5 reasons why you need to visit The Viking Museum

Discover the Viking era in an immersive museum experience!

By Beth Levicki
Published: August 27, 2025
Viking Museum

Where best to learn about the Vikings than in Sweden? With interactive exhibitions, tons of events and guided tours, The Viking Museum has something for everyone. Here’s a few reasons why you need to visit... 

Kids will love the interactive elements

Ragnfrid’s Saga ride

Welcome to your kid’s newest obsession! The Viking Museum is suitable for all ages and is home to fun and engaging interactive exhibits – a great way to explore the fascinating history of the Vikings.  

Younger visitors can feel the excitement of history and get an idea for what life as a child Viking was like, while history buffs can delve into exciting historical facts and decipher the truth from the myth.  

For an exciting adventure, hop on board the museum’s ride, Ragnfrid’s Saga, and travel through 10th-century Europe. Explore a slice of Viking life on this 11-minute journey. With flickering lights, echoing voices, and dramatic soundscapes, it feels like stepping straight into a Viking saga. Kids may find the ride a bit loud and intense at times, so it's recommended for ages 7 and up. 

Note: ride available in 9 languages as of 19/08/2025 

Year-round events make every visit unique

Viking Museum

Year-round events make every visit unique 

The Viking Museum is packed with events all year round, so there’s always something to sink your teeth into. From traditional crafts to guest tattoo weekends, the museum is rich with Viking fun whenever you visit. Here are some examples of their diverse range of events: 

Winter (December - February) 
Enjoy the Jól Market, Midwinter Blot Ceremony and exciting children’s activities. 

Spring (March - May) 
Indulge in theme games and sports, thrilling battle shows and learn about cultivation and Viking gardens. 

Summer (June - August) 
Experience the Midsummer Blot Ceremony, the summer party and discover Vikings at work. 

Autumn (September - November) 
Take part in the Viking Blot Ceremony, handicrafts and plant dyeing, and encounter dragons and draugur. 

The one-of-a-kind museum makes for a special visit

Viking Museum

Take your interest in Vikings to the next level with a visit to The Viking Museum. After all, it’s the only museum experience in Sweden solely dedicated to Vikings, and it shows through their extensive collection of authentic objects and replicas, immersive settings and guided tours. Wander through exhibits mostly made from recycled materials and eco-friendly paint, feeling the natural atmosphere of a Viking village come to life. 

Step into one of the most legendary eras and see what Viking life was really like. Learn not just about raids and battles but also home life and experiences of the women and children. 

The Viking Museum leads you on a journey through one of history’s most mythical periods. Find out what was truth, and what may have been a bit of exaggeration.

Try traditional, local meals full of flavor

Restaurant Eld

With a packed visit to the museum, you’ll be as hungry as a Viking. At the museum’s lovely Restaurant Eld, you’ll get to eat like one too! Well, maybe with more manners.  

Enjoy traditional Swedish meals made from fresh, local, Nordic ingredients mixed with modern culinary methods for a unique dining experience. The menu changes with the seasons so dishes are always new and exciting while maintaining that comfort-food feel. 

Feeling adventurous? Experience a mead tasting session, either guided or self-led, and indulge in the drink that defined the Viking Age. 

The cozy interiors and warm lighting make you feel like a Viking gathering for a feast after a long journey. Fill your belly, relax and admire the waters of Stockholm. 

Buy sustainable souvenirs to take home

Viking museum

Remember your time at the museum with a unique gift from the gift shop. From shiny trinkets and crafty keepsakes to books, toys, and Viking-themed surprises, there’s treasure here for everyone.  

The museum is dedicated to sustainability and actively works on finding local producers. You’ll find handmade soap, candles and jams, wool and felt toys made by hand with only soap and water, and wooden toys made with durable wood without chemicals.  

Just as the Vikings lived close to nature, items in the shop carry the same rustic spirit and make great gifts for yourself or loved ones. Take home a little keepsake to reflect on your Viking-filled day. 

Ready to bring Vikings back to life?  

A visit to The Viking Museum will make it feel like it could happen. Grab a pass and set off on an adventure you’ll be talking about for eras to come! 

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Beth Levicki
Content Executive

Beth is a Content Executive at Go City and a casual writer of many things. She particularly loves songwriting and has written over 50 original songs since childhood. She loves travelling, especially to the US to see her friends, and enjoys more scenic destinations like hiking in upstate New York or Washington. When she’s not writing, she enjoys playing video games, watching Formula 1, and trying to stop her dog Odin from stealing her socks.

