Stockholm Travel Guide: 7 Things to See and Do, Costs, Safety Tips, and More

One of the most beautiful cities in the world is Stockholm. It never fails to amaze me no matter how many times I visit. The parks, islands, harbor, and historic colored houses dating back hundreds of years are all so photogenic and picturesque.

I spent an entire summer living in the city because it’s so incredible!

Despite the archipelago’s thousands of islands, Stockholm covers fourteen islands with many museums, attractions, parks, and art to explore amidst its historic streets and buildings. Also, the people are wonderful. Even though Swedes are generally quiet and reserved, they are happy to share their advice with visitors.

Backpackers often rush their visit to Stockholm (or skip the city completely) because it isn’t the cheapest city in the world. If you ask me, that’s a mistake, since a visit here is worth every penny.

Make the most of your visit to Sweden’s capital with this travel guide to Stockholm!

Key Takeaways

Stockholm is a must-see destination for history lovers, art enthusiasts, and nature seekers.
The best time to visit is during the summer, but winter has its own charm for those who love snow.
Public transport is affordable and convenient, but Stockholm is also very walkable and bike-friendly.
Budget carefully: Stockholm can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save money if you plan well.

Here are the top 7 things to do and see in Stockholm

There are lots of things to do in Stockholm, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just in the mood for a beautiful view.

1.1 Gamla Stan (Old Town)

Why Visit?
Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s old town, is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. This cobblestone labyrinth is packed with historic churches, royal palaces and charming boutiques.

Must-See: Stortorget, the central square, with its brightly colored buildings and the Nobel Museum.
Cost: Free to explore the area. Entry to the Royal Palace is SEK 160 ($14 USD).

Personal Insight: As I wandered the narrow alleyways, I found myself completely immersed in the medieval atmosphere. The orange, red, and yellow buildings create the perfect photo op for any traveler. Grab a Swedish fika (coffee and pastry) at Café Sten Sture, one of my favorite hidden gems.

1.2 Vasa Museum

Why Visit?
The Vasa Museum houses the almost fully intact warship, Vasa, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was salvaged in 1961. It’s one of the most visited museums in Scandinavia.

Cost: SEK 190 ($18 USD) for adults, free for children under 18.
Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.

Review: With a 4.7/5 rating on Google, visitors consistently praise the fascinating history and excellent exhibits that make it feel like stepping back in time.

1.3 Djurgården

Why Visit?
This serene island is home to several museums, parks, and one of Stockholm’s most famous attractions—Skansen, the open-air museum and zoo.

Cost: Free to roam the island. Skansen admission is SEK 220 ($20 USD).

My Experience: Whether you’re picnicking by the water or visiting the ABBA Museum, Djurgården is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy nature. I highly recommend renting a bike for a relaxed exploration of the area.

1.4 The Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet)

Why Visit?
This working palace is one of the largest in Europe, housing over 600 rooms and several museums. The changing of the guard ceremony is a major draw.

Cost: SEK 160 ($14 USD) for adults, SEK 80 ($7 USD) for children.
Tip: Arrive early for the changing of the guard, which happens daily at noon.

Pro Tip: If you’re a history lover, visit both the Royal Apartments and the Tre Kronor Museum, which tells the story of the original medieval fortress.

1.5 Fotografiska

Why Visit?
This contemporary photography museum is one of the largest in the world, with rotating exhibits featuring world-renowned photographers.

Cost: SEK 165 ($15 USD).
Review: Rated 4.6/5 on TripAdvisor, visitors often call it a must-visit for its stunning views of the city skyline from the top-floor café.

Pro Tip: Visit around sunset to get the best views from the café—it’s one of the city’s hidden gems for stunning photos.

1.6 Södermalm

Why Visit?
For a more laid-back vibe, head to Södermalm. This trendy district is home to quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and cool cafes.

Must-Visit: Fotografiska for art, Monteliusvägen for sweeping views of the city.

Personal Insight: If you’re into alternative scenes, Södermalm is your go-to spot. I spent a sunny afternoon exploring vintage stores, and it was one of my favorite days in Stockholm.

1.7 Stockholm Archipelago

Why Visit?
A boat tour through Stockholm’s archipelago, made up of over 30,000 islands, offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Cost: Boat tours start around SEK 250 ($23 USD).
Best Time: Summer (June to August) is the ideal time for island hopping.

Review: Rated highly on Viator, reviewers love the blend of nature and history on these tours.

A guide to staying safe in Stockholm

Like any major destination, Stockholm is generally very safe, but you should keep an eye on your surroundings. Stay safe by following these steps:

2.1 Pickpocketing

Like most tourist-heavy destinations, petty crime such as pickpocketing can happen. Keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded areas like Gamla Stan.

2.2 Emergency Numbers

The emergency number in Sweden is 112, which connects you to the police, fire department, and medical services.

Pro Tip: Always keep your hotel’s address and contact information handy in case you need to get back quickly.

