Stockholm’s Best Winter Markets for Cozy Shopping and Tasty Treats

Published: April 23, 2026
woman enjoying a winter market

Dreaming of a snow-dusted city break filled with fairylights, hot cocoa, and stalls brimming with gifts? Stockholm’s winter markets turn those holiday dreams into a delicious reality. Picture historic squares twinkling with lights, sweet aromas wafting through the chilly air, and enough seasonal snacks to keep your mittens busy all day. Whether you’re hoping for handcrafted gifts, unique Swedish eats or just that magical holiday feeling, we’ve rounded up the best winter markets and a selection of festive experiences in Stockholm to guarantee you make the most of your trip. Ready? Let’s get shopping—and snacking! 

Our top Stockholm winter market picks: 

Gamla Stan Christmas Market 

Skansen Christmas Market 

Stortorgets Julmarknad 

Drottningholm Palace Christmas Market 

Rosendal’s Garden Winter Market 

Swedish History Museum’s Christmas Market 

Kungsträdgården Winter Wonderland Market 

Nordiska Museet Christmas Fair 

Sigtuna Christmas Market 

ICEBAR Stockholm 

Gamla Stan Christmas Market

Step into Stockholm’s fairytale old town and you’ll encounter one of the city’s cosiest winter traditions. The Gamla Stan Christmas Market has roots tracing back centuries, so you’ll find old-world charm on every cobblestoned corner. Wooden stalls fill Stortorget Square, their rooftops dusted with snow and warm light spilling out. Vendors tempt you with Swedish sausages, crispy gingerbread hearts, and steaming glögg (mulled wine) to keep your hands toasty. Wander between stalls selling crafts, ornaments, sweets and hand-knitted mittens. 

It’s all about tradition here: the atmosphere feels like stepping into a cheerful holiday painting. The red-painted stalls and gentle chime of carols set the scene for some serious browsing. Kids will love the candied almonds and marzipan pigs, while adults can hunt for unique handcrafted gifts and classic Swedish Christmas decorations. Even if you’re not shopping, people-watching and sipping glögg in the square is pure December bliss. 

Skansen Christmas Market 

If you want winter market magic with a Swedish history twist, beeline to Skansen. This open-air museum transforms every Advent weekend into a festive wonderland. Imagine holiday stalls dotted among 19th-century farmhouses, folk dancing around bonfires, and wafts of freshly-baked saffron buns mixing with pine smoke. 

You’ll find Swedish Christmas treats like herring, homemade jams, cheese, and sweet pastries alongside traditional handicrafts and knitted goods. Skansen’s charm comes from its interactive, friendly vibe—join in folk dancing, take candle-making workshops, or stroll by the reindeer enclosure. It feels equal parts living museum and bustling winter market, making it an ideal spot for families or anyone who loves a side of history with their holiday shopping. 

Stortorgets Julmarknad 

Let’s be clear: Stortorgets Julmarknad and the Gamla Stan Market are one and the same—but this historic site deserves a special mention on any list, given its all-star status among European Christmas markets. Dating back to the 1300s, it’s not just Sweden’s oldest—it’s the definition of holiday ambience. 

Red wooden stalls, music in the air, and the scent of cardamom buns everywhere—this is where you want your perfect winter photos. The market is small enough to feel intimate, yet packed with treats from reindeer sausage to locally-made ornaments to spicy mustard. Sample a few snacks, warm your hands on a mug of glögg, and soak up seasonal cheer in the heart of the old city. 

Drottningholm Palace Christmas Market 

If you’re in the mood for a market with royal vibes, the Drottningholm Palace Christmas Market is your ticket. Held on the palace grounds just outside the city, this market is more than a shopping trip—it’s a winter excursion. Stalls line the long driveway, offering everything from artisanal cheese and sausages to handmade jewelry and Christmas crafts. 

There’s usually live music under the twinkling trees, and the palace itself looks downright magical in winter sun or falling snow. The setting is grand yet perfectly welcome to all, making this a market where you can browse for handcrafts one minute and snap regal photos the next. Don’t skip the bakery stalls—the saffron buns here are legendary. 

