Shamrocks and Skylines: St Patrick’s Day Fun in Stockholm

women enjoying st patricks day

So you're in Stockholm for St Patrick’s Day—ready for a celebration that pairs Irish magic with Scandinavian cool? Lucky you. Stockholm knows how to mix the warmth of an Irish pub, the buzz of a city-wide party, and a landscape of dreamy waterfront views. Whether you’re craving Guinness-soaked revelry, Celtic tunes echoing through quirky bars, or a relaxed day finding green highlights hidden across the city, you’ll find a celebration to remember. Here’s how we’d fill your Stockholm St Patrick’s Day with good times, great sights, delicious bites, and plenty of surprises along the way. 

Our favorite ways to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Stockholm include: 

ICEBAR Stockholm 

The Liffey 

Stockholm Cathedral 

Skansen 

The Dubliner 

Swing Adventure Golf Bar 

Spritmuseum 

Systrarna Andersson (for Fika with a festive twist) 

SkyView Stockholm 

Traditional Irish music session at Wirströms Pub 

ICEBAR Stockholm: Celebrate St Patrick’s Day in the Coolest Way

Why not start your St Patrick’s Day shenanigans in a bar made entirely of ice? ICEBAR Stockholm is a sub-zero lounge carved from 40 tons of crystal-clear ice, harvested from the Torne River in Swedish Lapland. Every year, the bar gets a fresh new design, so your backdrop is always a surprise—think shimmering walls, glacial sculptures, and dramatic lighting that’ll make your emerald accessories pop. 

The vibe here shifts from frosty to fiery once the St Patrick’s Day spirit arrives. The bartenders pour creative twists on cocktails, and, if you’re lucky, even slip in a green concoction for the occasion. Your entry includes a cozy cape and gloves to keep you snug, and drinks are served in ice glasses, adding to the novelty. 

It’s a lively spot for a group toast or a memorable Insta moment. While there won’t be a blazing fireplace or traditional Irish jigs, you’ll feel like you’re celebrating at the North Pole—an experience that’s pure Stockholm with a hint of Irish cool. A brisk start that’ll have you telling tall tales back home. 

The Liffey: Where Stockholm’s Irish Party Comes Alive 

When in doubt, count on The Liffey on Gamla Stan for the capital’s rowdiest St Patrick’s Day celebration. This buzzing Irish pub goes all out—think shamrock decorations, live bands playing foot-stomping Irish folk tunes, and a crowd fluent in Swedish, English, and, after a pint of Murphy’s, a passable Irish accent. 

The pub features hearty classics: try their creamy Guinness beef stew or tuck into fish and chips served with mushy peas. Bartenders expertly pour pints of Guinness and Irish whiskey flows, keeping the spirit bright. Don’t be surprised if spontaneous singalongs break out, led by musicians and locals alike. 

What makes The Liffey special is the rambunctious, open-hearted atmosphere. Everyone’s here to join in the fun—so even if your only connection to Ireland is your love for a celebratory drink, you’ll find a home away from home. Early evening brings families and old friends, while later on, the party crowd rolls in for DJs and dancing. Arrive with an appetite for laughter and groove. 

Stockholm Cathedral: St Patrick’s Day with Swedish Heritage 

Inject your day with a little culture between pints by wandering through the Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan). While not exactly clad in green, this historic heart of Gamla Stan offers a peaceful, inspiring break from the festive chaos. Step inside and you’ll find the famous wooden sculpture of St George and the Dragon and spellbinding medieval mosaics. 

Every so often, guided tours will highlight links between Irish saints and Swedish legend, so be on the lookout for special events or talks timed with St Patrick’s Day. The cool, quiet interiors are just the thing after noisy parties—soak it in, light a candle, or just admire the gothic arches for a dose of calm before heading out again. 

This cathedral stands as a monument to centuries of Swedish culture, but St Patrick’s Day reminds us how international faith, art, and myth can be. It’s a beautiful pause that adds a meaningful layer to your holiday in Stockholm. 

Skansen: St Patrick’s Day Traditions with a Swedish Twist 

Set atop Djurgården Island, Skansen open-air museum bolts Swedish heritage onto its festive calendar—including cross-cultural celebrations like St Patrick’s Day! Wander through classic wooden houses, watch folk dancers, and sample fresh-out-of-the-oven cinnamon buns, all while keeping an eye out for any special Irish-themed events. 

