Unlock the Best Things to Do Near Stockholm Cathedral

stockholm cathedral at dusk

Set in the storybook streets of Gamla Stan, Stockholm Cathedral stands at the beating heart of Sweden’s capital. But the magic doesn’t end at its Gothic arches. The whole neighborhood is a tapestry of royal history, quirky museums, blissful fika cafés, and narrow lanes perfect for wandering. Whether you’re craving old-world grandeur, a glimpse of Viking intrigue, or simply want to relax like a local, you’ll find it all within a couple of cobblestoned steps. Ready to map out the perfect Stockholm adventure? Let’s dive in! 

Our top picks near Stockholm Cathedral include: 

Stockholm Cathedral 

The Royal Palace 

Nobel Prize Museum 

Västerlånggatan Shopping 

Gamla Stan alleyway rambling 

Viking Museum 

Traditional Swedish Fika at Systrarna Andersson 

The Royal Armoury – Livrustkammaren 

Swing by Pharmarium 

SkyView Stockholm 

Stockholm Cathedral: The Heart of Gamla Stan 

Let’s kick things off with the star of the show. Stockholm Cathedral, or Storkyrkan, is so much more than just an old church towering over Gamla Stan. This Gothic beauty is Stockholm’s oldest building—dating back to the 1200s—and stepping inside feels like entering an atmospheric time capsule. You’ll spot masterpieces like the towering wooden St. George and the Dragon sculpture and sunbeams lighting up grand vaulted ceilings. 

We always love how it doubles as a venue for royal weddings and coronations—talk about being part of living history! Spend a moment soaking up the soft hush, the intricate stonework, and the faint scent of old books and polished wood. Whether you’re a history buff or just hunting for that perfect Instagram moment, Stockholm Cathedral delivers timeless atmosphere. 

The Royal Palace: Royalty Right Next Door

Don’t leave the neighborhood without peeking inside the Royal Palace—just a quick stroll from the cathedral. This gigantic Baroque residence is still the king’s official home and a working palace, which means a little pomp and pageantry are never far away. Watch the colorful changing of the guard ceremony or pop into the Royal Apartments dripping with chandeliers and gilded furnishings. 

But that’s not all. The palace houses several niche museums inside. Sneak a peek at the crown jewels in the Treasury or dive into centuries of royal costumes and weaponry in the Royal Armoury below. The vibe is always regal, yet welcoming enough for curious visitors of all ages. Even if you just wander the palace’s sweeping exterior square, you’ll feel part of something special. 

Nobel Prize Museum: Ideas That Changed the World 

It wouldn’t be Stockholm without nodding to its world-changing Nobel heritage. The Nobel Prize Museum, just a stone’s throw from the cathedral, invites you into a world of genius and innovation. Interactive displays, videos, and personal stories bring to life the biggest moments in science, literature, peace, and more. 

We find it’s the quirky details that make every visit memorable—Nobel dinner menus dangling from the ceiling, clips of scientists having their “Eureka!” moments, and rotating exhibits on everything from climate change to the power of words. The museum’s petite café is perfect for coffee and a Nobel-themed dessert, and the entire experience feels fresh and inspiring, never stuffy. 

Västerlånggatan Shopping: Souvenirs and Swedish Style 

Just down the alleyways, Västerlånggatan buzzes with color, creativity, and the best people-watching in town. It’s Stockholm’s oldest shopping street—a lively stretch home to indie boutiques, Swedish handicrafts, cozy knitwear, and retro toys. Duck into antique shops and you might find a Viking coin or two! Sure, there are the classic souvenir magnets, but keep your eyes peeled for standout Swedish design: minimalist jewelry, patterned scarves, and Sami handicrafts. 

There’s plenty of energy here as locals and visitors mingle. During the holiday season, fairy lights twinkle above the crowds and stalls ply you with gingerbread and lussebullar (saffron buns). It’s equal parts festive fun and history under one charming roof. 

Gamla Stan Alleyways: Wander Like a Local 

Sometimes the best adventures are unplanned. Set your map aside and just let yourself get lost in Gamla Stan’s labyrinthine cobblestoned alleyways. Every twist reveals painted doorways, iron lanterns, or wild pops of pink and yellow facades. You’ll stumble across street art, secret courtyards, and the city’s narrowest alley—Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, only 90 centimeters wide. 

