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Ultimate Stockholm Winter Travel Guide: 30 Epic Things To Do

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Looking for the ultimate Stockholm winter travel guide? I’ve got you covered.

There’s no denying that Stockholm in winter is COLD, but that shouldn’t stop you from visiting this awesome city.

I visited Stockholm in January this year and I honestly think that it’s the best time of year to experience the city. You can save yourself some money by traveling in the off-season, there are plenty of awesome Stockholm winter activities to try, and if you are lucky you might even spot the Northern lights!

In this guide, I’ve put together all of my best tips and everything you need to know for traveling to Stockholm during the winter months.

So let’s dive in!

Stockholm Essentials

🏨 Where to stay in Stockholm: I loved Generator Hostel ! They have a mix of dorms and private hotel-style rooms

📌 Best Stockholm tour: Taking a boat tour of the Stockholm archipelago is a must-do!

🚣‍♀️ Best day trip from Stockholm: Visit nearby Vaxholm for an incredible kayaking experience

🤑 Save money: The Stockholm pass can save you money on many of the most popular sights and activities in Stockholm

💸 Get insured for your trip to Stockholm with Ekta Travel insurance

Hi, I’m JJ!

I’m a travel blogger with a passion for unique travel destinations, discovering hidden gems, and adventurous solo travel.

Stockholm is one of my favourite winter destinations! My favourite things to do here are:

• Explore snow covered Gamla Stan
• Kayak through the icy waters of the archipelago
• Discover the underground art museum that is Stockholm’s metro system

I hope you enjoy my free guides and travel tips! If so, please consider supporting my work 💕

Table of Contents

Is Stockholm Worth Visiting In Winter?

The short answer is: YES! Although Stockholm can get very cold during the winter months, there are so many reasons why visiting during this time of year is worth it.

Firstly, flights and accommodation prices tend to be much cheaper compared to the peak tourist season in summer. This means you can save yourself some money and splurge on other experiences during your trip. This is a great travel hack as Stockholm (and Sweden in general) is not a cheap destination.

Secondly, the city transforms into a winter wonderland during this time with snow-covered streets, Christmas markets, and festive decorations. Not to mention, the Swedes really know how to embrace the warm cozy vibes of winter with their concepts of “hygge” and “Fika” – perfect for escaping the cold and enjoying a hot beverage by the fire.

And if you’re wondering what to do in Stockholm in winter, then you don’t need to worry! Stockholm has plenty of amazing winter activities to keep you busy. 

Free Stockholm Winter Itinerary

What to expect during your visit to stockholm in winter.

Stockholm in winter is not for the faint-hearted, but don’t let the cold scare you away! Here are some things to expect during your visit:

Cold temperatures: Stockholm’s winter weather is very cold. The average temperature in Stockholm during winter is around -4°C (25°F), but it can often drop below -10°C. Be sure to pack plenty of warm layers and a good quality coat. When I visited in January it dropped as low as -11°C!

Shorter days:   Winter in Stockholm Sweden is dark. In December, the sun rises around 9am and sets at 3pm, giving you only about 6 hours of daylight. In January and February, the days are even shorter. But don’t let this discourage you, there are still plenty of things to do and see during this time!

Snow: Depending on the year, Stockholm can get quite a bit of snow during winter. So be prepared for slippery sidewalks and snowy landscapes.

Best Time For A Stockholm Winter Trip 

The best time to visit Stockholm in winter is from mid-December to early February. This is when you can expect the most snowfall and festive activities, like Christmas markets and ice skating rinks.

If you want to experience a more authentic Swedish winter, I recommend visiting in January or February when the temperatures are at their coldest.

Stockholm Winter Temperature

Wondering what the weather will be like during your visit? Here’s a breakdown of typical temperatures in Stockholm during winter:

• Visiting Stockholm in November: Average high 6°C (43°F) and average low 1°C (34°F)
• Visiting Stockholm in December: Average high 2°C (36°F) and average low -1°C (30°F)
• Visiting Stockholm in January : Average high -1°C (31°F) and average low -5°C (23°F)
• Visiting Stockholm in February: average high of 0°C (32°F) and low of -5°C (23°F)

💁🏻‍♀️JJ’S TOP TIP: If you don’t want to walk around in the cold then you can easily hop on the Metro or call an Uber

Stockholm Winter Daylight Hours

Winter days in Stockholm are short, with the sun rising around 9am and setting as early as 3pm. But don’t let this deter you from visiting! The city is still bustling with life during these hours and there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained once the sun goes down.

When I visited in early January it started getting dark just after 2pm, which was a bit of a shock at first but I quickly got used to it.

💁🏻‍♀️ JJ’s TOP TIP: If like me you suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), you might struggle with the limited daylight. I deal with this by packing a portable SAD lamp ! I use this one , it’s lightweight and is the same size as an iPad so fits easily inside my hand luggage. It’s a lifesaver and I never travel in the winter without it!

What To Do In Stockholm Winter: 30 Epic Winter Activities

There are so many incredible things to do in Stockholm in winter! Here are 30 of the best things to do in  Stockholm in winter to add to your Stockholm winter itinerary:

1. Gamla Stan Winter Walking Tour

I love a free walking tour! It’s one of the first things I do whenever I arrive at a new destination. It’s a great way to get to know the city and its history.

Gamla Stan, also known as Stockholm’s old town, is especially charming in winter with its cobbled streets and colorful buildings covered in snow.

Book yourself a Gamla Stan winter walking tour or take a stroll through the winding streets on your own. This is one of the best free things to do in Stockholm in winter. 

❄️I took this free walking tour around Gamla Stan and really enjoyed it. The tour was both fun and informative and the guide gave me some great tips for keeping warm. The tour is free but please remember to tip your guide!

2. Winter Boat Tour Stockholm

Another great way to explore Stockholm is by boat. During the winter months, some tour companies offer winter boat tours through the archipelago.

When I took this boat trip I was the only person brave enough to sit outside on the top deck. It was freezing but being outside really enhanced the experience as I had a full 360° view, which was so much better than being crammed around a window with everyone else inside. So, if you can bear the cold, I definitely recommend sitting out on the deck!

I really enjoyed gliding through the icy waters surrounded by snow-covered islands and cozy cabins – a truly magical experience! I think this is one of the best things to do in Stockholm in the winter. 

❄️ I had an amazing time on this winter boat tour and highly recommend it. The scenery was stunning and they served lots of tasty hot drinks on board to keep you warm.

3. Winter Kayaking Stockholm

This was hands-down the best thing I did during my Stockholm winter trip! I love to kayak and have tried it in multiple destinations around the world but this is the first time I have ever been kayaking in winter.

Winter kayaking is an incredible experience , it’s so much fun but also challenging. There were parts of the archipelago that were completely frozen over so we had to smash our way through the ice with our oars!

After a few hours of kayaking, we warmed up with some fika and a traditional Swedish sauna, it was a perfect way to spend a winter’s day.

❄️ I did this winter kayaking tour , just outside of Stockholm in Vaxholm. The scenery was stunning and I even got to paddle past a small frozen waterfall.

4. Go Ice Skating In Stockholm

Ice skating is a perfect Stockholm winter activity. There are a few outdoor ice rinks dotted around the city, the best one is in Kungsträdgården . The ice rink is free to use and if you don’t have your own skates you can rent a pair for 70 SEK (£5.22 GBP/$6.34).

There are also some excellent spots near the city for skating on natural ice. I didn’t try this myself, as I look like Bambi on ice and need something to hold onto! But if you’re feeling brave and want to give it a go then I recommend taking a tour with a local guide who knows the safest places to skate.

❄️ I love the look of this full-day ice skating tour and will probably give it a try next time I am in Stockholm

5. View The Best Christmas Lights In Sweden

For a while, there was a weird internet rumour going around that Sweden had banned Christmas lights. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Stockholm has some incredible Christmas lights and decorations.

I loved wandering around after dark admiring all the festive twinkly lights. My favourites were the enormous Christmas tree in Gamla Stan and the huge moose light installation in Berzelii Park.

6. Visit Skansen Open-Air Museum

Skansen is an open-air museum that’s perfect for exploring during winter.

The museum is set out like a small Swedish town and has traditional houses, buildings, and churches from all over the country. There is also a wildlife park that is home to native Nordic animals such as moose, lynx, wolverines, and reindeer.

During winter they have lots of events taking place including Christmas markets, carol singing, and festive food stalls. The Christmas market begins on the first weekend of Advent and runs every weekend until the fourth Sunday of Advent.

❄️ Grab your Skansen admission ticket here

7. Go Ice Swimming In Stockholm

If you’re feeling brave (or just crazy) enough, why not try ice swimming during your Stockholm winter trip? This is a popular pastime in Sweden and many locals swear by its health benefits.

There are plenty of designated spots to go ice swimming in Stockholm, but if you want to go with a group and have a sauna experience afterward, I recommend booking a tour.

I tried ice swimming as part of the winter kayaking experience . The water was incredibly cold and refreshing and I definitely appreciated the sauna more after being in the water!

❄️If you have never been cold water swimming before, then you need to be prepared. It’s super important to follow all the safety recommendations , including not staying in for more than a few seconds, as the icy water can literally shock your system and take your breath away. Check out Wim Hof for tips on how to increase your tolerance to ice water.

8. Stockholm Food Tour

No trip to Stockholm would be complete without sampling some of the delicious food on offer. Swedish cuisine is hearty, comforting, and perfect for warming you up during the winter months.

One of the best ways to experience the local food scene is by taking a food tour. I love food tours as they are not only tasty but also a great way to learn about the culture and history of a city and can also take you to some real hidden gem restaurants that you never would have considered on your own.

❄️ Check out this guided Fika tour of Stockholm which takes you to some of the best cafés the city has to offer.

9. Find The Järnpojke Iron Boy

Hidden away in a narrow alley in Gamla Stan is the Järnpojke Iron Boy statue. This tiny iron boy is only 15 cm tall and is one of the smallest public statues in Stockholm, yet it has become a popular tourist attraction.

Legend says that if you rub his head and make a wish, it will come true. So be sure to stop by and give it a try!

In the winter people leave tiny little knitted hats and scarves to keep him warm as well as sweets to feed him. It’s super cute.

If you visit after dark you’ll be able to see the small spotlight attached to a nearby building which makes it appear as if the boy is looking up at the moon.

❄️ Discover the secrets of Gamla Stan with this guided walking tour that takes you to some hidden gems, including the Iron Boy statue.

10. Check Out The Skinnarviksberget Viewpoint

Skinnarviksberget is a stunning viewpoint in Södermalm . It’s the highest natural point in Stockholm and offers stunning views over the river and Gamla Stan. It’s also a popular spot to watch the sunset over the city.

When I visited in January there were lots of people there tobogganing down the hill. It looked like a lot of fun!

Take note that the hike up to the top can be quite steep and icy in winter, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear and take caution. But trust me, the view is definitely worth it!

11. Look Out For The Northern Lights

Did you know that it’s possible to see the Northern Lights from Stockholm ? It’s not as common as in northern Sweden, but on clear winter nights with strong solar activity, it is definitely possible.

The best place to spot them is away from city lights, so head out to a countryside location or take a boat trip into the archipelago for your best chance of seeing them.

❄️If you want to increase your chances of spotting the Northern Lights, consider booking a tour like this moonlight skating experience that will take you to some truly off-the-beaten-path spots in the Stockholm archipelago, far from the bright city lights.

12. Visit Hammarbybacken Ski Resort

If you’re a fan of skiing or snowboarding, then you’ll be happy to know that there is a ski resort in Stockholm! Hammarbybacken is located just outside the city center and features several slopes of varying difficulty levels, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers.

There’s also a ski school if you want to improve your skills, and the resort is easily accessible by public transportation.

❄️ Check out current ski conditions and ticket prices here

Stockholm Indoor Activities

Although there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy during a winter trip to Stockholm, sometimes the weather can be too harsh or you just need a break from the cold.

Here are some indoor activities that will keep you warm and entertained:

13. Abba Museum

For music lovers, the Abba Museum is a must-visit in Stockholm!

This interactive museum allows you to learn about the history and success of this famous band through exhibitions, costumes and even singing and dancing along to their hits. It’s also a great way to get out of the cold for a few hours.

I loved how interactive the museum was and I definitely came away with a few ABBA classics stuck in my mind for the rest of the day!

❄️ Grab your ticket to the ABBA museum here!

14. Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is one of the most popular museums in Stockholm and for good reason. It’s home to the only almost fully intact 17th-century ship that has ever been salvaged, the Vasa.

This impressive warship sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was rediscovered in 1956, perfectly preserved thanks to the cold waters of the Baltic Sea.

I really enjoyed the Vasa museum, the ship is huge and the wooden carvings are so intricate, it’s amazing to think it was built in the 1600s and still looks perfect!

❄️ Get your ticket to the Vasa Museum here!

15. Nobel Prize Museum

The Nobel Prize is one of the most prestigious awards in the world, and you can learn all about it at the Nobel Prize Museum in Stockholm.

The museum showcases information on past winners, as well as interactive exhibitions and activities. It’s a great way to escape the cold and learn something new.

I spent an afternoon here and really enjoyed it. There is a small cinema room that plays short 10-minute films featuring the stories of past winners of the prize. I found it utterly fascinating and just sat in there for a good couple of hours learning about all these truly incredible people.

❄️ Book your ticket to the Nobel Prize Museum here!

16. Moderna Museet

For contemporary art lovers, the Moderna Museet is a must-visit and is one of the best museums in Stockholm . This museum showcases a variety of works from the 20th and 21st centuries, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and installations.

I personally love visiting modern art museums and this one did not disappoint. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon admiring some thought-provoking pieces.

❄️ Check out the current exhibitions at the Moderna Museet here!

17. Partake in the Swedish tradition of Fika

This is an absolute must-do Stockholm winter activity, no trip to Stockholm in winter would be complete without indulging in the Swedish tradition of fika.

The concept of fika roughly translates to a coffee break accompanied by a sweet treat like cinnamon buns or pastries, and usually shared with friends. It’s a great way to warm up and relax while also experiencing a slice of local culture.

There are endless cafes and bakeries throughout the city to choose from, so make sure to take some time to slow down and enjoy your Fika like a true Stockholmer.

❄️ Check out my guide to the best places in Stockholm for Fika

18. Watch An Ice Hockey Game

Ice hockey is a beloved sport in Sweden, and the games can get quite intense! If you’re lucky enough to catch a game during your visit, it’s definitely worth experiencing. The main teams in Stockholm are Djurgården and AIK, so check their schedules to see if there’s a home game during your stay.

The hockey season starts in September and goes all the way till March. You can get tickets either at the arena on game day or through the websites of the different clubs.

❄️ Check out the team schedules and purchase tickets here!

19. Visit The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Stockholm is one of the largest palaces in Europe and houses several museums, including the Royal Armory and the Treasury. You can also see the daily changing of the guard ceremonies at 12:15pm on weekdays and 1:15pm on weekends.

I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the palace to learn more about its rich history and see some of the stunning rooms and artifacts.

The palace also offers refuge from the cold, making it a perfect stop on your Stockholm winter itinerary.

❄️ Get your ticket for a guided tour of the Royal Palace here!

20. Warm Up With A Glass Of Swedish Glögg

Glögg is a traditional Swedish mulled wine that is typically enjoyed during the colder months. It’s made with red wine, spices, and sometimes a splash of brandy or vodka.

You can find glögg in most cafes and restaurants throughout Stockholm, but I highly recommend stopping at one of the Christmas markets to try it. There’s nothing quite like sipping on a hot cup of glögg while strolling through the charming stalls and taking in the festive atmosphere.

❄️ Don’t drink alcohol but still want to try glögg? Coffee Stop does an excellent alcohol-free glögg! I recommend trying it with a side of Chokladbollar – little chocolate balls covered in coconut flakes.

21. Tour The Metro Art

Stockholm’s metro system is known as the world’s longest art gallery, with over 90 of its stations showcasing unique and stunning artworks.

The best way to see these masterpieces is by simply hopping on and off at different stations to explore.

I recommend starting at T-Centralen station, which features a gorgeous blue and white mural all over the ceiling then catching the blue line all the way to Akalla and working your way back to T-Centralen before switching over to the red line.

I plan to write a detailed guide to the best stations for art lovers soon, so stay tuned!

❄️ If you don’t like the idea of navigating Stockholm’s metro system by yourself then you can take a tour of the best stations with a local guide

22. Try Swedish Meatballs

No trip to Sweden is complete without trying the iconic Swedish meatballs. These delicious, savory balls of beef and pork are served with creamy gravy, lingonberry jam, and potato puree.

You can find them on almost every menu in Stockholm so you won’t have to search far before you find them!

❄️ If you want to try some of the best meatballs in town, head to Meatballs for the People . They even do vegan meatballs, and have an excellent selection of local beers too!

23. Cozy Up In A Traditional Swedish Sauna

For a truly authentic Swedish experience, head to one of the many saunas in Stockholm for a relaxing and rejuvenating session.

The cold winter weather makes it the perfect time to enjoy this traditional practice, and many saunas offer a stunning view of the winter scenery.

Some popular options include Centralbadet and Hellsten Earth Bar , but there are many others to choose from as well.

❄️ Don’t forget to follow proper sauna etiquette by showering before and after your session and always sitting on a towel. It’s also worth noting that most Swedish saunas don’t allow you to wear swimwear in the sauna and instead require you to be nude or wrapped in a towel.

24. Stockholm Public Library

If you’re looking for a cozy spot to spend a winter afternoon, head to the Stockholm Public Library.