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woman observing an image at fotografiska museum
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Unforgettable Finds Near Fotografiska: Explore Stockholm’s Creative Side

So, you’ve ticked off Fotografiska on your Stockholm bucket list—and probably filled your phone with epic snaps in the process. But did you know that this eye-popping photography museum is just the beginning? The surrounding Södermalm area is packed with trendy art spaces, waterfront walks, museums, and—of course—more coffee spots than you can shake a cinnamon bun at. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or just want to see a different side of Stockholm, we’ve got the lowdown on what to do next, all just a short stroll (or scenic ferry ride) from those world-famous exhibitions.  Our top picks for things to do near Fotografiska:  Skansen  Vasa Museum  The Royal Palace  Södermalm Street Art Walk  Nobel Prize Museum  SoFo Boutiques & Vintage Shopping  Fika at Café Pom & Flora  Stockholm Cathedral  Stroll along Monteliusvägen  Spritmuseum  Skansen: Sweden’s Living History  Walk out of Fotografiska and swap contemporary art for living Swedish heritage at Skansen, just a short ferry ride across the water. Skansen is the world’s first open-air museum, and it’s like stepping right into a storybook. You’ll wander through old-timey farmsteads, windmills, and wooden houses moved here from across Sweden. What makes it extra special? Real-life bakers, glassblowers, and blacksmiths demonstrate traditional crafts, and staff in folk costumes happily chat about yesteryear (and sometimes hand out samples—don’t say we didn’t warn you).  Kids and adults alike adore the Skansen Zoo, where you can meet moose, lynx, and even brown bears native to Sweden. Time your visit for a local festival or sing-along and the energy is contagious. If you’re peckish, grab sweet treats from historic bakeries or sample classic Swedish meatballs in the on-site restaurant. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good outdoor stroll, Skansen makes local traditions come alive in the most charming way imaginable.  The Royal Palace: Regal in Gamla Stan  Why not see how the other half lived? Just a scenic walk along the waterfront or a short ride away, Stockholm’s Royal Palace is an absolute must. Think grand halls, dramatic staircases, and some seriously sparkly crowns in the Treasury. We love peeking into the Royal Apartments and catching glimpses of the city’s regal traditions. For extra excitement, time your visit for the daily Changing of the Guard parade—drums, uniforms, and plenty of Stockholm pageantry await.  But the Royal Palace isn’t just a pretty face: the on-site museums take you deep into centuries of Swedish history. You’ll come away with a head full of stories and, if you’re lucky, a selfie that looks straight out of Bridgerton.  Södermalm Street Art Walk: Color Around Every Corner  Step out of Fotografiska and you’re right at the heart of Stockholm’s creative hotspot. Södermalm is famous for its street art—murals, quirky paste-ups, and clever graffiti cover everything from cafes to hidden alleyways. We love wandering the side streets around Mosebacke and Katarina-Sofia for unexpected splashes of color and playful installations.  Grab a local map or simply let your curiosity lead the way—artists often update their work, so there’s always something new. Looking for fun photo ops (or just a cool way to get your steps in)? This free, self-guided adventure is where contemporary Stockholm feels most alive.  Nobel Prize Museum: Celebrate Genius  In nearby Gamla Stan, this museum is your backstage pass to the stories—and sometimes scandals!—behind the world’s most famous award. The Nobel Prize Museum manages to make heavy topics feel playful thanks to immersive videos, interactive displays, and even exhibits on Swedish inventions you use every day.  