square 2/5
Least Walkable Cities in Europe_Stockholm, Sweden © pillerss / Adobe Stock
Sunset at Skinnarviksberget 3/5
Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Explore Stockholm Archipelago by Boat Tynningö island © Belyaaa / Adobe Stock
Boat tour of Archipelago 4/5
Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Have Fun at Skansen © Lic0001 / Adobe Stock
Explore Skansen Museum 5/5

Results

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Learn More About ABBA at ABBA The Museum 1
ABBA karaoke session
10 3
Must-Visit Capitals in Europe Stockholm, Sweden 2
Stroll Stortorget Square
11 2
Least Walkable Cities in Europe_Stockholm, Sweden 3
Sunset at Skinnarviksberget
11 2
Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Explore Stockholm Archipelago by Boat Tynningö island 4
Boat tour of Archipelago
11 2
Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Have Fun at Skansen 5
Explore Skansen Museum
9 4

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Recommended Hotels in Stockholm

Recommended Activities

  • Explore the Stockholm Archipelago by boat – A boat tour is the best way to experience the Stockholm Archipelago in one day. 
  • Have fun at Skansen – Skansen is the world’s oldest open-air museum. 
  • Admire Stortorget Square’s vibrant buildings. The oldest square in the city is home to Stockholm’s iconic colorful houses

Explore Stockholm Archipelago by Boat

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Explore Stockholm Archipelago by Boat Tynningö island
© Belyaaa / Adobe Stock

Exploring Stockholm’s breathtaking archipelago by boat is easily one of the best things to do in Sweden’s capital. It spans over 650 square miles (1,683 square kilometers) and is home to over 30,000 islands. That makes it the largest archipelago in Sweden and the second-largest in the Baltic Sea.

In places, bridges connect the archipelago to mainland Sweden, but there is no better way to explore this serene location than by boat. A boat tour lets you see more of the area in less time. On this Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise, you’ll travel along the archipelago in a classic ship with an expert guide. 

You’ll pass scenic islands, vibrant villages, and famous sites like the Vaxholm Fortress. 

Travel Tips

  • Dress in Layers for the Boat Ride: The weather can change quickly out on the water. Even if it’s warm on the mainland, bring a light jacket or sweater for the boat.
  • Stop at Vaxholm for Lunch: If your tour stops at Vaxholm, make sure to grab lunch at one of the cozy cafes by the harbor. I had a great meal at Vaxholms Hembygdsgårds Café with fresh seafood.

Read also: Top-Rated European Capitals

Have Fun at Skansen

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Have Fun at Skansen
© Lic0001 / Adobe Stock

Skansen, located on Djurgården island, is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Stockholm. It’s also one of the best places to learn about Swedish history, heritage, and wildlife. The world’s largest open-air museum, Skansen, was opened in 1891 by Artur Hazelius to showcase the Swedish way of life in the past and present. 

This vast museum offers many fascinating attractions that are begging to be explored. One main highlight is the historic houses and farmsteads, some dating back to the 14th century. These buildings offer a fantastic insight into Sweden’s past. 

You’ll also enjoy Skansen Zoo, which houses wildlife from across Sweden, such as moose, Arctic fox, and brown bears. I also liked the Printer’s Home, the Post Office, and the gardens.

Travel Tips

  • Visit Skansen Early to Avoid Crowds: Skansen can get crowded, especially on weekends. Try to arrive right when it opens at 10 AM to explore the museum without the big crowds. The entry fee is $20 for adults.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes for Walking: Skansen is vast and has lots of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be exploring historic buildings, the zoo, and gardens, and it’s better to be prepared for a full day of walking.
  • Don’t Miss the Traditional Swedish Fika: While at Skansen, take a break and enjoy a fika (Swedish coffee break). There’s a lovely café near the zoo that serves delicious cinnamon buns and coffee.

Read also: Beautiful European Villages

Admire Stortorget Square’s Vibrant Buildings 

Must-Visit Capitals in Europe Stockholm, Sweden
© Freesurf / Adobe Stock

Stortorget Square is one of Stockholm’s most iconic tourist attractions. You’ll likely recognize this beautiful location from the countless photographs on Instagram. Located in Gamla Stan, the city’s Old Town, it’s the oldest square in Sweden. 

The main attraction in Stortorget Square is its colorful and narrow buildings. Green, red, orange, and yellow, these buildings date as far back as the 15th century, with some also being constructed in the 18th century. These buildings are super popular with travelers, so it’s best to arrive early if you want to take photographs away from the crowds.

It’s also worth noting that a Christmas market usually occurs on Stortorget Square, which makes the square even more magical. 

Travel Tips

  • Grab a coffee at Chokladkoppen nearby: Sit outside this cozy café, just steps from the square. Their hot chocolate and cinnamon buns are perfect for a break.
  • Look for the cannonball in the wall: On the corner of Number 7, there’s a cannonball embedded in the wall. Legend has it that it was fired at the Danish King Christian Tyrant during the Stockholm Bloodbath in 1520. However, it was embedded in the wall from an early proprietor.

