Things To Do
What to eat?
Come hungry! Sweden is full of delicious comfort food and sweet treats. Don't leave without trying Swedish meatballs, Toast Skagen (an open-faced sandwich topped with a creamy shrimp salad and roe), stekt strömming (crispy pan-fried Baltic herring), fresh seafood, crispy waffles with jam and cream, and salty licorice—if you're feeling adventurous!. Most importantly, embrace fika—Sweden's cherished ritual of slowing down to enjoy coffee and a pastry with friends. It's less about the coffee and more about taking a moment to savor life. .
Gamla stan
Gamla Stan is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval old towns and the historic heart of Stockholm. Wander its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful 17th- and 18th-century buildings, cozy cafés, boutique shops, and hidden courtyards. It's also home to the Royal Palace, making it the perfect place to soak up the city's history while enjoying its lively atmosphere. .
Mälarpaviljongen Café Bar & Restaurant
Eat something traditionally Swedish at an open-air summer restaurant and bar located on a series of floating pontoons on Lake Mälaren along the scenic Norr Mälarstrand promenade. It is celebrated for its welcoming, LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere, lush garden decor, and beautiful waterfront views. If the weather is warm, you'll see people taking a swim before ordering a beer :) More great outdoor options: Mosebacketerassen, TAK, Thai Boat, etc. .
Kvarnen Bar & Restaurant
Kvarnen is a classic Stockholm institution that has been serving traditional Swedish food and beer since 1908. Beloved by locals, it's the perfect place to try classic dishes like meatballs, herring, or toast Skagen in an authentic, old-world setting with beautiful interiors and a lively atmosphere. More classic Swedish food: Restaurant Pelikan, Restaurant Prinsen, Den Gyllene Freden, etc. .
Acne Archive
Acne Archive is the outlet store for Acne Studios, Sweden's most internationally recognized fashion brand, known for its minimalist design, premium denim, and modern tailoring. The archive offers past-season collections at significantly reduced prices, making it a favorite among fashion-savvy locals and visitors looking to score designs at a fraction of the original price. More Swedish fashion: Acne Studios, Toteme, HOPE, Séfr (at Åhléns department store), Our Legacy, Filippa K, etc. .
ABBA The Museum
ABBA The Museum is an interactive museum dedicated to Sweden's most iconic pop group. Rather than simply displaying memorabilia, it lets you sing, dance, and even perform on a virtual stage with ABBA. It's fun, nostalgic, and entertaining—even if you're not a die-hard fan. .
Fotografiska Museum
Fotografiska is one of the world's leading museums of contemporary photography, featuring exhibitions from internationally renowned and emerging artists. Even if you're not a photography enthusiast, it's worth visiting for its inspiring exhibits, stunning waterfront location, and top-floor café and restaurant with some of the best panoramic views of Stockholm. .
Skansen
Skansen is the world's oldest open-air museum, where you can explore historic Swedish homes and buildings from across the country, watch traditional craftspeople at work, and meet native Nordic animals like moose, bears, and lynx. It's a wonderful way to experience Sweden's history, culture, and nature all in one place. .
Gröna Lund
Gröna Lund is Stockholm's historic waterfront amusement park, combining thrilling roller coasters, classic carnival rides, games, and great food in a compact setting. In the summer, it's also one of Sweden's premier concert venues, hosting major international and Swedish artists in an unforgettable harbor-side atmosphere. .
Vasa Museum
Vasa Museum is home to the remarkably preserved 17th-century warship Vasa, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was recovered nearly intact more than 300 years later. It's one of Sweden's most famous attractions, offering a fascinating glimpse into maritime history, engineering, and life in the 1600s. .