Free Things to do in Stockholm

By <a href="#author-bio">Stuart Bak</a>
By Stuart Bak
Published: July 18, 2024
Royal guards on horseback during the changing of the guard ceremony at the Royal Palace 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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Freelance travel writer

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.

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jewish artifacts on display
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Stockholm On a Budget: Free Gems by the Jewish Museum

Curious about Stockholm’s rich culture but keen to keep your spending in check? Surrounding the Jewish Museum, you’ll find a treasure trove of unique, free experiences that bring the heart of Sweden’s capital to life—no wallet required. From serene city gardens and storied old streets to lively markets and creative street art, there’s plenty waiting just beyond the museum doors. Whether you want to soak up history, recharge in nature, or sneak a selfie with awe-inspiring architecture, we’ve rounded up the absolute best free things to do near the Jewish Museum. Ready to discover Stockholm in style—without splashing the cash?  Our favorite free things to do near the Jewish Museum include:  Stroll through Gamla Stan’s cobbled streets  Admire Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral) from outside  Photograph Riddarholmen Island and Church  Relax in Kungsträdgården Park  Visit the Royal Palace exterior and parade grounds  Walk the Skeppsholmsbron (Skeppsholm Bridge) and see the golden crown  Window-shop at Östermalm Market Hall  Find city poetry on Västerlånggatan  Tour colorful Österlånggatan and its hidden courtyards  Admire Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral) from outside  Stockholm’s oldest church, Storkyrkan, rises majestically above the Old Town, just minutes from the Jewish Museum. While the ornate interiors have a small fee, you can still marvel at the architecture and history from the outside. Built in the 1200s, the church features Gothic spires, copper details, and intricately carved portals that make quite an impression against the city skyline.  The square around Storkyrkan bustles with life—horse-drawn carriages clatter past, and you’ll often see musicians or couples celebrating weddings around the dramatic entrance. Scan the walls for historic symbols, note the stone lions guarding the doors, and soak up the sense of centuries-old traditions still shaping Stockholm today. Simply being here, surrounded by history and stunning buildings, is a highlight in itself!  Photograph Riddarholmen Island and Church  Craving postcard views? Cross the bridge from Gamla Stan to Riddarholmen, a peaceful little island providing jaw-dropping city panoramas—completely free. Here you’ll find Riddarholmen Church, Stockholm’s royal burial site, with its iconic wrought-iron spire. Roam the island’s open squares and waterfront walkways for outstanding vistas across Lake Mälaren, especially stunning at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle over the water.  This spot is made for slow walks, panoramic photos, and moments of quiet as you take in Stockholm’s centuries-old grandeur. The church is surrounded by stately palaces and peaceful lawns, so you’re never far from another viewpoint begging to be captured. You’ll quickly see why Riddarholmen is a favorite escape for locals on their lunch break!  Relax in Kungsträdgården Park  Need a break from sightseeing? Kungsträdgården—just a pleasant stroll from the Jewish Museum—is one of Stockholm’s oldest and most beloved public parks. In spring and summer, the cherry trees explode into pink blossoms, creating a canopy so magical, even seasoned travelers can’t resist snapping a dozen photos.  All year round, Kungsträdgården is Stockholm’s urban living room. Locals lounge on benches, children chase pigeons, and friends gather by lively fountains. Free concerts and open-air events pop up in warmer months, adding a lively soundtrack to your visit. During winter, the park’s central square transforms into a shimmering ice rink, perfect for people-watching. Stroll the paths, soak up the city energy, and find your own favorite corner for a picnic or reading break.  Walk the Skeppsholmsbron (Skeppsholm Bridge) and see the golden crown  You’ll want to make time for a walk over the Skeppsholmsbron, the handsome footbridge joining the city to the leafy arts hub of Skeppsholmen island. Its most famous feature? A giant golden crown perched midway—absolutely free to admire and snap for your holiday memories.  The bridge serves up wide-open views of Stockholm’s sparkling waterways and cityscape. It’s a favorite for a sunny stroll or sunset meander. On the other side, leafy paths and sculpture-studded lawns invite you to linger longer, and the waterfront is perfectly peaceful—even in the busy summer months.  Window-shop at Östermalm Market Hall  Bring your curiosity to Östermalm Market Hall, a foodie’s dream just beyond the Jewish Museum’s neighborhood. Entry is always free (unless you’re tempted by fika…), and the bustling indoor market is a treat for the senses. Fresh flowers, artisan breads, Smörgåsbord fixings and creative pastries line the counters. While you’re welcome to browse (and sniff!) without opening your wallet, some friendly stallholders offer complimentary tastes, especially if you show genuine interest in Swedish food heritage.  The market itself is a sight worth seeing. Cast-iron arches, stained glass, and the gentle hum of locals shopping for daily treats set a cozy, friendly tone. Absorb the atmosphere, snap photos of the colorful produce, and jot down delicacies for your next Swedish picnic.  Find city poetry on Västerlånggatan  There’s a playful, thoughtful side to Stockholm waiting to be discovered—just scan the pavement along Västerlånggatan. Here, you’ll find “Stadens poesi” (City Poetry): verses and lines engraved in the stones underfoot, celebrating the city’s voices both past and present. It’s a scavenger hunt for literary fans and curious wanderers alike—how many snippets of Swedish poetry will you spot?  Each line is a tiny window into local life, offering clever, philosophical, or witty takes on everyday experience. It turns an ordinary stroll into a cultural tour, adding a secret layer of meaning to your day. The stretch is especially atmospheric at twilight as lamps begin to glow and the words seem to come alive.  Tour colorful Österlånggatan and its hidden courtyards  One of the simple joys of Stockholm’s Old Town comes from meandering down Österlånggatan, a lively, sometimes overlooked street that runs parallel to more crowded thoroughfares. Step away from the bustle and wander through this stretch lined with ochre, rust, and pastel-painted buildings, each dripping with stories and character from centuries gone by. The architecture alone offers a visual feast: look up to catch quirky carvings, ironwork signposts, and curious alcoves overhead.  But here’s where it gets extra special: as you stroll, keep an eye out for little archways and unassuming doorways dotted along the street. Duck into these and you’ll discover hidden courtyards—some lush with ivy, others echoing peacefully under cobblestone arches. Each courtyard reveals a quieter, secret world, far from the main crowds. Some host tiny art installations, ancient wells, or gardens alive with local songbirds.    Touring the area around the Jewish Museum in Stockholm means you’ll run out of hours long before you run out of free things to do. From grand palaces and peaceful parks to secret courtyards and foodie favorites, there’s something for every curious traveler—no Krona required. Bring your sense of adventure (and maybe comfortable shoes), and you’ll discover that some of Stockholm’s most memorable experiences don’t come with a price tag at all.    Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to Fotografiska, 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! 
Seabirds over Stockholm's island archipelago
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Best Day Trips from Stockholm