We’re big fans of this “urban treasure hunt,” snapping photos of flower-filled window boxes, ducking into surprise courtyards, or chatting with local shopkeepers. Early morning or just before sunset, it feels magical, and no two visits are ever quite the same. 

Viking Museum: Meet Stockholm’s Wild Past

Ready for something a bit wilder? Hop on a short ferry or bus ride from Gamla Stan to the Viking Museum. It’s a family-friendly adventure into Sweden’s ancient roots, packed with saga storytelling, myth-busting exhibits, and real archaeological finds. There’s even a short ride—Ragnfrid’s Saga—that brings Viking legends to life, animatronics and all. 

We love that this museum spices up facts with fun. Meet Vikings (both fierce and friendly), pose in a helmet, decode runes, and learn how traders shaped Stockholm. There’s a sense of drama without the dry lectures, making this a hit with kids and adults alike. 

Traditional Swedish Fika at Systrarna Andersson: Sweet Pause 

You can’t wander the Old Town forever without a proper fika break. Systrarna Andersson, perched just a short stroll away, is our go-to for real-deal Swedish coffee culture. Expect deep mugs of robust coffee, trays of cinnamon buns, and dainty cookies—all homemade and served in a setting that feels like grandma’s living room. 

The vibe is cozy and slightly retro, with wooden chairs, mismatched china, and that sugary aroma wafting from the pastry counter. It’s easy to linger for ages, hours drifting by over cardamom buns and coffee refills. When in Stockholm, fika is non-negotiable. 

The Royal Armoury – Livrustkammaren: Armory Wonders 

Tucked in the palace’s basement, the Royal Armoury feels like Stockholm’s best secret. Step inside and you’re greeted by glinting swords, gilded carriages, and an impressive parade of royal outfits—everything from regal robes to wedding dresses. There’s even armor worn by Sweden’s kings on the battlefield! 

It’s surprisingly intimate (think flickering candlelight and stone arches), and clever displays keep things lively for kids, too. Some of us are here to ogle (and occasionally giggle at) monumental wigs and velvet capes, while others are drawn to dramatic tales of war and peace echoed in the exhibits. A treasure trove for costume and history fans! 

Swing by Pharmarium: Craft Cocktails with a Story 

Nestled on the square in front of the cathedral, Pharmarium gives “drinks with a view” a whole new meaning. Housed in Stockholm’s first-ever pharmacy, it’s all rich wood, vintage bottles, and a zesty twist on mixology. Their cocktails draw inspiration from ancient apothecary potions—think sea buckthorn-infused gin or beetroot-spiked vodka sours. 

The menu is as inventive as the décor, and bartenders will happily chat about the building’s quirky medical history. It's cozy in winter and lively in the summer, when the outdoor terrace fills with friends comparing tasting notes and sampling pickled snacks on the side. 

SkyView Stockholm: A New Angle on the City 

Wrap up your day with a short trip out to the SkyView on Södermalm for views that’ll give your Stockholm adventure a proper finale. The glass gondolas glide up the side of the Avicii Arena (yep, the huge white globe) for an unbeatable city panorama. Sunsets here, with Stockholm’s islands twinkling below, are truly next-level. 

It’s a smooth, accessible ride—no climbing needed—and a fun way to see just how the city unfurls around its waterways and green islands. We always get a kick out of spotting Gamla Stan’s cathedral dome, tiny but proud, from high above. It's a fitting end to a day of old-town adventure, giving you a fresh perspective on all you've explored. 

 

Whether you’re drawn to centuries-old cathedrals, cozy cafés, royal pageantry, or quirky museums, the area around Stockholm Cathedral serves up something for every kind of explorer. Gamla Stan’s patchwork of history, flavor, and fun means every corner invites you to linger a little longer. Dive in, follow your curiosity, and your Stockholm story will be as memorable as the treasures you discover along the way. 

 

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. 