Rosendal’s Garden Winter Market

Rosendal’s Garden puts a modern, eco-friendly twist on the winter market tradition. Set in a botanical garden on Djurgården, this market is a treat for slow-food fans and anyone who loves sustainability and local produce. Their airy greenhouse fills with small producers during Advent weekends, selling everything from artisanal bread and honey to organic jams and festive wreaths. 

Sip on their locally-roasted coffee, munch a kanelbulle (cinnamon roll), and browse hand-picked gifts. The vibe here is light, fragrant, and green—perfect for escaping the city’s bustle for a peaceful hour or two. Don’t miss their cozy farm café, which serves warming lunches made from the garden’s bounty. 

Swedish History Museum’s Christmas Market 

History buffs and craft lovers, this one’s for you! For one weekend every December, the courtyard of the Swedish History Museum hosts a cheerful Christmas market featuring local craftspeople and food producers. Think embroidered textiles, forged ironworks, hand-carved Dala horses, and artisan honey—each with interactive stories to tell. 

The museum’s festive market is a great way to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts in a setting that feels both celebratory and educational. Inside, you can warm up as you explore Sweden’s Viking past (the museum’s artifacts are legendary), so it’s easy to fill a half-day here learning and browsing. Hungry? Try a traditional saffron bun or crisp ginger snap while browsing the stalls. 

Kungsträdgården Winter Wonderland Market 

Right in the city center, Kungsträdgården transforms into a vibrant winter playground every December. This isn’t just a market—it’s a destination packed with fun. You’ll find rows of stalls selling everything from artisan gifts to street food, plus a funfair vibe thanks to music, lights, and the city’s prettiest outdoor ice rink. 

Skate under the stars, grab a cup of mulled wine, and browse for Swedish gifts (think wool socks, wooden ornaments and hand-blown glass). The atmosphere is friendly and energetic—you’re as likely to spot locals after work as you are travelers exploring Stockholm for the first time. 

Nordiska Museet Christmas Fair 

The dramatic, castle-like Nordiska Museet gets all dressed up for its annual Christmas fair. Step inside and you’re greeted by stalls full of Scandi gifts—textiles, toys, sparkling decorations and edible treats. Jazz and folk musicians create a lively backdrop, and kids can take part in craft-making workshops or try their hand at baking pepparkakor (those addictive Swedish ginger snaps). 

The soaring, historic building makes a dramatic setting, and the focus on Swedish cultural traditions gives every visit a meaningful feel. Don’t miss the honey vendors or the opportunity to pick up unique Christmas presents from some of Sweden’s best designers and craftspeople. 

Sigtuna Christmas Market 

Want the full storybook experience? Take a day trip to Sigtuna—just outside Stockholm—for a winter market that feels straight out of a children’s book. Sweden’s oldest town sets its medieval main street aglow with stalls selling crafts, sweets and gifts, while traditional musicians play and children line up for pony rides or a visit with Santa. 

The scale is intimate, the shops are charming, and the pastries… well, we recommend buying at least two. The Sigtuna market is ideal if you’re after a tranquil, traditional day among locals in a beautiful riverside town. 

ICEBAR Stockholm 

Maybe not a market, but an experience that delivers peak winter vibes! Step inside ICEBAR Stockholm to sip cocktails from frozen glasses surrounded by glimmering ice sculptures. The staff kit you out with cozy gear, so you can toast the season in subzero style. The ambiance feels festive and fun, and it’s a great way to cap off a market-hopping evening with a little extra chill (of the best kind). 

 

Stockholm in winter is all about warmth—found in cheery lights, friendly stalls, and the scent of saffron buns floating through the air. Whether you’re sipping glögg in Gamla Stan or ice skating at Kungsträdgården, these winter markets bring a dose of festive magic to every trip. Pack your scarf, prep your appetite, and get ready to make memories among Sweden’s finest holiday spots. 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to Fotografiska, and browse our picks of the best day trips out of the city.  