There’s more than enough to keep the casual visitor occupied in and around central Stockholm, from vast medieval squares to living-history museums and, of course, meatballs. But if you’re in town for a few days and want to expand your horizons beyond Gamla Stan and Grona Lund, this vast archipelago promises unforgettable day trips galore. Read on for five of the best...
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
a nobel peace prize in front of a chemist's set
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Nobel Neighbors: The Best Gems Around Stockholm’s Nobel Prize Museum

So, you’ve got your eye on the Nobel Prize Museum—after all, who wouldn’t want to get inspired by the world’s greatest thinkers? But here’s the secret: Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s storied Old Town, is packed with unique experiences, royal history, and winding cobbled streets that all begin just outside the museum doors. Whether you’re craving art, timeless castles, stories of Vikings and kings, or simply a cinnamon bun in an atmospheric café, we’ve rounded up the best things to do nearby to turn your Nobel adventure into a perfect Stockholm day.  Our favorite things to do near the Nobel Prize Museum include:  Stockholm Cathedral  The Royal Palace  The Royal Armoury  Swedish Fika at Systrarna Andersson  Vasa Museum  The Viking Museum  Fotografiska  Skansen  Stockholm Toy Museum  Stortorget Square  Stockholm Cathedral: The Soul of Gamla Stan  Just moments from the Nobel Prize Museum, Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan) is the city’s oldest church and simply radiates history. Step inside to find grand gothic arches towering overhead, centuries-old stone floors beneath your feet, and sunlight filtered through medieval stained glass. The highlight? That’s the wooden statue of Saint George and the Dragon—a masterpiece about courage and legends that Swedes adore.  We love the calm, candlelit interior, and the sense that you’re standing at the center of Swedish celebrations through the ages, from royal weddings to stunning concerts. The cathedral’s location right beside Stortorget square makes it the perfect spot to soak in Gamla Stan’s fairytale atmosphere, whether you’re dodging a winter snowstorm or basking in summer sun. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the organ in full song, filling the whole ancient space with music. Stockholm Cathedral proves a cornerstone for city explorers and a peaceful break from bustling streets outside.  The Royal Armoury: History Worn with Style  Buried beneath the palace, the Royal Armoury (Livrustkammaren) is an absolute treat for history buffs and anyone curious about the costumes and shining steel of Swedish royalty. This museum shows off centuries of coronation cloaks, glittering ceremonial swords, horse-drawn coaches, and even the somewhat intimidating armor worn by past kings.  What makes it special is just how personal these treasures feel—many come with dramatic stories, told through displays that bring you right into royal drama and intrigue. Kids love the knightly helmets and theatrical outfits, while grown-ups lose themselves among the suits of armor and tales of old battles and banquets. The Royal Armoury’s dim lighting and original palace setting give every visit an adventurous, almost secretive vibe.  Swedish Fika at Systrarna Andersson: Pause Like a Local  Walking Old Town calls for frequent snack stops, and nothing beats a traditional Swedish fika: coffee and something sweet with friends. Systrarna Andersson, tucked into Gamla Stan, is a favorite for a midday refuel. The cozy space, decorated with mismatched vintage furniture and the buttery scent of fresh pastries, oozes charm.  Try their cinnamon buns—soft, spiced, and dusted with pearls of sugar—paired with a locally roasted coffee. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with regulars chatting away and staff who are always happy to offer recommendations. Grab a window seat if you can: it’s prime people-watching territory, perfect for soaking up the neighborhood rhythm. For a true taste of Swedish tradition, fika here is a must.  