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kid shaking hands with a robot at a science museum
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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! 
an ancient viking boat in the vasa museum
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Make a Day of It: Top Spots Near the Vasa Museum

You’ve marveled at the mighty Vasa and soaked up all those fascinating shipwreck stories—what’s next? You’re in luck, because the Vasa Museum sits right in the heart of Djurgården, one of Stockholm’s most action-packed neighborhoods. Whether you’re after hands-on history, dreamy strolls along leafy paths, wildlife encounters or a perfectly sweet Swedish fika, you’re surrounded by some of the city’s most exciting sights. Wondering where to go once you’ve relived Sweden’s swashbuckling seafaring past? We’ve rounded up a list of nearby attractions, fun experiences, and local hangouts that will make your day near the Vasa one for the memory books.  Our favorite things to do near the Vasa Museum include:  Skansen  The Viking Museum  Nordiska Museet  SPRITMUSEUM  ABBA The Museum  Vrak – Museum of Wrecks  Gröna Lund Amusement Park  Stroll on Djurgården’s walking trails  Indulge in Swedish fika at Systrarna Andersson  Fotografiska  Skansen: Sweden in a Nutshell  Skansen, practically the Vasa Museum’s next-door neighbor, stands as Stockholm’s living, breathing history lesson—and it’s pure fun. Picture this: cozy village cottages, windmills, and costumed guides bustling about like you’ve stepped back a few centuries. As the world’s oldest open-air museum, Skansen shops you vintage Sweden, from parish farms to urban workshops.  But there’s so much more than period drama here. You can pet goats and spot bears at the attached zoo (always a crowd-pleaser), snack on warm cinnamon buns from the bakery, or catch folk dancers and musicians turning the square into a festival. Homemade crafts demonstrations and markets let you try a little glassblowing, carpentry, or just test your knowledge of traditional Swedish sweets.  The atmosphere always feels lively and welcoming, especially in summer when families spread out with picnics or in winter when lanterns glow beside snow-dusted cabins. Skansen is vast, child-friendly, and peppered with incredible views over Stockholm—it’s equal parts playground, cultural trip, and animal adventure.  Nordiska Museet: Sweden’s Culture, Collected  Take in the grandeur—a palace-like building right on Djurgården’s leafy avenues—because the Nordiska Museet always makes a dramatic first impression. Step inside and you’re swept through centuries of Swedish culture, from home interiors to fashion, traditions, and celebrations.  It’s a spot where everyone finds a favorite: maybe the intricate tableware of Swedish royalty, old school folk costumes, or the nostalgic collection of children’s toys. Exhibits are organized with storytelling flair, mixing artful displays with bite-sized info for a smooth, entertaining wander.  There’s a lightness and warmth to the Nordiska Museet, making it an inviting place to soak in what makes Sweden, well, Sweden. The café, with homemade cakes and sandwiches, is perfect for a lingering pitstop after exploring.  SPRITMUSEUM: A Spirited Journey Through Swedish Drinking Culture  If you think museums can’t be fun, SPRITMUSEUM will change your mind. This playful spot is dedicated to Sweden’s long and storied relationship with booze—from snaps and aquavit to the rainbow-hued cocktails of modern Stockholm.  The museum leans into its subject with quirky multimedia exhibitions and a dash of irreverent humor. Hear Swedes recount their worst hangovers, sniff around creative scent installations, and catch temporary art shows inspired by drinking rituals.  The dockside location is gorgeous, especially on a sunny day with a seat out by the water. There’s also an award-winning restaurant serving new-Nordic cuisine and creative cocktails—plus, you can sample flights of Swedish spirits if you fancy getting brave. It’s hands-on, cheeky, and joyous.  Vrak – Museum of Wrecks: Dive Deeper into Maritime Mysteries  Next to the Vasa Museum, Vrak invites you to explore the hidden stories lying at the bottom of the Baltic Sea. Instead of traditional displays, Vrak immerses you in digital worlds, with multimedia installations, shipwreck tales, and underwater archaeology galore.  