Comprised mostly of 14 islands connected by 50 bridges, Stockholm is unlike any other European capital. The city itself is made up mostly of waterways and greenspace. Cruise to Stockholm and you’ll discover that the parts of the city with buildings are just as beautiful with a combination of old architecture from as far back as the 1300s to modern day buildings. Stockholm has always had a population that is on the cutting edge, with edgy fashion choices and music that beats to an accelerated rhythm. Cruise to Stockholm in the warmer months and you can find these cutting edge locals dining outside as the city has a plethora of cafes and acclaimed restaurants.Featured below are a few of our favorite experiences for the cruise port of Stockholm, Sweden:
Welcome to Stockholm, Sweden’s vibrant and picturesque capital! Situated across 14 islands connected by over 50 bridges, Stockholm is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful natural surroundings. If you only have one day in the city during your cruise stop, don’t worry — there's plenty to see and do! Here's how to make the most of your one-day visit to Stockholm:
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Explore Gamla Stan (Old Town)
Start your day by heading to Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s historic Old Town. This charming district is a maze of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and cozy cafes. It’s one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe and is home to some of Stockholm’s most famous landmarks. Take a leisurely walk, pop into boutique shops, and admire the beautiful architecture.
Tip: Visit Stortorget, the main square in Gamla Stan, which is surrounded by stunning buildings, including the Stockholm Stock Exchange and the Nobel Museum.
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Visit the Royal Palace
From Gamla Stan, it’s just a short walk to the Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet), one of the largest and most impressive royal residences in Europe. The palace is open to the public, and you can explore the lavish interiors, including the Royal Apartments, the Hall of State, and the Treasury. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place outside the palace.
Tip: If you have time, visit the Royal Armoury (Livrustkammaren) located nearby to see a collection of royal outfits, carriages, and historical artifacts.
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Take a Boat Tour Around the Archipelago
Stockholm is surrounded by a stunning archipelago of over 30,000 islands, and the best way to see it is by boat. There are plenty of boat tours available, ranging from short 1-2 hour cruises to longer excursions that give you a unique view of the city and its waterways. A boat tour is an excellent way to see some of the most beautiful parts of Stockholm, including the island of Djurgården and the many small islands dotting the coastline.
Tip: If you're short on time, opt for a sightseeing boat that departs from the city center for a quick but scenic tour.
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Discover the Vasa Museum
Located on the island of Djurgården, the Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm's most popular attractions. The museum houses the Vasa, a 17th-century warship that famously sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was later salvaged in the 1960s. The Vasa is incredibly well-preserved and offers a fascinating glimpse into Sweden’s maritime history.
Tip: Take time to explore the museum’s exhibits on shipbuilding and the history of the Vasa, and don’t miss the chance to learn about the ship’s dramatic story.
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Stroll Through Djurgården Park
After visiting the Vasa Museum, take a relaxing stroll through Djurgården, one of Stockholm's most beautiful and tranquil parks. This lush green space is perfect for a peaceful walk and offers scenic views of the water and the city. If you have time, visit other attractions within the park, such as the ABBA Museum or Skansen, an open-air museum showcasing Swedish culture and history.
Tip: If you're in the mood for a coffee break, there are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants along the waterfront.
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Visit the Modern Art at Fotografiska
For a taste of contemporary art, head to Fotografiska, one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to photography. Located in the Södermalm district, Fotografiska features rotating exhibitions of international and Swedish photographers, with a focus on cutting-edge and thought-provoking works.
Tip: Fotografiska also has a fantastic rooftop café with panoramic views of the city, which is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a drink.
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Shop on Drottninggatan
If you’re in the mood for shopping, head to Drottninggatan, one of Stockholm’s busiest shopping streets. Lined with a variety of stores, from international brands to Swedish boutiques, Drottninggatan is the ideal spot to pick up souvenirs, clothing, or accessories. It’s also great for people-watching and soaking in the lively atmosphere of the city.
Tip: If you're looking for Swedish design, stop by the Nordic design stores along Drottninggatan or in the nearby area.
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Visit the Nobel Museum
Located in Gamla Stan, the Nobel Museum celebrates the history and achievements of Nobel Prize winners. The museum offers fascinating exhibits on science, literature, and peace, showcasing the inspiring stories of those who have made significant contributions to humanity.
Tip: The museum is small, so you can explore it in about an hour, making it an easy stop while you're in the Old Town.
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Relax at Södermalm
For a more laid-back experience, head to the hip and trendy Södermalm district. Known for its bohemian atmosphere, Södermalm is filled with cool cafes, quirky boutiques, and vintage stores. It’s a great area to wander through if you want to experience Stockholm’s vibrant local culture and discover hidden gems.
Tip: If you’re a fan of panoramic views, head up to the Fotografiska rooftop or visit the Monteliusvägen viewpoint for stunning views of the city.
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Try Swedish Cuisine
No visit to Stockholm is complete without trying some classic Swedish dishes. Stop by a local restaurant or café to enjoy iconic Swedish fare, such as meatballs with lingonberries, gravad lax (cured salmon), or herring. For dessert, try semla (a traditional Swedish pastry) or prinsesstårta (a layered sponge cake).
Tip: Head to a traditional Swedish fika spot for a coffee break. Fika is a beloved Swedish tradition of enjoying coffee and pastries with friends or colleagues.
Stockholm is a city that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an excellent destination for a one-day visit. From exploring the medieval streets of Gamla Stan and visiting the iconic Royal Palace, to taking in stunning views from a boat tour or enjoying contemporary art, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're a history enthusiast, art lover, or nature seeker, you’ll leave Stockholm with unforgettable memories of this beautiful Scandinavian city.