The 5 Best Museums in Stockholm

Stockholm is a city rich in culture and history, and what better way to explore its past than through its museums? With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which museums to visit first. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best museum visits in Stockholm, ranging from traditional art museums to intriguing historical exhibitions. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a fun and educational day out, Stockholm’s museums offer something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and explore what the city has to offer!

The 5 Best Museums in Stockholm

  1. Stockholm Old Town and Vasa Museum a Small Group Tour
  2. Visit the Viking Museum
  3. Stockholm Vasa Museum Entrance Ticket
  4. Stockholm Vasa Museum and Vrak Museum Combo Entry Ticket
  5. Abba the Museum Stockholm Walk in Dance Out

The 5 Best Museums in Stockholm

1. Stockholm Old Town and Vasa Museum a Small Group Tour

This museums visit takes you to two must-visit attractions in Stockholm, the Old Town and the Vasa Museum, and is perfect for those who want to make the most of their time in the city. With a small-group tour, you can avoid the crowds and learn about the history of Stockholm as you explore famous sights. The tour includes a boat trip to Djurgården, which offers stunning views of the city from a new vantage point. The Vasa Museum entrance fee is also included in the tour, so you won’t have to wait in long lines for tickets. The meeting point is at Munkbrogatan 8 in the Gamla Stan metro station under the ground in front of the “Pressbyrån kiosk” at 10:00 AM. The tour ends at the Vasa Museum, located at Galärvarvsvägen 14 in Stockholm. Book this small-group tour for great access to the guide and an informative and enjoyable experience.

2. Visit the Viking Museum

The Viking Museum in Stockholm is a must-visit destination for all fans of Norse culture and history. By booking your admission ahead of time, you’ll avoid long queues and enter the museum with ease. Once there, the museum’s Viking artifacts and relics speak for themselves, but to help you delve deeper, archaeological guides dressed as Vikings are on-hand to answer any questions you may have. You’ll also have the opportunity to board Ragnfrid’s Saga—an immersive Viking voyage—and watch some fascinating documentaries and projections. To cater to all visitors, the museum provides an audio guide in nine languages. The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and near public transportation. With the archaeologist guide and Ragnfrid’s Saga ride included in your admission, you’re in for an exciting and educational day out.

3. Stockholm Vasa Museum Entrance Ticket

Make the most out of your Stockholm trip and visit the Vasa Museum, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. With your entrance ticket, you can discover 11 different exhibitions where you can admire the Vasa up close from 6 different floors. Additionally, an audio guide is available for children and in several languages to enhance your experience.

Watch a 17-minute documentary about the history of the ship before exploring the exhibitions featuring original objects placed around the ship. Daily guided tours are also available if you wish to learn more about the Vasa’s history.

After your visit, enjoy lunch, coffee, sandwiches, and pastries in the Vasa Museum’s restaurant, and check out the souvenir shop for some memorabilia to take home with you. By purchasing your entrance ticket in advance, you can save time and enjoy a hassle-free visit to the museum.

4. Stockholm Vasa Museum and Vrak Museum Combo Entry Ticket

Take advantage of a combined entry ticket to visit the iconic Vasa Museum and the newly opened Vrak – Museum of Wrecks, two must-visit tourist spots in Stockholm. The Vasa Museum houses the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship, almost fully intact, and surrounded by 11 interesting multi-level exhibitions. Visitors can also admire the craftsmanship up close and see the ship’s wooden sculptures. The Vrak Museum, on the other hand, brings visitors into the underwater world of the Baltic Sea with its interactive digital experiences, including lifelike VR dives and holograms. Both museums offer an audio guide that provides interesting commentary to enrich visitors’ experience. The museums visit does not include food and drinks, but they are available for purchase at both museums. This combo entry ticket is perfect for those who want to explore the maritime history and archaeology of Stockholm.

5. Abba the Museum Stockholm Walk in Dance Out

Visit the ABBA The Museum on the island of Djurgården in Stockholm for an exciting and immersive experience. Walk in the footsteps of ABBA and listen to personal memories and stories from Agnetha, Benny, Björn, and Frida with the help of the audio guide. See ABBA’s instruments, gold records, awards, and stage outfits on display. Become the 5th member of the band by trying on their legendary stage costumes, singing at the Polar Studio, and experiencing the 3D avatars. The entry ticket includes access to the museum, and the audio guide can be purchased separately. This visit is a must-do for all ABBA fans and music enthusiasts.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About Stockholm

Stockholm is, undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe that every traveler should visit at least once in their lifetime. This vibrant city has something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, architecture, art, food, or entertainment. However, before planning your trip to Stockholm, it’s essential to have all your questions answered so that you can make the most of your visit. This post aims to address the most frequently asked questions by tourists about Stockholm.

1. When is the best time to visit Stockholm?

The best time to visit Stockholm depends on what you want to do and see. The peak tourist season runs from June to August when the weather is warmer, and there are longer daylight hours. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, with crowds of visitors and higher prices. If you want to experience the magical winter wonderland of Stockholm, then visit from December to February when the city is covered in snow and ice. You can enjoy ice-skating, skiing, and traditional Swedish Christmas markets. The shoulder seasons, from March to May and September to November, offer lower prices, milder weather, and fewer crowds.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Stockholm?

