Junibacken
Magical Astrid Lindgren children's museum — essential for ages 3-10
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About Stockholm
Stockholm County encompasses Sweden's dynamic capital and the surrounding archipelago of over 30,000 islands. The city is home to royal palaces, world-famous museums including the Vasa Museum, and a Michelin-starred restaurant scene. Gamla Stan (Old Town) preserves medieval cobblestone streets while Södermalm and Östermalm offer bohemian cafés and upscale boutiques. The county's natural landscape of forests, lakes, and archipelago islands makes it an unmatched urban-nature destination.
- Capital
- Stockholm
- Largest city
- Stockholm
- Population
- 2.4 million
- Languages
- Swedish, English widely spoken
- Currency
- Swedish Krona
- Time zone
- Europe/Stockholm (CET/CEST, UTC+1/+2)
Explore Stockholm by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Stockholm
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Vasa Museum
17th-century warship — free for under-18s
Skansen
Open-air museum with Nordic zoo
Gröna Lund
Historic amusement park on Djurgården
ABBA The Museum
Interactive pop music experience
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Stockholm Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Stockholm, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Stockholm
- Days 1-2Stockholm city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Stockholm
- Days 1-3Stockholm comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Stockholm, departure
Where to stay in Stockholm
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $88
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $185
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $420
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Grand Hôtel Stockholm
At Six
Freys Hotel
Generator Stockholm
Where to eat in Stockholm
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Meatballs for the People
Sturehof
Den Gyldene Freden
Getting around Stockholm
Purchase SL Access card (20 SEK) and load a 72-hour pass (350 SEK) for unlimited metro, bus, tram and ferry throughout the week
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in SEK, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $38 | $100 | $280 |
| Food (per day) | $25 | $55 | $100 |
| Transportation | $10 | $17 | $35 |
| Activities | $15 | $30 | $60 |
| Daily total | $88 | $185 | $420 |
Best time to visit Stockholm
Essential travel tips
- Purchase an SL Access card (20 SEK) for unlimited public transport
- Consider the Stockholm Pass for free museum entry and public transport
- Book Arlanda Express tickets in advance for discounts
- Many museums are free including Moderna Museet and Nationalmuseum
Safety information
Emergency number is 112 for police, fire and ambulance
Stockholm is among Europe's safest cities for families
Children are required by law to wear helmets when cycling — hire helmets with bikes
Lake and sea swimming is safe in city beaches; check water quality signs at archipelago beaches
Apply tick repellent before forest walks — ticks carry Lyme disease and are common May-September
Frequently asked questions
Is Stockholm safe to visit in 2026?
Stockholm is one of Europe's safest capitals and a generally very welcoming city for tourists. The main concerns are petty theft in crowded tourist areas and public transport; violent crime against visitors is extremely rare. Emergency services: police at 112 (emergency); 114 14 (non-emergency), medical at 112 (emergency ambulance); 1177 (health advice line).
What is the best time to visit Stockholm?
The best time to visit Stockholm is June to August. Stockholm has a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold, often snowy winters. The city sits at a high latitude meaning dramatic seasonal variations in daylight — from 18+ hours in midsumm
Do I need a visa to visit Stockholm?
Entry requirements follow Sweden and EU Schengen Area rules. EU/EEA citizens need only a valid ID; most others require a Schengen visa or may enter visa-free for up to 90 days (e.g. US, Canada, Australia, UK). Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Stockholm?
The currency in Stockholm is the Swedish Krona (SEK). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Stockholm?
The main language(s) spoken in Stockholm: Swedish, English widely spoken. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Stockholm?
The top attractions in Stockholm include Vasa Museum, Gamla Stan (Old Town), Skansen Open-Air Museum, Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet), and ABBA The Museum. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.