Stockholm
The Swedish capital Stockholm is located in the south-east of the country on the border between the two historic provinces of Uppland and Södermannland. The city stretches across numerous islands at the outlet of Lake Mälaren into the Baltic Sea.
Stockholm is known for its unique location on these islands, which are connected by bridges, earning the city the nickname "Venice of the North". The city is famous for its well-preserved historic old town Gamla Stan and a lively cultural scene with important museums such as the Vasa Museum and the open-air museum Skansen.
Top 10
Stockholm's most famous sights include the medieval old town Gamla Stan, the world-famous Vasa Museum and the City Hall (Stadshuset), where the Nobel Prizes are awarded every year. Another highlight is the Stockholm Archipelago, an island landscape consisting of over 20,000 islands and rocks off the coast of the city.
Many of Stockholm's main attractions are centrally located and can be easily reached on foot or by well-developed public transport. The city stretches across several islands, allowing for unique perspectives and scenic walks that reflect both Stockholm's rich history and vibrant present.
Vasa Museum
Skansen
ABBA Museum
Old Town
Drottningholm Palace
City Hall
Stockholm Castle
Gröna Lund
The Stockholm Archipelago
Attractions
Stockholm
Stockholm
Castles in Stockholm
Citypass & Tours
Stockholm offers numerous city tours, boat tours and sightseeing tours on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus, especially in the summer months. There is also a Citypass that offers numerous tours and attractions in one ticket.
Stockholm Pass
Arrival & public transport
Travel to Stockholm is usually via Arlanda Airport, which is located approx. 40 km north of the city center. But Stockholm is also easy to reach by train, car and ferry.
Public transportation in Stockholm
Where to stay
Stockholm offers a variety of different accommodation options. In addition to hotels and youth hostels in all price categories, there are also numerous vacation homes and campsites in the region. Thanks to excellent public transport , it is also possible to stay overnight just outside Stockholm.
Find accommodation in Stockholm
- Hotels: Very wide range in all price categories. Hotel chains such as Scandic also offer relatively inexpensive family rooms.
- Youth hostel or hostel: The sailing ship Af Chapmann, the converted jumbo jet at Arlanda Airport and the former prison on the island of Långholmen are among the most spectacular youth hostels in Europe.
- Vacation home or vacation apartment: often the cheapest alternative, especially for families. Vacation homes in the Stockholm archipelago are particularly popular, so always book early.
- Campsite and motorhome: there are also a few campsites in and around Stockholm. If you want, you can also rent a motorhome in Stockholm.
History of Stockholm
Stockholm was founded at a strategically important point where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. The city was mentioned as early as the 11th century in the writings of Icelandic poet Snorri Sturluson. However, the official founding of the town is usually associated with Birger Jarl in the 13th century, who had a fortress built to ward off pirates. The first documented mention of the town is in a letter of protection for Fogdö Monastery from 1252.
In the Middle Ages, Stockholm developed into an important trading center thanks to its favorable location. The city, which was initially confined to the island of Stadsholmen - today's Gamla Stan - grew rapidly. Important buildings from this period include the Storkyrkan and the Riddarhuset. Tre Kronor Castle, the forerunner of today's Royal Palace, was also a central building at the time.
Stockholm flourished during the Swedish period of great power in the 16th and 17th centuries. King Gustav Vasa was instrumental in the modernization of the city. The Royal Palace in Stockholm, which was built after the Tre Kronor burned down in the 17th century, is a magnificent example of the architecture of this period. The Riddarholmskyrkan, the final resting place of many Swedish monarchs, is also an important historical building.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Stockholm underwent a series of changes, including the industrial revolution. The population grew rapidly and new districts were created. Among the important personalities of this period is Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite and founder of the Nobel Prizes, which are awarded in Stockholm.
In the 20th century, Stockholm underwent extensive modernization. During the Second World War, Sweden remained neutral and Stockholm developed into a center for diplomacy and international relations. In the post-war period, the city continued to grow and modern architecture shaped the cityscape. The Vasa Museum and the Moderna Museet are examples of important cultural institutions that emerged during this period.