The museum uncovers tales of lost ships, sunken treasures, and sailors’ fates, all brought to life with atmospheric lighting, soundscapes, and creative use of tech. It’s equal parts educational and dramatic, sparking curiosity in everyone from shipwreck nerds to curious kids.  Vrak strikes a perfect balance between adventure and authenticity—helping you experience Stockholm’s watery secrets in accessible, memorable ways.  Gröna Lund Amusement Park: Vintage Thrills by the Water  Feeling the need for a little rush? Gröna Lund delivers Stockholm’s best retro fun, perched right on the Djurgården waterfront just a few minutes’ walk from the museums. The park’s compact size means laughter and pop music drift between classic wooden roller coasters, wild spinning rides, and old-style funfair games.  Depending on when you visit, you might catch big-name bands or sunset concerts (summer evenings are top-tier here). There are vintage carousels for all ages, snack huts for salty popcorn and candy floss, and springy dance floors where locals and travelers mingle. Gröna Lund feels nostalgia-packed and unfussy: the kind of place you’ll grin your way through whether you’re tackling big drops or just people-watching.  Stroll Along Djurgården’s Waterfront Trails  One of Stockholm’s best features is its peaceful, green public spaces, and Djurgården’s walking paths may just be the star. Step outside the Vasa and you’re right by scenic boardwalks lined with flowers, centuries-old oaks, and shiny blue water.  Wander west towards Rosendals Trädgård for wildflowers and greenhouse cafes, or loop back along the northern edge with unbeatable city skyline views. Early birds might spot seabirds or a well-muscled jogger or two; sunset brings painters and chatter from boat cafés. It’s pure serenity and a natural breather between museums.  Traditional Swedish Fika at Systrarna Andersson  Craving a pause? Recline into plush chairs and watch the world go by at Systrarna Andersson, a cozy café beloved for its homey décor and outstanding fika—Sweden’s legendary coffee-and-cake break. This sweet spot pours robust brews and piles plates with cinnamon buns, cardamom knots, and cheese-stacked smörgås.  It’s light and bright, full of locals grabbing a treat and catching up, with vintage wallpaper and simple blooms on the tables. The signature treat is their house-made Prinsesstårta, a whimsical green marzipan cake with fluffy layers of sponge, whipped cream, and tart raspberry jam. Settle in with a steaming cup of coffee and a pastry, and you’ll immediately understand why fika is so sacred in Swedish culture. Systrarna Andersson’s friendly, relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal recharge stop—whether you’re catching your breath after the museums or fueling up for more adventures around Djurgården.  Fotografiska: Stockholm’s Cutting-Edge Photography Haven  Craving a little creative inspiration after your maritime explorations? Head over to Fotografiska, Stockholm’s modern temple of photography, just across the water in Södermalm. Not your average gallery, Fotografiska specializes in world-class exhibitions from both legendary names and bold newcomers, always engaging and often thought-provoking.  The industrial-chic venue buzzes with energy, from its soaring exhibition halls to the lively café and restaurant upstairs—don’t miss the view: panoramic windows showcase Stockholm’s skyline, especially magical at sunset. The atmosphere is stylish but informal, welcoming casual visitors and art lovers alike. You can easily while away a couple of hours, drifting from wild fashion shoots to soul-searching photojournalism.    With all these fantastic options just moments from the Vasa Museum, it’s easy to fill your day—or your whole Stockholm trip—with discovery, culture, flavors and fun. Whether you’re museum-hopping, spotting wildlife, eating your fill, or just taking in those classic Swedish views, Djurgården’s never short on ways to enchant you. Happy exploring!    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to top mornings in 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! 
Little boy exploring Stortorget square in Stockholm's old town
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Things to do in Stockholm for Families and Kids