This stunning building is considered an architectural masterpiece and is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.

It boasts over 2 million books in its collection and has many quiet reading nooks to curl up in with a book and stay warm. You can also grab a cup of coffee from the cafe inside.

❄️ Learn more about visiting the Stockholm Public Library here!

25. Visit The Ice Bar

For a unique and unforgettable experience, head to the Ice Bar in Stockholm . As the name suggests, this bar is made entirely out of ice and kept at a chilly -7°C (19°F) all year round. From the walls to the glasses, everything is carved from ice, making for an incredible atmosphere.

The entrance fee includes one drink and winter clothing to keep you warm while inside. And don’t worry about freezing – the bar stays busy, so you won’t be there for long!

Day Trips From Stockholm In The Winter

If you have some extra time in Stockholm, I highly recommend taking a day trip to one of the nearby cities or islands. Here are a few suggestions for winter day trips from Stockholm:

26. Explore Nature In Vaxholm

Just a short bus or ferry ride away from Stockholm, you’ll find the vibrant archipelago town of Vaxholm.

This idyllic location is a nature lover’s paradise, and even in winter, it has so much to offer.

I visited Vaxholm to try winter kayaking in the archipelago . Although it was a bit chilly, the views of the icy landscape were nothing short of breathtaking!

❄️ I can’t recommend this winter kayaking tour enough! It was my favourite thing that I did in Stockholm

27. Visit The Old City Of Uppsala

Located just an hour’s train ride from Stockholm, Uppsala is a charming and historic city worth visiting. It has a rich history dating back to the Viking era and is home to the oldest university in Sweden.

In winter, you can stroll through the cobblestone streets lined with traditional Swedish houses and visit Uppsala Cathedral , the tallest church in Scandinavia.

❄️ If you’re interested in the Viking history of Uppsala then check out this tour which will take you to some of the most significant Viking sites in the region

28. Try Nordic Skiing

Nordic skiing is a popular winter activity in Sweden, and there are many places near Stockholm where you can give it a try.

I recommend heading to Hellasgården for some cross-country skiing through the beautiful forests and frozen lakes.

❄️ If you’re new to Nordic skiing then you can book a guided tour to help you get started and take you to the best trails!

29. Go Snowshoeing

snowshoeing is another fantastic way to explore the snowy landscapes around Stockholm.

Snowshoes allow you to walk on top of the snow without sinking, making it easier to navigate through nature. I recommend booking a guided snowshoe tour to get the most out of this experience.

❄️ If you’re feeling adventurous, I recommend this guided snowshoe winter hike which takes you snowshoeing through a gorgeous national park where you can see native wildlife in their natural environment

30. Visit The Gorgeous Drottningholm Palace

Just a short train ride from Stockholm, you’ll find the Drottningholm Palace . This stunning palace is the official residence of the Swedish royal family and is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In winter, the palace and its gardens are transformed into a magical winter wonderland, making it the perfect time to visit.

❄️ If you’re interested in history and royal life, take a private guided tour of the palace to learn more about its fascinating past.

Three Days In Stockholm Winter Itinerary

To ensure you make the most of your winter trip to Stockholm, I’ve assembled the ultimate 3 days in Stockholm winter itinerary, which you can download as a free PDF.

The winter Stockholm guide includes all my favorite places in Stockholm and some unique experiences as well as my recommendations for the best places to grab a tasty Swedish treat!

❄️ Download your free 3-day Stockholm winter itinerary here!

Visiting Stockholm In December

Visiting Stockholm in December is the perfect time to partake in some of the city’s festive Christmas activities.

Here are some of the best things to do in Stockholm in December and the best places to visit in Stockholm in December:

Things To Do In Stockholm At Christmas

Stockholm Christmas Market

If you’re spending Christmas in Stockholm, make sure to check out the cosy Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. Here you can find traditional Swedish treats, hot drinks, and plenty of festive decorations and gifts to bring home.

Visit Storkyrkan for a Christmas Concert

Storkyrkan, the oldest church in Gamla Stan, hosts enchanting Christmas concerts during the holiday season. The church’s stunning architecture, coupled with the melodic sounds of traditional Swedish carols, creates a festive atmosphere that’s not to be missed.

Tickets cost from 100-290 SEK (~£7.50-£21.50 GBP/$9-$26 USD). 

Explore the Winter Wonderland at Liseberg Amusement Park

Although it’s a bit of a drive from Stockholm, the Liseberg Amusement Park in Gothenburg is well worth the visit. During Christmas, the park turns into a Winter Wonderland, complete with millions of Christmas lights, holiday markets, Santa’s grotto, and seasonal shows.

Attend a Swedish Christmas Buffet (Julbord)

Experience a traditional Swedish Julbord, a buffet-style meal served during Christmas time. Try classic dishes like pickled herring, Swedish meatballs, and the iconic saffron buns, all while soaking in the warm, festive spirit of Stockholm’s eateries.

What To Wear In Stockholm In Winter

As you can probably tell from my recommendations, I absolutely loved visiting Stockholm in winter. But let’s be real for a second, it does get VERY cold! Like below-freezing temperatures kind of cold. Make sure you pack lots of warm clothes, including thermals and a good quality coat.

I actually underestimated just how cold it would be and had to make an emergency stop at H&M to stock up on extra-thick gloves!

Here are some essentials you should bring:

A warm jacket: Opt for a down-filled parka or a heavy-duty winter coat to keep you warm in freezing temperatures. Make sure that it’s water-resistant too!

Thick sweaters and woolen layers: Layering is key when visiting Stockholm in winter. Bring plenty of warm sweaters, woolen socks, and long-sleeved shirts to stay cozy.

Thermal underwear: You’ll want to wear thermal tights and a long-sleeve thermal vest as a base layer under your clothes to keep you warm.

Waterproof boots: With snow and ice on the streets, it’s important to have a good pair of waterproof boots with a sturdy grip.

Warm accessories: Don’t forget to pack a hat, scarf, snood , and gloves to protect your head, neck, and hands from the cold. I ended up wearing two pairs of gloves and a snood under my hat and scarf to keep my neck protected from the icy wind.

Hand and foot warmers: These are a lifesaver when it comes to keeping your extremities warm in freezing temperatures. Pop a couple in your pockets to keep your hands toasty.

❄️ A wool snood was the best thing that I bought to keep me protected from the cold wind. I highly recommend one like this to wear under your hat.

Where To Stay In Stockholm In Winter

I stayed at Generator Hostel which was a great budget option and very central. It’s an upscale hostel with a mixture of dorms and private hotel-style rooms.

The dorms were cosy, spacious, clean, and most importantly warm! There was also a really nice bar on the ground floor which was perfect for meeting other travelers.

❄️ I recommend staying at Generator Hostel , the location is perfect, and they have everything you need!

Where To Eat In Stockholm In Winter 

Wandering around in the cold all day can really build up your appetite. I feel like I ate so much food in Stockholm simply because I used ducking into a restaurant or cafe as an excuse to get out of the cold and warm up for a while. I’m not complaining though as it was all delicious!

Here are a few of my favourite places to eat in Stockholm:

For Dinner: Veganska Olbaren

This little restaurant was so cute and cosy! The pizza was incredible and I loved their selection of craft beers.

For Lunch: Bastard Burgers

If you’re looking for a good burger and good vibes, this is the place to come!

For Fika: Dirty Coco

I loved this place! It’s one of the most instagrammable cafes I’ve ever visited. Try the hot chocolate, it’s divine.

FAQs: Stockholm Winter Travel

What is stockholm like in the winter.

Stockholm in winter is a magical wonderland covered in snow and twinkling lights. The cold temperatures may be a bit daunting, but the city is still bustling with life and there are plenty of indoor activities and Stockholm winter attractions to keep you entertained.

Can you still do Stockholm sightseeing in winter?

Absolutely! There are tons of opportunities for Stockholm sightseeing in winter. Many of Stockholm’s top attractions, such as the Vasa Museum and the Royal Palace, are open year-round. Plus, the winter scenery adds an extra layer of charm to the city.

How many hours of daylight does Stockholm get in winter?

In December, Stockholm gets around 6 hours of daylight with the sun rising at 9am and setting at 3pm. In January and February, the days are even shorter with only about 5 hours of daylight. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do and see during these hours!

How dark is Stockholm in winter?

Stockholm in winter can be quite dark due to the short daylight hours. However, the city is lit up with beautiful Christmas lights and decorations, creating a cozy atmosphere even in the darkness. Plus, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained during this time. So don’t let the darkness discourage you from visiting!

How do people dress in Stockholm in winter?

In Stockholm, people dress in layers to stay warm during the cold winter months. This typically includes a warm jacket or coat, sweaters and long-sleeved shirts, waterproof boots, and accessories like hats, scarves, and gloves. It’s important to also have thick socks and hand/foot warmers to keep your extremities from getting too cold.

Does Sweden have harsh winters?

Yes, Sweden can have harsh winters with extremely low temperatures and heavy snowfall. However, cities like Stockholm are well prepared for these conditions with efficient public transportation and plenty of indoor activities to keep visitors entertained. Just make sure to bundle up and stay warm!

Does Stockholm get a lot of snow?

Stockholm does get a fair amount of snow during the winter months, especially in December and January. However, due to its location near the coast, the city may also experience some milder winters with less snowfall. Regardless, it’s important to come prepared for potential snowy conditions. So don’t forget your waterproof boots and warm layers!

Is Stockholm good at Christmas?

Stockholm is a wonderful place to visit during Christmas time. The city comes alive with festive decorations, traditional markets, and holiday events. Plus, the cold weather adds to the cozy atmosphere of the season. Don’t miss out on experiencing Stockholm at Christmas!

Is Sweden colder than England?

Yes, Sweden is generally a lot colder than England due to its location in northern Europe. So if you’re used to the milder English winters, you’ll likely need to prepare yourself for a trip to Stockholm in winter!

Is Stockholm colder than New York?

Yes, Stockholm is usually colder than New York during the winter months. The average temperature in Stockholm during January and February is around -3°C (27°F), while the average temperature in New York during the same months is around 2°C (36°F). However, both cities can experience extreme drops in temperature so make sure to check the weather forecast before your trip!

How to say Merry Christmas in Sweden?

In Swedish, “Merry Christmas” is “God Jul” which literally translates to “Good Yule”. Other common phrases to use during the holiday season are “God Helg” (Happy Holidays) and “Gott Nytt År” (Happy New Year). Don’t be afraid to practice your Swedish during your visit!

❄️ The Stockholm Pass is definitely worth investing in if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing. The pass will save you a ton of money as it gives you entry to 50+ attractions and tours in Stockholm, including the boat tour that I mentioned above and the hop-on-hop-off bus.

Final Thoughts: Stockholm Winter Travel

Visiting Stockholm in winter might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but let me assure you, it’s an absolutely amazing and worthwhile experience!

The city undergoes a magical transformation, turning into a winter wonderland with tons of fun festive activities, and cozy vibes waiting for you at every turn.

Don’t forget to bundle up in warm clothing, fully embrace the concept of “Fika”, and get ready to enjoy all the incredible things this beautiful city has in store for you.

If you’re looking for more great winter travel destinations then check out my winter travel guide to Vilnius and my Krakow itinerary .

My Favourite Travel Resources

Travel Itineraries: I offer a range of pre-planned travel itineraries for many popular destinations. Use them to make planning your next trip a breeze!

Accommodation: I always use booking.com for hotels and Hostelworld for hostels. I’ve found some great bargains by using these sites!

Flights: My favourite tools to find the cheapest flights are WayAway , Expedia and Skyscanner

Ferries: For cheap ferry tickets I use Ferry Scanner

Activities: I use Viator and GetYourGuide to find the best tours and activities in every destination I visit. I’ve had some fantastic experiences using these sites!

Cashback: With the WayAway Plus membership plan, users get access to premium travel support, travel content prepared by locals, and cashback on flights, hotels, car rentals and other travel services. I love using Wayaway to get cashback on my travel expenses. In fact, it is one of my fave budget travel hacks 😉 Click here to get 10% off of a WayAway Plus membership

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Travel Insurance: Never travel without proper travel insurance! I always use EKTA

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12+ BEST Things to do in Stockholm in Winter

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

From warming up over fika to exploring the Vasa Museum, these are the best things to do in Stockholm in winter for that perfect city break!

While chasing the winter sun can be great, I think there’s something so magical about embracing the cold for a properly wintry getaway. And Stockholm in winter definitely delivers that and so much more!

There are exciting ways to spend time outdoors and warm up afterwards in cosy Scandi surroundings. One day you might be skiing at the Hammarbybacken resort or seeing the sights on a boat tour. The next, wandering around the museums and spending some downtime in the saunas. Oh, and then there’s fika, the art of chillaxing with cake and a coffee. I mean, that all sounds like bliss, doesn’t it?

Another reason winter is an amazing time to visit is that Christmas in Stockholm is a festive dream. Markets, mulled wine, sprinklings of snow. I mean, what’s not to love?

As well as stacks of seasonal things to see and do, a bonus of visiting Stockholm in winter is that there are fewer tourists around. too It might still be busy in places, but not frantic, and you can get the most reasonable prices on accommodation.

Carry on reading for my recommendations of the best things to do in Stockholm in winter. I think you’ll find this city really does make for the perfect winter break away!

Visiting Stockholm at other times of the year? Then check out my guide on visiting Stockholm in summer !

Are you planning an amazing weekend in Stockholm? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!

Best hotels and apartments in Stockholm:

• Bank Hotel (best rated 5* hotel)
• Hotel Hasselbacken (best rated 4* hotel)
• Mälardrottningen Yacht Hotel (stay on a boat!)

Best activities and tours in Stockholm:

• Stockholm Winter Tour by Boat (top rated tour!)
• ABBA The Museum Entrance Ticket (great indoor activity)
• Winter Kayaking, Swedish Fika, and Hot Sauna

What’s the weather like in winter?

In a nutshell: Stockholm winters are cold.

Between December and February, the coldest months of the year in Sweden , you’re looking at an average of 0°C. There can be days when it’s much much colder, dropping down to -15˚C or even lower.

Don’t be put off by this. As long as you’re well prepared with the right clothes (more on that below), you’ll do just fine. I find the cold in Stockholm quite a dry cold (if that makes sense). As long as you’re wrapped up, it really isn’t too bad and I think the UK in winter feels colder.

Snow is very likely in December, so if you’re chasing a white Christmas, you’re pretty much guaranteed to find it here.

What clothes to pack for winter?

Layers, layers and more layers, starting with thermals. Over these, a choice of t-shirts and long sleeved shirts, jumpers and hoodies, trousers and jeans, all to build up protection against the cold.

Most importantly, you need a decent coat. I’m talking your biggest, baddest winter coat – if you haven’t got one, it’s an investment worth making before visiting Stockholm in winter.

Don’t forget a hat, scarf and gloves, and some sturdy shoes for walking around in. A pair of walking boots is always a reliable option, as they keep your feet warm too.

I took all of the above in my usual backpack, which worked out much better than a suitcase, as it meant no dragging it along through ice and snow.

Christmas in Stockholm

Let me say this now, Christmas in Stockholm does not disappoint.

Although this time of year has as little as six daylight hours in the city, it’s anything but dull and dreary. Fairy lights and candles light up the evenings, and a glass (or many) of glögg is the ideal way to warm up your hands.

Three main Christmas markets, called julmarknad in Swedish, spring up in the city centre with handcrafted gifts and a cracking atmosphere. I loved sampling the local delicacies on offer, like saffron buns, ginger snaps and coal buns. They’re what most remind me of Christmas in Stockholm! 

The whole of Stockholm generally has a festive atmosphere. You’d have to be a serious grinch for it not to rub off on you.

You can even go on a Christmas tour of Stockholm where you take in some of the best sights in Old Town all by lantern light. It’s so romantic!

Right, let’s move onto what to do in Stockholm in winter. It’s time to start planning your trip here!

Things to do in Stockholm in winter

Ice skating in stockholm.

Think winter activities and ice skating is always one of the first to come to mind. You can do plenty of it in Stockholm, as a mix of natural ice and manmade skating rinks pop up in all corners of the city.

One of the most popular is in one of the main parks, Kungsträdgården . As well as braving the ice, it’s also just a great place to hang out with bars, music and food on offer off the rink.

Ski at the Hammarbybacken ski resort

Even if you’re on a whistle-stop trip to Stockholm, you might be able to fit in some skiing thanks to Hammarbybacken ski resort . This is the city’s own ski slope, which you can easily reach using public transport.

The resort has everything you need for a fun day out – equipment rental, restaurants and bars – and there’s runs to suit different levels of experience.

Go on a food tour in Stockholm

I try to squeeze a food tour into every visit to a new city and Stockholm was no different.

The food and walking tour I chose was four hours long and covered a little bit of everything. We had a taste of local cheeses and meats, speciality seafood, Swedish candies, cinnamon rolls and more. Everything was totally delicious!

As well as pigging out on the locally made food, this was a great way to explore the markets and learn a bit more about the history of the city.

Enjoy fika with a friend

Fika is a part of Swedish culture centred on taking time out to enjoy coffee and something to eat with friends each day. It’s a concept I could definitely get on board with and did so in Stockholm.

This would likely feature in your visit no matter what time of the year you were in town. But there’s something extra special about indulging in fika in wintertime, when a hot coffee is more welcome than ever.

Cosy cafes selling hot drinks and cinnamon rolls (aka kanelbullar) and other sweet treats are never far away. One of my favourites was Ritorno, which has been open since 1934 and has a cool 1950s feel.

