On my journey north to chase the Northern Lights in Abisko, I made a four-day pit stop in Sweden’s capital, Stockholm. Arriving by train from Copenhagen with a quick stop in the charming city of Lund, Stockholm greeted me with its grand architecture, spacious avenues, and a crisp autumn breeze. Often hailed as one of Europe’s prettiest capitals, Stockholm absolutely lives up to the hype, and I was eager to dive into its mix of history, culture, and Scandinavian design.
4 Days in Stockholm Itinerary:
Day 1: Exploring Gamla Stan Stockholm
After checking into my hostel, I set off to explore Stockholm’s historic Old Town, Gamla Stan. Wandering down its cobblestone streets, I felt as if I’d been transported back centuries. The heart of Gamla Stan is Stortorget Square, a postcard-perfect spot filled with charming, gabled buildings in vibrant colors, with cozy cafes dotting the edges. I couldn’t resist pausing for a fika—a Swedish coffee break with a warm cinnamon bun in hand—as I soaked up the lively, bustling atmosphere of the square.
One of the most intriguing buildings here is Ribbinska Huset, or the “House of Ribbing.” This unassuming red building with white stones scattered across its facade might look like any other historical building, but it holds a chilling story. Each white stone on its red walls is said to represent a beheaded Swedish noble, memorializing a brutal chapter in Sweden’s history known as the Stockholm Bloodbath.
In 1520, Christian II of Denmark conquered Sweden and decided to secure his new rule by inviting Swedish nobles to a “peace” banquet in Gamla Stan. Instead, he ordered their public execution, earning himself the nickname Christian the Tyrant. Ironically, this massacre backfired. One noble, Gustav Vasa, escaped the slaughter, rallying the people of Sweden to reclaim their independence just a few years later. Today, Sweden remembers this event as the day of its independence.
The buildings around Stortorget were later reconstructed, and Ribbinska Huset was given its distinctive white stones in 1628 as a haunting tribute to the 82 people who lost their lives that day. Exploring Gamla Stan’s narrow streets, I couldn’t help but feel that each corner held a story, making it one of the most fascinating—and beautiful—districts in Stockholm.
One of the highlights of my day was visiting Storkyrkan, Stockholm’s grand cathedral. The pale pink exterior caught my eye immediately, but it’s the interior that truly amazed me. Inside, I found the incredible Saint George and the Dragon statue—a beautifully detailed sculpture that tells the story of bravery and faith. The crypt below added an air of mystery to my visit, with dim lighting and ancient relics that made me feel connected to Stockholm’s deep history.
Not far from Stortorget is the Royal Palace. Although I didn’t go inside, seeing the grandeur of the palace’s exterior and watching the changing of the guard was a worthwhile experience. Gamla Stan is full of narrow, winding streets with hidden gems around every corner, from local shops to cozy cafes. The charm of the Old Town truly makes it one of the most picturesque areas of Stockholm.
Day 2: Fall Colors, Swedish Design, and Hidden Gems
On my second day, I took a leisurely walk to Rosendals Trädgård on Djurgården Island. This garden has an enchanting apple orchard that’s especially lovely in the fall. I spent a quiet morning picnicking among the apple trees, munching on fresh apples, and enjoying the calm ambiance—a perfect escape from the city buzz.
Afterward, I walked along Djurgårdsbrunnsviken, a waterfront lined with trees ablaze in autumn colors. This area of Stockholm offers some of the city’s best views, with golden leaves reflecting off the water and historic buildings peeking out from behind the trees.
In the afternoon, I visited Skansen, Stockholm’s famous open-air museum and zoo. Skansen offers a mix of Swedish history, culture, and wildlife, and it’s especially fun for anyone interested in native animals. I wandered through traditional Swedish houses, learned about old-time trades, and then met some furry friends! The playful brown bears, elusive lynx, adorable arctic fox, and wild boars were highlights. Skansen is a wonderful spot to unwind, and seeing the animals was a great pick-me-up. Ticket prices are around 220 SEK ($20 USD), and it’s well worth it if you’re a nature lover or traveling with kids.
