The Best 3 Days In Stockholm Itinerary (Viking Approved)

Stockholm, a captivating city built on 14 islands, seamlessly blends urban sophistication with breathtaking natural beauty. This itinerary will guide you through the city’s highlights, ensuring you experience its unique charm in just three days! But before I start this 3 days in Stockholm itinerary, I need to confess something—and it will sound very ignorant of me, so I apologize. 

I’ve only ever associated visiting Stockholm and Sweden with IKEA and Swedish Meatballs. Yeah, I know. And to complete the process of making myself look even more like a complete jack-ass, I also thought Swedish Meatballs was only an IKEA thing. You know, a gimmick – something to lore a family of four in for an afternoon of shopping with a relatively inexpensive meal that can feed everyone. 

Sweden is so much more! There is nothing wrong with IKEA, of course. But when talking about things to do in Stockholm, I’m talking about eating Swedish-style hard flatbread with cream cheese. I’m talking about those piping hot Swedish-style cinnamon buns. I’m talking about drinking beer made from honey (mead, mjod) and enjoying that beer with some badass Vikings. I’m talking about traditional Dala (Dalecarlian) Horses, cheese, and yes, they do have Swedish meatballs – and they’re damn good! 

How to Get to Stockholm:

Stockholm’s accessibility makes it a convenient destination for travellers from around the globe. Whether you’re arriving by air, land, or sea, here’s a breakdown of your transportation options:

By Air:

• Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) is the city’s primary international airport, offering numerous direct flights from major cities worldwide. Search for ‘Stockholm flights’ to find the best deals.
• The Arlanda Express train, which takes approximately 20 minutes, provides a swift and comfortable connection to Stockholm Central Station. Alternatively, airport buses and taxis are readily available.

By Train:

• Stockholm Central Station is a major railway hub with excellent connections to other cities in Sweden and across Europe. Trains offer a scenic and convenient option for those travelling within Scandinavia or from nearby European countries.
• Search for train routes and schedules on the SJ website, Sweden’s national railway company.

By Ferry:

• For travellers arriving from Finland, Estonia, or Latvia, ferries offer a unique and picturesque way to reach Stockholm. Several ferry companies operate routes to Stockholm’s ports.

Public Transportation within Stockholm:

• Stockholm boasts an efficient and reliable public transportation system, including buses, metro (tunnelbana), trams, and commuter trains. Purchase an ‘SL card’ for convenient and cost-effective travel throughout the city.
• For detailed information on routes, schedules, and fares, visit the SL website or use the SL app. Search for ‘Stockholm public transport’ for further information.
• For day one, travel to Gamla Stan is best achieved via the metro, with the Gamla Stan station being the most convenient. For travel to Djurgården, ferries and trams are available from several points in the city.
• For day two, the Östermalm district is served by the Östermalmstorg metro station. Boat tours depart from various locations along the city’s waterfront.
• For day three, Södermalm is easily accessible via the Slussen and Medborgarplatsen metro stations. Fjällgatan and Monteliusvägen are best reached by bus or a short walk from the metro.

Where to Stay in Stockholm: Accommodation Options

Finding the perfect place to stay is key to enjoying your Stockholm adventure. Here’s a breakdown of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences:

Hotels:

• Stockholm offers a wide range of hotels, from luxury boutiques to well-known chains, for a comfortable and convenient stay.
• Luxury options like the Grand Hôtel Stockholm provide elegant rooms, fine dining, and stunning waterfront views. Expect price ranges of $300+ CAD per night.
• Mid-range hotels, such as the Scandic hotels, offer modern amenities and convenient locations at more affordable prices, typically ranging from $150 to $300 CAD per night.
• For budget-conscious travellers, consider hotels located slightly outside the city centre, often offering lower rates. Search for ‘Stockholm hotels’ to compare prices and find the best deals.”

Hostels:

• Hostels are an excellent choice for solo travellers and those on a tight budget. Stockholm has several well-maintained hostels offering dormitory-style rooms and communal facilities.
• STF af Chapman & Colombus is a unique hostel located on a historic ship, offering a memorable experience. Prices typically range from $30 to $60 CAD per night.
• City Backpackers Hostel is another popular option, known for its social atmosphere and central location. Search for ‘Stockholm hostels’ to find available options.