Watch an ice hockey game

Winter is ice hockey season and since Sweden is renowned as one of the best nations in the world at the sport, it’s well worth catching a game. Hovet is the home stadium of Stockholm’s team, so if you can, time your visit for when they have a match on.

It doesn’t matter if you don’t know the first thing about ice hockey. I know next to nothing about the sport but still had a riot watching a game at Hovet. The atmosphere alone is enough to ensure you have a good time.

If you’re looking at what to do in Stockholm in December, then this is a great time to go to a match. You can find out more on how to book a ticket here.

Visit the Fotografiska museum

The city’s museum of photography is more than just a place to view exhibitions. People flock to this cultural hub for the brilliant on-site cafe and bar, as well as drop-dead gorgeous views to the north.

That being said, the exhibitions are excellent, shining a spotlight on world-renowned and up-and-coming photographers. Any photography nerd like me will want to make this top of your list of things to do in Stockholm in winter or at any other time of year.

Fotografiska is open in the evenings too, making it a top spot for dinner and drinks before or after taking a look at the photography on show.

Tickets for Fotografiska cost £15 ($20) per person and this is the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon in winter!

Spend an afternoon in a spa/sauna

Go from the chill of the Stockholm weather to the intense warmth of a traditional Swedish sauna. Being a popular pastime, there’s a real mix of more exclusive spas and ones that are closer to your regular swimming pool with a sauna added on. So whatever your budget, you should find somewhere to get your sauna on.

Apparently a lot of Swedes take a dip in a freezing cold lake before thawing out in a sauna. I was more than happy to stick to the sauna-only experience!

Take in the infamous Vasa Museum

This is one of the city’s most-visited attractions, named after the incredibly well-preserved 17th century battleship that’s housed here. The story of the ship is fascinating – it sunk just minutes after taking off and was somehow lost in the harbour. They only found and salvaged the ship 300 years later!

For me, visiting the Vasa Museum is one of those Stockholm winter activities that’s perfect for first-timers to the city. I’ve came here on my first trip to Stockholm and found it really interesting. This definitely isn’t your typical museum that’s for sure.

You can book your tickets here – this includes a detailed guided tour with a knowledgeable guide.

Go on a Stockholm boat tour

Stockholm is actually a collection of islands that are part of a wider archipelago, so water is a big part of the city’s identity. For tourists, a boat tour is an awesome way to check out some well-known sights at the same time as admiring the scenery in the area.

Some routes do freeze over in winter, but a selection remain open year-round, meaning it’s still a great activity for this time of year. There’s also indoor areas on the boats, so you don’t need to worry about the chill of the air out on deck.

On a winter boat tour of Stockholm you can enjoy the magnificent views of the city as you cruise along. This tour is a great way of seeing a lot of the city and you can buy Swedish Glögg on board too.

Explore the Stockholm metro stations (underground art gallery)

Stockholm has one of the most beautiful metro systems I’ve ever seen. That’s because artists have created street art in 100 different stations, turning the whole thing into one city-wide gallery.

You can spot rainbow-coloured murals, installations, statues and more adorning the underground stations. Much of the art has a futuristic feel, which makes a cool contrast to the more traditional vibes in the city above ground.

Which of these winter things to do in Stockholm do you like the sound of? Are you planning a winter city break? Let me know in the comments!

Travelling to Copenhagen ? Then read all about how to travel from Stockholm to Copenhagen . Also, check out my Copenhagen city guide for what to do while you’re there.

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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15 Brilliant Things To Do In Stockholm in Winter!

The capital city of Sweden isn’t a place that shouts loudly about itself – that just wouldn’t fit with its relaxed, mellow vibe. But if you’re visiting Stockholm for a winter trip, I can guarantee that you’re going to have an awesome time. You’re not going to be buried in snow up to your neck, and the city’s attractions don’t close up during a Stockholm winter. Book that trip, sister, because you’ll be giving yourself a ticket to one of Europe’s most underrated cities.

Instead of the frozen, dark, blank canvas you’re imagining, travel to Stockholm in winter is full of light, laughter, cosy pubs and delicious meatballs . What more could a person want? Nothing, I tell you!

Not convinced yet? Keep reading, ye of little faith – I’m about to prove to you why winter in Stockholm rocks, and why you’re going to adore both the city and the country. Just watch the video below (if you’ve never seen Eurovision, you’re about to experience the magic), and prepare to fall in love with everything Swedish! Including dancing meatballs.

How cold is winter in Stockholm?

Considering visiting some more of Europe in the snowy months? Check out my guide to Prague in winter!

Okay, here’s the crunch questions: just how cold is going to be? Am I going to be slipping through the snow? Will I be floating on a little ice glacier with a polar bear, gazing up at the Northern Lights?

Answer to that last one: no, silly. Though it is actually possible – if unlikely – to see the Northern Lights from Stockholm. There’s a distinct lack of polar bears, however.

As for the rest of it, yup, there’s no denying that it’ll probably be pretty cold. Temperatures between December and February average at about 27 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit – that’s a chilly minus 2 to minus 1 for those of us in Celsius land. It’s not a sure thing, though – I visited Stockholm in January, and it wasn’t nearly as cold as I was expecting (though the locals were keen to point out that it was a very mild week). Check in advance at Wunderground to see how the weather’s looking for your trip!

As for snow, your chances sit at a statistically-neat 50% of snow in December, rising to a bit over 50% in January and February . However, don’t worry too much about slipping and sliding on the ice. On my visit, I immediately noticed how pretty much every walking surface I placed my dainty ‘lil tootsies on was salted and gritted. There’s also very few uphills or downhills in Stockholm, so you should be pretty firm on your feet.

As the Swedes’ neighbours, the Norwegians, like to say, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes”. Keep reading to see what to wear in Stockholm in winter!

What are the best things to do in Stockholm in the winter?

Okay! I promised you awesome things to see in Stockholm – and here’s the definitive list! I’ve kept it mainly to things to do inside, in case you’re hit by the worst of the winter weather – but you shouldn’t be put off by the cold. Stockholm is a wonderful place for strolling, and taking in the views of the surrounding waters, and to skip doing that would really be to miss out. 

Also, some of Stockholm’s most fun activities are located in the great outdoors, including Skansen and boat tours. Wrap up warm , and I promise you’ll be fine – both are considerably quieter in winter than  in the summer months, and in the case of Skansen, you can turn the winter weather into an extra bit of fun! All will be revealed shortly…

Intrigued? Good! Read on, and discover why Stockholm is going to be your new favourite winter wonderland!

Walk around Gamla Stan

We old love an old town, right? Walking down cobbled streets, looking at lovely historic buildings. Exploring ancient shops and beerhalls. Rolling our eyes at tourists exclaiming “oh, isn’t it quaint ?”

Good news, history lovers! Stockholm’s island-based old town, better known by its Swedish name of Gamla Stan, is the best-preserved medieval city centre in Europe. The area completely escaped any damage in World War 2, and careful preservation by the Stockholm City Council means that it’s an utterly lovely area to wander, explore, and discover.  Big up Stockholm City Council!

If you’re not checking out the souvenir shops on Västerlånggatan (of which there are many), pop into cosy cellar bars such as Misteln , or get a hearty Swedish meal at Magnus Ladulas . There’s also a good number of interesting museums, such as the Nobelmuseet , recording every winner of the Nobel Prize

But the main attraction of Gamla Stan are the buildings and streets themselves. Wander random backstreets, including the adorably narrow Mårten Trotzig Grand , or head to the main square at Stortorget to see the row of picture-perfect painted buildings. 

Add some winter snow and Christmas decorations, and it’s the most perfect place to be in the colder months!

Go ice skating at Kungsträdgården

Disclaimer: I didn’t go ice skating here, because I have a terrible history with ice skating. BRB, the flashbacks are starting.

But I’m going to tell you exactly how you can do it, because it’s just a lovely thing to do in Stockholm in winter. You can feel like an ice princess, gliding around like your favourite Disney character. Just don’t ask me to come and join you, unless you like seeing innocent travel bloggers breaking all their limbs in a display of premium uncoordinated glory!

  Kungsträdgården is the place to go for ice skating in Stockholm , and it’s wonderfully central and easy to get to. It’s a park, not far from the bridge leading to Gamla Stan, and the ice rink is available for use from November to March. Pop along here from 9am to 9pm, and take your place to skate alongside eager locals! 

You can rent ice skates if you foolishly neglected to pop a pair into your hand luggage (jk, don’t do that), and like everything else in Stockholm, you can pay for them using a credit or debit card. You can bring along your own skates if you so wish, and even have help sanding them down.

Oh, and did I mention the price? If you do indeed bring along your own pair of skates, the ice rink is completely and utterly free . Isn’t that wonderful? Oh goodness, my heart is bursting with Sweden love right now!

Anyone else suddenly fancy some Neapolitan ice cream?

Feel like a king or queen at the Royal Palace

If you’ve been skipping around the scenic, frosty streets of Gamla Stan, you’ll undoubtedly have noticed the big ol’ building right at the tip of the island. It’s vast . New building; who dis?

Well, this is none other than the Royal Palace – yup, that’s why it’s so big; one of Europe’s biggest, in fact. With over 1.430 rooms, the Swedish royal family were not messing around when they commissioned this place, and so it’s well worth a visit! Entry will cost 160 SEK for adults , and resisting the temptation to take a photo with the guard outside.

It’s the official residence of the reigning monarch of Sweden – although they don’t actually live here (more on that later!). It’s a bit like Buckingham Palace in London – which the Queen infamously refers to as ‘the office’. The Swedish royal family need a city pad from which they can carry out official duties and functions, but you’re not going to see them strolling around, or lazing in a onesie.

Instead, you can see the awesome interiors of the palace, which dates back to the 1600s. Check out the suitably swish Royal Apartments, which are utterly gorgeous with rich and vibrant decor – there’s more gold on show than there is at Fort Knox. These rooms are worth the entry fee alone, especially as they’re just a teensy bit Instagrammable .

History more your thing? No problem: head to the Treasury, with its impressive collection of royal bling, or the Tre Kronor museum which illustrates the original castle on this site. The Royal Palace has something for everyone!

Take a tour of the literally-awesome City Hall

You might’ve noticed a rather beautiful building in Stockholm, especially if you’ve been near the waterfront in Gamla Stan. From there, it’s visible from its location just across the water –  made from warm brick with a stately tower, the whole thing is quite literally crowned with the royal Swedish emblem of three golden crowns. Nice, isn’t it?

Well, so it should be, because this is Stockholm’s City Hall ! It’s one of the most beloved buildings in the city, partly for its solid yet pleasing design, and partly for everything it represents.

Firstly, this is where you can come and get married! Altogether now: awwwww . Stockholm’s regulations are are open and welcoming as the city itself: you can have a pleasingly-fast ceremony here, to whichever gender you like, and you don’t even have to be a resident of Sweden. But there’s a six-month waiting list, so get in early.

Secondly, this is where the Nobel Prize is handed out! The world’s attention descends on to the beautiful Blue Hall for the presentation, then immediately shifts to the jaw-dropping, stunning interior of the Golden Hall for the afterparty. The hall is decorated with scenes from Swedish art, literature, and history, and is worth the visit alone. Oh, and it’s a mosaic, comprised of more than 18 million tiles… and each one of them is genuine gold. Attempts to enter with a crowbar will be frowned upon, y’all.

The only way to see the halls, plus the agreeably equal and down-to-earth council chamber, is to go on a tour. Happily, the price is included in your entry fee of  90 SEK from November to March (it’s cheaper in the winter; hurrah!). Bear in mind though that the tower is closed during the winter months .

Get festive at the Christmas Markets

Visiting Stockholm just before Christmas is a great idea – mostly because you get to go shopping in a Christmas market! Woop!

Everyone loves Christmas markets, and the Swedes are no exception – you can expect to find the traditional stalls, hot food stands, and gaily-lit streets that you’d find elsewhere. Except this is Sweden, so they do it with a touch of class and awesome design thrown in.

The most traditional Christmas market in Stockholm is to be found in good old Gamla Stan . Everyone’s favourite corner of the city throws Sweden’s oldest Christmas market (it dates back to 1837, with claims that it’s the most authentic-looking market – with the medieval buildings surrounding it, they’re probably right), and focuses on crafts. Find the centre of the market at the unbearably scenic Stortorget square. 

After something a bit different? Then you want to take the commuter ferry from Slussen to Djurgården, then walk a short distance to Skansen . I’ll be covering this rather wonderful place later in this article, but at Christmas time, it really comes into its own. Running from November 30 to December 22, the open air museum transforms into a winter wonderland, with rows of stalls selling local crafts, and more Swedish produce than you can shake a smorgasbord at. 

Check out Skansen’s Christmas market opening times , and keep reading to discover all the other things that make Skansen magical in the winter!

Feel in awe at the Vasa Museum

If you’re considering visiting the museums on this list, you really should get yourself a Stockholm Pass – you’ll save a whole bundle of money, and you can even get around on public transport with no hassle! Once you’re armed with it, your first stop really should be the hugely-impressive Vasa Museum .

I’m using the word “hugely” with absolute precision, too, because the Vasa is enoooooooormous ! It’s a warship, which had the dubious distinction of being one of the most powefully-armed and ornately decorated ships in history… only to sink 1400 yards into her maiden voyage. With the king, ambassadors, and thousands of ordinary Stockholmers watching. Whoops.

The Vasa might’ve been an epic fail at the start, but it’s also proof that you can never keep a good ship down. The wreck was rediscovered in the 1950s, raised, preserved, and promptly slapped into its own bespoke museum, where its been wowing the crowds ever since. The gloriously ornate design, which was partly responsible for the ship being too top-heavy, now works to its advantage. Walking into the Vasa Museum and seeing a real-life warship from the 1600s is definitely a moment that’ll take your breath away.

Appropriately, for a museum which rightly sits at the top of Stockholm’s list of must-see sights , there’s a multitude of information and interactive exhibits to accompany the ship itself. The bottom floor recreates the faces and lives of the poor sailors who went down with the ship, whilst the “Sail A Ship” game combines physical and digital aspects for kids, and overgrown kids (me).

You don’t need to know anything about Swedish history to thoroughly enjoy a trip to the Vasa Museum. It’s a must-do!

Indulge in some fika at Stockholm’s cafes

If you’re a souvenir hunter like me, you’ll have noticed that a lot of Stockholm gift emporiums stock little trays, with the mysterious word “fika” emblazoned upon them. What the heck is that? Aren’t they the world governing body for soccer?

Nope, that’s FIFA – fika is something far more wholesome and wonderful! 

Basically, fika is a Swedish concept of taking a cosy coffee break with your friends. Having a time out from the stresses of the world, and enjoying simple companionship, coffee, and a cake. It’s a little pause button, where you appreciate the simple things in life. Isn’t that wonderful?

Fortunately for us all, winter is the perfect time for fika! Imagine yourself walking through the snowy streets of Stockholm with a good friend. You’re laughing all the way, and find a cute little cafe to shelter in from the cold. It’s a little dark outside, but inside is lit with candles, and warm lights. You strip off your hats and mittens, and heat your hands around a cup of coffee. It’s too darn perfect.

Now, you can choose any cafe for a spot of fika. But if you want to go where the locals do, follow the advice of my awesome Swedish friend Ina (love ya, girl!), and check out Vete-Katten , not far from the central train station, It’s an institution. The cakes are mouthwatering; so light and perfect, and it downright specialises in fika. 

Oh, and you were wondering about the name fika,  it comes from the old slang term for coffee in Swedish, kaffi . Fika is a reversal of the word!

Get super artistic at the Moderna Museet

Modern art: you either love it, or you firmly believe that the whole lot should be dumped into the sea. But given that the Moderna Museet art gallery has free entry, this might just be the place to start your love affair!

It’s not just the fact that this place is a gigantic freebie that makes it appealing: the Moderna Museet is chock-full of quality pieces . Like your Matisse, Modigliani, or Klee? They’re just some of the luminaries on show here.

The gallery also gives special prominence to local Swedish artists, funnily enough, so you can explore the world of Scandi art. These include some stellar photography, some suitably outlandish modern sculptures (check the small park outside for more of the same, and a stuffed paint-spattered goat wedged into an old tire. Heck, no-one ever said that modern art made sense.

If that still really doesn’t sound your thing, the Moderna Museet is still worth checking out for the location. It’s on Skeppsholmen island, which is easily accessed by bridge, and which is a lovely location for a winter walk. Skip through frost-glittered trees and take in watery views of Gamla Stan, or head down to admire the STF af Chapman – it’s a tall ship which has been converted into a hostel. It’s also a former Pit Stop for The Amazing Race , where thousands of viewers hoped that Jonathan would “accidentally” slip into the sea.

Be relentlessly entertained at the ABBA Museum

Let’s be honest: who doesn’t love a bit of ABBA?

Whether you’ve sobbed your heart out looking at a tattered photo of your ex whilst listening to The Winner Takes It All , made future plans listening to Money Money Money , or put on your best blue eyeshadow and sung into a hairbrush to Dancing Queen , Sweden’s most enduring musical export continue to capture hearts worldwide.

Now, there’s an epicenter of all things ABBA , for you to visit and profess your love!The ABBA Museum might be one of Stockholm’s pricier attractions, but there’s no denying that excellent fun. You’ll have the option to “record your visit”, meaning that you can enjoy such delights as ABBA karaoke, or video yourself singing and dancing alongside Agnetha, Benny, Björn and Frida. Lurex disco outfits are optional.