A guide to Stockholm’s hotels

3.1 Budget

Generator Hostel (3.8/5 on Google): A stylish hostel with a fun vibe. Prices start at SEK 300 ($28 USD) per night.
City Backpackers Hostel (4.6/5 on Google): Offers a cozy, social atmosphere with free pasta. Dorm beds start at SEK 260 ($25 USD).

3.2 Mid-Range

Clarion Hotel Sign (4.3/5 on Google): Central location with excellent amenities. Rooms start at SEK 1200 ($110 USD).
Scandic Grand Central (4.2/5 on TripAdvisor): Perfect for families, it has a trendy vibe and good breakfast options.

3.3 Luxury

Nobis Hotel Stockholm (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor): A 5-star boutique hotel known for its luxury and prime location. Prices start at SEK 3500 ($320 USD).
Ett Hem (5/5 on TripAdvisor): Arguably the best hotel in Stockholm for a luxurious, intimate stay. Prices from SEK 5500 ($500 USD).

Typical Costs in Stockholm

4.1 Food

Street Food: Around SEK 100-150 ($9-14 USD) for a meal like kebab or hot dogs.
Mid-Range Restaurant: A sit-down meal can cost SEK 200-350 ($18-30 USD).
Fine Dining: Expect to pay SEK 700+ ($65+ USD) per person.

4.2 Transportation

Public Transport: A single ticket on the metro or bus costs SEK 39 ($3.50 USD). A 24-hour travel card is SEK 160 ($15 USD).
Taxis: Fares start at SEK 45 ($4 USD) and increase based on distance. Expect to pay SEK 300-400 ($27-36 USD) for a 10-15 minute ride.

Suggested Budget for Stockholm

Here’s a suggested daily budget for Stockholm, depending on your travel style:

Budget Traveler: $60-80 USD per day (hostel, public transport, street food).
Mid-Range Traveler: $150-200 USD per day (mid-range hotel, public transport, museum admissions, dining out).
Luxury Traveler: $400+ USD per day (luxury hotel, fine dining, private tours).

Here are some money-saving tips for Stockholm

6.1 Use a Travel Card

Purchase a SL Access Card, which gives you unlimited travel on Stockholm’s public transport system. A 7-day pass costs SEK 430 ($40 USD), saving you a lot if you’re staying for several days.

6.2 Eat at Markets

Skip expensive restaurants and try the local markets like Östermalms Saluhall. You can find delicious, fresh food at reasonable prices.

6.3 Free Attractions

Stockholm is full of free things to do. Explore Gamla Stan, relax in the city parks, and enjoy the beautiful architecture without spending a dime.

How to Get Around Stockholm

7.1 Public Transportation

Stockholm’s public transport system is efficient and covers all major attractions. The metro, known as “Tunnelbana,” is an experience in itself—each station is a work of art.

Cost: SEK 39 ($3.50 USD) for a single ticket.
Pro Tip: Download the “SL” app to purchase tickets and check schedules.

7.2 Walking and Biking

Stockholm is very walkable, and biking is a popular way to explore the city. You can rent bikes from City Bikes for SEK 165 ($15 USD) per day.

7.3 Taxis and Ridesharing

Taxis are readily available but can be expensive. Uber also operates in Stockholm, and it’s often cheaper than traditional taxis.

When is the best time to visit Stockholm?

8.1 Summer (June to August)

This is the peak tourist season when the days are long (up to 18 hours of daylight!) and the weather is mild. It’s the best time for outdoor activities, but prices are also higher.

8.2 Fall (September to November)

Fewer tourists, cooler weather, and the city’s parks are bursting with color. Hotel prices tend to drop.

8.3 Winter (December to February)

If you can handle the cold, Stockholm is magical in winter with its Christmas markets and snow-covered streets. Pack warm clothing!

Food in Stockholm

9.1 Traditional Swedish Dishes

Meatballs (Köttbullar): Served with lingonberry jam and potatoes. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs about SEK 180 ($16 USD).
Gravlax: Cured salmon, often served as an appetizer. Expect to pay around SEK 100-150 ($9-14 USD) for a small portion.

9.2 Best Restaurants to Try

Oaxen Slip: A modern take on Swedish cuisine, highly rated for its sustainable ingredients. Meals cost around SEK 350 ($30 USD).
Pelikan: One of Stockholm’s oldest and most famous restaurants, known for its hearty Swedish meals.

Best Places to Book Your Trip

Booking.com offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels, with great filters to find what suits your needs.
Skyscanner: For finding the cheapest flights to Stockholm.
Viator: For booking tours and excursions in and around Stockholm.
Airbnb: Perfect for those who prefer a more local experience and want to stay in apartments or unique homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Stockholm expensive?

Yes, Stockholm can be pricey, especially for accommodations and dining. However, with the right money-saving tips like eating at markets and using public transport, it’s possible to stick to a budget.

What’s the best way to get around Stockholm?

Public transport, especially the metro, is the best way to get around. Walking and biking are also great options, especially during summer.

What’s a must-see attraction in Stockholm?

Gamla Stan, the Vasa Museum, and Djurgården are must-visit spots for first-time visitors.