We always enjoy the ever-changing special exhibitions, and kids get a kick out of the fun science demos. There’s also a cozy cafe where you can order a “Nobel ice cream,” a nod to the desserts served at the real Nobel Banquet. If you love big ideas or quirky facts, this stop delivers.  SoFo Boutiques & Vintage Shopping: Find Your Style  One of Södermalm’s coolest claims to fame is SoFo (South of Folkungagatan), Stockholm’s go-to district for indie boutiques and vintage finds. From retro record shops to upcycled fashion and locally-made design stores, there’s a sense of creativity and sustainability everywhere you look.  Our tip? Don’t rush—SoFo’s best treasures hide in tucked-away courtyards and basement shops. Pause at Grandpa for Scandinavian style staples or have a dig through Lisa Larsson’s legendary vintage. Shopping here feels like a treasure hunt, and even if you’re just window browsing, the people-watching and atmosphere can’t be beat.  Stockholm Cathedral: A Slice of Serenity  Gamla Stan’s Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan) is only a short jaunt from Fotografiska (and pairs very nicely with a visit to the Royal Palace). This atmospheric church dates back to the 1200s, but what makes it unique is the mix of medieval grandeur and artful details—think painted ceilings, intricate altarpieces, and the legendary wooden statue of Saint George and the Dragon.  It’s a tranquil spot to catch your breath and simply be wowed by centuries of history. Don’t miss the chance to climb the tower if it’s open—breathtaking city views await!  Stroll Along Monteliusvägen: Stockholm from Above  Looking for Stockholm’s best view? Follow the locals to Monteliusvägen, a picturesque cliffside promenade just up the hill from Fotografiska. This narrow path winds past wooden cottages, lilac bushes, and cozy benches, with sweeping vistas over Lake Mälaren, Gamla Stan, and City Hall’s brick spires.  It’s perfect for a sunset stroll or a breezy morning walk with a takeaway coffee. Photographers and romantics absolutely love it here—somehow, the city always looks movie-ready from this angle. If you want that “ahh, this is Stockholm” moment, Monteliusvägen delivers the goods.  SPRITMUSEUM: Spirits with a Splash of Art  End your neighborhood adventure with something distinctly Swedish—a trip to SPRITMUSEUM, Stockholm’s one-of-a-kind home to the nation’s fascinating drinking culture. This isn’t just about shots; the interactive exhibits invite you to sniff (literally!) your way through Sweden’s most famous spirits, learn the art of the smorgasbord, and ponder the role of alcohol in everything from poetry to pop art.  The waterside location is stunning, with an outdoor deck that’s perfect for a summer drink. The museum’s restaurant is a star in its own right, serving creative Swedish dishes and aquavit pairings—with a garden that’s especially inviting in the warmer months. Cheers to that!    No matter your taste or mood, the area around Fotografiska has something to keep everyone inspired, delighted, and hungry for more. Whether you’re snapping city views, wandering historic sites, indulging in a sweet Swedish fika, or diving deep into Stockholm’s creative scene, this neighborhood always serves up new experiences around every corner. So linger a little longer after your museum visit—you’ll quickly see that the true magic of Stockholm goes way beyond the gallery walls.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to top mornings in Stockholm, and discover the best time to visit the city.   Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 
stockholm cathedral during the day
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Free Finds Around Stockholm Cathedral You Can't Miss