If that sounds way too interactive for your tastes, you can avoid the social embarrassment by having a look around the exhibits instead. Almost every aspect of ABBA’s rather glittering career has been lovingly preserved, and you can have a poke around recreations of the studio they recorded in, or the summer house where a number of their hits were written (including an authentic seventies mug on the window ledge!) 

If you like ABBA, but not quite enough to devote a couple of hours of your life to them, have a look around the gift shop instead. It does a great line in quirky ABBA gifts that you’ll love despite yourself.

If nothing else, you’ve got to visit to experience the awesome photo opportunities presented by the cut-out board outside the museum. Here’s my boyfriend demonstrating it. Thank me later.

Have awesome Swedish food at Meatballs For The People

Want to sample some traditional Swedish food without launching yourself down the herring route? That’s completely understandable – and the Swedes have got just the dish for you!

Swedish meatballs (or köttbullar , as they’re known by the locals), are small balls of magnificently meaty magic. Trust me, there is nothing better than visiting Stockholm in winter, getting out of the cold and into a warm, hearty restaurant, and stuffing yourself with a plate of these. They’re amazing.

They’re traditionally served with mashed potato, lingonberry jam (which is a bit like cranberry, but sweeter), and pickled cucumber, and a creamy gravy which is pure heaven . If there was a swimming pool full of that gravy, I would be in like a shot. It’s delicious, it’s smooth, and it elevates everything it touches. Considering that the meatballs are amazing on their own, imagine how they taste with this holy elixir on top!

The best place to get Swedish meatballs in Stockholm is Meatballs For The People , a small restaurant located in trendy Södermalm. You’ll need to get there early if you’re visiting on a weekend, as the restaurant doesn’t accept reservations on Saturdays and Sundays (it’s definitely a good idea if you’re in Stockholm during the week, though), and because the establishment isn’t on the large size.

But what a treat you’ll be in for! Pick from a menu of meatballs (including some slightly different varieties, such as reindeer or wild boar), and let it all melt in the mouth. You’ll never want to leave.

See Ye Olde Sweden (and cute animals) at Skansen

Skansen is a large park located on Stockholm’s “museum island” of Djurgården, and was the first open air museum in the world! But it’s more than a history museum – prepare to completely fall in love.  

In October 1891, a gentleman named Artur Hazelius (what a cool name, right?) thought “hmm, it’s a shame that all the lovely 18th century wooden buildings throughout Sweden are being replaced by our burgeoning industrial nation. Let’s knock ’em all down, and reassemble them in a park in Stockholm. And let’s throw in some wolves, too”.

And thus Skansen was born! Buy a ticket from the very nice people in booths by the gate, and you can take a walk through Swedish history. It’s lovely to take a stroll through the old buildings, including a farmstead, various windmills, a beautiful church and a Sami camp. It was designed to be “Sweden in miniature” , so you’ll find something from every corner of the country – which is also reflected in the park’s rather awesome gift shop, featuring as many crafts as you can handle!

Know what else is in Sweden? Lots of awesome animals, that’s what! As part of the “Sweden in miniature” deal, there’s some critters representing their wild cousins. You can see wolves, some very adorable lynx, otters, wolverines, elk, reindeer, and more. There’s also some brown bears – but being winter, they’ll be tucked away snug in their den, happily hibernating. All the animals I saw seemed super happy, and they’ve got great enclosures which give them plenty of privacy whilst still letting visitors get a good view.

Remember when I mentioned how this place is one of the coolest places to go in Stockholm in winter? That’s because they light up fire pits in the winter – take or buy some hot dogs and buns, pop ’em on a skewer, and watch the nearby ice skaters whilst you eat!

Take in glorious architecture at the Stockholm Public Library

Architects just love to make a statement when they work on a public library design. Look at New York, for example.

Stockholm Public Library is no exception! Located at the top end of Norrmalm, the outside of the building doesn’t give you much of a clue as to what’s inside – it’s a fairly featureless, terracotta-colored, rectangular building with a tall rotunda sticking oddly out of the top. 

If you step inside and head up to the rotunda, however, you’ll see what all the fuss is about!

The inside of the rotunda is a beautiful, wonderful space which looks like it’s straight out of Harry Potter . Curved shelves encase the round walls, stacking shelf upon shelf, until it looks like the entire structure is made of books. If you’ve seen the tunnel of books at the library in Prague , then it looks strangely similar to that! It’s a good place to go and warm up for a bit, perfect for Stockholm in winter – and if you sign up for a free library card, you can use the library’s facilities too!

The library is a lovely, underrated place to go and see, and it’s nice to get off the tourist trail for a bit!

Tour Stockholm – on land or sea

What’s the best way to see a city?

You’ve got two choices, really. You can wander about by yourself and enjoy your freedom, take some rather lovely photos – but you won’t understand what you’re looking at. That building over there could have an absolutely fascinating history, but you’ll be blissfully unaware, and walk right by it. That could be the building where they invented the adjustable wrench! You can’t miss that!

Or, you can be a savvy traveler, and take a tour! You get to see the best spots and views, learn about what you’re seeing, and enjoy interacting with a local for a while. You can explore the neighborhood you’re staying in, or discover local foods. There’s zero drawbacks, to be honest.

Stockholm has you absolutely covered when it comes to tours, bro. Not content with your standard landlubber walking tour, you can take a boat tour of the city too!

Walking tours in Stockholm tend to focus around Gamla Stan, but you can also find walking tours which cover ghost walks, Nordic food tours, and even Instagrammable spots. Yup, Stockholm is basically walking tour heaven – and even better, you’re getting around on your own two feet and being carbon neutral! (Greta Thunberg will approve)

Boat tours are one of the very best things to do in Stockholm in winter . Not only are they specifically geared to the season – you commonly wrap up under reindeer hides, and drink mulled wine – but you get to see Stockholm’s archipelago at its very finest, with the winter sun glinting off glassy water, as a light mist filters the sunlight. It’s all kinds of magical!

I always recommend Get Your Guide for city tours – I’ve used them many a time, and they only host quality tours. It’s a total satisfaction guarantee! Check them out!

Brush up on Swedish history and culture at the Nordic Museum

Has Skansen got you in the mood for some more Swedish history? No worries; you can explore all your deepest Scandi desires at the Nordic Museum!

It’s actually located not far from Skansen – an easy ten minute down the road will bring you to the rather grand-looking building of the museum. And who do we have to thank for its existence? None other than Mr. Skansen himself, Artur Hazelius! He clearly enjoyed setting up museums on some prime Stockholm real estate, but whereas Skansen is devoted to preserving old buildings (and cute floofs), the Nordic Museum busies itself with the protection of objects from everyday life.

You can see collections of furniture, toys, and clothes from every corner of Sweden. Whilst the ideal visitor is probably a Swedish granny who can exclaim “we used to have one of those, didn’t we Anders?”, there’s plenty of interest for non-Swedes. Design fans in particular will get a kick out of the clothing, but there’s plenty of folk art in evidence, with a special emphasis on the culture of the Sami people.

Magpies can flock to the jewelry collection, which has some especially lovely pieces, and there’s a whole section devoted to Swedish traditions. You can even learn how the Swedes celebrated Christmas in days gone by!

I’m always in favor of learning as much as possible about the culture of a place you visit, and the Nordic Museum is a lovely, cozy place to do just that.

Take a day trip to Drottningholm Palace

Want a nice, easy day trip to a world heritage site? How about if that world heritage site is a fancy palace, and one of the very best things to do in Stockholm in winter? Sounds good, right?

Drottningholm Palace is a mere 30-minute journey from central Stockholm – take the Line 17 t-bana (metro) to Brommaplan, then hop on a number 176 bus. After a short walk, you’ll be rewarded with a visit to this gorgeous, stately palace, the private residence of the Swedish royal family. One glance at this baby, and you’ll wonder why on earth people flock to Buckingham Palace in London. This is waaaay better!

Whilst the royal family could’ve kept the entire place to themselves, someone with a bit of business acumen said “lol nope”, and so the family are confined to the southern wing. The rest of it is open to us tourists! The palace is suitably regal, and you’ll soon have your jaw hitting the floor at how beautiful it is.

Check out the Reception Halls for the ultimate in grandeur – the Green Salon has more gold and fancy fabric than I’ve ever seen in my life – whilst the Chinese Pavilion is a little slice of Asia in an unexpected setting. This was built in secret, as a birthday present for one of the Swedish queens. When you see how big it is, you’ll wonder how on earth it came as a surprise.

Like Stockholm City Hall, you can go on a guided tour for a very reasonable price ( unlike the City Hall, you can wander Drottningholm Palace at will , if you don’t fancy a tour). It’s definitely recommended, as you’ll certainly learn a lot more about this beautiful place!

The best places to stay in Stockholm

If you’re visiting Stockholm in winter, there’s a few considerations to, er, consider. You want to stay in a place that’s warm and cozy. You might want to be as close to public transport as possible, to minimize the amount of time you’re walking through the snow. And you’ll want to be near some great food options, so you can happily roll back to your bed after a meal.

Luckily, Stockholm’s hotels have got your back! Let’s check out some of the very best places to stay in Stockholm in winter, for all budgets!

Budget hotels

City Hostel :  Nothing less than the best-rated hostel in town, this is a great choice for the Stockholm explorer on a budget. Located nicely near the central train/bus station, it’s also got a convenient metro station just outside, meaning that you can totally skip having to experience walking through Stockholm in winter weather conditions! Aside from this sogginess-saver, it’s located in a good quiet neighborhood, with a fully-stocked supermarket nearby. It’s perfect for a budget-conscious trip!

Archipelago Hostel Old Town :  Who doesn’t want to stay in Gamla Stan? It’s the most beautiful part of Stockholm – but surely it’s way out of the range of a budget traveler? Nope! Check into the Archipelago Hostel Old Town, and the scenic, snowy streets will be on your doorstep. With clean, homey dormitories and private rooms, a location near some budget eating options (there’s a 7 Eleven and a Coop nearby), and a metro station a mere 200 feet away, this has to be the best-positioned hostel in town.

Mid-range hotels

Hotell Skeppsbron :  This snug little hotel/hostel is a perfect choice for visiting Stockholm in winter: it’s in a great location in the heart of Gamla Stan, and it’s a stone’s throw from all of the city’s major sights and Christmas markets. Plus, the rooms are in converted cellars in a 17th century building, so it’s cozy af, with no noise from outside, and perfectly warm! Although you can have a hostel room with a shared bathroom, splash out for an ensuite – the feeling of burrowing in for the winter, and being close to the hotel’s free coffee and fika area, is totally worth it!

Mälardrottningen Yacht Hotel : Soooo… how do you fancy staying on a yacht? One that was owned by Cary Grant’s wife? If living the luxury life whilst not breaking the bank is totally your thing, then this is the place for you! You’ll waltz down the gangplank and into your cabin, beautifully decorated in dark wood and white linens. You can peek out of your porthole, look out on the water, and see one of the most scenic parts of Stockholm in winter without having to get chilled. There’s even a sauna on board. What more could you want?

Luxury hotels

Hotel Frantz, BW Premier Collection :  Want a gorgeous boutique hotel, right in the heart of everything? This is the perfect place for you! Located in Södermalm, you’ll be near some of the city’s best bars, restaurants, and entertainments, with the historic heart of Gamla Stan right on your doorstep. The air conditioned rooms are just the right temperature for keeping snug, whilst the beds are gloriously comfy and pillowed. “Customer service” is definitely a staff watchword; have a look through the reviews, and you’ll see the lengths they’ll go to – all to ensure that you have a perfect stay!

Hotel Hellsten :  Do you like your hotels to have a hint of history, a big streak of class, and that finishing touch of modern Scandi design? Then the Hotel Hellsten will tick all your boxes – all you’ll never believe how cozy Stockholm in winter can be until you stay here. Warm, luxurious rooms are gorgeously decorated, with fabric which accentuate the building’s history and exposed wooden beams (it dates from the 1800s). There’s an on-site wellness center, and you can take breakfast in a glass conservatory. Stay a night here, and you’ll soon realize why so many guests count this as one of their favorite hotels in Europe!

What should I wear in Stockholm in the winter?

One thing is certain when you visit Stockholm in winter: if you don’t want to freeze your butt off, you’re going to have to prepare.

If you speak to the locals, they’ll sadly tell you how much milder it’s been in recent years thanks to global warming, but the chances are that you’ll still feel the chill. Getting ready for your trip with a good Stockholm packing list is a crucial step, and one that you’ll soon regret if you skip it!

Here’s my picks for must-have items when visiting Stockholm – all available from Amazon, just to make it super-simple!

Sunglasses :  I know what you’re thinking. This is a packing list for Stockholm in winter; what on earth are sunglasses doing on there? But it’s no mistake – you’re going to want to take a pair! Both my boyfriend and I discovered that the low winter sun really got in our eyes, and we were both wishing we’d brought a pair. Stave off the headaches with this gorgeous designer pair by Michael Kors – and they’re a fantastic price! The brown lenses are bang on trend, and the style suits absolutely everyone. 

Scarf :  Stockholm is not the kind of place where you want a chill breeze to wriggle down the top of your coat, like an unwelcome snowball. If you’re walking around the watery areas – and in Stockholm, that’s  everywhere – you’re definitely going to need a scarf in order to keep that evil wind out. Grab one of these scarves, and you’ll feel like you’re being constantly hugged by a teddy bear, keeping all that nasty cold out. This is genuinely one of the warmest scarves out there; I swear by them!

Hat :  As we all know, you lose the most heat from your extremities, and your head is the worst heat-leaker of all. Keep that sucker covered up, and you’ll feel a heck of a lot warmer for it. Plus you’ll look totes cute in all your Instagram pics, and you won’t have to worry about your hair getting messed up by the wind! I’m totally in love with these knitted caps from Tough Headwear – they keep the heat in perfectly, they come in a variety of colors and styles (even an oversize slouch look for hipsters), and they perfectly fit the Nordic vibe.

Mittens :  They really have a thing about mittens in Stockholm. Go into any of the craft or souvenir shops, and you’ll see lots of gorgeous, gaily-colored mittens for sale. But until you can find the perfect pair for yourself, get ahead of the game by buying a pair before you leave! These cozy critters are absolutely perfect for Stockholm in winter: they’ve got the Nordic knitted look (and therefore match perfectly with the hat above), but they’ve got a snug, thermal inside layer which will keep your hands superbly toasty.

Warm coat : Want to know a true life hack? You get what you pay for. And whilst you can probably get something cheaper than this jacket from top outdoor brand The North Face, you will NOT find anything warmer. The puffer jacket style is exactly the same as what a lot of the locals wear, and they know how to dress for Stockholm in winter, trust me. The hood has some stylish faux fur to keep you looking super Scandi, whilst being cruelty-free. They come in a variety of colors – the blue frost one practically screams “I’m a winter travel pro”. They’re too darn awesome.

Thermal leggings :  I first used thermal leggings when I visited Prague, and I’ve been a total convert ever since. You can easily wear them under a looser pair of jeans, or even a skirt, and they will keep you ridiculously warm. There’s just nowhere for that cold to pierce your skin, and if you team them up with a pair of socks and some boots, they’re a seriously cute look. Grab a couple of pairs of these yoga pants by 90 Degree; they double up perfectly as thermal leggings, and they’re designed to be as comfy and flexible as possible!

Thick socks :  Thermal socks are another item that I first used in Prague – and I love them so muuuuuch. Marry me, socks! Find the right pair, and your toes will never need to feel the chill of a cold pavement in Stockholm in winter. You can keep those tootsies curled up in the warm, and totally avoid that awful “my feet have gone numb” feeling. These socks are sheer quality, made by Carhartt (which practically guarantees awesomeness), and they’re super-warm without being so bulky that you can’t get your boots on over the top. Recommended. 

Thermal top :  Want to know what’s worse than having freezing cold legs in Stockholm in winter? Having a freezing cold torso. That shizz gets right into your organs, and at the very least makes you feel very chilled inside (not the good kind of chilled, either). At worst, it can make you ill. Prevent all that nonsense by investing in a thermal top that you can use as underwear, essentially giving yourself a second skin. Carhartt are once again my go-to: this snugly top is good enough to wear on its own, or you can put it underneath a sweater to make yourself extra-protected.

Walking boots : Although the local authorities are pretty good at keeping Stockholm salted and gritted, they can’t cover everywhere in the city. A good pair of walking boots is an absolutely crucial part of your Stockholm packing list, as you’re going to need something with good grip, and something that’s pretty darn waterproof (Stockholm gets kinda wet, yo). Walking boots are by far your best bet, as that’s exactly what they’re designed for, and you can’t do better than this pair from Columbia. I FREAKIN’ LOVE THEM. Super comfy, designed to grip the ground and not let go, and coming in a range of tasteful designs, they won’t let you down.

Earmuffs : Can’t bear the thought of hats, but want to keep those ears safe and warm from the cruel Scandinavian winter? Invest in an ear warmer instead! This rather adorable little headband will keep you toasty thanks to a thermal lining, but won’t mess up your hair, and give you that uncomfortable scratchy feeling if you’ve got a sensitive scalp. I saw many a local wearing these to beat the cold, and they’re a great idea for visiting Stockholm in winter!

Umbrella :  Time for some Stockholm truths (see what I did there? I crack me up). Sweden gets hella rainy and wet. See all that water? See all that lush Scandinavian greenery? That’s because the whole country gets a good average rainfall, and the chances are that there’s going  to be a fair amount of rain in Stockholm in winter. Make sure you waterproof everything you can – especially boots and backpacks – but for walking around town you’re going to need a tough umbrella which can cope with both rain and wind. This awesome brolly by Repel is windproof, and Teflon-coated to ensure that you stay dry underneath. It’s the best in its class!