Stockholm has a rich culture and history, and there are many attractions to explore. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Stockholm:

a. Gamla Stan (Old Town)

Gamla Stan is the old town of Stockholm and is full of charm and history. It’s a maze of narrow alleyways, colorful buildings, and beautiful squares. The Royal Palace, Stockholm Cathedral, and the Nobel Museum are all located in Gamla Stan.

b. Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is a maritime museum and the most visited attraction in Scandinavia. It houses the 17th-century Vasa warship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was salvaged in the 1960s. It’s an incredible sight to see the preserved ship.

c. Skansen Open-Air Museum

Skansen is an open-air museum located on the island of Djurgården. It displays the traditional Swedish way of life, with over 150 buildings from various periods, and offers interactive exhibits, historical reenactments, and a zoo.

d. ABBA The Museum

ABBA The Museum is a must-visit for all music lovers. It’s an interactive museum that tells the story of the legendary Swedish pop group ABBA. You can sing, dance, and immerse yourself in the world of ABBA.

3. What is the best way to get around Stockholm?

Stockholm has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, metro, trams, and ferries. The best way to get around is by using the SL Access card, which you can use on all modes of transportation. You can buy the card at ticket machines or convenience stores. Taxis are also available but are much more expensive than public transportation.

4. What are the most popular foods in Stockholm?

Stockholm offers many delicious foods to try, and here are some of the most popular ones:

a. Meatballs (Köttbullar)

Swedish meatballs are a classic dish that you cannot miss. They are made from ground beef and veal mixed with breadcrumbs, onion, and spices, and served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and lingonberry jam.

b. Gravlax

Gravlax is a cured salmon dish that is famous in Sweden. The salmon is marinated in a blend of salt, sugar, dill, and spices, and served with potatoes, mustard sauce, and bread.

c. Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar)

Cinnamon buns are a popular Swedish pastry that is enjoyed any time of day. They are made from a sweet, yeasted dough filled with cinnamon, butter, and sugar, and topped with pearl sugar.

5. What is the national language of Stockholm, and do people speak English?

The national language of Sweden is Swedish, but English is widely spoken, and almost everyone speaks it fluently. You will have no problem communicating with the locals.

6. What is the currency in Stockholm?

The currency in Stockholm is the Swedish krona (SEK). Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

7. What is the tipping culture in Stockholm?

Tipping is not mandatory in Stockholm, but if you receive excellent service, it’s customary to leave a small tip of around 10% or round up the total amount.

8. Is Stockholm an expensive city to visit?

Stockholm is generally an expensive city to visit compared to other European destinations. However, there are ways to save money, such as visiting during the shoulder seasons, using public transportation, and eating at local cafes and restaurants rather than expensive tourist spots.

How to Spend Your Time As A Tourist in Stockholm

Stockholm, the capital city of Sweden, is a perfect destination for tourists who are looking for interesting historical landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and a vibrant culture. The city is composed of 14 different islands, each of which has something unique to offer. With so many things to see and do, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step plan to ensure that you make the most out of your time as a tourist in Stockholm.

1. Explore the Old Town (Gamla Stan)

Gamla Stan is the heart of Stockholm and one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. The narrow, cobbled streets are lined with colorful buildings and charming cafes. Here, you can visit the Royal Palace, which is the official residence of the Swedish royal family, and the Stockholm Cathedral. The Cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is an excellent example of medieval architecture.

Tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are quite steep and uneven
  • Visit the narrowest alley in Stockholm, Mårten Trotzigs Gränd
  • Try the traditional Swedish meatballs at the restaurant Pelikan

2. Visit The Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s most popular attractions. It is home to the Vasa ship, the world’s largest and most well-preserved 17th-century warship. The ship sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and remained at the bottom of the harbor for 333 years before being brought to the surface. The museum’s multimedia displays provide visitors with an immersive experience of what life was like on board the Vasa.

Tips:

  • Get there early to avoid the crowds
  • Take a guided tour for an in-depth experience
  • Don’t miss the other exhibitions, which provide a glimpse into the everyday life of 17th-century Sweden

3. Relax in Djurgården

Djurgården is a sprawling island that is perfect for those who want to relax and take in the beauty of Stockholm. It is home to several popular attractions, including the Skansen open-air museum, the Gröna Lund amusement park, and the ABBA Museum. You can also take a leisurely walk through the lush green Djurgården Park or enjoy a picnic in one of the many open spaces.

Tips:

  • Take a boat tour from the city center to Djurgården for a scenic ride
  • Visit the Rosendals Trädgård café for some delicious organic treats
  • Bring a picnic basket and a blanket to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the park

4. Explore Stockholm’s Modern Art Scene

Stockholm has a vibrant contemporary art scene with galleries, museums, and public installations scattered throughout the city. Among the most notable galleries are the Moderna Museet and Fotografiska, where you can view works by both Swedish and international artists. Also, the city’s subway system, known as the T-Bana, has several stations that are works of art themselves.

Tips:

  • Check out the Artipelag museum, located on the outskirts of Stockholm. It showcases contemporary art and design in a beautiful seaside setting
  • Take a guided tour of the city’s street art for a unique experience
  • Visit the Konstakademien, a former art school that now serves as a gallery for contemporary art

5. Enjoy the Food and Drink Scene in Stockholm

Stockholm has a diverse food and drink scene that is sure to delight any traveler. From traditional Swedish cuisine to international fusion dishes, there is something for everyone. You can also try some of the city’s locally brewed beers or visit a wine bar for a relaxing evening.

Tips:

  • Visit Östermalms Saluhall, a food hall that offers a range of delicious treats
  • Try the traditional Swedish dish, Surströmming, but be warned, it has a pungent smell
  • Visit one of the city’s microbreweries for a unique beer tasting experience

Conclusion

Stockholm is a great destination for tourists who want to experience the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Sweden. By following our step-by-step guide, you can ensure that you make the most out of your visit. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, get there early to avoid the crowds, and try some of the local cuisine. Happy travels!

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The 5 Best Museums in Stockholm