Stockholm Cathedral, or Storkyrkan, sits at the very soul of Gamla Stan—Stockholm’s storybook Old Town. But you don’t need a royal bank account to experience all the charm, history, and beauty this area has to offer. We’ve rounded up the best free things to do just steps from the cathedral’s grand façade—think medieval alleys, riverside views, open-air museums, and local hangouts where history feels totally alive. Grab your walking shoes and a healthy sense of curiosity—Stockholm’s most memorable moments often come without a price tag!  Our top free things to do near Stockholm Cathedral include:  Stortorget Square  Mårten Trotzigs Gränd (Mårten Trotzigs Alley)  The Royal Palace Outer Courtyard  Skeppsholmsbron (Skeppsholm Bridge & Crown)  Riddarholmen Island  Gamla Stan Street Art Hunt  Stockholm Parliament Building (Riksdagshuset) Grounds  Västerlånggatan Window Shopping  Järnpojke (The Boy Looking at the Moon)  Birger Jarls Torg & Views of Lake Mälaren  Stortorget Square  Every trip to Gamla Stan should start at Stortorget—the oldest square in Stockholm and a gathering place for more than 700 years. Just a minute’s stroll from the cathedral, Stortorget’s pastel townhouses, cobblestones, and café buzz invite you to linger whether the sun is shining or snow is falling. It’s perfect for people-watching and soaking up that Old Town fairy-tale vibe.  While the Stockholm Nobel Museum does charge admission, the exterior of the building (with its classic columns and grand steps) makes for a fabulous photo op. Each corner unveils a fresh angle on the fairytale architecture. Look for the “red count house,” the square’s most photographed building, famous for its bullet holes—evidence of a dramatic moment in the city’s history. The square also hosts free seasonal events: Christmas markets sparkle in the winter, and you’ll often catch street musicians serenading the crowds when the weather’s warm.  We love grabbing a seat by the fountain, eavesdropping on a dozen languages, and letting the city’s stories unfold all around you—without ever reaching for your wallet.  Mårten Trotzigs Gränd (Mårten Trotzigs Alley)  Ready for adventure? Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, Stockholm’s narrowest alley, is a must—just a few minutes’ wander from the cathedral. At less than a meter wide at its slimmest spot, it’s like something out of a medieval storybook, squeezed between centuries-old buildings already leaning into the passageway.  You’ll feel the history in every inch of rough stone and wonky window. Challenge your travel buddies to see who can stretch across the alley’s walls, or simply snap some quirky photos. Depending on the time of day, you might have the place (almost) to yourself—a rare treat in a bustling Old Town. There’s always a thrill in walking the same crooked steps as countless Stockholmers before you, imagining the stories those walls could tell. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s a unique Stockholm experience that will make your Instagram friends jealous.  Skeppsholmsbron (Skeppsholm Bridge & Crown)  For postcard-perfect Stockholm photo ops, stroll down to the Skeppsholm Bridge, just a short walk from Gamla Stan. This elegant 19th-century span is instantly recognizable thanks to its golden royal crown perched at the rails—an absolute must-snap for travel albums.  Stand in the middle of the bridge and soak up sweeping views of the Royal Palace, Riddarholmen, and busy boats drifting along the water. The wind from the harbor, the cry of seagulls, and the glinting crown combine for a classic Stockholm experience—best enjoyed as the sun slips low in the sky. Skeppsholmsbron is free, beautiful, and always buzzing with couples, friends, and photographers soaking up the romance of the city.  Riddarholmen Island  Looking for a little slice of calm hidden in the heart of the city? Cross a bridge from Gamla Stan to Riddarholmen, a tiny island whose cobbles, grand buildings, and jaw-dropping waterfront views make for an ideal free escape.  Wander past the gothic spire of Riddarholmen Church, the oldest surviving building in Stockholm, and find a spot by the water to watch boats glide by. You’ll spot ornate palaces, leafy squares, and plenty of benches—perfect for taking a break from sightseeing. Photographers and history buffs both flock to the island after sunset, when the buildings glow golden and the city lights reflect on Lake Mälaren. It’s a peaceful yet storied spot that lets you breathe in Stockholm’s long history at your own pace.  