Read also: Best Money-Saving Tips in Europe

Learn More About the Nobel Prize in the Nobel Prize Museum

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Learn More About the Nobel Prize in the Nobel Prize Museum
© Maurizio De Mattei / Adobe Stock

You’ll also find the Nobel Prize Museum on Stortorget Square. Located in the former Stock Exchange building, this fascinating museum is an excellent place to learn more about the prize, its history, and past winners. For those who don’t know, the Nobel Prize is an international award that recognizes people for their achievements in various fields.

The award was established by Alfred Nobel in 1895. Past winners of the Nobel Prize include Marie Curie, Albert Einstein, and Martin Luther King, Jr.

In the Nobel Prize Museum, you’ll discover exhibits based on subject areas like natural science, peace, and literature. The museum also provides a free audio guide detailing each exhibit. 

Travel Tips

  • Visit after 2 PM for fewer crowds: The museum is quieter in the late afternoon.
  • Join a free guided tour: I joined a 30-minute guided tour and learned some fascinating stories about the Nobel laureates. Free 30-minute English guided tours run Tuesday to Sunday at 11:15, 13:15, and 15:15, plus Friday evenings at 19:15, and you must sign up at the entrance since pre-booking isn’t available.

Read also: Top-Rated City Squares

Visit Riddarholmen Church

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Visit Riddarholmen Church Gamla Stan
© Nikolay N. Antonov / Adobe Stock

Another exciting attraction in Gamla Stan is Riddarholmen Church, one of the most iconic sights in Stockholm. If you love architecture and history, this will quickly become one of your favorite places in the city. Built in the 13th century, Riddarholm Church is the former medieval Greyfriars Monastery and the burial church of Sweden’s kings. 

From Gustav II Adolf in 1632 to Gustaf V in 1950, many Swedish regents have been buried in the church. The only exception is Queen Kristina, who abdicated the throne in 1654. Besides its fascinating history, Riddarholm Church is beautiful.

Its grand clock tower proudly stands above the Old Town, and the ornate interior and majestic stained-glass windows take your breath away. 

Travel Tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance: I almost missed out because the church isn’t open every day, and hours vary depending on the season. Be sure to check their opening hours before planning your visit.
  • Photograph the spire from Riddarholmen Island: For the best view of the church’s iron spire, head to the waterfront on Riddarholmen Island.

Read also: Beautiful European Neighborhoods

Take in the Views From Skinnarviksberget

Least Walkable Cities in Europe_Stockholm, Sweden
© pillerss / Adobe Stock

If you’re looking for the best views in Stockholm, look no further than Skinnarviksberget, the city’s highest natural point. This rocky hilltop across the water from Gamla Stan offers exceptional views of the city skyline. Unsurprisingly, it’s also an epic place to watch Stockholm’s fiery sunsets.

From the top, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of Gamla Stan, Stockholm City Hall, Kungsholmen, and Lake Mälaran. If you visit at night, you’ll also be able to stargaze. On rare occasions, the Northern Lights also make an appearance.

It takes approximately 30 minutes to walk to Skinnarviksberget from Gamla Stan. Alternatively, it’s only a 5-minute walk from the Zinkensdamm Stadium metro station.

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Travel Tips

  • Pack snacks or a picnic: I brought a small picnic and enjoyed it while watching the sunset. There aren’t any shops at the top.
  • Visit in the late afternoon for golden hour photos: The light just before sunset made the city glow. I got some of my favorite photos of Stockholm here during this time.

Read also: Must-Visit European Castles

Learn More About ABBA at ABBA The Museum

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Learn More About ABBA at ABBA The Museum
© CanYalicn / Adobe Stock

One of the top things to do in Stockholm if you love music is visit ABBA The Museum. Opened in 2013, this museum is one of the most exciting museums you’ll ever visit. For starters, it features interactive exhibits that see you become the fifth member of the iconic pop group. 

You can perform on stage alongside holograms of Agnetha, Björn, Benny, and Frida. The museum also features a super entertaining karaoke studio.

“Singing in the ABBA Museum’s karaoke studio was the best part of our trip to Stockholm. It was such a fun experience that made us feel like we were part of the band,” shares Georgia Konidari, founder of World Wild Schooling.

When you’re not singing your heart out, test your knowledge in the ABBA quiz and learn more about the story of ABBA in the museum’s exhibitions. You’ll find band memorabilia, costumes, and gold records in the exhibitions. 

Travel Tips

  • Book your tickets online to save time: The museum can get busy, so book your ticket in advance and skip the line at the entrance.
  • Use the interactive exhibits early in your visit: I noticed the karaoke studio and hologram stage got crowded later in the day.

Read also: Safest European Cities

Enjoy the World-Class Photography at Fotografiska 

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Enjoy the World-Class Photography at Fotografiska
© DimiTalen / Wikimedia Commons / CC0

Fotografiska is one of the most popular museums in Stockholm. Located in the Södermalm district, this fascinating museum is considered a destination for world-class photography. Inside, you’ll find ever-changing exhibitions that showcase incredible photographs taken by photographers from across the globe. 

At the time of writing, the museum is showing exhibitions of Space, Emilia Bergmark-Jiménez, and Bruce Gilden. Fotografiska also offers a restaurant, a bar, and a bistro. 

