Stockholm, Sweden is a beautiful, traditional, European city. Complete with cobblestone paths, colorful vintage architecture and fabulous nature sites. If you are looking for your next European city to explore then add Stockholm to your list! If you are a vegan visiting Stockholm make sure to check out this blog and vlog all about eating Vegan Food in Stockholm, Sweden. But for the best list of what to do while you're there keep reading below and watch the video above for travel ideas to add to your itinerary!
1) Picnic & views at Mariaberget Lookout
Mariaberget Lookout in Stockholm’s Södermalm district offers stunning panoramic views of Gamla Stan, Lake Mälaren, and the city skyline. Accessible via the scenic Monteliusvägen path, it’s a favorite spot for photographers and visitors seeking a peaceful, picturesque escape. There is also a nice greenery up top to relax and picnic with your friends!
View of Mariaberget Lookout
Picnic at Mariaberget Lookout
2) Explore Stockholm's "Old Town" Area or Gamla Stan
The quaintest hand-made shops, fabulous architectural buildings and colorful vibes! Famous buildings in this area include Stockholm City Hall, The Royal Palace, Riddarholmen Church, Nobel Prize Museum and Parliament House.
You won't want to miss this adorable city center that looks like Belle's hometown in Beauty and the Beast!
Gamla Stan Old Town
3) Experience Wildlife and History at the Skansen Museum
This is Sweden's first "open-air museum." Part zoo, part reenactment, part nature, this place has it all! We went on a cloudy, rainy day, but still got to see real reindeer, view historical buildings and get a Pippi Longstocking souvenir at the gift shop. (Did you know the Pippi Longstocking character originated in Sweden? No? Me neither!)
Reindeer at Skansen
4) Take a tour at The Viking Museum & The Vasa Museum
At the viking museum you can learn about the history of the amazing vikings, who weren't as bad as they were historically made out to be. They were just explorers with wanderlust - I can relate to that! You can pose in viking outfits, take a historical water ride with animatronics similar to Disney world and more. The Vasa Museum which is nearby holds one one of the world's oldest preserved ships, the Warship Vasa (see below). These were two of my husband's favorite spots in our Europe trip!
Cedric and the Warship Vasa (one of the oldest ships in the world!)
5) Squeeze in the Mårten Trotzigs Gränd
Stockholm's narrowest alley is barely over two feet wide! Mårten Trotzigs Gränd is the narrowest alley in Stockholm, measuring just 90 centimeters (35 inches) at its slimmest point. Tucked away in the historic Gamla Stan, this medieval passageway is named after a German merchant, Mårten Trotzig, who lived there in the 16th century. With its steep, stone steps and charming atmosphere, the alley is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Stockholm’s past.
Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, Stockholm's Narrowest Street
6) Participate in Fika
Fika is the beloved Swedish tradition of taking a break to enjoy coffee and pastries, often with friends or colleagues. More than just a coffee break, fika is a social ritual that emphasizes relaxation and connection. Popular treats include kanelbullar (cinnamon buns) and prinsesstårta (princess cake), typically enjoyed in cozy cafés or at home. This daily pause is an essential part of Swedish culture, promoting balance and well-being. I wish this tradition was in the U.S.! Our friend took us to the cutest fika restaurant called Fika and Wine.
Enjoying Fika with friends
7) Try Swedish Fish
Yes, it's cliche, and yes, my local Swedish friends teased me when I wanted to try them, BUT I still think about them to this day! They are so different than the ones in American candy stores! So many flavors (not just red). I bought and ate sooooo many while I was there! I even wish I bought more to take home! They were that good! As you can see, I'm so happy in this picture with my favorite treat! Some debate that they are not vegan because there is beeswax in some products, but most are because they are made of mostly sugar and coated in vegan-friendly carnauba wax.
I love authentic Swedish fish!
Which activity would you most like to try? Comment on the Stockholm video above with your thoughts on what looks fun in Stockholm, Sweden and subscribe to this blog for more European travel tips!