Over the years, Skansen has welcomed Irish dance troupes, pipe bands, and storytelling circles that add a little Celtic color to the Swedish spring. Family-friendly workshops and craft corners sometimes pop up, so check the events calendar in advance. 

The fresh air, stunning city views, and animal encounters (spot a lynx or a floppy-eared hare!) make Skansen an unforgettable day out, Irish or otherwise. It’s Stockholm’s way of showing how international bonds are woven into old-world charm. 

The Dubliner: Your Irish Kitchen Away from Home 

Another beloved haunt for celebrating in true Irish style, The Dubliner draws a devoted crowd with a welcoming spirit and spot-on comfort food. The vibe is pure coziness, complete with dark wood interiors, sports flags, and bartenders who know their Jameson from their Bushmills. 

At St Patrick’s Day, all bets are off—everyone’s decked out in green hats or flashing pins, and traditional Irish musicians pick up their fiddles for long, laughter-filled sessions. Favorites here include bacon and cabbage (if it’s on special), steak and Guinness pie, and a dedicated whiskey bar for those wanting to toast like a pro. 

Expect a mixed crowd of locals, expats, and wanderers ready to share toasts, swap stories, and jump into the celebratory spirit. The Dubliner is a great spot to call your home base, especially if you enjoy hearty fare and the kind of hospitality that sticks with you long after the trip is done. 

Swing Adventure Golf Bar: Tee Off in Shamrock Style

Need a dash of quirky fun between pub visits? Swing Adventure Golf Bar offers exactly that, with wild mini-golf courses set inside a retro, speakeasy-style lounge. St Patrick’s Day always brings a splash of green—think lucky charm-themed holes, Irish-flag bunting, and perhaps even a cheeky leprechaun or two on the greens. 

The menu serves up craft beers and cocktails that put an Irish twist on the classics, and there’s always a buzz as groups challenge each other for the day’s luckiest golfer. The vibe is lively but chill, making it perfect for groups or anyone down for friendly competition. 

Sometimes the bar hosts costume competitions or prizes for the best-dressed green golfer. Even if you’ve never played mini-golf before, it’s easy to get swept up in the joy. Swing is where St Patrick’s Day spirit and Stockholm’s playful heart meet for a truly fun experience. 

Spritmuseum: An Irish Toast to Swedish Spirits 

If you like your celebrations with a side order of culture, Spritmuseum belongs on your route. This waterside museum on Djurgården offers an immersive look at Sweden’s relationship with drinking—from ancient aquavit rituals to today’s craft cocktails. 

On St Patrick’s Day, you might find tasting sessions featuring both Swedish snaps and a few Irish whiskeys for comparison. The exhibitions are entertaining, interactive, and often involve a sensory journey through the aromas and flavors of Scandinavia. 

The waterfront terrace is dreamy, especially in March’s brisk air, and you’ll find creative cocktails at the bar if you want a daytime toast. It’s a unique way to blend Irish custom with Swedish innovation while soaking up Stockholm’s harbor views. 

Systrarna Andersson: Festive Fika with a St Patrick’s Day Twist 

Anyone craving a calm break from the city’s lively green surge should make time for fika at Systrarna Andersson. This café feels like a Swedish grandma’s kitchen, with windows offering charming street views and shelves stacked with traditional cinnamon buns and cardamom rolls. 

During St Patrick’s Day, look out for pistachio treats and festive green pastries—a nod to the Irish spirit. Systrarna Andersson loves to add seasonal specials, so you might spot shamrock-topped cakes or matcha-infused buns perfect for the occasion. Their coffee is strong and their hot chocolate is legendary; a slice of carrot cake here could brighten even the cloudiest Swedish afternoon. 

What makes this stop so essential is the atmosphere. Locals gather for catch-ups over steaming mugs, tourists tuck into rich kladdkaka, and the relaxed vibe makes it easy to soak up authentic Swedish coziness—even on the most energetic holiday. Snap a photo by the window to prove that yes, you did find Swedish fika with an Irish twist. 

SkyView Stockholm: See the City Go Green from Above 

For a truly unique St Patrick’s Day perspective, ride to the top of Avicii Arena in a glass gondola with SkyView Stockholm. This isn’t just another city viewpoint—it’s the world’s largest spherical building, and the journey up gives you a sweeping look over Stockholm’s waterways and skyline. 

Keep your eyes peeled: on St Patrick’s Day, city landmarks sometimes light up green in tribute to the Emerald Isle, offering fantastic photo opportunities from your sky-high perch. Going at sunset adds a splash of magic as gold and green hues play over rooftops. 

