The ultimate itinerary for soaking up Stockholm’s finest attractions in just 36 hours.
Stockholm has to be one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals, rich in ancient culture and home to some of the greatest museums and cultural highlights the world has to offer.
As one of the three most popular cities for events in Europe, Stockholm has enough to see and do to keep a tourist busy for a lifetime.
With only 36 hours to sample the city’s many delights, here is the ultimate itinerary for any traveller planning to take a short trip to this sought-after location.
ON ARRIVAL (6PM)
After checking into your accommodation, the only way to plunge straight into the culture of Stockholm is by exploring the bustling streets of Gamla Stan (Old Town).
Work your way through the myriad of meandering, cobbled streets and archaic architecture as you experience the medieval aesthetics of this historic district; the perfect introduction to Stockholm’s many sights, shops and restaurants, and the ideal accompaniment to your first evening.
Fact: Gamla Stan is the largest and best preserved medieval city centre in all of Europe.
DINNER IN GAMLA STAN (8:30PM)
If you’re visiting Old Town during the winter then make sure you stop by the Christmas Market, a traditional event over 100 years old with countless opportunities to sample delicious local delicacies.
Of course, there are many restaurants to choose from in Gamla Stan, too, but for your first true taste of Swedish cuisine, book into the ‘Tradition’ restaurant located on Osterlanggatan. Here you will experience traditional Stockholm specialities, including, of course, Swedish meatballs.
DAY 1 IN STOCKHOLM
THE ROYAL PALACE (10AM)
One of the most celebrated attractions in Stockholm is The Royal Palace, the official residency of the Swedish monarch which is located in Gamla Stan.
This cultural landmark boasts over 600 rooms and contains many museums, including the Royal Armoury. An entire day could easily be spent exploring this majestic attraction, so be sure to plan your time carefully and avoid missing the famous ‘changing of the guards’ outside (12:15pm Mon – Saturday, 1:15pm – Sunday).
Fact: The Royal Palace is one of the largest palaces in Europe.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY (12:30PM)
Before lunch, make your way over to Fotografiska Museet, Stockholm’s Museum of Contemporary Photography (located at 22 Stadsgårdshamnen).
This artistic venue hosts four major exhibitions each year alongside 20 minor exhibitions, so make sure you find out what’s on whilst you’re visiting.
After witnessing some of Stockholm’s finest photography, why not make your way upstairs for lunch at the museum restaurant, well-known for its incredible cuisine and beautiful viewpoints across the city waters.
THE VASA MUSEUM (3PM)
Following a well-earned refuel head over to The Vasa Museum, Stockholm’s most visited attraction and an essential location on any traveller’s checklist.
Here you will see an incredible 69 metre-long, seventeenth century warship, a spectacle not to be missed. Tours take place every day and there are 10 impressive exhibitions held throughout the year.
ÖSTERMALM SHOPPING DISTRICT (5PM)
From ancient ships to high street fashion, experience a whole different side to Stockholm by wandering through the illustrious shopping district of Östermalm.
Östermalm is the epicentre of Swedish design and the streets are filled with major clothing brands and classy boutiques.
RESTAURANG KRYP IN (7:30PM)
After a packed day of cultural sightseeing, dine at the Restaurang Kryp In located in the heart of the Södermalm neighbourhood.
This fantastic eatery serves traditional Swedish classics with a modern twist and is famous for its smoked reindeer dish, often described as ‘out of this world’.
SÖDERMALM NIGHTLIFE (9PM)
If you’re not quite ready to settle in for the night, then remain in Södermalm for nightlife that is truly superb.
Live music and entertainment can be found in many of the area’s fine bars, and there are plenty of fantastic local beverages to be sampled.
DAY 2 IN STOCKHOLM
BOAT TOUR (10AM)
In the morning, seek out an alternative side to the city with a boat tour through Stockholm’s many scenic waters.
If you want the freedom to take a look around certain areas on land, however, then choose the hop on and hop off option. Otherwise, join the Royal Canal Tour, a particular favourite amongst tourists.
THE ROYAL NATIONAL PARK (12AM)
For the best reflective experience of your time in Stockholm, take a stroll through The Royal National Park. This area of natural beauty is an essential asset to the city, containing many species of wildlife and an exceptional wealth of nature to enjoy before heading home.
Fact: The Royal National Park was the world’s first city national park.
5 FACTS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT STOCKHOLM
- There are over 70 museums in Stockholm, all showcasing the city’s finest features.
- On the shortest day in Stockholm the city only receives six hours of daylight, whereas the longest day receives 21 hours.
- Stockholm’s city subway is often referred to as the world’s longest art gallery, as its interior is home to countless paintings and sculptures.
- The magnificent Stockholm Globe Arena is the world’s largest hemispherical building.
- Stockholm is the second most visited city in the Nordic countries.
To read about more of Europe’s greatest cultural hotspots, click here.
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