Fotografiska also frequently hosts events and live music. Guided tours are available. The museum’s beautiful early 20th-century Art Nouveau-style building is also a plus. 

Travel Tips

  • Grab a bite at the restaurant after your visit: The museum’s restaurant isn’t just a convenience—it’s a destination.

Read also: Affordable Cities in Europe

See How Royalty Live at the Royal Palace

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden See How Royalty Live at the Royal Palace
© SilvanBachmann / Shutterstock

The Royal Palace, also known as Stockholm Palace, is one of Europe’s largest palaces. It is the official residence of the Swedish monarch and the setting for most official receptions. 

Aside from being a royal residence and workplace, Stockholm Palace is a historically significant landmark. The royal residence has been located by the Norrström in Gamla Stan since the 13th century. 

However, the palace we see today was constructed in the 18th century. It was built in a baroque style by architect Nicodemus Tessin and features eleven floors and over 600 rooms. You can explore the Royal Apartments, the Treasury, and Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities.

Travel Tips

  • Catch the Changing of the Guard: I made sure to arrive early, and it was worth seeing this daily ceremony in the palace courtyard. It’s a highlight and doesn’t cost extra. The Royal Guards Ceremony at Stockholm’s Royal Palace takes about 40 minutes, starting at 12:15 pm on weekdays and 1:15 pm on Sundays in the outer courtyard.
  • Entry Details: The ticket costs USD 22.50 and includes a 40-minute guided tour in English starting at 10.30 PM and 14.30 PM.

Read also: Most Beautiful European Castles

Try Sweden’s Famous Meatballs

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Try Sweden’s Famous Meatballs
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One of the top things to do in Stockholm if you’re a food enthusiast is try Swedish meatballs. Sweden is loved for many things, and meatballs are one of them. You’ll find restaurants and food markets selling meatballs everywhere.

Aside from being a tasty way to experience Stockholm, Swedish meatballs have a rich history you need to learn. It’s thought that the köfte meatballs from the Ottoman Empire influenced Sweden’s meatballs. It’s also believed they’re based on a recipe King Charles XII brought back from Turkey in the 1700s. 

Swedish meatballs are traditionally made with ground pork, beef, egg, onion, and cream and served with lingonberries and mashed potatoes. Blå Dörren is a popular place to try Swedish meatballs.

Travel Tips

  • Pair your meal with a Swedish beer: Many restaurants, like Blå Dörren, offer local craft beers that pair perfectly with meatballs. I tried a pale ale from Gotlands Bryggeri, and it was the perfect match.
  • Try a food market for an affordable option: At Östermalms Saluhall, I found delicious Swedish meatballs at a fraction of the cost compared to sit-down restaurants. It’s a great way to taste authentic food without breaking the bank.

Read also: Top European Destinations for Foodies

Walk Along the Monteliusvagen Cliff Path

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Walk Along the Monteliusvagen Cliff Path
© AxelRudi / Shutterstock

The Monteliusvagen Cliff Path is one of Stockholm’s most scenic walking trails. Like Skinnarviksberget, this viewpoint offers outstanding views of Lake Mälaren and Gamla Stan. However, where it tops Skinnarviksberget is that you’ll feel much closer to the Old Town. 

The Monteliusvagen Cliff Path is also paved, so you don’t need to worry about walking on uneven and rocky surfaces. This footpath is found in Södermalm and is approximately 1,640 feet (500 meters) long. You’ll find plenty of benches to sit down and admire the views along the path.

The Monteliusvagen Cliff Path is approximately a 10-minute walk from Slussen station. When I visited Stockholm, it became my regular sunset viewing spot.

Travel Tips

  • Bring a picnic: There are benches along the path. Pack some snacks and drinks to enjoy with the view. I loved having a little picnic there while enjoying the scenery.
  • Go in the morning for fewer crowds: The path can get busy, especially in the afternoon.
  • Combine your visit with a walk in Södermalm: The path is located in the Södermalm district, known for its trendy shops and cafes.

Read also: Must-Visit Riverfronts

Go for a Swim 

Top Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden Go for a Swim
© DZiegler / Adobe Stock

One of the most unique things you can do in Stockholm is go swimming. The thought of swimming in cold waters in Scandinavia might be pretty terrifying. However, it’s more common than you’d think. While Stockholm isn’t well known for its beaches, there are plenty of popular swimming spots.

Of course, this is only an activity you’d do in the summer, as the water freezes in winter. Even in summer, you’re in for a rather refreshing experience. Some of the best places to swim in Stockholm include Långholmens Strandbad, Smedsuddsbadet, and Tanto Strandbad. 

If you feel extra brave, you could jump straight off the jetty into the water at Tanto Strandbad.

Travel Tips

  • Smedsuddsbadet: This swimming spot is surrounded by a scenic park, making it a great place to enjoy a post-swim picnic.
  • Långholmens Strandbad: The beach has no entry fee and is easily accessible via public transport, but facilities are limited. Bring your own snacks and drinks.

Read also: Top-Rated Beaches in Europe

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