On the ground level, you’ll find a welcoming crowd, friendly guides, and the energy of excited visitors all sharing the adventure. It’s a chance to raise your metaphorical glass to both Sweden and Ireland, high above the city’s gleaming spires. 

Traditional Irish Music Session at Wirströms Pub: Tap Your Toes Like an Irish Local 

Wirströms, nestled in the atmospheric alleys of Gamla Stan, is beloved by both Stockholmers and Irish expats. The underground brick vaults create the perfect space for live music, and St Patrick’s Day takes the energy to another level with boisterous Irish folk sessions. 

From fiddles and bodhráns to impromptu singalongs, the music here is both foot-tapping and soulful. Order a plate of Irish stew, raise a pint of Guinness, and you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked to a traditional pub in Dublin. The crowd is diverse—visitors, musicians, students, and locals exchange stories and join in the choruses. 

Wirströms offers that rare blend of lively festivity and genuine camaraderie. On St Patrick’s Day, you’re as likely to discover a new favorite tune as you are to leave with a handful of new friends. Stick around after the music—open mic nights and storytelling evenings often carry the party deep into the night. 

 

There you have it—Stockholm’s best blend of Swedish culture, Irish legend, and unforgettable St Patrick’s Day fun. Whether you're searching for Scandinavia’s quirkiest green treats, world-class museum experiences, or the friendliest pub singalong this side of Ireland, Stockholm has you covered every step of the way. 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to top mornings in Stockholm, and learn how to get from the airport to the city in style.  

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10 Stockholm Experiences Every Dad Will Love This Father’s Day