Back in the city center, I visited Kungsträdgården, Stockholm’s “King’s Garden.” Even though the famous cherry blossoms weren’t in bloom, the park was still lovely. Just across the street, I found the site of the infamous Kreditbanken heist, the bank where “Stockholm Syndrome” originated. Today, it’s a clothing store, but it’s fascinating to see remnants of the original vault and plaques commemorating this historical event.
Curious about Sweden’s celebrated minimalist style, I wandered through some Swedish furniture stores, where Scandinavian design comes to life. It’s like a high-end, real-life version of IKEA! Norrgavel quickly became my favorite store—simple, colorful designs that are way out of my budget but inspiring nonetheless.
My afternoon took me to Östermalms Saluhall, Stockholm’s iconic food hall that’s been around since the 1880s. This hall is a feast for the senses, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to gourmet treats. I couldn’t resist sampling some local cheeses and smoked salmon before grabbing a coffee at one of the cozy cafes inside. It’s a great spot to enjoy a mix of Swedish flavors in an authentically local setting.
I capped off my day with a stroll along Strandvägen, a stunning boulevard along the water. With views of the city and boats bobbing in the harbor, this walk gave me a chance to unwind and soak up the beauty of Stockholm at sunset.
Day 3: Subway Art, Museums, and a Day Trip to Vaxholm
Exploring Stockholm’s Subway Art
On my final morning in Stockholm, I decided to explore the city’s famous subway art. The Stockholm metro is sometimes called the “world’s longest art exhibit,” and it’s easy to see why! I started at Central Station, where I admired the vibrant murals and creative designs. Then I made my way to Västra Skogen, where colorful tiles line the walls, and Solna Centrum, which has an amazing red-and-green forest design. Stadion was another highlight with its famous rainbow-painted ceiling, and Kungsträdgården stood out with its statues and lush, green tunnels. Although I could’ve spent an entire day exploring these stops, I had a ferry to catch.
In the afternoon, I took a spontaneous day trip to Vaxholm, a small island known as the gateway to Stockholm’s archipelago. For under $10 USD, I hopped on a public ferry and enjoyed the scenic ride, surrounded by rocky shores and charming cottages dotting the landscape. Once on the island, I grabbed lunch at Camilles Trädgård & Café and strolled around Vaxholm’s picturesque streets. If you’re a history buff, there’s the Vaxholm Fortress nearby, though it requires a separate ferry, so plan ahead if you’d like to visit.
Vaxholm is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of Stockholm’s outer islands, with plenty of shops, cafes, and scenic viewpoints. Taking the ferry back as the sun started to set over the archipelago was the perfect ending to my Stockholm visit.
Day 4: Museum Day – Nordic Museum, Vasa Museum, and Dinner at Restaurang B.A.R.
To wrap up my time in Stockholm, I dedicated my final day to two of the city’s most renowned museums: the Nordic Museum and the Vasa Museum. Both are conveniently located on Djurgården Island, and each one offers a unique glimpse into Sweden’s rich history and culture.
Morning at the Nordic Museum
The Nordic Museum (Nordiska museet) is a must-visit for anyone interested in Swedish culture, history, and design. Housed in an impressive Renaissance-style building, the museum covers everything from Swedish traditions and folk art to contemporary design and fashion. Inside, the exhibits take you through centuries of Scandinavian life, with rooms dedicated to everything from traditional Swedish clothing to intricate displays of holiday customs and even the history of the Swedish home.
- Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (open until 8:00 PM on Wednesdays)
- Admission: Tickets cost SEK 170 for adults (approximately $14 USD), and it’s free for visitors under 18.
I loved how immersive the museum felt, with full-size replicas of traditional rooms and historic pieces that provided a real feel for life in Sweden throughout the ages. A highlight was the Sami exhibit, which sheds light on the indigenous people of Sweden and their way of life, especially interesting for understanding the northern regions I’d be visiting next.