Airbnb:

• Airbnb offers a variety of apartments and rooms for rent, providing a more local and personalized experience.
• Options range from cozy studios in Södermalm to spacious apartments in Östermalm.
• Prices vary depending on the size, location, and amenities, but you can generally find options ranging from $80 to $250+ CAD per night.
• Consider Airbnb for longer stays or a more home-like environment.

Tips for Booking:

• Book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
• Consider the location of your accommodations in relation to the attractions you plan to visit.
• Read reviews from previous guests to ensure a pleasant stay.

Things to note about Sweeden:

Sweeden is a mostly cashless society, which means most places will only take credit, debit, and other forms of digital payments (phones, watches). Keep an eye on the high conversion rates and convenience charges your bank will gladly charge you. Most places in Stockholm’s old town and grocery stores will accept cash, but your local coffee shop most likely will not.

Day 1: Exploring Gamla Stan

Start your first day in Stockholm by exploring Gamla Stan. This is the old part of the city, full of beautiful old buildings, cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Stortorget (Square)

Wander through its enchanting cobblestone streets, admiring the colourful medieval buildings that line the way, a testament to Gamla Stan’s history, which stretches back to the 13th century, making it one of Stockholm’s oldest districts.

Stuténska Huset

The colourful medieval townhouses in the square were rebuilt in the middle of the 17th century. The original façade was added in 1780 and designed by Stockholm Master Mason J.W. Friese, who wanted it to match the eastern gable of the Storkyrkan. Admire the colourful medieval townhouses surrounding Stuténska Huset.

Parliament House (Riksdagshuset)

The Parliament House (Riksdagshuset) is open to anyone wishing to attend a debate or public hearing. That said, for those who are interested, between September and June, when the parliament is in session, you can visit Riksdagshuset for guided tours. To understand Sweden’s legislative history and current governance, the Parliament House (Riksdagshuset) offers guided tours during its active sessions, September through June.

Espresso House

Espresso House is a Swedish coffee chain that started as a small cafe, inspired by both the Italian and American coffee cultures. Today, it’s the largest coffee shop chain in Scandinavia, with over 400 coffee shops across Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark. Enjoy a Swedish ‘fika’ at Espresso House, and experience a local tradition.

Royal Palace of Stockholm

The Royal Palace of Stockholm was primarily built during the eighteenth century in the Italian Baroque style. It was built on the same spot where the “Tre Kronor” castle burned down in 1697. It is open to the public and offers five museums like Gustav II I’s Museum of Antiquities, the Tre Kronor Museum and the Treasury.

Be sure to visit the reception rooms, which are classically designed in their eighteenth and nineteenth-century style. The Rikssalen (the Hall of State) with Queen Kristina’s silver throne and Ordenssalarna (Halls of the Orders of Chivalry) are all worth checking out. Meanwhile, around Noon, be sure to head out to the courtyard and watch the daily Changing Of The Guard.

Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral)

Storkyrkan, aka The Great Church, aka Sankt Nikolai kyrka (Church of St. Nicholas), aka Stockholms domkyrka (Stockholm Cathedral), was constructed in 1279. It showcases some unique objects such as St. George and the Dragon sculpture (1489), the legendary Vädersoltavlan (1535), and Lena Lervik’s sculpture” Joseph and Mary” (2002). It has been a Lutheran church since 1527 but is also home to a wide variety of religious services. The wedding of Their Royal Highnesses Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel took place in Stockholm Cathedral on Saturday, June 19, 2010. Explore Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral), built in 1279, and home to historical artifacts and royal events.

Obelisk at Castle Hill (Slottsbacken)

Unfortunately for me, the Obelisk at Castle Hill was not there, and in its place was its base, some construction equipment, and some barriers. So if it returns by the time you visit, know that the Obelisk at Slottsbacken is near the southerly entrance of the Royal Palace. It’s considered to be the very centre of Stockholm. Gustav III commissioned the 22-metre granite obelisk, and Louis Jean Desprez designed it. If visible, see the Obelisk at Castle Hill (Slottsbacken), commissioned by Gustav III, marking the center of Stockholm.