Gamla Stan Street Art Hunt  Think you’ve seen it all in Old Town? Gamla Stan’s centuries-old facades hide some of Stockholm’s quirkiest modern treasures—if you know where to look! Take yourself on a self-guided street art scavenger hunt for creative signs, hidden mosaics, and cheery doorways painted by local artists.  Keep an eye out for whimsical touches—like tiny trolls peeking from mail slots and painted hearts set into the cobbles. Several alleyways display subtle murals or stickers paying homage to Sweden’s best-loved pop stars and book characters.  Roaming the streets this way makes even the most well-trodden lanes feel brand new. You’ll sharpen your eye, collect memorable photos for your travel log, and see why Stockholmers love mixing ancient with offbeat and fun.  Västerlånggatan Window Shopping  Gamla Stan’s main drag, Västerlånggatan, is a treasure trove for window shoppers. Skip the pressure to buy and instead lose yourself in painted shop signs, hand-crafted goods, and dazzling displays that tell the story of Old Town’s trading roots.  Peek through windows displaying Viking-inspired jewelry, Swedish crystal, and hand-knitted mittens. Pause at the mouthwatering bakery windows—watch cinnamon buns rise in the oven, and see if you can resist the scent! Natural breakpoints for people-watching and crowd photos keep popping up all along the street, and occasionally, costumed characters float by, performing for the public.  We think the centuries-old storefronts, cheerful chatter, and colorful banners make Västerlånggatan worth a slow stroll, even if you’re on a budget.  Järnpojke (The Boy Looking at the Moon)  Small but mighty, this teeny-tiny sculpture is one of Stockholm’s most beloved oddities—and it’s tucked away just behind the cathedral! Järnpojke, “The Boy Looking at the Moon,” measures only 15 centimeters tall but has a massive fan club. Locals dress him in woolen scarves or tiny hats come winter, and rubbing his head for luck is almost a rite of passage for visitors. Wander through Bollhusgränd, the quiet courtyard where you’ll find him perched quietly, daydreaming upwards.  Kids love hunting down the statue—it feels like stumbling across a secret club. We think there's something heartwarming about seeing how much care Stockholmers give this little guy, from fresh flowers in summer to cute woolly hats in December. Despite being one of the smallest public monuments in Europe, Järnpojke leaves a huge impression. Snap a photo, make a wish, and enjoy this delightfully humble slice of local tradition. You’ll walk away grinning and maybe a little more charmingly superstitious.  Birger Jarls Torg & Views of Lake Mälaren  For a blend of history and tranquility, stroll over to Birger Jarls Torg on Riddarholmen. Framed by stately palaces and named for Stockholm’s legendary founder, this open square offers some of the city’s finest waterfront views—completely gratis.  Benches lining the square face Lake Mälaren, giving you a front row seat to Sweden’s changing skies and the daily parade of ferries gliding past. On clear days, you’ll see locals chatting over picnics or couples snapping engagement selfies against the fairytale backdrop. To one side, you’ll spot the impressive statue of Birger Jarl himself—perfect for a history lesson on the go. The atmosphere is peaceful, with just enough buzz from other explorers to keep things lively.  Don’t miss the little lookout points here; you’ll get some of the best panoramic photos in Stockholm. Watching the sunset paint the water gold or seeing fog roll across the lake adds a layer of magic you’ll remember long after your trip. Birger Jarls Torg captures that Stockholm spark—historic, scenic, and effortlessly welcoming, all for free.    Whether you’re chasing fairytales down medieval alleys, letting live music fill the Old Town air, or sharing a moment with Stockholm’s tiniest moon-gazer, there’s a world of experiences around Stockholm Cathedral that won’t cost you a thing. Soak up every krona’s worth—because in Gamla Stan, some of the city’s richest moments are completely free.    Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of the best day trips out of Stockholm, and how to make the most of summer in the city.   Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 
stockholm's royal palace on a sunny day
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Stockholm Showdown: Royal Palace or Drottningholm for Your Dream Day Out?