Father’s Day in Stockholm isn’t just about neckties and socks—it’s a citywide invitation to adventure, relaxation, and bonding with your favourite guy. Whether Dad loves Viking sagas, submarines, hearty feasts, or a chance to show off his mini-golf swing, there’s something here for every flavor of father. We’ve rounded up the most memorable ways to celebrate, so you can plan the ultimate Father’s Day trip. Expect a line-up of historical treasures, laid-back fika, quirky museums, and a few curveballs guaranteed to make him smile (and maybe even brag to his friends back home).  Our top Father’s Day picks in Stockholm include:  The Viking Museum  ICEBAR Stockholm  Skansen  Vasa Museum  Stockholm Toy Museum  Fotografiska  Swing Adventure Golf Bar  Drottningholm Palace  Traditional Swedish Fika at Systrarna Andersson  Stockholm Highlights Boat Tour by Strömma  ICEBAR Stockholm: Toast Dad in Seriously Cool Style  Ready for a Father’s Day toast? Head to ICEBAR Stockholm, the city’s frozen hotspot made entirely from Nordic ice. Step inside (they’ll hand you a super-warm cape and gloves), and suddenly you’re clinking glasses surrounded by shimmering ice sculptures at minus five degrees. It’s quirky, atmospheric, and guaranteed to earn a spot in the family photo album.  ICEBAR isn’t just about novelty—its cocktails are crafted with Swedish flair, and non-alcoholic options keep everyone sipping happily. Illuminated ice walls, polar music, and chilly benches set a celebratory mood. Raising a glass here is an experience Dad won’t stop talking about, especially when he discovers the bar’s ice changes every year with new designs by Swedish artists. The vibe: fun, social, and unmistakably Scandinavian.  Skansen: Animal Encounters and Living History  Perhaps Dad’s idea of a great day is one spent strolling, people-watching, and sampling local treats. Skansen, Stockholm’s open-air museum and zoo, provides the ultimate mix of fresh air, Swedish heritage, and wildlife spotting. This sprawling park on Djurgården island features traditional wooden houses, centuries-old workshops, and costumed guides who bring Sweden’s history to life with warmth and humor.  Set Dad loose to chat with blacksmiths, pick up grilling tips from old-timey kitchens, or catch a folk music show on a sun-dappled lawn. The wildlife section offers meet-and-greets with Nordic animals—from bears and wolves to shaggy bison and curious otters. There’s always something happening at Skansen, particularly on weekends: think traditional Swedish snacks, open-air markets, or pop-up performances. The relaxed, cheerful atmosphere makes it ideal for slowing down and soaking up the best of Swedish culture as a family.  Vasa Museum: Dad’s Answer to a Jaw-Dropping Shipwreck  If your father loves dramatic stories with a twist, the Vasa Museum will make his day. Home to the world’s only preserved 17th-century warship, this museum takes you inside one of history’s greatest engineering surprises. The Vasa looks like it sailed off a movie set, all ornately carved wood and towering masts—except the real-life saga involves a short maiden voyage and a rather abrupt sinking in 1628.  What makes this place a top pick for Father’s Day? The scenery is cinematic and the backstory fascinating, with tons of detail about how the Vasa was raised centuries later and painstakingly restored. Dads get a kick out of the ship’s sheer size, the fascinating failings of ancient engineering, and the clever workshops that invite you to try your hand at knot-tying and shipbuilding. It’s a showstopper for boat lovers, history buffs, and kids with big imaginations.  Stockholm Toy Museum: Playful Nostalgia for Every Generation  Bring out Dad’s inner child with a trip to the Stockholm Toy Museum, tucked away in a historic bunker on Skeppsholmen island. This hidden gem is packed floor-to-ceiling with toys, comic books, games, and action figures from across the decades. Whether Dad grew up dreaming of remote-control cars or swears by his Matchbox collection, there’s something here to get everyone feeling nostalgic.  It’s an eye-popping collection—pop culture classics mingle with antique train sets, retro board games, and Star Wars memorabilia. The atmosphere is playful and colorful, with interactive zones for building, gaming, and crafting your own toys. If you’re touring with little ones, it’s a hit, but don’t be surprised if Dad’s the one who lingers the longest, reliving Saturday mornings and showing off forgotten skills on the slot-car racing track.  