Nobel Museum

The Nobel Museum contains all the essential information about the most prestigious prize in the world, The Nobel Prize, Alfred Nobel, and the Nobel Laureates. They have guided tours and films that take you from conception to the Nobel Banquet. Delve into the world’s most prestigious prize at the Nobel Museum, where guided tours and films reveal the story of Alfred Nobel and his laureates.

Chokladkoppen

In the Stortorget, Stuténska Huset, we stumbled across this cute and cozy cafe called Chokladkoppen. Delicious food with local ingredients, cold and hot drinks, and a unique old building in the heart of Gamla stan, Stockholm old town. Enjoy lunch at Chokladkoppen, a cozy cafe in Stuténska Huset, offering local cuisine.

Cafe Kåkbrinken

Now I know we just had lunch at Chokladkoppen, but Gordana wanted ice cream. I heard stories that the smell of freshly baked waffle cones can be picked up from 10 meters away – which is most likely how we ended up here. Cafe Kakakbrinen serves a variety of ice creams, waffles, gelatos, sorbets, and more. Try ice cream at Cafe Kåkbrinken, known for its freshly baked waffle cones.

German Church (St. Gertrude’s Church)

The German Church, sometimes called St. Gertrude’s Church, belonged to the German Saint Gertrude Parish of the Church of Sweden. View the German Church (St. Gertrude’s Church), with its historical parish.

Skeppsholm Bridge

The Skeppsholm Bridge is a 165 metres long and bridge that connects Blasieholmen to Skeppsholmen. Made by the Motala Verstad Group in 1861, it was the first forged wrought iron bridge to be constructed in Sweden. The gilded crown sits on the railing of the bridge, and from here you’ll get great views of the Stockholm Royal Palace. Walk across the Skeppsholm Bridge, the first forged wrought iron bridge in Sweden, offering views of the Royal Palace.

Eric Ericson Hall

Eric Ericson Hall is a concert venue named after the Swedish conductor and Eric Ericson and is run by Eric Ericson International Choral Center. On one of the walls, there is a seven-meter high image of the Sea’s song by Anita Graffman and Marina Aittalat. See the Eric Ericson Hall, a concert venue with a large image of the Sea’s Song.

Moderna Museet

Located on Skeppsholmen island, Moderna Museet has an extensive collection of art from the twentieth century to today, with works by artists like Picasso, Dali, Derkert, and Matisse. The large and temporary exhibitions combine contemporary art modern classics. The building was designed by Spanish architect Rafael Moneo. The museum also has a children’s workshop, a store and a delightful restaurant with a gorgeous view of Djurgården and Strandvägen. Explore the Moderna Museet, featuring modern and contemporary art.

Kastellet

Kastellet is a historic citadel located on the small island of Kastellholmen, connected to Skeppsholmen. It offers scenic views of Stockholm and is a reminder of the city’s military history. The citadel has served various purposes over the centuries, from a defensive fortress to a signal station.

Skeppsholmen to Djurgården: Ferry Journey

To continue our adventure, we’ll journey from Skeppsholmen to Djurgården. Two different ferries depart from Skeppsholmen, so be sure to board the one headed to Djurgården (unless you’re planning a return trip to Stockholm Slussen kajen in Gamla Stan).

This ferry ride offers a scenic transition, allowing you to contemplate the array of museums awaiting you on Djurgården. Given the time constraints, you might need to prioritize two museums for today and consider visiting others on day three, or alternatively, choose another activity. Either way, this itinerary has you covered.

Djurgården Attractions

Gröna Lund

Gröna Lund is an amusement park located on Djurgården Island. While comparatively smaller than many other amusement parks, it features 30 rides and operates from late spring (April/March) to September. If your schedule permits and depending on your interests and the time of year, you can either spend time at Gröna Lund, plan a visit for day three, or simply pass through. During my visit in September, the park was closed, so I opted to pass through.

ABBA Museum

The ABBA Museum is an interactive exhibition dedicated to the iconic pop band ABBA. Opened in May 2013, the museum celebrates the band’s legacy. Although I personally enjoy several ABBA songs, I found the CAD 34.00 entrance fee to be a bit steep. If you’re an ABBA enthusiast, it’s worth noting that the museum is cashless, and purchasing tickets online is recommended. Technically, the ABBA Museum isn’t a traditional museum, as it lacks collections and research initiatives, operating as a for-profit establishment.

Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is Scandinavia’s most visited museum, attracting approximately one million visitors annually. It houses the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship. The Vasa warship, with over 95 percent of its original structure and hundreds of carved sculptures, sank on its maiden voyage in Stockholm in 1628 and was salvaged in 1961, 333 years later. The museum features ten exhibitions detailing life aboard the ship and offers a film about the Vasa in 13 languages. Grab your tickets HERE!

Nordiska Museet (Nordic Museum)

The Nordic Museum, founded in the late 19th century by Artur Hazelius, is dedicated to Sweden’s cultural history and ethnography. Its collection comprises over 1.5 million objects, spanning from the early modern period (around 1520) to the present day. The museum also showcases buildings from across Sweden, an extensive collection of documents, and approximately 6 million photographs dating from the 1840s to the present.

Junibacken

Junibacken, founded by Staffan Götestam, Fredrik Urström, and Peder Wallenberg, is a children’s attraction and Stockholm’s fifth most visited tourist site. It celebrates Swedish children’s literature, particularly the works of Astrid Lindgren. The museum’s interior design, created by Swedish artist Marit Törnqvist, reflects the illustrations from recent editions of Lindgren’s books. Junibacken also houses Sweden’s largest children’s bookstore. If you plan to visit SkyView, consider stopping by Sofia Kyrka.

Skansen

Skansen is the world’s oldest open-air museum, showcasing Sweden’s history and traditional life through houses and farmsteads from every region of the country. Visitors can experience Swedish customs, traditions, work practices, celebrations, and seasonal events like summer singing, dancing, concerts, and winter Christmas markets. Exploring Skansen thoroughly requires time, and tickets can be purchased HERE.

Strandvägen Boulevard (Walk)

As we return to Gamla Stan for dinner, we’ll take a walk along Strandvägen Boulevard. This elegant boulevard is lined with high-end fashion stores housed in charming 18th-century buildings. Strandvägen is situated in Stockholm’s most exclusive district, known for its affluent restaurants and a harbor filled with luxury boats and yachts.

Gamla Stan: Dinner at Aifur

The final stop of the day is Aifur Krog & Bar, a restaurant recommended by a fellow tourist. This unique establishment recreates a Viking dining experience with replicas of Viking tools, furniture, and cutlery. Guests are seated at extended family-style tables, served by staff dressed in medieval attire, and entertained by musicians playing ancient instruments, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Game of Thrones. Each guest’s arrival is announced, eliciting a lively response from the crowd. Don’t forget to try the honey beer!

Day 2: Södermalm’s Artistic and Culinary Scene

Fotografiska

Fotografiska boasts four major contemporary photography exhibitions and approximately 20 smaller displays annually. The museum’s upper-level souvenir shop, restaurant, and bar are also highlights, which we’ll discuss shortly. While I typically avoid museums on short itineraries, Fotografiska’s compelling exhibits made it an exception well worth taking. Fotografiska is a great museum to visit for any photography lover. Fotografiska was founded in 2010 and is housed in a former customs house dating back to 1906, in the Art Nouveau style.

Fotografiska (Lounge, Bar, Cafe, Snack or Dinner)

The Fotografiska café’s top floor offers breathtaking views of Stockholm’s old town and Gröna Lund, perfect for enjoying a drink or snack. The building was built in 1906. Downstairs, the restaurant has earned prestigious awards, like the Gold Dragon Award.

Katarina Kyrka

Katarina kyrka (Church of Catherine) is one of the significant churches here in central Stockholm. The original building was constructed in 1656–1695, but like most churches, it had succumbed to fire and was rebuilt in the 1990s.

Meatballs For The People

Meatballs For The People offers a culinary adventure with 14 varieties of meatballs, including elk, beef, and salmon. A must-try for any food enthusiast! The restaurant is popular, so arriving early is recommended. After dinner, we’ll return to Mosebacke Terrassen for drinks, views, and music. Meatballs are a significant part of Swedish cuisine.