Vasa Museum: Shipwrecked Wonders  If you’re ready for a little adventure, hop on a ferry or make the short walk over to Djurgården Island—home to the Vasa Museum, Stockholm’s most extraordinary maritime treasure. The massive warship Vasa, spectacularly preserved after sinking on its maiden voyage in 1628, towers over visitors inside this light-filled museum.  Why do we always send friends here? It’s simple: you stand in awe beneath the Vasa’s intricate carvings and enormous bulk, then lose yourself in the gripping story of how it was raised from the deep. The museum wraps around the ship, so you can admire it from every angle, with well-crafted exhibits that bring 17th-century Sweden to life. For families, history lovers or anyone who swoons for a juicy shipwreck yarn, the Vasa Museum is a highlight.  Fotografiska: Stockholm’s Creative Heart  If cutting-edge art is your thing, Fotografiska, located in a striking waterside brick building not far from Gamla Stan, should be at the top of your list. This contemporary photography museum hosts ever-changing exhibitions showcasing talents from around the globe—think powerful images, unexpected installations, and food for thought at every turn.  The highlight here? The top-floor café and bar, which offers panoramic views over Stockholm’s harbor—a perfect spot for a drink or bite after exploring. The vibe is modern, relaxed, and creative, drawing locals as well as travelers for late hours and live music nights. Fotografiska isn’t just about looking at photos; it’s about soaking up the spirit of Stockholm’s vibrant art scene.  Skansen: Swedish Life in Miniature  Not far from the center (and easily reached from Gamla Stan), Skansen is part open-air museum, part living history experience, and a favorite for all ages. Spread across leafy hills, you’ll find authentic wooden buildings transported from across Sweden—farmhouses, windmills, bakeries—populated by costumed guides crafting, cooking, and telling stories.  There’s a small zoo of Scandinavian animals, traditional crafts to try, and seasonal festivals that bring the whole place to life. Whether you’re traveling with family or flying solo, Skansen is part playground, part nostalgia trip, and a wonderful way to get a feel for Swedish traditions past and present.  Stockholm Toy Museum: Pure Nostalgia  Hidden underground in a former artillery museum right in Gamla Stan, the Stockholm Toy Museum is a colorful celebration of creativity. Its tunnels and rooms are packed with thousands of toys, games, model trains, and comics—some dating back centuries. Each display brings a different era to life, making it equally fun for children and for adults reliving their childhood favorites.  What stands out is how quirky and surprising the museum feels; there’s something eye-catching around every corner. You’ll find rare dolls, vintage superhero toys, and even see how Sweden’s favorite toys changed over the years. If you’re traveling with kids (or want a fun break from royal history), this is a spot that always leaves visitors smiling.  Stortorget Square: Stockholm’s Storybook Heart  Last up, don’t skip Stortorget—the picturesque square just outside the Nobel Prize Museum’s doors. With its colorful 17th-century facades and cheerful outdoor cafés, it’s the perfect place to snap photos or pause with a coffee. This square has seen centuries of celebrations, protests, and city life unfold in every imaginable form. Today, it buzzes with a relaxed energy—artists set up easels, musicians fill the air with songs, and, in winter, a charming Christmas market transforms the square into a festive wonderland.  Stortorget is not just photogenic—it’s full of stories. Look for the “blood stones” set into the cobblestones, said to remember a turbulent moment in Stockholm’s past. History aside, the square’s real allure comes from its atmosphere. Pull up a chair in one of the outdoor cafés, like Chokladkoppen, where you can tuck into a rich hot chocolate or a classic Swedish kladdkaka (that’s gooey chocolate cake to you and us), all with a stellar view of Stockholm’s most famous painted houses.    There you have it—adventures, artistry, and Swedish traditions galore, all within a stone’s throw of the Nobel Prize Museum. Stockholm’s Gamla Stan makes it easy to turn a quick museum visit into a day (or several) packed with unforgettable moments. Ready, set, explore!    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! 

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