Stockholm is a fine family destination with oodles of attractions of kids, many of which are great fun for adults, too! Think viking museums, interactive science centers, cool city beaches and good old-fashioned amusement parks. You won't go short of family-friendly restaurants either where, if all else fails, succulent Swedish meatballs are a guaranteed hit from ages three to 103. Getting around with kids is also a breeze, with a compact city center and an efficient public transport system that includes buses, trams, ferries and subway trains. Better yet: parents with strollers ride buses for free. Read on for our guide to the best things to do in Stockholm for families and kids. Djurgården: Stockholm’s Great Green Playground The city center island of Djurgården has more than enough going on to keep kids entertained for days at a time. Chief among the many attractions here is the extraordinary open-air museum that is Skansen, a sprawling living history park with a zoo and a full-scale replica of a 19th-century Swedish town. Arrive in style aboard the 19th-century funicular railway that climbs Skansen hill and drops you more or less at the entrance, and prepare to be transported back in time as you encounter traditional craftspeople in period costume. Kids will adore the cute critters in the zoo, which include Nordic otters, moose and brown bears, and there’s also a small petting area with domestic farm animals. Skansen’s seasonal fairs are the stuff of legend. There’s live jazz and traditional folk dancing in summer, a traditional 18th-century-style harvest festival in September, and a popular annual Christmas market, where stalls festooned with stripy candy canes and the delicious aromas of roast chestnuts are sure to get kids young and old into the festive spirit. There’s a superb duo of amusement parks nearby. Gröna Lund, Sweden’s oldest, combines old-fashioned attractions like the haunted house and tunnel of love with terrifying 21st-century thrill rides, while Junibacken (mostly for younger kids, aged around 4–8) brings classic Swedish literary characters to life, particularly those of celebrated author Astrid Lindgren. Ride the fairytale Story Train, enter the wacky world of Pippi Longstocking and explore the Moominvalley. There are also fun singalong theater shows (in Swedish) and a treasure trove of children’s books (including many in English) in the store. And that’s not all. Djurgården is also home to – deep breath – the fabulously immersive Viking Museum, the Vasa Museum, which features the world’s best-preserved 17th-century warship as its centerpiece, and a museum dedicated to all things ABBA. Mamma mia! However, if there’s one thing Djurgården does lack, it’s affordable eating options. We recommend packing a picnic and all the kiddie snacks you’ll need for a full day out, and enjoying your al fresco lunch on the picture-perfect waterfront behind the Vasa Museum, or on any number of grassy lawns along the island’s walking trails. Hit the Beach When you think of Stockholm, it’s likely your mind wanders to fairytale lands of cobbled lanes, medieval churches and colorful gabled townhouses. Maybe even twinkling fairy lights, warm ginger cookies and steaming mugs of hot glögg (mulled wine) at a traditional Christmas market. And yes, Stockholm has all of that in spades. But did you know it also has some fine beaches, including several in the city center? On the southern shores of Södermalm, Tanto strandbad is one of the city’s most popular summer swimming spots. Get there early to beat the crowds to the limited sands, or stake your claim to a particularly comfortable rocky patch or lawn behind. It’s great for families with kids and just a short walk from the lush Tantolunden park with its playground, mini golf course and steep slopes for winter tobogganing. Golden sands, clean waters and a long jetty with diving platforms promise hours of fun at Flatenbadet beach in southern Stockholm, while sandy Ängbybadet in Bromma – just across the water from majestic Drottningholm Palace – is a local favorite, with good wheelchair access and a small ice cream shop. If rain stops play (or you simply refuse to countenance those chilly Baltic Sea waters), take the kids to Eriksdalsbadet instead. This huge swimming complex (Sweden’s largest) boasts several pools (only one of them outdoors) with balmy water temperatures of around 80°F, plus an aqua park with water slides for the kids and hot tubs for the grown-ups. Best of the Rest It would be remiss to visit Stockholm without introducing your little 'uns to some of the gourmet delicacies Sweden has to offer. Meatballs from Stockholm institution Meatballs for the People are a must: delicious little orbs of bear, boar or reindeer meat doused in rich meat gravy or tangy lingonberry sauce. Sticky cinnamon buns (kanelbullar) still warm from the oven are another guaranteed hit. Top tip: use these sugary treats as a pacifier when the kids start getting fidgety on your must-do exploration of the old town; you’ll find them in any bakery worth its salt. Djurgården isn’t the only place in Stockholm to find fab family-friendly museums. Head to tiny Skeppsholmen to explore over 40,000 vintage toys and comics at the Stockholm Toy Museum, located underground in a former Navy bunker. Get your fix of nostalgia with stacks of familiar toy cars, cartoon characters and action figures from the 20th Century, as well as an extensive doll collection with exhibits dating back as far as the 1400s! Tom Tits Experiment is a little off the beaten track in Södertälje, around 30 minutes by train from Stockholm, but boy is it worth the effort. The country’s biggest science center, it contains hundreds of experiments over four floors, all of which you’re encouraged to get involved in. Become a human yoyo, cycle along a tightrope, see your shadow change color, find out what an earthquake feels like and stare into infinity in this mind bending experience that has the power to fascinate and educate whatever your age. Our final recommendation (though, believe us, there are LOADS more things for families to do in Stockholm than we can fit in here) is a bus ride with a difference. The Ocean Bus takes you on a whistle-stop tour of Stockholm landmarks including the Royal Palace and Royal Swedish Opera before whizzing along the prestigious Strandvägen waterfront then dive-bombing into the canal from the leafy Nobel Park. From here it bobs around the islands of Djurgården and Skeppsholmen before returning to dry land. You can be sure that this hour-long amphibious adventure is the one thing the kids will still be talking about weeks after your holiday. Save on things to do in Stockholm for families and kids 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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