Mosebacke Terrassen (Drinks)

Mosebacke Terrassen, located at Södra Teatern, is an outdoor venue offering panoramic views of Stockholm. With its diverse seating options and beer garden, it’s a perfect spot for evening drinks. I took advantage of the empty patio to fly my drone, and we’ll return here after dinner for drinks, views, and music. Södra Teatern is a historical cultural landmark in Södermalm.

Day 3: Stockholm’s Landmarks and Historical Sites

Stockholm City Hall

Stockholm City Hall stands as one of Sweden’s most iconic buildings and a major tourist attraction. Housing offices for two hundred people, including the Municipal Council, it’s celebrated for its grand ceremonial halls and unique art. Notably, Stockholm City Hall is the prestigious venue for the Nobel Prize banquet, held annually on December 10th. The building’s architectural style is romantic nationalism, and construction took place between 1911 and 1923.

Riddarholmen

Riddarholmen, a tranquil island, offers a serene escape with stunning views of Stockholm and the City Hall across Lake Mälaren. Evert Taubes Terrass is a perfect spot for relaxation, especially at sunset. Evert Taube, a beloved composer from the Gothenburg archipelago, is honoured with a statue in the park.

On Riddarholmen, you’ll also find Riddarholmen Church, the burial church of Swedish monarchs. The House of Nobility, commissioned by the Swedish nobility in the 17th century, stands as a prime example of Northern European architecture. Inside, the Session Hall is adorned with the 2,326 coats of arms of the Swedish aristocracy. Riddarholmen’s historical significance lies in its role as a burial site for Swedish royalty and its importance in Stockholm’s political history.

Riddarhoelmen Church

Also located on the island of Riddarholmen close to the Royal Palace in Stockholm is The Riddarholm Church. It is the burial church of the Swedish monarchs.

House Of Nobility

The House of Nobility was commissioned in the 17th century by the Swedish nobility and is an excellent example of architecture in northern Europe. The walls of the Session Hall are decorated with the 2.326 coats of arms of the Swedish aristocracy.

Stockholms Medeltidsmuseum

Stockholms Medeltidsmuseum (Medieval Museum) is built around the findings from Stockholm’s most extensive excavation. This underground exhibition showcases 55 meters of the original 16th-century town wall, a medieval graveyard, and a warship, offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past. The museum’s purpose is to preserve and display artifacts from Stockholm’s medieval era, showcasing the city’s early development.</p> <h3>Royal

Cafe Gråmunken

I was on the fence about mentioning this place but here goes…
The location is perfect and in the absolute best place to attract tourists on one of the most touristy streets in Stockholm. This leads to everything being pricey, which, as you could imagine, comes with the territory of that type of location. 

The coffee was ok, and the waffle was ok. I’ve definitely tasted better, but then again I’ve drunk coffee in places like Italy where coffee is an art. I’ve eaten waffles in places like Belgium which are known for waffles. So my palette tends to be a bit more refined than that of the average traveller. 

Ok, I’m done being pretentious now. Let’s move on.  

Swedish Opera

The Royal Swedish Opera is Sweden’s national stage for ballet and opera, serving as the national venue for these art forms since 1773. Visitors can experience Kungliga Operan by attending a performance or taking a guided tour. The opera house’s architectural style is neoclassical, and it has been a cultural landmark in Stockholm for centuries.

St. Jacobs Kyrka

St. Jacobs Kyrka (St. James’s Church) is one of Stockholm’s distinguished, historic, and often overlooked churches. Located near the Royal Palace, it has stood in the same spot since the 16th century, notable for its red colouring. The church’s architectural style is a blend of Gothic and Renaissance influences, and it has played a role in several significant historical events.

Kungsträdgården

Kungsträdgården, also known as Kungsan, is a popular central gathering place, known for its outdoor cafes. It hosts open-air concerts in the summer and features an ice rink in the winter. The park’s history dates back to the 15th century, and it has long been a central part of Stockholm’s social life.

Nomad (Dinner) + House Beer “Nomad.”

Near our Airbnb, Nomad Swedish Food & Bar serves up Swedish cuisine in the Stockholm city center, at Upplandsgatan 2a. This was my first taste of Swedish Meatballs outside IKEA. Yes, I’m was moving up in the world! Nomad is also known for its venue for live music and DJs.