Woolly sweater : Nothing is more Scandinavian than a lovely wool sweater. Whilst you might be harboring thoughts of grabbing one when you get there, it’s quite possible that the price tag will have your eyes watering, and result in you fleeing to H&M. Do you really want to spend your trip in a shop you can visit at home? Nah. Grab a sweater before you leave, turn up looking suitably Scandi, and save time and effort! This natty little number comes in a variety of colors and styles, but trust me – get the white cable knit.

Plug adapter : Remember that the plug sockets in Sweden may be very different to the ones you have at home. Imagine the tragedy of plugging in your hair straighteners, except you can’t because the plug doesn’t fit. You’ll be stuck in Sweden with frizzy hair, and the laughter of the Nordic gods following you. Look upwards at the sky and shake a fist, because you can defeat Loki and his minions with a plug adapter! This model is a particular favorite of mine: it’s sturdy and reliable, and it’ll work wherever you may travel in the world. That’s what you call a long-term investment!

Power bank : I don’t go anywhere without one of these. Literally. Even when I’m not traveling, I keep one in my handbag for phone emergencies. You simply put your phone charger cable in, then plug your phone in at the other end, and you can refill that battery on the go. This is the exact one that I use: it might not have as much capacity as some other power banks, but to be honest – you don’t need massive capacity. You’ll get four full phone charges out of this little powerhouse. I’ve had mine for years now, and it literally hasn’t dropped an iota when it comes to performance.

Swedish literature :  Unless you’re hopping over from a neighboring country, you might have a long, boring flight in order to get to Stockholm. Make it a bit more bearable with some fine Swedish literature! Although it’s practically illegal to set foot in the country without having read The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo , you’ll certainly get a lot out of its descriptions of Stockholm in winter. The Girl Who Saved The King of Sweden is zany but entertaining, whilst Lonely Planet’s Sweden will have you swotting up on the sights.

Is Stockholm worth visiting in winter?

If this article has achieved anything, I hope that it’s made you see how magical Stockholm in winter really is. A trip to the Swedish capital will instead reward you with unexpected surprises. Warmth. Light. Happiness. Sure, the sun might go down early, but when the streets are this safe, and when you have areas like Gamla Stan sparkling with Christmas lights, does it really matter?

Sure, it gets cold, but it’s nothing you can’t handle with the right clothing. Don’t avoid a trip in winter; Stockholm rewards guests with the same friendliness it shows at other times of year. You’ll pop into a shop and be greeted with a cheery “hej hej!” . Cozy beer cellars operate underground, safely out of the cold, and locals greet you and bring you into the conversation.

Walking outside is a delight, with a wintery sun shining on the water, a low mist giving everything a delightful atmosphere. If you get chilly, there’s plenty of places to stop for fika – or maybe some warming meatballs!

Plus, there’s far less crowds in Stockholm during the winter months. One of my favorite memories of my trip is getting up early, and wandering alone around Gamla Stan. I had the whole place to myself, and it was magical.

Visiting Stockholm in winter is one of the best travel experiences you can have!

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What a fantastic post! I have yet to go to Sweden but it’s on my bucket list. I was shocked to read how not cold it is in winter in Stockholm. I was expecting frigid temperatures. The city looks so charming and colorful. Can’t wait to get there!

Yes! I am all into the concept of Fika. Stockholm in winter looks absolutely gorgeous. There’s so much to see and do!

Great post! I’ve been to Sweden but haven’t had a chance to visit Stockholm yet. It is high on my list though, and I’m hoping to visit in November, so this post is perfect! Visiting in winter sounds perfect. I love exploring cities in the winter- it just adds to the experience. The Vava Museum looks amazing, and I can’t wait to visit it!

I’m Swedish (not from Stockholm though) and miss fika now that I live abroad. Hope you got to try a kladdkaka (gooey chocolate cake)! Love your photos and glad you mentioned that the temperatures aren’t always as crazy as people think 🙂

Meghan Emcee

Stockholm in winter is like Montreal in the fall! I’d love to go visit this time of year and get away from my -30 (celsius!). Sounds like a really great time!

Great post! I love Stockholm! I didn’t have a chance to visit the Public Library when I was there but it looks beautiful! I love the subway stops too! They’re so unique! Fika is a must, and I loved your recommendations for a good Fika and Cardamom roll.

Diane Price

What an awesome post! I have been to Sweden quite a few times, but never during the winter. I love how you highlighted the natural charm of the city.

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Best Things to in Stockholm in Winter you simply HAVE to do!

By: Author Wandermust Mummy

Stockholm is a city I love and I am very fortunate to have seen the city in both Winter and Summer. In this guide I round up why I love visiting Stockholm in Winter, where you should stay, the best things to do in Stockholm in Winter and have you covered with our Stockholm Winter Itinerary and Packing Guide to make sure you are not left out in the cold on your Swedish city break.

Best Things to do In Stockholm including Stockholm winter itinerary! Includes Stockholm Christmas Markets and what to do in Stockholm in December

Table of Contents

Should you Visit Stockholm in Winter? 

So you are contemplating whether you should visit Stockholm in Winter but unsure whether it is a good idea! Well having visited in both Winter and Summer I think I am well placed to answer the question ‘Should I visit Stockholm in Winter’?

Best Things to do in Stockholm in Winter -Stockholm Winter Itinerary

And for me the answer to the question is undoubtedly yes. Yes Winter in Stockholm is cold but there are lots of indoor things to do in Stockholm and if you use our Stockholm Winter packing list you will be prepared for the weather and will have an amazing time.

In fact, in many ways I actually think it is  better to visit Stockholm in winter vs summer. And here’s why I prefer it: 

• Stockholm gets incredibly busy during the summer and can sometimes have several cruise ships in port at once which means the population of Stockholm swells and the main Stockholm attractions get exceptional busy. These cruises don’t run in winter so you are guaranteed to see the city at its quietest during winter.
• It is a beautiful city to experience Christmas in or perhaps the scandy festival of St Lucia. Plus it has some lovely Christmas markets !
• The dark nights add to the atmosphere and is the Sweden you imagine.
• The cold makes it easier to enjoy the Swedish tradition of fika (coffee breaks)
• The city looks beautiful covered in snow and ice.

So now I have convinced you that you should visit Stockholm in Winter let me give you a bit more info.

Stockholm Winter Temperature 

There are no two ways about it Stockholm gets cold in Winter – bloomin cold – I mean really cold! You need to have plenty of layers and lots of indoor stops but if you are prepared it’s fine.

Now I think most people imagine Winter Stockholm to be a snow covered Winter paradise but the truth is it doesn’t always have snow in Stockholm during Winter. Although the city gets cold from around October-November it is unlikely that you will see heavy snow in Stockholm until January and February. However we were lucky (we wanted snow) to see a light dusting of snow in late December mere days before Christmas which really added to the festive nature of our trip.

The average temperatures we experienced during the day in our Winter Stockholm trip were between -1 – 1 degree so it was cold and the temperatures definitely dropped in the evenings! Therefore correct packing is essential! And although cold I don’t think it impeded our enjoyment of our trip.

Stockholm in the Winter Daylight Hours 

And the other things to consider when travelling to Stockholm in3 days in stockholm winter the Winter is how dark it gets! And when I say I mean it gets DARK.

While we were there we found that the sun generally comes up around 9 and is down again by 3. For us it actually added to our Christmas city break as the lights started twinkling earlier and you felt like you were really experiencing winter but it is something to consider when itinerary planning.

What to wear in Stockholm in the winter  /Stockholm Winter Packing List

Whenever people ask me What to wear in Stockholm in winter I always answer Layers and lots of them! Packing light when visiting Stockholm in Winter really isn’t an option! As I have said the temperatures will often be below 0 for a winter trip to Stockholm so you will need plenty of layers and warm clothes.

This is what we think you need to include on your Stockholm Winter Packing List

And plenty of them.

For the coldest of days you may want your thermals with you! I always like a pair of thermal leggings.

The air in Stockholm during Winter is icy you definitely will want a woolen hat with you 

Shoes with a good sole! 

If you are up and out early you may encounter some slippery streets so be sure to have good soles on your shoes unless you fancy going skating.

How to Get Around Stockholm in Winter 

Our favourite way to get around any city no matter what time of year it is is walking! Stockholm is actually a really walkable city and we even managed to do it with a stroller! So long as you are wrapped up in warm and have shoes with a good sole you won’t have a problem walking around Stockholm.

Alternatively you can hop on the Metro which is actually like an underground art museum and must be seen at least once on your trip.

And of course there is the hop on hop off bu s which is a great way to get your bearings in the city and also is useful if you have a particularly rainy day.

You can book your hop on hop off ticket here in advance! 

And if you are looking for the best way to get from the airport to hotel I always like to take a private transfer in Winter to eliminate any waiting in the cold or carrying luggage on potentially icy streets.

To find out more about private transfers CLICK HERE

Where to Stay in Stockholm in Winter

Grand Hotel Stockholm – conveniently located next to the Swedish Royal Palace

Radisson Blu Stockholm – a beautiful waterfront property

Hilton Stockholm Slussen

Read Next : Looking for the best places to stay – Check our this post !

Best things to do in Stockholm in winter

If you are planning on visiting more than one of the below attractions you may want to consider purchasing a Stockholm pass – you can find out about all the inclusions and costs here! 

Must see outdoor activities in Stockholm

W alking tour of gamla stad.

Touristy – yes! Worthy doing – absolutely. Either go independently or on an organized walking tou. Gamla Stad is the historic old town of Stockholm and is marked by beautiful matchbox colorful houses. In my opinion Gamla Stad is absolutely the most beautiful place in all of Stockholm and taking a tour will help you get to know more about the history of the city.

You can book your walking tour here! 

As an added bonus if you are visiting in late November or December you will find that the Old Town is the place of one of the traditional Swedish Markets. There are tons of stalls in the old town square filled with traditional ornaments and the usual Christmas food and drink.

If you are there during the Christmas season you could take your walking tour by lantern light! 

Stockholm’s outdoor living history museum and actually the oldest living history museum in the whole world having been established back in the 1890s- quite a claim to fame.

 This is one of my favorite places in the city! I love exploring the traditional architecture of the country whilst learning about everyday life in the past.

Stockholm in Winter – Stockholm Winter ITinerary

But again, in the run up to Christmas Skansen hosts an outdoor and very traditional Christmas market. I loved standing around the open fires drinking hot chocolate and mulled wine.

On top of the markets and the museum, there is also a Nordic zoo. I am not usually a fan of zoos but I enjoyed seeing the local animals in their natural habitat.

Skansen is included on the Stockholm Pass and if you are planning on visiting multiple attractions this will be a money saver . You can find more about the Stockholm Pass here! 

Otherwise we recommend buying your tickets online in advance – we didn’t and were queuing for about 15 minutes to get in.

To book your tickets online click here! 

Boat Tour 

Stockholm whatever time of year must be seen by boat given that the city is made up of several island archipelagos.

Although the city does ice over in Winter several key waterways are kept open during winter for the tourist boats.

To book your boat tour click here! 

Best Indoor activities in Stockholm Winter

Beings a city set up for Winter means that there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you amused and out of the cold. Some of my favorites are:

Abba museum

Cheese at its best! The Abba Museum is an interactive museum wonder and has an infectious happy spirit that will thaw even the most frozen of visitors. For me it really is one of the Stockholm things to do in Winter.

In the museum you will find all sorts of memorabilia and costumes on display but I think the highlight for most visitors is getting to record your own Abba song in their studio.

Again advance booking is recommended! 

Vasa museum

My favorite indoor museum in Stockholm! The Vasa Museum is named after the ship it houses that sank mere minutes after it set sail in  1628. After almost 300 hundreds on the seabed, the Vasa shipwreck was discovered and recovered and is now housed in the museum.

The ship is preserved like a fossil due to the makeup of the waters of the Swedish sea which means it is almost perfectly in tact from the day it sank and is 99% original ship! If you are traveling with kids there are plenty of children’s activities to keep the littles entertained. 

I would definitely recommend picking the free audio guide that is included with your ticket price! This really is one of the best places to visit in Sweden in Winter.

Tip: Entry is free with a Stockholm Pass otherwise you can book your tickets online with private tour in advance here! 

Family Friendly Tip: If you are traveling with kids then why not nip in next door to the children museum which houses a great Pippi Longstocking Exhibition. These sort of great indoor activities make Stockholm a great winter holiday destination with babies or kids. 

Fika is basically a Swedish National Tradition which is most akin to a coffee break! There is nothing like darting in and out of cafes for tea and cake in between exploring the city.

Royal Palace

The official residence of the King of Sweden and inside you can visit Royal Apartments and the Treasury.

Open to the public the royal palace houses not one but five museums inside the walls. I must admit though my favourite thing about visiting the royal palace is looking at all of the regal architecture and furnishings!m.

Ostermalm Saluhall

Whenever I am in Europe I love finding the traditional food halls. Today they serve more eclectic and international cuisines but I always love to find out the traditional food stalls. There are plenty of stalls offering Swedish food at Osermalm Saluhall.

Nordic Museum

The Nordic Museum is definitely a must for those wanting to learn more about Swedish history and life! The building is also one of the most impressive in Stockholm in my opinion.

Winter Swedish Cultural activities

Saunas are a great way to unwind after a day exploring the city in Winter.

If you want to find a sauna in the city then one to check out will at the Swimming Pool at CentralBadet.

Skiing – one of the best Stockholm Winter activities

The weather isn’t always guaranteed to be ski perfect in the run up to Christmas but if you are visiting in Winter, take part in one of Sweden’s favorite outdoor activities – skiing. We didn’t partake as I think I would have been coming home in plaster cast if I did! A popular and nearby ski resort to the city centre is Hammarbybacken. This is really one of the best Stockholm Winter activities to take part in.

Stockholm Winter Itinerary – 3 Days in Stockholm in Winter 

How Long do you need in Stockholm in Winter? This is always a difficult question to answer but I would say it very much depends on what you want to do and the pace you want to take it at.

We had 3 days in Stockholm in Winter which I think is the perfect amount of time, however if you would like to head further out of the city and explore some more of the Winter activities Stockholm has on offer then you may want to add some extra days.

Day 1 of the Perfect Stockholm Winter Itinerary

If you only have one day in Stockholm in Winter this is the day I would suggest doing 

AM: Start your day with a cinnamon bun and coffee before heading to Gamla Stad to do a morning walking tour

PM: Explore the Royal Paradise

Enjoy Fika 

Evening: Head back to Gamla Stad to explore the Christmas Market 

Dinner: Tradition in Gamla Stad 

Day 2 of the Perfect Stockholm Winter Itinerary

AM – Vasa Museum (an alternative with be to visit the Abba Museum or the Nordic Museum)

Afternoon  – Skansen 

Dinner – Östermalm Saluhall

Day 3 of the Perfect Stockholm Winter Itinerary

Take a Boat Tour of the Stockholm Island Archipelago! 

Or alternatively take a winter day trip from Stockholm such as

• Visit Sigtuna – the oldest town in Sweden !
• Royal Palace and Castle Tour
• Skating on Natural Ice Introductory Tour

I’m Visiting Stockholm in December – what special events are there? 

If you are visiting Stockholm in December there are lots of special Christmas related events! Of course there are the Christmas markets at Gamla Stad and Skansen but on top of that you should mark 13th December as a special date in your calendar. The 13th December is the Feast of St Lucia! Every year on this date there are choirs and candle processions around the city and people typically eat saffron buns and mulled wine.

Does it snow in Stockholm in December? 

Snow is not guaranteed when visiting Stockholm in December. We were lucky to see snow when we went to Stockholm in December but if snow is important to you you may want to visit Stockholm in January or February instead.

Is Stockholm or Copenhagen in winter better for a city break?

I love both these cities and think visiting either Stockholm or Copenhagen in Winter for for a city break is a good idea.

Have you visited Stockholm in Winter – how was your trip? What were your highlights of Winter in Stockholm?

And if you are looking for other great winter experiences in Scandinavia then check out this post on Copenhagen!

Zena's Suitcase

Tuesday 23rd of October 2018

I think places like this can be absolutely magical in Winter, I think the challenge of the weather is what makes the celebrations they have at this time of year so special. I would definitely visit here in winter

Vyki from Museum Mum

Wednesday 10th of October 2018

You've convinced me! I always thought it would be too cold in winter, but it sounds pretty magical! One to throw in the mix for next year's travel plans, me thinks.

Oh I totally want to visit!! Stockholm in winter is definitely on my bucket list and I think it would be my favourite time visit!!

Nell (Pigeon Pair and Me)

I want, want want to go! You can't beat a Scandinavian country for Christmassy cosiness. I've never been to Stockholm, and I think winter would be my preferred season for that first trip.

Erin Ek Rush

Tuesday 9th of October 2018

I've been to Stockholm in the winter and I loved it! Your gorgeous photos make me wan to go back. As long as you have warm clothes it's an amazing holiday!

Bundle Up & Explore: 25 Coolest Things To Do In Stockholm In Winter

There are so many things to do in Stockholm in winter, that it’s hard to choose the best ones. I struggled with this when I visited the first time. That’s why, I prepared for you the ultimate list of all the Stockholm winter attractions with ratings and opening hours, together with the best places to eat in Stockholm in winter and where to stay, that allow you to really make the most of your visit to the capital of Sweden. I loved it and I’m certain so will you. Check it out!

Is Stockholm worth visiting in winter?

After living for over five years in Scandinavia, I visited all the Scandinavian capitals in winter.