Afternoon at Stockholm’s Must-See Vasa Museum
Just a short walk from the Nordic Museum, the Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet) is a can’t-miss highlight for any Stockholm itinerary. Here, you’ll meet the legendary Vasa, an astonishingly well-preserved 17th-century warship and one of Sweden’s national treasures.
What makes the Vasa so special? Over 98% of the ship is original! Decked out with hundreds of intricate carvings, this ship looks more like an art piece than a warship. Thanks to the cold, dark, and almost oxygen-free waters where it sank, the Vasa is still incredibly intact after centuries underwater, with only the outer layer of wood showing slight signs of wear.
The Vasa’s story is just as fascinating as its appearance. In 1628, this 69-meter warship set out on its maiden voyage but sank in Stockholm’s harbor—just 1,300 meters from the shipyard where it was built. A sudden gust caused the ship to tilt, water rushed in through the gun-ports, and within minutes, it was lying on the seabed, 32 meters down. It stayed there for 333 years before being salvaged in 1961.
Step inside the museum, and the Vasa is right there, towering above you. Seeing it in person is something else. The museum does a great job of guiding you through the ship’s history, its dramatic sinking, and the impressive efforts to bring it back to life. The details in the carvings are mind-blowing, and the displays give you a real feel for Sweden’s maritime heritage.
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (until 8:00 PM on Wednesdays)
Admission: SEK 190–230 for adults, depending on the season; free for kids up to 18.
Both the Nordic and Vasa Museums offer more than just exhibits—they’re interactive journeys into the Swedish way of life, past and present, that gave me a much deeper appreciation for the culture.
Dinner at Restaurang B.A.R.
After a full day of museum-hopping, I decided to treat myself to dinner at Restaurang B.A.R., a modern, seafood-focused restaurant near the waterfront. This spot combines fresh ingredients with Scandinavian flavors, and the atmosphere is stylish yet relaxed. B.A.R. is known for its “choose-your-own” approach to dining; you can pick your preferred fish from the display and watch it get cooked right in front of you. I ordered the grilled salmon with roasted root vegetables, and it was fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. If you’re a seafood lover, this is a great spot to experience Stockholm’s culinary scene with a touch of creativity.
- Average Price Range: Main courses range from SEK 200-300 ($18-27 USD)
Where to Stay: STF Af Chapman & Skeppsholmen Vandrarhem
For my stay in Stockholm, I opted for the STF Af Chapman & Skeppsholmen Vandrarhem, a unique hostel experience that combines budget-friendly accommodation with one-of-a-kind charm. The hostel is actually located on two sites: a historic ship called Af Chapman, which is docked right on the water, and a classic building on nearby Skeppsholmen Island. I stayed aboard the ship, which was cozy, clean, and full of character, with beautiful views of the waterfront and Gamla Stan. Staying here felt like I was a part of Stockholm’s maritime history.
- Room Options: Shared dorms and private rooms are available on both the ship and in the main building.
- Cost: Shared rooms start around SEK 250 per night (about $23 USD), making it an affordable choice for budget travelers.
With its central location, stunning views, and unique setting, STF Af Chapman & Skeppsholmen Vandrarhem was the perfect base for my Stockholm adventure. The island itself is lovely to wander around in the early mornings or evenings, and it’s just a short walk to Gamla Stan, Djurgården, and many of the city’s main attractions.
Final Thoughts
Stockholm is a city that blends historic charm with modern innovation, offering travelers a little bit of everything: fascinating museums, beautiful neighborhoods, scenic views, and, of course, delicious food. From exploring Gamla Stan’s medieval streets to discovering Swedish design and taking a day trip to the islands, my time here was packed with adventure, culture, and unforgettable moments.
Whether you’re just passing through like I was or planning a longer stay, Stockholm is a city that deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. So if you’re craving a Scandinavian escape, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience all that Stockholm has to offer!
