Stockholm

The Swedish capital draws travelers with its mix of Viking history, contemporary and classical architecture, and cutting-edge design. Visitors head straight for Gamla Stan (Old Town) and the Vasa Museum before checking out the city’s museums, parks, and UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Drottningholm Palace. Since Stockholm is relatively compact and surrounded by water, guided bike tours and canal cruises are great ways to get around. Efficient public transportation takes visitors to every corner of the city and beyond. Plus, Stockholm’s position on the western end of the Stockholm Archipelago, makes it an ideal base for island-hopping. Some islands, such as Fjäderholmarna, are a quick ferry-ride away, while Vaxholm, Grinda, and Svartsö are popular options that require more planning.

Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s historic center and one of its most visited districts. Most sightseeing experiences include a stop at Gamla Stan, but the best way to explore the Old Town is by foot. Many walking tours cover most of the compact area in a few hours or less. Consider unconventional tours, such as after-hours ghost hunting or photography tours, for clients who are interested in something different. 

Read more about Gamla Stan tour options here.

Vasa Museum

Built to house the 17th-century warship Vasa—the pride of the Swedish crown that sank minutes into its maiden voyage—the Vasa Museum is Stockholm’s most popular attraction, drawing as many as 1.5 million annual visitors. Clients interested in the history of the ship and its restoration would benefit from taking a guided tour as there’s a lot to take in. For those who prefer to explore independently, hop-on hop-off buses and boats stop outside the museum, and entrance is included for Stockholm Pass holders.

Read more about Vasa Museum tour options here.

Djurgården

Djurgården is one of Stockholm’s most visited islands, dominated by scenic parklands and former royal hunting grounds along the Djurgården Canal. It’s also home to the Vasa Museum and Skansen, an open-air museum and zoo devoted to preserving Sweden’s native wildlife and traditional craftsmanship. Additional highlights include Gröna Lund Tivoli (Sweden’s oldest amusement park), the Nordic Museum, and Rosendal Palace. Most tours make brief stops at Djurgården before heading to the Vasa Museum.

Read more about Djurgården tour options here.

Drottningholm Palace

The private residence of Sweden’s royal family, Drottningholm Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s best-preserved 17th-century castles. The royal family resides in the southern wing, but the rest of the complex is open to the public. It’s possible to visit the palace on a boat or bus trip from Stockholm, or independently with a Stockholm Pass, but tours that focus on castles in the region offer more in-depth experiences.

Read more about Drottningholm Palace tour options here.

Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago, which extends roughly 37 miles (60 kilometers) east from Stockholm toward the Baltic Sea, is where many locals spend their weekends and vacations. There are ample opportunities for scenic cruises, day tours, and multi-day island-hopping excursions. Boat cruises and passenger ferries run between the mainland and the islands, providing easy access. For clients who are more adventurous, consider sailing or kayaking tours.

Read more about Stockholm Archipelago tour options here.