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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! 
christmas in stockholm
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Christmas in Stockholm: The Ultimate Festive Fun Guide

Stockholm transforms into a true winter wonderland at Christmas time. Snow dusts the city’s rooftops, shop windows glow with candles, and the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread fills the air. Wondering how to make the most of Christmas in the Swedish capital? We’re sharing our favorite ways to dive head-first into Scandi spirit: from bustling markets and classic museums to hidden holiday treats, this city is ready to deliver all the festive feels. Ready to sleigh your Stockholm holiday?  Our top Christmas experiences in Stockholm include:  Skansen  Gamla Stan Christmas Market  Stockholm Cathedral  Vasa Museum  Traditional Swedish Fika at Systrarna Andersson  ICEBAR Stockholm  Nordic Museum (Nordiska Museet)  Drottningholm Palace  Swing Adventure Golf Bar  Fotografiska  Gamla Stan Christmas Market: Stockholm’s Festive Heart  If you want to feel the pulse of Stockholm’s Christmas cheer, head straight to Stortorget in Gamla Stan (the old town). This tiny yet cozy square dazzles every year with its Christmas market—one of Scandinavia’s oldest. Candy-cane red huts are decked with fairy lights and brimming with holiday goodies: spiced almonds, homemade toffee, and piles of snowy gingerbread. You’ll also find Swedish crafts, ornaments, and charming trinkets that make for sweet souvenirs.  The atmosphere? Jolly, with a chorus of carols in the air and hot chocolate warming your hands—plus, you get the best selfie backdrop in town, surrounded by pastel townhouses and the glow of historic lanterns. Don’t miss a piping-hot “korv” (Swedish sausage) before you wander off into the narrow alleys. It’s like stepping into a Christmas card.  Stockholm Cathedral: Advent Concerts and Candlelit Calm  Step inside Stockholm’s Cathedral (Storkyrkan) and let the city’s holiday buzz melt away. In winter, the cathedral buzzes with activity, opening its grand doors for atmospheric Advent concerts and choral performances that sound like pure Christmas spirit. The building itself—dating to the 13th century—sets a majestic scene, with dramatic vaulted ceilings, flickering candles, and echoes of centuries-old carols.  Each performance draws locals and travelers alike, delivering goosebump-raising vocals and a moment of calm in the busy city. Even outside concert times, it’s lovely to visit for the glow of its Christmas decorations and to admire the striking wooden sculpture of St George and the Dragon—a Stockholm classic. If you’re seeking a moment of peace, this is your place.  Vasa Museum: A Nautical Christmas Experience  For a dose of Stockholm’s history with a festive twist, set sail for the Vasa Museum. Here lies the world’s best-preserved 17th-century ship—a mighty vessel that’s impressive in any season, but especially atmospheric when winter darkness sets in. During December, the museum hosts special family activities, storytelling sessions, and workshops themed around old Scandinavian seafaring yuletide traditions.  You’ll spot ships decked out with winter greenery and discover tales of sailors’ festive rituals—mulling over how the crew kept spirits high during the long, dark months. It’s fascinating, fun, and educational—kids will love the dramatic ship while adults savor a mug of holiday “Vasa glögg” from the museum’s café overlooking the harbor.  ICEBAR Stockholm: Chill Out in Style  Want your mulled wine with a twist? Step inside ICEBAR Stockholm for a truly cool festive experience. Everything here—the walls, bar, seating, and even your drinking glass—is carved from pure Swedish ice. The interior is kept at below-freezing temperatures, but don’t worry, the staff kit you out in snuggly silver capes and gloves. The frozen artistry is incredible, with seasonal themes (look for icy Christmas trees and frosted reindeer!), creating a fairytale-like vibe.  Sip a vividly coloured vodka cocktail—try the lingonberry for a taste of Scandinavia—and trade stories with new friends. The chilly setting is perfect for snapping unique holiday photos or simply embracing the whole Nordic winter fantasy. Who says you can’t be festive and frosty at the same time?  