Two Swedish Palaces, One Big Decision: Which Royal Retreat Fits Your Stockholm Adventure?  Touring Stockholm brings you face-to-face with two royal masterpieces: the stately Royal Palace right in the city center and the fairy-tale Drottningholm Palace set in tranquil parkland. But which one should top your Stockholm must-do list? From sparkling interiors to secret gardens, and from city sightseeing to lakeside day trips, we’re breaking down the best reasons to visit each, intriguing details, foodie spots nearby, handy travel tips, and all the elements you need for your perfect palace day out. Spoiler: You might just want to visit both!  The Lowdown  Here’s a super-handy palace cheat sheet for your Stockholm trip planning:  Stockholm Royal Palace  Location: Gamla Stan (Old Town), Stockholm City Center  Home of the Swedish Royal Family’s offices (but not their residence)  Over 600 rooms—still one of Europe’s largest palaces  Key highlights: The Royal Apartments, changing of the guard, Royal Armory, Treasury, Museum Tre Kronor  Open year-round with loads of indoor attractions—great shelter on a rainy day  Grand Baroque architecture  Walking distance from other Old Town sites, cafés, and restaurants  Drottningholm Palace  Location: Lovön Island, Lake Mälaren (approx 10 km west of the city center)  Residence of the Swedish Royal Family  UNESCO World Heritage Site  Stunning landscaped gardens, a Chinese Pavilion, and historic theater  Palace, park, and open-air delights—especially beautiful in warmer months  Reachable by scenic ferry, bus, or car  Feels worlds apart from the city bustle—a peaceful escape!  Sounds Good, Tell Me More...  Okay, So Which One is Most Impressive?  Impressive depends on your idea of awe. The Royal Palace seduces with palace-after-palace interiors, military ceremony, and the sense of standing at the heart of Swedish political life. It’s sheer scale—over 600 rooms—its Baroque flourishes, and its collection of treasures make it a classic city must-eye.  But Drottningholm boasts genuine royal residence status, fairytale gardens, and dazzling lakeside settings. The sense of peace, history, and the sheer amount of green space give it a grandeur that’s hard to beat, especially in good weather.  Our tip: if you’re craving holistic wow-factor, the city’s Royal Palace impresses with history, pageantry, and instant access to everything Old Town has to offer. For grandeur, tranquility, and that "out of a painting" feeling, Drottningholm is a royal treat.  Which One Is More Fun?  If your version of fun includes a lively urban buzz, interactive exhibits, and live ceremonies, the Royal Palace is your place. From dressing up as a knight at the Royal Armory to watching marching bands and guards on horseback, it’s got entertainment stitched into the schedule.  Drottningholm, on the other hand, feels like a choose-your-own-adventure. Stroll the grounds, get lost among the clipped hedges, spot herons by the lake, or grab a summer ice cream by the formal ponds. Add in the unique experience of a Baroque opera in the original palace theater, and you’ve got a day trip that mingles learning and play.  Both palaces bring charm and magic in different flavors—choose city vibes for urban fun, or head lakeside for nature-fueled discovery.  Which Is More Beautiful?  Beauty is subjective, but we’ll help you picture it. The Royal Palace’s urban location means it stands strong and proud over Stockholm’s waterways and cobblestone alleys, its stonework glowing gold in the Nordic sun. Inside, expect velvet-red rooms, gilded moldings, and historic paintings.  Drottningholm takes beauty outdoors with acres of French-style parterres, swirling hedges, and reflecting pools. The palace’s soft yellow façade reflects on Lake Mälaren, offering photo-ops from every angle. Rosy sunsets, elegant statuary, peaceful woodland paths—Drottningholm is the country’s palace postcard come to life.  Which Has the Better View?  For urban drama, the Royal Palace offers vantage points across Stockholm’s waterways, framed by city rooftops and the spires of Gamla Stan. Step outside and walk the Skeppsbron waterfront for stellar shots.  Drottningholm practically outdoes itself with lake views. Stand on the formal terraces and gaze across glossy water, dotted with rowboats and lilies, or climb any garden knoll for panoramic vistas framed by trees and sky. If you’ve time, catch the ferry to appreciate the palace glowing on its own island as you approach.  How Do I Get There?  Royal Palace: The palace sits next to Stockholm’s Gamla Stan metro stop (green and red lines), or a short walk from Central Station. Trams, buses, and commuter ferries all stop nearby. Most Old Town strolls inevitably lead you right to the palace’s massive stone entrance.  Drottningholm Palace: The journey adds to the magic. Board the classic steam ferry at Stadshuskajen (by City Hall) for a 50-minute scenic ride to Drottningholm Pier. Alternatively, take the Tunnelbana green line to Brommaplan, then transfer to bus 176 or 177 for a 15-minute ride to ‘Drottningholm’. Driving or biking is also possible for those feeling adventurous!  Best Choice for Families, Couples or Friends  Families: Both deliver for curious kids—castle dungeons, royal costumes, and garden games at Drottningholm; knightly gear and ceremonial excitement at the Royal Palace. Drottningholm has the edge for sheer space to run wild and burn off energy.  Couples: Drottningholm’s romantic gardens, hidden pavilions, and lakeside strolls make it perfect for a dreamy day trip. The Royal Palace wins for its regal city vibe, dramatic interiors, and the chance to link a tour with an Old Town dinner.  