Swing Adventure Golf Bar: The Ultimate Dad-and-Kids Showdown  If Dad has a competitive side (and let’s face it—who doesn’t?), you can’t beat the fun at Swing Adventure Golf Bar. This isn’t your average putt-putt—the 18-hole course is themed like a vintage speakeasy, with lush tropical plants, retro décor, and cheeky obstacles at every turn. The vibe is energetic and super playful—expect lots of laughs and a little friendly trash talk.  While you play, enjoy bar snacks, burgers with creative toppings, or a Swedish craft beer from the neon-lit bar. It’s loved by locals for group outings, and on Father’s Day, you can raise the stakes with a family tournament. With plenty of seating, energetic music, and a menu that makes sure nobody leaves hungry, it’s a brilliant way to bond (and maybe earn bragging rights for the rest of the trip).  Drottningholm Palace: A Royal Day Out  Does Dad enjoy a dose of grandeur? Treat him to a day at Drottningholm Palace—a UNESCO-listed residence built for Swedish royals, set on lush parkland just outside the city. Walk the grand halls, snap dreamy photos in baroque gardens, and peek behind the scenes at the elaborate Chinese Pavilion. There’s even a working 18th-century theatre (check for lively performances).  The setting is peaceful, stately, and loaded with history. You’ll stroll through manicured alleys, admire tranquil lakeside views, and enjoy classic Swedish fika at the palace café. It’s an easy day trip by ferry or bus from central Stockholm—and perfect for dads who appreciate life’s finer things. Why not pair the visit with a picnic beside the water or lunch in the atmospheric orangery restaurant?  Traditional Swedish Fika at Systrarna Andersson: Father’s Day Treats Done Right  Looking for a more laid-back afternoon? Take a break at Systrarna Andersson, a beloved neighborhood café in Kungsholmen known for its warm, vintage-inspired interiors and showcase of homemade Swedish pastries. Fika is more than just coffee—it’s a heartfelt Swedish ritual of pausing, connecting, and indulging in something sweet with someone you love. On Father’s Day, it’s the perfect excuse to linger together and rehash the day’s highlights.  At Systrarna Andersson, the atmosphere is inviting, relaxed, and full of locals catching up over steaming mugs of expertly brewed coffee. We recommend the cardamom buns—they’re soft, fragrant, and perfectly sticky. The blueberry crumble cake is a close second, especially if Dad has a soft spot for fruity treats. If you’re feeling adventurous, order their signature semla (a cardamom bun stuffed with almond paste and whipped cream) when it’s in season.  Stockholm Highlights Boat Tour by Strömma: Cruise in Style  Nothing says Stockholm quite like being out on the water. Why not celebrate Father’s Day with a scenic boat tour around the city’s many picturesque islands? The Stockholm Highlights Boat Tour by Strömma is a surefire winner: you get a floating front-row seat to some of Sweden’s most famous sights, with an on-board audio guide packed full of local lore, quirky facts, and fun anecdotes.  It’s the ideal way to see the city without any rushing—just relax, enjoy the breeze, and point out new discoveries together. The views from the deck (or cozy cabin if the weather turns chilly) are unbeatable: think medieval Old Town silhouettes, royal palaces glinting in the sun, and lush green parklands slipping by. If Dad enjoys history and photography, he’ll love snapping panoramic shots and hearing all about Stockholm’s islands, bridges, and the stories behind them.     Stockholm offers endless ways to show your dad a great time—whether you’re raising a glass in a glacial bar, battling it out on the mini-golf course, diving into Swedish history, or slowing down with a classic fika. So treat him to a day packed with experiences he’ll never forget, and you might just start a new Father’s Day tradition along the way.    Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of the best day trips out of Stockholm, and browse our picks of the best day trips out of 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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More Than Machines: Top Things to Do Near Tekniska