Nordiska Museet: Swedish Christmas Traditions Unwrapped  Step inside the majestic hall of Nordiska Museet for a crash course in all things Swedish and Christmassy. Every December, the museum hosts traditional workshops where you can craft Christmas decorations, nibble on pepparkakor (gingerbread cookies), or try your hand at making holiday wreaths and straw ornaments known as “julbockar.” The vast halls shimmer with themed displays, delving into how Swedish families have celebrated the season through centuries—think stories of St. Lucia, elaborate table settings, and vintage Christmas cards.  The museum’s dramatic, castle-like setting is an attraction in itself, but during the holidays, it truly comes alive. Kids love the hands-on activities, while adults can admire beautiful exhibits or stock up on Scandinavian design gifts at the well-curated shop. It’s history, creativity, and holiday magic rolled into one.  Drottningholm Palace: Fairytale Festivities  If your Christmas plans need a little royal sparkle, set off to Drottningholm Palace, just a short jaunt west of the city center. Surrounded by snowy gardens and gleaming lake views, this UNESCO world heritage site is the private residence of Sweden’s royal family—and you can tour the grand halls, lavish salons, and beautiful chapel all dressed up for the season.  December weekends often include Christmas-themed guided tours, carol recitals, and arts-and-crafts workshops that bring courtly yuletide traditions to life. After you’ve explored the palace, wander through the delicate frost-laced formal gardens or warm up in the stylish palace café with a slice of gingerbread cake. Visiting here feels like stepping into a Swedish Christmas storybook.  Swing Adventure Golf Bar: Festive Fun for All Ages  Keep the holiday giggles going with a round of indoor mini-golf at Swing Adventure Golf Bar. This isn’t just any old golf venue; it’s a 1920s-inspired speakeasy with Art Deco décor, cozy nooks, and a distinctly playful atmosphere. Over the holidays, the space lights up with Christmas sparkle, from themed cocktails (try an “Elf’s Punch” or “Snow Fairway”) to seasonal music and even occasional trivia nights.  Gather your friends or family, don a silly Santa hat, and compete for the title of Christmas champion—winner buys the next round of Swedish craft beer or hot cocoa. Swing’s menu packs in holiday treats too, including “julkaka” sponge cake and gooey cinnamon rolls. It’s the perfect spot to stay warm, get competitive, and laugh a lot—especially if your putting skills are better after a glögg or two. Whether you’re a beginner or a mini-golf pro, you’ll love the welcoming atmosphere, creative course obstacles, and festive energy. Swing is family-friendly by day and shifts to a lively, grown-up hangout in the evening, making it the perfect Christmas stop no matter who you’re celebrating with.  Fotografiska: Art, Light, and Holiday Inspiration  For something a little different (and seriously stylish), swap twinkle lights for world-class photography at Fotografiska. This renowned contemporary photography museum on Södermalm ramps up the ambiance in December, decorating its striking industrial building with festive touches and often hosting seasonal exhibitions that capture the wonder of winter and the beauty of everyday life. The view from the museum café—overlooking the shimmering waters and cityscape dusted in snow—is almost as captivating as the art on the walls.  As dusk sets in early, Fotografiska becomes a cosy, glowing retreat. Grab a seat in their award-winning restaurant for a fika or a meal—don’t skip their signature open-faced rye bread with smoked salmon and horseradish, or the vegan sweets if you’re after something lighter. Exhibitions rotate regularly, so there’s always something fresh to discover, and the museum shop is the perfect place for unique holiday gifts for your design-savvy friends back home. It’s creative, atmospheric, and guaranteed to leave you feeling inspired.    Stockholm is packed with festive surprises that will have you humming carols long after you’ve left. Whether you’re after tradition, treats, or just a twinkle-lit stroll through snow-dusted streets, you’ll find it here. Now, grab a lussekatt, raise a mug of glögg, and make your Christmas in Stockholm shine!    Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to Fotografiska, 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! 
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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