Friends: Palace-hopping with mates? The Royal Palace is at the heart of city action—bar-hop or café-crawl after your royal tour. Drottningholm? Bring a picnic or try boating before hitting up theatre shows.  I’ve Got Fidgety Kids to Entertain – Which Has More Hands-On Activities?  If hands-on adventure is key, the Royal Palace’s Royal Armory excels. Kids try on knight’s helmets, peek into royal carriages, and maybe even meet a costumed interpreter. The changing of the guard is a surefire spectacle for all ages.  At Drottningholm, freedom rules! Acres of lawn, secret paths, and magical pavilions make it a fantasy playground in good weather. Inside, touchable displays are fewer, but nature discovery abounds—keep eyes peeled for swans and rabbits.  Parental tip: pack some outdoor games or a frisbee for Drottningholm, and head for the Armory’s dress-up closet in the Royal Palace.  What’s the Accessibility Like?  Royal Palace: The palace has several accessible entrances and elevators to main attractions. Some museums and the Treasury have steps, but staff are used to helping guests navigate. The armory provides wheelchairs on request.  Drottningholm Palace: Most main areas, including gardens, are accessible. The palace is historic, so a few rooms and the theater have steps, and the Chinese Pavilion is less accessible. Paved paths run through the park, and accessible toilets are available.  Both palaces cater well to visitors with limited mobility, but it’s best to phone ahead or check up-to-date details online to tailor your visit.  Best Lunch Spots Nearby?  Royal Palace Area:  Tradition (Österlånggatan 1): Cosy, rustic spot for classic Swedish meatballs, herring platters, and mains. Traditional décor and local crowd make it a treat.  Café Schweizer (Västerlånggatan 9): Snuggle into this atmospheric café for open sandwiches and cinnamon buns among leafy plants and old-world charm.  Fem Små Hus (Nygränd 10): For something fancier, descend into the 18th-century cellar for elegant Swedish-French fare—try the reindeer steak or their signature gratinated onions!  Kajsas Fisk (Hötorgshallen market, walkable): Budget-friendly fish soup, bustling local market feel.  Stockholm Gastrobars (all around Gamla Stan): Numerous small gastropubs (try The Flying Elk) serve seasonally inspired share plates and Swedish craft beer.  Drottningholm Area:  Karamellan Café (on palace grounds): Cake, coffee, sandwiches with grand views of the palace—ideal for a refreshing fika after your tour.  Drottningholm Palace Restaurant: Refined yet relaxed, serving Swedish classics with a seasonal twist and a good kids’ menu.  Värdshuset Lilla Barkarby (just across the bridge): Homely, affordable Swedish lunch plates—meat stew or smoked salmon are local favorites.  Bring a picnic! The palace park has generous green lawns and picnic benches for alfresco eating.  Where Are the Best Photo Opportunities?  Royal Palace:  The main courtyard during changing of the guard—catch the color and energy!  The gilded Royal Chapel for ornate interiors.  Gamla Stan’s alleys with the palace towering in the backdrop—best in early morning light.  Views across the Norrström bridge at sunset for magical reflection shots.  Drottningholm Palace:  The palace façade across the grand parterre gardens—best in spring or summer.  The Chinese Pavilion for whimsical, colorful detail.  By the lakeshore, capturing the palace reflected in the water.  Inside the palace staircases for grand symmetry (avoid crowds by visiting early or late).  Arriving by boat? Snap your photo as you glide towards the palace for a postcard-perfect arrival!  We’re Finished and Thirsty – Is There a Decent Bar in the Area?  Near the Royal Palace:  Wirströms Pub: Medieval cellar bar pouring Swedish brews and ciders; local musicians and an old-school snug vibe.  Pharmarium: High-end, creative cocktails inspired by Sweden’s apothecary history; their “Stockholm Syndrome” gin-based cocktail is both beautiful and delicious.  Near Drottningholm Palace:  Drottningholm Slott Bar: Relaxed, airy spot on the palace grounds for a cool lager or glass of wine after your wander.  Tappströms Inn: Traditional Swedish pub further along the lake, perfect for a local lager or G&T in their leafy garden.  Any Other Good Stuff Nearby?  Royal Palace:  Nobel Prize Museum: Discover the world’s greatest achievements in science, peace, and literature just steps away.  Storkyrkan Cathedral: Medieval gothic grandeur and ancient Swedish history—a tranquil pause in a busy day.  Mårten Trotzigs Gränd: The narrowest alley in Stockholm—squeeze through for a quirky photo!  Stortorget Square: Colorful buildings, pretty cafés, Christmas market magic in winter.  Drottningholm:  Drottningholm Palace Theatre: Catch a world-famous Baroque opera or take a backstage tour (book in advance).  Ekerö County countryside: Plan a walk or cycling loop around Lovön island, dotted with berry bushes, wildflowers, and classic Swedish red cottages.  Lovö Magasin: Local farm shop selling Swedish cheese, sausages, and artisan crafts—a treat for foodies.  To Wrap Up…  Whether you crave the bustling beauty and grandeur of Stockholm’s Royal Palace, or the dreamy, lakeside tranquility of Drottningholm, you really can’t pick a wrong palace here. The good news? If your trip has time for both, with Go City you’ll snap up savings and convenience, skipping ticket lines and maximizing your Stockholm adventure. Just grab your pass, head out with friends or family, and let these royal destinations make your Stockholm stay unforgettable!    Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of the best day trips out of Stockholm, and how to make the most of summer in the city.   Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 

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