Oslo in winter is always magical, Copenhagen in winter was also great, and then I went to see Stockholm in winter, with all the Christmas decorations. I spent 3 days in Stockholm during winter, and I tried some of the best attractions the capital of Sweden has to offer, and I share them with you below.

To top it off, I also traveled to Helsinki in winter , even though it’s technically not Scandinavia, but part of the Nordics. I somehow enjoy visiting cities in the northern hemisphere in winter, since I also went to Bergen in winter , and visited winter in Tromso . There must be something magical in the winter atmosphere in the northern countries.

I regularly visit Sweden, since the border is just a stone’s throw from Oslo , where I live. Stockholm, and also Gothenburg, are two very popular cities amongst Norwegians, and foreigners living in Norway.

Sweden is cheaper (especially the alcohol!), and apart from shopping trips, it has a lot to offer. The capital of Sweden is perfect for a short, weekend trip, for a few days filled with fun, pretty architecture, and some meatballs.

So what there is to do in Stockholm in winter? Let’s go for a tour of Sweden’s capital in the colder time of the year.

Table of Contents

How cold is stockholm in winter stockholm winter temperature and the weather, stockholm in winter daylight hours and the darkness, how to get to stockholm in winter, save money in stockholm, the best things to do in stockholm in winter, #1 visit stockholm christmas markets, #2 walk around the gamla stan (old town), #3 ice skate on kungsträdgården, #4 visit open air museum – skansen, #5 take a winter boat tour, #7 ski at a hammarbybacken ski resort located in the middle of stockholm, #8 look out for the best view of the city from many viewpoints, #9 admire local street art, #10 take a walk on djurgården, #11 visit the amusement park, #12 walk on the narrowest street in stockholm.

• #13 Check out the Skogskyrkogården UNESCO World Heritage Site

#14 Try the famous Fika

#15 check out the vasa museum, #16 warm up in the sauna, #17 check out the abba museum, #18 go on a food tour – check sweden’s winter recipes, #20 meatballs for the people, #21 visit the fotografiska museum, #22 explore the stockholm metro stations art gallery, #23 visit the royal palace, #24 pay a visit to the nordic museum, viking museum, spirit museum, you name it, #25 see a show at the royal dramatic theatre, budget hotels and hostels in stockholm, mid-range hotels in stockholm, luxury hotels in stockholm, what to wear in stockholm in winter.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. More details  here .

Stockholm can get cold in winter, but it’s nothing that warm clothes (I have the best list for the clothes I use in Norway in winter here ) and frequent coffee breaks (fika) cannot fix.

Winter temperatures in Stockholm typically range from around -5 to 5 degrees Celsius (23 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit) from December to February. At some times, they can drop even lower than this, especially at night. However, they rarely go to those extremes. I visited in December, and the weather was quite pleasant (but I might be accustomed to the cold since I live in Scandinavia!).

You can sometimes see snow on the streets of Stockholm in the winter, but it’s hit or miss. I always think it’s better to be prepared for everything – cold, snow, sun, and also rain (which reminds me a bit of Bergen in winter ).

Is Stockholm dark in winter? Yep, the whole of Scandinavia experiences short daylight hours. But it doesn’t mean that it’s dark the whole day (that would be the Northern parts of Sweden or Norway like Tromso ).

Stockholm is similar to Copenhagen in winter . Days are shorter in December but get longer by February. That means that the daylight increases from six hours at the end of the year, to seven and a half in January, and nine in February. In March there are twelve hours of daylight! This quick transition from darkness to light is my favorite part of getting out of winter in Scandinavia.

But even if you visit Stockholm in December, the darkness won’t matter that much. The whole of the city is lit up by the Christmas decorations and if the snow falls, it also brightens the landscape. So don’t worry and visit Stockholm in winter 🙂

The best way to get to Stockholm is by plane. You can check the best flight deals on Skyscanner.net or Kiwi.com . I drove there from Oslo in Norway since it was the easiest for me.

You can also take a ferry to Stockholm from Helsinki, Finland , or Tallinn, Estonia .

My favorite way to save money when visiting Stockholm is to get the Stockholm Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 45+ Attractions . All of the major Scandinavian cities have these passes, and it’s such a great help when you want to travel a little bit more on a budget (let’s be honest, Sweden and Scandinavia is expensive).

The pass gives you access to more than 45 attractions and tours in the city, which gives you up to 55% savings compared to buying individual tickets. You can choose a single 1-, 2-, 3-, or 5-day pass. Check it out here.

I split up the list of the best activities in Stockholm in winter into two parts: the ones that are outdoors and also the indoor ones. I think it’s very useful, especially if the weather turns, or if you feel like you want to warm up after a long day spent outdoors.

What do in Stockholm in winter outdoors

When the weather is nice, I recommend you explore Stockholm’s attractions that are outside. There are also many free things to do in Stockholm in winter, which is great, and all of them give you a perfect taste of the city. Stockholm has a lot of viewpoints, street art, picturesque old town, and more to choose from.

What is better than exploring Christmas markets in Scandinavia in winter? I can certainly say, that every year I admire Christmas markets in Oslo , and when I travel abroad, I always compare them to the other ones.

Visiting Christmas markets is one of the best things to do in Stockholm in December, for sure!

I must admit that I really liked the Christmas markets in Stockholm, especially the ones in the main square Stortorget.

Other Christmas markets include one at Skansen , an open-air museum, and Christmas Market at Drottningholm Palace.

The markets offer traditional Swedish foods, crafts, and decorations, and are a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

Make sure to try a cup of warm glögg (local mulled wine), and other Swedish delicacies. It’s also a great place for souvenirs and any Christmas gifts.

The Old Town is one of Stockholm’s most charming neighborhoods. You can get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the colorful buildings, and historic sights.

In winter, Gamla Stan hosts a Christmas Market, and the cozy cafes are inviting for a warm cup of coffee and Swedish fika . Places to see in the old town are the main square (Stortorget) and the Royal Palace.

The Old Town is open all year at any time of day. You can also take an Old Town walking tour with a knowledgeable guide.

Ice skating is my favorite winter activity, I do it all the time in Norway .

One of the most popular places for ice skating in Stockholm is in one of the main parks,  Kungsträdgården . There are also cafes and food places to warm up after the cold. The ice rink is open from December to February and is free to use, with skate rental available for a small fee. Even if you don’t skate, you can watch when someone else plays small ice hockey game.

Moreover, you can even try skating on natural ice outdoors (if conditions allow). This natural ice skating tour allows you to do that safely . You need local knowledge and safety equipment. This would be one of my top things to do in Stockholm in January since that’s usually when the conditions are the best.

It’s one of my all-time favorites to do in Scandinavia in winter. Every year I ice skate on the fjords and lakes in Oslo (I know the area very well and I have the safety equipment), so I can recommend you to try it at least once if you have a chance!

When the weather is nice, take a walk around the open-air museum – the Skansen .

Did you know that it’s the world’s oldest open-air museum? It’s a perfect place to experience Swedish culture and nature.

You can walk around the traditional houses, and join many of the activities that are organized daily. It’s also a perfect place to take kids, with many special adventures just for them.

One of my favorite ways of experiencing a new city, which is located by the waterfront, is to see it from the water! Stockholm is spread around an island archipelago, with 14 little islands that are part of the city.

To make the most of it, you can opt for a city archipelago sightseeing tour with a guide , or a special winter tour of Stockholm by boat . Next time, I’m in Stockholm I’m planning to try this Under the Bridges Boat Tour , it seems like a lot of fun.

How fun is it to ski in a proper ski resort inside of the city? Hammarbybacken ski resort is just that – a skiing fun in the middle of the Sweden’s capital. We have a similar option in Oslo , which is super popular in winter.

Even though Stockholm doesn’t have a lot of tall hills, it still has quite a few nice lookout points. Grab your camera or your phone and check them out. Some of my favorite ones, that I went to are:

• Skinnarviksberget, a park that is a popular spot for locals to have a picnic, has great views toward the Old Town
• Monteliusvägen, which is a walking path with a view of the city hall across the water;
• Skyview is a Stockholm attraction that takes you with a gondola to the top of the world’s largest spherical building, the Avicii Arena. Buy tickets here.
• The City Hall tower – is open only in the summer months.
• Fjällgatan – a historic neighborhood with fantastic city views.
• Stockholm also has several rooftop bars with great city views. One of my favorites is The Nest Cocktail Lounge, a part of the Downtown Camper hotel by Scandic. The bar is open to everyone, you don’t need to be a guest. It even has an infinity rooftop pool (for an extra charge).

I was really surprised by how much street art Stockholm has! I love discovering amazing street art around the world, for example in Brick Lane in London , so it was great to see so much of it in Stockholm, too.

You will find it in many locations walking around the city. However, the best places to find them are the Kungsträdgården, Kronobergsgatan, Fiskargatan, Snösätra Graffiti Park, Luthens Gränd, and Frihamnsgatan.

There, you can see many walls covered with art, and you can usually meet artists working on their pieces.

Djurgården is a large island in Stockholm, where you can find several of the city’s top museums and attractions, such as the Skansen open-air museum . That’s where we went to see the Abba museum .

There are many walking paths through the park and forest with lakes, that are frozen in winter. You can also walk there by the waterfront admiring the views across the water. Djurgården is open year-round and can be visited any time of day.

Gröna Lund amusement park in Stockholm offers many thrilling rides in the city center. Unfortunately, for most of the winter, the amusement park is closed, but they usually open at the end of February. So if you are there at that time, you might be able to visit it inside.

Mårten Trotzigs gränd is a small alley in Gamla stan, the old town of Stockholm, that is just over 60 cm wide. You cannot fit more than one person there! It’s fun to see when you’re around.

#13 Check out the Skogskyrkogården UNESCO World Heritage Site

Skogskyrkogården is a Stockholm cemetery, which is a part of UNESCO. It was created between 1917 and 1920 by two young architects, Asplund and Lewerentz, and blends together nature with architecture.

It’s a fascinating place, that invites you to reflect and slow down. I can highly recommend visiting it!

Things to do in Stockholm in winter that are indoors

Have you ever heard of “ fika ” before?

Fika is a Swedish concept and is often translated as “a coffee and cake break”, however, it’s much more than that. It’s an important part of Swedish culture, that shows their attitude and state of mind. Many Swedes make sure to make time for fike in their busy schedule every single day.

You can experience fika for yourself by visiting one of the many cafes in Stockholm, where you can get coffee (or tea), and something small to eat, while enjoying the moment. Observe Swedes around you having their fika and embrace this simple concept.

There are many cafes in Stockholm to choose from, for example, Vete-Katten , a charming cafe and bakery in the heart of Stockholm that’s been open since the 1920s. The cafe is open daily from 7:30 am to 8 pm and is located at Kungsgatan 55.

The Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s top attractions, and there is a good reason for that. The main feature of the museum is a 17th-century warship, which is very well-preserved.

The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and is located at Galärvarvsvägen 14.

There is nothing better to warm up after a walk on a cold day than a steaming sauna. Even though it’s originally a Finnish tradition (many saunas in Helsinki in winter !), it’s also widespread throughout Scandinavia.

The best sauna in Stockholm is located in Centralbadet (Central Bath). It’s a historic bathhouse and spa that’s been open since the early 1900s. You can book a sauna, a massage, or a plunge into the heated pool.

Stockholm also has several hostels and hotels that include saunas, for example. City Backpackers Hostel .

I don’t think there is a person alive who doesn’t know who ABBA is. A Swedish supergroup formed in Stockholm in 1972, is super famous not only in Sweden but worldwide.

In the ABBA Museum , you can learn more about their history and transfer back to your favorite songs by the group. Mamma Mia, here I go again…

For me, there is nothing better than exploring the country’s culture through its food. I feel like then you can really learn a lot, and also eat tons of good and interesting food.

If you have time, I would recommend you to take a food tour in Stockholm to really get to know the best food places and learn the Swedish food staples, such as Köttbullar – meatballs. This tour takes you to the best food markets and eating places.

I’ve done that many times in different cities, for example, Vilnius , and I loved it every time. Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time for that in Stockholm, but it’s going to be my first activity when I go back there!

Speaking of meatballs… One of the most famous meatball places in Stockholm (look at this queue! we waited for 30 minutes…) is the restaurant Meatballs for the people.

There, you have a choice of many different types of meatballs with sides. They even have meatballs made out of wild boar or bear (!). Pair it with delicious locally brewed beer and you have the most local meal.

But don’t worry, they also serve vegetarian options, or other meals, if not all of your party wants to go for the meatballs.

The Fotografiska Museum is a contemporary photography place, but as they say, “neither a traditional museum nor gallery” with work by world-renowned photographers. For me, as a photographer myself ( have you seen my photo prints yet ?:)), it was high on the list of places to visit in Stockholm.

The building that the museum is in, is worth visiting on its own as it’s an Art Nouveau building and offers great views of the city’s waterfront. The museum is open daily from 9 am to 11 pm and is located at Stadsgårdshamnen 22.

Some people use the metro (underground or the tube) for transport, and some, for admiring art. You can do both!

Stockholm’s metro stations have some interesting art pieces in them, so when you plan to take a tube, make sure to look out for them.

The Royal Palace is the official residence of the Swedish monarch His Majesty The King. It’s also one of Europe’s largest palaces.

The palace has over 600 rooms and is home to several museums and exhibitions, including the Treasury and the Royal Armory.

In winter, the palace is decorated with holiday lights and decorations, making it a magical place to visit. The Palace is open to the public year-round daily from 10 am to 4 pm and is located at Slottsbacken 1.

There is no shortage of museums in Stockholm. That’s for sure. So, if you ever feel cold, or in a need of learning something new, you can choose one of them to visit. When you have a Stockholm Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 45+ Attractions , many of them will be free for you, so why not?

When you feel the need of bringing up your cultural side, go for a show at the Royal Dramatic Theatre . This is one of Sweden’s most prestigious theaters, with a history dating back to the 1700s.

It offers a variety of shows, including plays, musicals, and operas, with performances in Swedish and English. In winter, the theater is a cozy and intimate venue, with warm interiors and festive decorations. The theater is located at Nybroplan and offers performances daily.

Where to stay in Stockholm in winter

When you come to Stockholm in winter, you for sure want a cozy and warm place to stay. Luckily there is plenty of hotels in Stockholm to choose from. I grouped the best ones below according to the budget category.

• Generator Stockholm – a hostel with a great central location, it offers both dormitory-style and private rooms at an affordable price. You can find there a bar, lounge area, and shared kitchen. Prices start at around 200 SEK ($20) per night. Check availability and price here.
• City Backpackers Hostel – One of the most popular hostels in central Stockholm. It has nice clean rooms, and a big selection of amenities, including a sauna. Prices start at around 250 SEK ($25) per night. Check availability and price here.
• Castanea Old Town Hostel : Hostel is located in the famous Stockholm Old Town. It offers private and shared rooms. You can also have access kitchen and lounge area. Prices start at around 250 SEK ($25) per night. Check availability and price here.
• Scandic Malmen – Located in the trendy Södermalm neighborhood, this hotel offers stylish rooms with comfortable beds. It also has a popular restaurant and bar. Prices start at around $100 per night. Check availability and price here.
• Hotel Hellsten – This boutique hotel is located in a charming 19th-century building in the Östermalm neighborhood. The rooms are individually decorated with a mix of antique and modern furnishings. Prices start at around $120 per night. Check availability and price here.
• Haymarket by Scandic – This historic hotel is located in the vibrant neighborhood of Norrmalm, which gives you easy access to shopping, dining, and nightlife. The hotel features a glamorous Art Deco design, with stylish rooms and a popular restaurant and bar for this cheeky drink in the evening. Prices start at around 1,200 SEK per night. Check availability and price here.
• Grand Hotel Stockholm – A famous hotel, located in the heart of the city. It offers luxurious rooms and suites with great waterfront views. The hotel also features several restaurants and bars, as well as a spa and fitness center. Prices start at around 3,000 SEK ($400) per night. Check availability and price here.
• Nobis Hotel – located in a historic building in central Stockholm, this beautiful hotel offers spacious rooms with luxurious amenities and is within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions. Prices start at around $250 per night. Check availability and price here.

The most important thing to pack for Stockholm in winter is warm clothes. You can find a lot of inspiration in my post about  Norway winter clothing pos t, where I describe each item that will be also useful for the trip to Stockholm. Here are some of the basics:

• Thermal underwear like  merino wool tops  and   merino wool bottoms . 
• Mid-layer –   fleece   or  woolen sweater
• Top layer –  Parka jackets  or  Windproof and waterproof outer shell jackets.
• Warm hat  covering ears –  a woolen hat or a   hat with fleece lining  is the best for the weather in the Nordics in winter.
• Additional batteries + chargers
• A scarf
• Gloves – I usually have  thin thermal glove liners  that I put underneath the  bigger woolen mittens . 
•   Wool socks   – I prefer merino wool, so they are not itchy, keep me warm or cool me down when needed.  Here are similar ones to the ones I have .
• Reflective bands
• Flask  to carry around warm tea or coffee. You can find  tons of colors of flasks here .
• Don’t forget good travel insurance!

What to do in Helsinki in winter

Best things to do in Copenhagen in winter

Fun and unique things to do in Oslo in winter

15+ interesting things to do in Bergen in winter

21 Unmissable things to do in Tromso in winter

Have you been to Stockholm in winter before? Let me know in the comments!

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Related posts:

• Bergen Winter – 15+ Interesting Things To Do In Bergen In Winter (Outdoors & Indoors)
• What To Do In Helsinki In Winter – Traditional & Unique
• Fun & Unique Things to Do in Oslo in Winter (By a Local)
• Discover London’s Coolest Neigbourhood – Brick Lane in the London’s East End

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Destinations | EUROPE

17 magical things to do in stockholm in winter this year.