Tekniska, Stockholm’s legendary museum of innovation and tech wizardry, is a must for curious minds—but did you know its neighborhood is a hidden playground for locals and travelers alike? Step outside and you’ll discover everything from lush parks and lakeside strolls to a buzzing café scene and museums that’ll make you want to stick around all day. Whether you geek out over Viking history, crave traditional Swedish treats, or love soaking up city views, this part of Stockholm serves up the goods. Here’s how we turn a Tekniska trip into an adventure, Stockholm-style.  Our favorite things to do near Tekniska include:  Skansen  Nordiska Museet  Vasa Museum  Swedish Museum of Natural History  Swedish Fika at Systrarna Andersson  Museum of Ethnography  Fotografiska  A walk through Hagaparken  Dessert at Pom & Flora  Boat Tour to Djurgården  Skansen: Open-Air Culture and Curiosity  Just across the bridge from Tekniska, Skansen brings Sweden’s history to vivid, hands-on life—and then adds a petting zoo, fresh-baked cinnamon buns and jaw-dropping city views for good measure. This sprawling open-air museum isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s where Stockholmers go to celebrate midsummer, check out Swedish wildlife, and browse craft markets set among charming wooden houses. Step into historic farms, chat with costumed ‘locals,’ and watch glassblowers at work. Our favorite? Relaxing on the hillside lawn with a cardamom bun and taking in the panorama over the city’s rooftops and waterways. It’s family-friendly, photo-ready, and full of discoveries for all ages.  Nordiska Museet: Scandinavian Stories in a Palace  Nordiska Museet stands just a few minutes’ walk from Tekniska, housed in a neo-Renaissance castle that could star in its own period drama. Inside, it’s all things Nordic—fashion, folklore, home life, Sami culture and more. You’ll wander through recreations of Swedish living rooms, marvel at dazzling folk costumes, and pick up everyday tidbits about what makes Scandinavian design so irresistible. There’s something warm and welcoming about the museum’s approach, too: each room feels curated for genuine curiosity, and kids love the interactive nooks. Afterward, don’t miss the museum café for Swedish classics like salmon sandwiches and apple cake—a tasty way to refuel.  Swedish Museum of Natural History: Dinosaurs, Space and a Giant Whale  One metro stop or a leisurely walk from Tekniska, the Swedish Museum of Natural History competes for title of coolest school trip, ever. Step inside and you’re greeted by everything from dinosaur bones and glittering minerals to a giant (we mean giant) blue whale model. The museum excels at mixing fun with learning—exhibits lead you from Swedish tundra to rainforests to the outer reaches of space. Don’t skip the Cosmonova IMAX dome for planetarium shows that make you feel like you’re floating among the stars. And on a drizzly Stockholm day, there’s no better place to lose yourself in wonder.  Swedish Fika at Systrarna Andersson: Cinnamon Buns Done Right  Pausing for a fika is part of Swedish life, and just around the corner from Tekniska you’ll find Systrarna Andersson, a dreamy spot for the ritual. Inside, the atmosphere is all warm wood, trailing plants and sunshine pouring through big windows. Locals flock here for their cardamom buns and cinnamon rolls, but there’s also a parade of open-faced sandwiches and creamy lattes if you’re feeling peckish. Take your time, sample a classic, and enjoy a little people-watching—nothing says “you’re in Stockholm now” like a proper fika break.  Museum of Ethnography: See the World Without Leaving Stockholm  Just a short stroll from Tekniska, the Museum of Ethnography is the kind of place that keeps you exploring—even if you only meant to pop in for a quick look. Although the exterior is sleek and modern, inside you’ll experience a world tour: Maori carvings, shimmering West African textiles, and tales from polar expeditions. The museum makes global cultures feel welcoming and interactive, with cozy corners for storytelling, creative weekend workshops, and a tranquil garden for summer picnics. There’s a thoughtful gift shop with funky finds from around the globe, so you can bring home a little piece of your travels.  Hagaparken: Stockholm’s Royal Green Retreat  Need a breather? Tekniska is just steps away from sprawling Hagaparken, a royal park that feels like you’ve left the city behind. Winding trails lead you through grassy lawns, along peaceful lake shores, and past quirky pavilions like the copper-green Haga Palace. Locals jog, picnic, and swim on sunny days, but our favorite is renting a bike or grabbing an ice cream to stroll at your own pace. Don’t miss the Butterfly House (Fjärilshuset) with its lush tropical gardens, butterfly swarms, and even a tropical aquarium featuring reef sharks!  Dessert at Pom & Flora: Brunch Heaven  Stockholm takes cafés seriously, and Pom & Flora—just a brisk walk from Tekniska—is a brunch destination that will win your inner foodie over instantly. The vibe is stylish but social, with white walls, houseplants and plenty of chatter. Their ricotta-and-berry toast, avocado sourdough, and generous chia pudding bowls have a loyal fanbase, but we say you can’t go wrong with one of their lemony baked goods and a cardamom cappuccino. This is the kind of spot worth lingering in; the staff are always ready with recommendations, and tables fill up fast on weekends (for good reason).  Boat Tour to Djurgården: View the City from the Water  After your Tekniska fix, hop on a Djurgården ferry and see Stockholm like a local—from the deck of a classic boat. The ride offers sweeping city views, a gentle breeze and a bit of old-fashioned maritime fun as you cruise between the city center and the museums, parks, and attractions on Djurgården island. On a sunny day, nothing beats the feeling of Stockholm’s archipelago opening up in front of you. Ferries run often, so it’s easy to blend this scenic mini-adventure with the rest of your day’s plans—and you’ll have your camera out the whole trip.    Stockholm’s Tekniska neighborhood may be famed for its geeky greatness, but step outside and the city opens up with parks, museums, snacks, and sights galore—not to mention the kind of relaxed, Swedish vibe you’ll want to bring home with you.    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! 
Royal guards on horseback during the changing of the guard ceremony at the Royal Palace in Stockholm