13 Sep 2021 | Destinations , Europe , Sweden

Heading to Sweden and wondering what to do in the snowy season? We got you covered. The Swedish capital makes for an amazing visit when it is covered in snow. Keep reading as I share all the magical things to do in Stockholm in winter. 

With the freezing temperatures, it’s important to be prepared. We nudged on cozy thermal underwear, scarves, and hats, and jumped out of bed in the early morning to explore the city twinkling with beautiful Christmas lights and decorations. 

17 Things to do in Stockholm in winter – Travel Tips

From celebrating New Year to enjoying winter festivities, the snowy season is an extraordinary time to visit the Swedish capital – but be warned, it isn’t all fun and games. With an average temperature of -3 degrees C and only 6 hours of daily sunlight throughout December, winter in Stockholm isn’t for the faint-hearted. 

** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Bey of Travel a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.** 

When is the best time to visit Stockholm?

Stockholm is a wonderful destination to travel to all year round!  We visited the city during the New Year. 

All the twinkling Christmas decorations transform the city into a romantic fairytale at this time of the year – but keep in mind that the days are also much shorter, as the sun sets as early as 3 pm! 

Weather-wise, the spring and summer months are much more suitable to fully discover the city, with longer days and milder temperatures.

When visiting in the winters, remember to pack your winter clothes, and layer on to stay warm and enjoy the outdoors. Temperatures in winter range from a high of 2 degrees C to a low of – 1 degree C in Stockholm. 

Wander Gamla Stan – Stockholm in winter

Gamla Stan means the old city, so it may come as no surprise that this is the city’s historic district. Though very touristy, it’s super atmospheric and a must-see for anyone visiting Stockholm in the winter for the first time. 

The Old Town comprises Stadsholmen island and the islets of Riddarholmen, Helgeandsholmen and Strömsborg nearby. This area dates back to the 13th century, and I am sure you will love the colorful buildings.

Do make sure to visit Stortorget, the oldest square in the city, for the annual Christmas market if you’re there at the right time of year!

Other important attractions in the old town consist of the Storkyrkan Cathedral and the Royal Palace, which is the king’s official residence. 

Book an old town walking tour .

Although weather dependent, you can also opt for a sightseeing boat tour in Stockholm to check out the city’s highlights in a short period of time. 

Book your boat tour here.

Visit Christmas Markets in Stockholm

During winters, explore the most popular and longest-running Christmas market in Stockholm aka the Stortorget (located in Gamla Stan). They operate from the last week of November until Christmas Eve. Do check the current hours here .

Recommended tour: Book a walking tour of Christmas markets .

Go snowshoeing in the wild

Stockholm invites you to a snowy wonderland in the winter. If this is your first winter getaway, opt for a guided tour, like this 8-hour full-day excursion to the snow-covered landscapes of Sweden.

In this tour, the guide will provide you with safety tips and help you to snowshoe into the wilderness, and learn about Swedish wildlife and the ecosystems along the way. 

You get to hike through the snow-filled forests and over frozen lakes, and also enjoy a nice campfire lunch.

The tour includes transfers from the city center! Check out more about this tour here .

You might also like these tours: 

• Winter hikes in Stockholm
• Snowshoeing in the wild

Ice Skating Stockholm Winter Activities 

When in Stockholm you must go ice skating in the winter. Stockholm hosts and welcomes guests to seasonal rinks at the King’s Garden (free to use), Busby Ihall, etc. 

If you would like to add a special tour then join an experienced guide and head out to skate on some of the best natural ice in the world, about 5+ hours from Stockholm. You can also learn to skate along the way.  Find out more about this ice skating experience here .

Prefer to ski? Join this excursion for Nordic skiing

Check out the Nobel Museum and more

When it is cold and snowy outside, pop inside to one of the coolest museums in Sweden. Visit the Nobel Museum to discover everything there is to know about Nobel Prizes. 

Did you know: The Nobel prizes (Physics, Chemistry, Physiology or Medicine) are awarded in Sweden, and are named after the Swedish-born inventor and international industrialist Alfred Nobel. The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo, Norway.  Another museum, perfect for photography lovers is the Fotografiska . It is the photography museum of Sweden, which features a large number of exhibits from all over the world. Book your entry tickets here .

The Vasa Museum is another option. It is Scandinavia’s most-visited history museum. At this museum, you can check out a 17th-century shipwreck. Get entry tickets here.

The Nordic Museum is another great stop on a city break to Stockholm to learn about Swedish history and life!

Art lovers must visit the city’s modern art museum, Moderna Museet. 

ABBA Museum is an interactive museum showcasing all about the pop band ABBA, located in Djurgården, Stockholm. 

Soak in the festive cheer at the Norrmalm

Norrmalm is the city center of Stockholm, and it’s a must-visit area for shopaholics and market lovers. This busy commercial area is filled with fashion and designer/high-end shops lining Drottninggatan and the surrounding streets. 

For culture lovers, this bustling neighborhood also offers opera and ballet recitals at the Royal Swedish Opera, art exhibitions and modern dance at Kulturhuset Stadsteatern, and orchestral performances at the neoclassical Stockholm Concert Hall. 

Not into shopping or art? Head over to any of the bistros or wander the tree-lined Kungsträdgården park in Norrmalm!

Visit Sergels Torg – Stockholm in winter

Sergels Torg is definitely worth a visit. It is a major public square in Stockholm, named after 18th-century sculptor Johan Tobias Sergel. 

Opened in the 1960s, this square is particularly breathtaking at night thanks to the thousands of glittering lights all around. 

Hang out at the Hötorget

Hötorget is the main marketplace in the city, and you’ll find plenty of beautiful flowers, fresh fruit, and vegetables here. If vintage finds are more your thing, the market is transformed into an antique market every Sunday.

One of the lovely things about Hötorget is its underground subway. There is so much beautiful art on these walls that you must not miss! 

Need help? Book this guided subway art tour .

Layer on, and hit the Östermalm district

Seeking some glamour? Östermalm is the chicest and most expensive district in Stockholm. 

I enjoyed walking this area, and recommend that you take the time to explore this elegant Östermalm neighborhood. It also houses the Swedish History Museum, displaying Viking weapons and many designer boutiques. 

You might like this tour: Private Shopping Tour in Stockholm .

When hungry, stop by one of the smart bars and restaurants on Stureplan square in the district.

Walk Humlegarden

Humlegården, originally the royal fruit orchard, is a wonderful and tranquil park to wander through. 

It was established by King Johan III in the 16th century and was home to many plants that are native or grown in the area. 

Many parts of this garden were opened to the public in the 17th century, for recreational purposes. With walking pathways, surrounded by greenery this park is an amazing visit to soak in the Nordic air!

Warm-up with a Swedish Lunch

Lunch is the most popular meal in Sweden, so make the most of it with a delicious bite to eat at Albert & Jack’s. 

Or head to Nybrogatan 38 if you want to experience a fusion of French and Swedish cuisine.

Restaurant Sturehof serves the best fish specialties in the area, and Beirut Café is the perfect spot if you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine. 

Head to Södermalm for a few hours

Södermalm is the island for hipsters, vintage lovers, and creative types. It’s the largest island in Stockholm, and it has a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere.

Snap Insta worthy photos from Monteliusvägen

Need to get a couple of breathtaking snaps for your Instagram? You can find a gorgeous view over the city on the hiking trail Monteliusvägen.

If you’re visiting in summer, Medborgarplatsen has plenty of beautiful outdoor terraces to enjoy.

Need more photo ideas for social media? Book this Instagram Tour .

The City Hall, Stadshuset, is arguably the most famous building in Stockholm – so make sure you tick that off your list during your stay! 

It looks extra special with the festive Christmas lights and decorations in the evening. 

Pro tip: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic in the beautiful Vasaparken while you’re in the neighborhood.

Visit Djurgarden on a day trip

If you have some time left on your trip, make sure you pay a visit to the greenest island in Stockholm: Djurgarden. It’s the first national park in the world that lies in the middle of a city! 

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through this beautiful nature reserve, or visit one of the many museums. 

The ferry is the fastest way to get there. Or you can book this guided tour .

Tip: For a slice of delicious cake, you simply have to go to Flickorna Helin & Voltaire while you’re in the neighborhood.

Other places for a day trip from Stockholm: Smedsuddsbadet. This is a nice little beach close to the city.

Eat and drink in the old town and the city center

When hungry or thirsty, Stockholm offers a lot of variety in the culinary scene. 

At the old town:

If you’re feeling thirsty, grab a coffee in one of the photogenic houses of the city Kafekoppen or Chokladkoppen.

For a unique dinner with a difference, visit the restaurant Djuret. The chef prepares an entire animal, from head to tail. To prevent waste, a different seasonal animal is on the menu every month. 

Another restaurant that utilizes wonderful seasonal produce is Pharmarium. Their dishes are made for sharing, and their cocktails are delicious.

At the city center: 

When you’re feeling peckish, make sure to check out the Hötorgshallen – a covered food market with a variety of delicious national and international specialties.

If you’re a chocolate-lover (just like me), make sure you pay a visit to Chokladfabriken. They have all kinds of unique chocolate, with the most creative selection of flavors!

In need of some good coffee to warm up? Esaias Café or Wilmer Kaffebar are the places to be!

For a nutritious meal, head to 8T8 near the Mariatorget Park, to enjoy a meal created with ecological delicacies. There’s also a noodle bar for a satisfying hot lunch. Woodstockholm is the perfect restaurant if you’re craving a vegetarian lunch!

Must Do: Nordic Food Tour .

Go souvenir and Christmas shopping 

Looking for some toys or souvenirs to take back home? You can easily buy Christmas goodies and traditional souvenirs from markets and city center stores. 

However, do make sure to visit Krabat , a store filled with sustainable and traditional toys. 

If you wish to take home some unique and quirky souvenirs from your trip to Stockholm, visit Upplandsgatan – a street packed with antique boutiques!

Taste the old-fashioned Swedish white-red peppermint sweets at the Polkagrisar candy shop, and bring back some home. 

So there you have it – these are all the fun things to do in Stockholm in winter! Be sure to pack your woolens, layer on, and have a great time in the capital city of Sweden!

Pin for later: Stockholm in winter travel guide 

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• 10 reasons to visit Stockholm in the winter
• See & Do

While Stockholm in the summer leave you breathless as you take in its beauty don’t discount Stockholm in the winter. The crisp air, the crunch of snow beneath your feet, the early darkness illuminated by lights in every window – this is a city that does winter just as well as it does summer. And some might say the charm is even greater.

Here are our 10 best reasons to visit Stockholm in the winter.

• The Hipsters
• The Water, Water, Water
• The Bridges
• The Archipelago
• The Architecture
• The Sunsets (and Sunrises)

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Hammarbybacken in Stockholm – Photo: © Hans Christiansson/Shutterstock.com

The skiing? Yes, the skiing. Stockholm has a number of spots where you can rent skis and get some time in on the slopes. They may not offer an Olympic level challenge but hey, skiing at night whilst looking out at the lights of the city (and then heading for an after ski) is hard to beat. If cross-country is your thing Lidingö is our top pick for that – although you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to cross-country skiing in Stockholm.

Stockholm is a city where water is never far away, and the nice thing about winter in this city is that the water will, at some point, freeze over. That means long-distance ice skating and even walking from island to island on the ice. Yes, it’s as cool as it sounds.

The Stockholm archipelago holds a special charm in the winter. Long gone are the bustling summer crowds, replaced by locals and visitors in the know. The ferries run less often, and there are fewer restaurants to choose from, but the stark beauty is unbeatable. If nothing else, take a boat out for a few hours, have a drink or two, and head back to the city. You won’t regret it.

View Stockholm hopes you enjoy your winter visit to our beautiful city!

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Visiting Stockholm in winter

Some time around late October or early November, Stockholm begins to transform into a winter wonderland.

Even if there’s no snow, the air becomes crisp and fresh, and the city takes on a distinctly wintry feel.

This means Christmas markets, spiced glögg , and plenty of snow-and-ice-based activities for the months ahead.

What to expect Which month is best? What to do Where to warm up Suggested itineraries Cosy places to stay

What to expect

Winter tends to last for a while in Stockholm – at least five to six months – and it can get very chilly, so be sure to get bundled up if you’re planning to visit at this time of year!

You should also be prepared for very ‘short’ days, with as little as six hours of sunlight a day around winter solstice, just before Christmas.

The good news is that Stockholm still shines during the winter! This is a city that’s properly geared up for harsh winters, and it’s unlikely that the weather will cause you too many problems, even if temperatures plunge.

Things just keep running, and there are actually a lot of winter-friendly sights and activities to keep you busy. There are also plenty of warm places where you can escape the cold – art galleries, cosy coffee shops, museums and, of course, saunas.

If you do get snow and ice, then you’re in for a treat – Sweden’s capital is the most unbelievable pretty city when its rooftops are coated in snow and its canals frozen over. 

When’s the best time for a winter trip to Stockholm?

Undoubtedly, the most popular time for a winter trip to Stockholm is just before Christmas, when you’ll find all sorts of festive activities and markets taking place across the city.

There are cosy cafés galore in Stockholm ( here are some of our favourites ) and you’ll also see many of the local restaurants offering the traditional Swedish  julbord  (Christmas buffet).

It doesn’t always snow in December, though, so if you’re hoping for some really snowy holiday snaps, you’re best off waiting until January, February or March.

This is also the best time of year to visit if you want to combine a trip to Stockholm with a skiing holiday at one of Sweden’s more southerly ski resorts .

By April, things have usually warmed up a bit in Stockholm, giving you the option to combine relatively mild weather with some seriously good snow-based activities in the north of Sweden (like dog-sledding tours and trips to see the northern lights).

Note that regardless of when you visit Stockholm, there is only a teeny, tiny chance that you’ll be able to see the northern lights – this guide has more info .

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What to do on a winter trip to Stockholm

Just wandering around the city’s streets and along the canal sides is a joy in winter, with the historic buildings coated in frost and the winter sun casting a pale light over the waterfront. With more time though, we think you should try some of Stockholm’s proper winter activities.

Eat a julbord

In December, most Swedes love to sit down and enjoy a beautiful Christmas smörgåsbord , traditionally loaded with dishes that are prepared especially for the occasion.

At restaurants you can usually pay a flat fee and enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet of classic dishes like cured salmon, Christmas ham, beetroot salad, meatballs, pickled herring and maybe even some glögg (mulled wine).

Prices start from around 400 SEK (£32; $37) for a lunch julbord and around 800 SEK (£64; $75) in the evening. Overall it’s not bad value for all-you-can-eat in Sweden – especially if you’re hungry!

Some canal boats even offer cruises with a  julbord  included , so you can eat while gliding through the waterways. 

Check out the nearest julbord to you at  julbordsportalen.se  (in Swedish only).

For more on the smörgåsbord and julbord, check out our guide to What is a Swedish smörgåsbord ?  

Winter tours in Stockholm

Even when it’s cold outside, Stockholm is a city that’s brimming with outdoor activities.

This fun winter boat tour is one of our absolute favourites – it’ll take you along some of the city’s most scenic waterways and past the leafy island of Djurgården.

This guided snowshoeing adventure is another great choice – it gives you the chance to explore some beautiful countryside just outside the city centre.

A nice alternative is this ice-skating trip , which will take you out to skate on the sea in the Stockholm archipelago or on Lake Mälaren, depending on the conditions. If you’re more of a history buff than an outdoor enthusiast, don’t miss this popular Viking history tour !

Go ice skating

With loads of ponds, rinks and squares in Stockholm, it’s easy to get out on the ice.

You have plenty of options to choose from without even having to leave the city ( see this guide for more tips ) and some rinks are completely free if you bring your own skates.

The most popular rink by far is at Kungsträdgården , which lights up in the evening with a disco and the odd figure-skating pro.

If you want to avoid the crowds, you can also check out the huge rink at Vasaparken or the kid-friendly, illuminated rink on Medborgarplatsen.

Several sports halls around town also freeze their stadiums artificially in the winter for ice hockey or skating – keep your eyes peeled for the words idrottsplat s or ishall .

For something totally different,  consider joining this full-day ice-skating tour , which takes you out onto the glassy waterways around Stockholm to enjoy some beautiful nature.

Take a winter boat cruise

It may not be the most obvious thing to do in winter but Stockholm looks particularly picturesque when viewed from the water, its roofs and streets covered in a layer of white snow or ice.

Some of the city’s boat tours run year-round (provided the waterways are not actually iced up), such as this  sightseeing tour in a classic archipelago boat . 

And you needn’t worry about getting too chilly either – there are cosy reindeer skins to snuggle up under and hot Swedish pea soup and glögg is available on board to warm you up.

For more on Stockholm’s boat trips see this guide .

Watch some ice-hockey

With the Swedish football league league closed from November to March, most Stockholmers’ sporting interest turns to ice hockey in winter.

The Swedish ice hockey league is one of world’s best, and a great place to catch some of the top players and action is at the atmospheric Hovet stadium in central Stockholm.

Top team, Djurgården, who play in Sweden’s elite SHL league, are based here – and watching one of their games is an unforgettable winter experience. Ticket prices start at around 250 SEK.

Go skiing at Hammarbybacken

People are often surprised to find out that Stockholm has its own ski slope, right near the city centre.

Hammarbybacken isn’t big, but it is a great place to get back in the swing of things for the winter season,  or perhaps try out your new skis.