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Free Things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm has a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities on the planet. And, while it’s true that the cost of meals and accommodation here can add up quickly (though certainly not as quickly as in the likes of Paris, London or Amsterdam), there are many reasonably priced activities out there to help you balance the books. But the best things in life are free, right? Gratis. Or, as the Swedes would say: kostnadsfri. And Stockholm has plenty of cracking activities that won’t cost you a krona. Join us on our journey through the 10 best free things to do in Stockholm, including: Touring the medieval old town Changing of the guard Picnicking on Djurgården island The National Museum Stockholm’s sandy beaches Eye-popping subway art Old Town Tour A self-guided tour of Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s atmospheric medieval old town, should be considered an essential activity on any trip. Grab a still-warm cinnamon bun and snap the colorful gabled townhouses on the main square (Stortorget) before getting lost in the narrow cobbled lanes. And when we say narrow, we mean narrow. Mårten Trotzigs gränd alley has high, converging walls that taper to a mere 90 centimeters at one point – don’t forget to breathe in! Other curiosities to look out for on your walk include an ancient Viking runestone embedded in the wall at the intersection of Kåkbrinken and Prästgatan and the remarkable carving above the doorway of Skeppsbron 44. Commissioned by a cuckolded husband it depicts his anguished face weeping over his wayward wife’s, um, lady parts. Changing of the Guard The hilariously opulent baroque Royal Palace just north of Stortgorget is the venue for the Changing of the Guard ceremony, an impressive display of wealth and pomp complete with bright blue uniforms and polished silver pickelhaube helmets. There’s a daily guard change that takes place around noon during summer. But arrive early to beat the crowds as this centuries-old regal spectacle is one of the most popular free events in Stockholm. Check the official calendar for timings throughout the year. Djurgården Island Many of Stockholm’s most interesting museums – the Vasa, Skansen and ABBA Museum among them – can be found on pretty Djurgården. But its verdant vistas also make it a fine choice for long walks past shimmering lakes and through fairytale woods, and lazy picnics on its gentle slopes or on the picture-perfect waterfront behind the Vasa Museum. Don’t miss Rosendals Garden, a working market garden with a vineyard and orchard, vegetable fields, a rose garden and dozens of bright, blooming flower beds. Moderna Museet The Moderna Museet on tiny Skeppsholmen island packs quite a punch for a museum with no entry fee. Regularly rotating exhibitions are drawn from its collection of more than 140,000 modern and contemporary works and include painting and sculpture from some the most prominent artists of the 20th Century: Duchamp, Matisse, Bourgeois Picasso, Dalí and more. As you’d expect, there’s also a good showing from the Nordic regions, as well as an excellent sculpture garden where you can wander among highlights including Erik Dietman’s humorous monument to his last cigarette and Norwegian artist Carl Nesjar’s Déjeuner sur l’herbe, a granite rendering of Picasso’s cardboard figures of naked bathers. Monteliusvägen Take a stroll up the wooden walkway that ascends the Monteliusvägen cliff path for some of the best views of the old town’s colorful waterfront and the soaring spires of City Hall and the German Church. It’s just a hop and a skip over the bridge from Gamla Stan to Södermalm and also makes a fine vantage point for admiring Stockholm’s spectacular winter sunsets. Hit the Beach Believe it or not, Stockholm has some fabulous family friendly beaches right in the city center, many of which are wheelchair accessible and include facilities like showers, cafes, wooden piers with diving platforms, and those all-important ice cream vendors. Sure, the Baltic water temperature can be a little, shall we say, challenging, but most of the waters are safe for swimming and there are some fine sandy stretches on the islands of Södermalm, Långholmen and Kungsholmen. Dodge the summer crowds and head slightly further afield to Flatenbadet beach in southern Stockholm and Ängbybadet in the north, just over the water from stunning Drottningholm Palace. The National Museum Love art? You’re in for an absolute treat at Sweden’s National Museum, where access to the stellar permanent collection is absolutely gratis. Stars of the show here are fine Dutch Golden Age and French Impressionist pieces by the likes of Rembrandt, Rubens, Renoir, Degas and Cézanne. There’s also a fascinating collection of around half a million prints and drawings dating from medieval times to the early 20th Century, while connoisseurs of fine ceramics will be in clover among the striking Scandinavian designs that characterize thousands of pieces sourced from the now-defunct Gustavsberg Porcelain Factory. Underground Art Disclaimer: this one isn’t entirely free as it does require you to buy a metro ticket, but we figure you’ll probably be doing that anyway so, hey, might as well make the most of it. Stockholm’s system of 100 metro stations has been dubbed ‘the longest art gallery in the world’ thanks to the specially commissioned artworks – paintings, sculptures, mosaics, installations – that grace 90 or so of them. You’ll find the most spectacular in and around the city center, such as at showstopping Rådhuset, where cavernous orange-red walls give the distinct impression of being in the belly of some massive beast, or the fiery bowels of hell. Lighten the mood with the sky-blue walls and vibrant rainbows on display at Stadion, and visit Tensta for an uplifting message of inclusivity delivered via traditional cave art and cute puffin sculptures. Back to Nature There are plenty of free things to do in Stockholm’s Hellasgården, just outside the city center. Hike trails heady with the scent of towering pine trees and meadows carpeted in colorful wildflowers, pause to catch your breath (and take appropriately breathtaking snaps) from dizzying cliff-top viewpoints, and cool off in Lake Källtorp where hardier locals have even been known to swim during the depths of Sweden’s bone-chilling winters. If you can spare the relatively modest fee, you may prefer to opt for the heat of the traditional wooden sauna here, though note that you're expected to go au naturel – towels and bathing suits are not permitted inside. Ride the Bus We all know having kids can be expensive. So let’s enjoy the perks where we can find them, am I right? Great news: parents pushing infants and babies in strollers can ride Stockholm’s public buses for free: an absolute boon for footsore mums and dads on a budget. Similarly, a shuttle bus operates hourly from central Stockholm to the planet’s biggest IKEA store – absolutely gratis! Find the stop at Vasagatan 38. Just don’t blame us for the hundreds of kronor you’ll inevitably end up blowing on cushions, cutlery, tealights and meatballs once inside the vast yellow-and-blue furniture warehouse. Save on things to do in Stockholm Save on admission to Stockholm attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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