You can rent equipment at the slope or sip hot chocolate in the café. For tips on other ski resorts near Stockholm, see this guide .

Visit Skansen

The oldest open-air museum in the world, Skansen is a delight even in the dead of winter. Cute Scandinavian homes, traditional craftsmen and real-life moose mean you get to see some of Sweden’s best bits, all in one place.

See these for yourself by getting a ticket here!

See how glass is blown, taste some old-fashioned Swedish soups, and take home your very own Dala horse .

Fika with the locals

Of course, when in doubt, you can always go for  fika – the Swedish tradition that loosely means huddling with friends or family for a chat over coffee and pastries ( there’s more info here ).

Stockholm has no shortage of cosy cafés in which to snuggle up with a cinnamon roll while the snow falls silently on the cobbles outside.

It can take a bit of exploring to find your favourite coffeehouse, but you might want to start somewhere cosy and local like Mariatorget in Södermalm , or tour the snug (albeit touristy) cafés on Stortorget in the Old Town.

This list rounds up some of the more  unusual cafés in Stockholm (you can even fika on a tram!).

You can also explore the Old Town with this unique self-guided exploration game that takes you around Stockholm’s most iconic buildings.

Go toboganning in Haga Park

At fist sight of the white stuff, do as the locals so – grab a toboggan and head off to Haga Park to the north of Stockholm in the suburb of Solna.

This beautiful landscaped park is home to several royal sites, including the Chinese Pavilion and the Haga Palace, but in main appeal in winter is the snowy slopes, where kids can hurtle downhill at high speed.

Check out the Christmas markets

Like other Scandinavian cities , Stockholm loves its Christmas markets.

If you’re visiting in the run up to the big day, it’s worth keeping your eyes peeled out for these little stalls, which help to make the dark days just a little bit brighter.

Vendors sell everything from seasonal candies to candles, decorations for the tree, jams, reindeer meat, and spiced glögg .

Head to Stortorget for the classic Gamla Stan Christmas market. This festive walking tour takes you round the old town and its market stalls and includes a traditional glass of mulled wine and gingerbread. 

Alternatively, you can head over to the more traditional crafts market at Skansen (see above).

Go kayaking!

OK, so it may not seem the most obvious winter activity but Stockholm’s waterways can be magical when covered in snow and frost. 

This half-day winter kayak tour is led by an experienced guide and provides you with all the gear you’ll need for the winter weather, plus a warming fika stop. There’s even an option of a sauna afterwards.

Need to warm up?

Wandering around sub-zero temperatures can be a chilly business! Fortunately, the area around Stockholm has some lovely places to warm up when the cold gets too much.

Here are some of our favourite options for warming up on a winter’s day.

Try a Swedish sauna

Swedes love saunas, and you may well want to book a hotel that has one. The upmarket Grand Hotel Stockholm has a lovely sauna and spa or, if you’re travelling with friends and family, you could rent a house with your own private sauna .

Alternatively, you can visit one of Stockholm’s spa and swimming pool complexes, like  Centralbadet  at Drottninggatan 88. 

Admission to this upscale place is a bit pricey, but the entrance fee will get you into the swimming pools, the thermal baths and a hydrotherapy pool, as well as the sauna.

A friendlier, more down-to-earth option is Farsta Simhall at Farstaängsvägen 3– set around a 25m pool, it comes with its own sauna, hot tub and kiddie training pool. Entry is a steal at around 100 SEK.

First time having a sauna in Sweden? This guide has info on what to expect .

Go ice-swimming

OK, so it may not seem like a good way to warm up, but once you’ve braved the ice-cold waters, that session in the sauna will seem like the warmest, most tropical experience ever!

Ice swimming is increasingly popular in Stockholm with regulars swearing by its health benefits, and there are several places where you can join the locals in this winter activity.

At Hellasgården , just 20 minutes south of city centre, there’s a jetty where you can plunge into the scenic Lake Källtorp, plus a sauna to warm up in afterwards – a swim and sauna session costs 100 SEK.

Or, if you can get a group together, you can book a swim in the waters of the archipelago, followed by a sauna, at the pretty, traditional wooden bathhouse, Saltsjöbadens , about 30 minutes outside the city centre.

For more ideas on taking to the waters outside, see our guide on where to go swimming in Stockholm .

Visit an indoor waterpark

But, of course, not everyone wants to plunge into icy waters.

If you’d rather warm up and soak your bones in an almost tropical environment, head to Västerås, a small city about one hour west of Stockholm and easy to reach using public transport .

The harbour area is home to the Kokpunkten Water Park . Housed in an old steam power plant (the name means ‘boiling point’), it stretches over three floors  full of heated pools and hot tubs.

There are also waves and slides galore. There’s an even an outdoor infinity pool that overlooks the docks – perfect if you want a nice hot soak while surrounded by snow.

And if you’re really having a good time you can stay overnight at the cool Steam Hotel , with its industrial-style decor and great views over Lake Mälaren. 

Hit the food halls

Take a break from the snowy streets in one of Stockholm’s classic food halls (called saluhallar in Swedish).

There are several around the city, but one of the oldest and best known is Östermalms Saluhall, which was founded in 1888 in a huge beautiful brick-built building in the district of Östermalm.

The original building has been completely renovated, and the fully-refurbished historic hall reopened in Spring 2020.

This indoor market is the perfect refuge during cold weather and is a great place to pick up smoked meats, cheeses, smoked fish, beverages and candy. The best part is no one will rush you, so you can easily while away an hour or so here.

Another popular food hall is the one on Hötorget , right in the city centre, where you’ll find everything from Finnish and Greek food to tasty Japanese snacks.

Söderhallarna, over on Medborgarplatsen, has some good restaurants below ground level, while K25 on Kungsgatan is a great option for Asian options and casual street food.

Eat at a themed restaurant

If warm food and central heating isn’t quite enough, consider eating at a themed restaurant.

Koh Phangan (with several branches across the city) does a good job of transporting diners to a dreamy Thai island, with fairy lights, fiery curries and cold bottles of Chang and Singha beer.

Or for something far more Scandinavian, how about a Viking-themed restaurant? The Aifur pub and bar is named after a Viking ship and decorated in the Viking style with long wooden benches.

It has live music and serves up Viking-style food, such as venison and rack of lamb. You can see more of Stockholm’s themed restaurants in this guide .

Check out Stockholm’s museums

It may seem obvious but winter is a great time to get your fix of culture and keep warm in Stockholm’s many museums and galleries.

The city has a fantastic variety of museums on a huge range of subjects, from the Nobel Prize ( Nobel Prize Museum ) to photography ( Fotografiska ) and 17th-century warships ( Vasa Museet ) to Strindberg ( Strindbergs Museet ).

Many of the city’s museums stay open late one evening a week for late-night browsing; some are completely free while others offer free entrance on certain afternoons or evenings.

For more info on Stockholm’s free museums, see our guide , or check out the Stockholm attractions available with the Go City Pass.

Hang out with tropical plants

Another fun way to escape the cold: pay a visit to Bergianska Trädgården , where the Edvard Anderson Conservatory, houses countless tropical and subtropical plants.

Opened in 1995 and nurtured by staff from Stockholm University, the greenhouse shelters plants from the Mediterranean, South Africa, Australia, California, and other places that are a bit less brrrr than Stockholm.

Here you can wander at leisure, enjoying the regulated warm air and perfumed air from the flowers. You can even warm yourself with a cup of cocoa in the café.

The gardens are at Veit Wittrocks Väg 5 and entry to the greenhouse is around 90 SEK, though if you’re feeling hardy you wander around the outside gardens for free.

Go to the cinema

There’s no reason to hole up in your hotel or Airbnb on winter evenings. Drop by  Indio , one of Stockholm’s oldest arthouse cinemas in artsy Södermalm.

This beautiful art deco cinema has one screen and a nice attached bar, so you can grab a beer before plopping down in front of an independent masterpiece. The cinema is at Hornstulls Strand 3.

Go Nordic skiing

If downhill skiing is a bit too much of an adrenaline-rush for you, why not try Sweden’s national sport and go Nordic skiing instead?

On this fantastic full-day tour , you’ll be picked up in a minibus and taken out to a frozen lake, where your instructor will teach you the basics of cross-country, or Nordic, skiing.

Then you’ll head off on skis along tracks through the woods and open countryside. 

Go on a ghost tour

OK, so this is not just a winter activity, but the spooky streets and winding alleyways of the Old Town are particularly atmospheric in winter. 

On this ghost tour , your knowledgable guide will take to the city’s oldest areas and fill you in on the hauntings, history and everyday happenings of Gamla Stan.  

And, on a cold foggy day, with snow on the ground, the horrific histories, gruesome ghosts and tales of public executions and harsh life in medieval Stockholm seem much more chilling.

Take a magical Christmas tour

To see Stockholm at its most festive best, why not take a magical Christmas tour with your own private guide? 

You’ll visit the city’s Christmas markets, learn all about the legends and stories associated with the Swedish celebrations, and sample some festive food and drink.

And if you’re with a large family or a group of friends, the price of the tour works out as not much more than a regular tour.

Go on a winter nature hike

Winter is a wonderful time of year to explore the woods and countryside outside Stockholm, with its snow-capped tree tops and icy lakes and rivers.

On this winter nature hike , your expert guide will take you to a nature reserve outside the city and teach you all about the native animals and plantlife.

You’ll then light a campfire, and cook a tasty lunch in the woods or by the lake.

Suggested itineraries

If you have a full weekend in Stockholm during winter, or even a whole week, you’re in for a treat. The main problem with a weekend will be deciding which activities to do and which ones to skip. With a week, you’ll have more time to explore beyond the city centre (which, in our opinion, is totally worth the effort!

Here are some suggestions for how to spend your time in and around the city.

A winter weekend in Stockholm

If you’ve only got a weekend, your problem is how to fit everything in – even in winter, there’s plenty to see and do in Stockholm. Your first must-do is a wander around Gamla Stan (the Old Town).

Its narrow medieval cobbled lanes and alleyways are particularly atmospheric in winter and perfect for getting lost in, while the main square Stortorget, lined with historic buildings, fills up with festive market stalls around Christmas time. 

Another must-do is to take a ferry across to the island of Djurgarden, with plenty of museums where you can happily while away a winter’s day. More interesting than it may sound, the impressive Vasamuseet houses a perfectly preserved 17th-century wooden warship, while the Thielska Galleriet is a treasure trove of contemporary Nordic art.

Entrance to these museums is included in the Stockholm Pass – check out our guide to see if buying one could save you money.

And if this is all a bit too much high culture for you, duck into the Abba Museum for a song and dance and to learn all about Sweden’s favourite group. 

Provided you’re wrapped up warm, the vast open-air Skansen museum is definitely worth exploring – it has reconstructed historic buildings, including whole villages, farms, workshops, manor houses and a windmill, with animals to feed and traditional handicraft exhibitions. There’s also usually a Christmas market here, with bonfires, candlelight and festive decorations.

A wintry week in Stockholm

Well, if you’re lucky enough to have a whole week in Stockholm, then you’ll be able to do a few trips and activities too.

A winter boat tour is an atmospheric way of seeing the city from the water – the boat can break through the ice even if the canals are frozen and you’ll be provided with cosy blankets to keep you warm as cruise around the city. 

Or for a more energetic excursion, you can go ice-skating on the frozen lakes or canals around the city .

Even complete novices can do this tour – all the gear is provided plus an expert guide.

And, of course, there’s always skiing. You don’t have to travel far from the city centre to find a ski resort when the weather’s cold – in fact, Hammarbybacken is just a ten-minute drive from Stockholm. Check out our guide for more on skiing in the Stockholm area . 

Cosy places to stay

One of the advantages of visiting Stockholm in winter is that the accommodation tends to be cheaper than in the peak summer season.

And there are plenty of cosy hotels, with roaring fires where you can warm up after a day’s sightseeing.

The Hotel Camper Downtown is a particularly good choice for winter, with a beautiful contemporary fireplace to gather round on a cold evening, plus a roof-top sauna and a steamy open-air pool heated to 38C, with views over the city.

And for a real traditional Swedish winter experience, how about this grass-roofed log cabin tucked away in the woods by the sea, but just a 20-minute drive from the city?

It’s got all you need to keep warm, including a wood-burning stove, sauna and outdoor hot tub.

See also: 110 cheap and free things to do in Stockholm Skiing in Stockholm Ice skating in Stockholm Visiting Copenhagen in the winter The best guided tours in Stockholm Is the Stockholm Pass worth it?

Where to go hiking near Stockholm

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Shop my Scandinavia guide with 200+ tips and map

• City Guide , Europe , Sweden , Travel

Stockholm in the Winter: What to Do, See & Eat

• December 21, 2019

it isn’t a secret that Stockholm is traditionally considered a summer city. With long sun-filled days, colourful facades, and mild temperatures that are suitable for roaming the city streets well into the bright evenings. In contrast winter is cold, it’s dark. So why would anyone want to visit Stockholm in the winter? 

Well, I happen to think that Stockholm is a great winter city – and I am going to tell you exactly why. The chilly temperatures provide the perfect atmosphere to get cozy. It is significantly less busy compared to summer months, which means you likely won’t be dodging other tourists. And there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy in the event that weather isn’t cooperating. 

Bundle up & strap on your most comfortable boots. here's a complete city guide to visiting Stockholm in the winter.

Things to do in stockholm in the winter, (or in any season, really), visit stockholm's old town: gamla stan.

Let’s start with the most obvious spot first: Gamla Stan . Aka, the city’s old town.

Gamla Stan is a beautiful district right in the heart of Stockholm where you can get lost in the maze of streets. Venture away from the main streets and you’ll find the coziest narrow alleyways and beautiful warm-toned facades. 

Tucked away in the middle of Gamla Stan you’ll find Mårten Trotzigs Gränd , which is a very narrow staircase alleyway filled with graffiti, and it is worth checking out.

Lastly, don’t forget to check out Stortorget , or “Big Square,” which is the old town’s main square. It is lined with beautiful buildings (and patios in the summer months). 

And  if you happen to be there around the holidays (like me), Stortorget is home to a charming Christmas market. It is definitely one of the smaller markets I’ve been to, but worth checking out and grabbing a cup of glögg (mulled wine). It is absolutely beautiful see, backed by the colourful buildings around the square.

Explore my favourite neighbourhood: Södermalm

Södermalm, also commonly (and affectionately) known as the “hipster” area of Stockholm, is just plain cool. Think of it as the Brooklyn of Stockholm, hosting all the best restaurants, bars, trendy stores, and coffee shops.

I’d recommend getting off at Medborgarplasen Station , with Götgatan as your starting point, and explore from there. Along Götgatan, you’ll find all kinds of cool shops to browse, which also serve as the perfect escape from the cold if it happens to be chilly outside.

After that, venture through the pretty streets of Katarina-Sofia, where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in the city (more on that below). Another cool stop is Soda Nation, a boutique soda shop with all kinds of unique sodas from all over the world (where I indulged in a “Jul” or “Christmas” soda).

Okay, so you’ve spent plenty of time roaming around outside and it’s starting to get a bit chilly. Why not take it indoors to one of Stockholm’s many museums.

My personal favourite museum was Fotografiska , a museum that features various photograph exhibits throughout the year. The work we saw was so unique and creative, and this was easily a highlight of my time in Stockholm. It costs 135 SEK (roughly 13 EUR or 14 USD) per person, and is worth every penny. I highly suggest visiting at nighttime (the museum is opened until 11PM on weekdays and 1AM on weekends) and take some time to visit the on-site bar for a drink. They often also host live music and other events – you can find out more details on their event calendar .

Stockholm is filled with many other museums, such as Moderna Museet , the popular Vasa Museet , and the  ABBA The Museum for all the Abba lovers out there. We didn’t have time to visit any of these this time, but I guess that just means we’ll need to go back and visit again soon.

step back in time at Skansen

Skansen is the worlds largest open-air museum, home to homesteads, animals, and shops that are supposed to represent the whole of Sweden. Here, you’ll be transported back in time as you walk the grounds of this museum. My personal favourite part: Watching the wolves play! They wrestled around with each other and looked just like the most adorable little pups, and I was just left wishing I could hop in the pen and play with them (even though that is obviously a VERY bad idea).

We visited Skansen during December for their annual Christmas market, which was easily the best Christmas market in Stockholm. There was live Swedish music, glögg, and tons of stalls to browse. They even had a stall where they were brewing beer over an open fire next the the stall – and the beer was delicious (you can see a picture of them stirring the malt below).

Visit Stadsbiblioteket

Stadsbiblioteket , or the Stockholm city library, is a stunning library. In the centre, you’ll find a large round room with a dome-shaped roof and floor-to-ceiling books. It is seriously breathtaking, and I felt like I was living out my childhood dream pretending I am Belle from Beauty and the Beast.

Explore the famous Stockholm Tunnelbana (metro) art

The Stockholm Tunnelbana   – the city’s metro system – has gained notoriety all over the world for it’s famed art installations. Since 1957, artists have been commissioned to revitalize many of Stockholm’s oldest metro stations. The results are SO COOL and have become a tourist attraction themselves.

We visited five different stations during our time in Stockholm and my only regret is we didn’t have time to see more. Here’s the five we visited:

Arguably my favourite, I loved the design of the artwork at T-Centralen (the central station). The station is full of trains and metro lines, and is quite overwhelming. But, just keep your eyes peeled for the Blue Line  and make your way toward that to find this masterpiece. 

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Things To Do In Stockholm In Winter – Best Attractions & Where To Stay

This post is also available in: French

Stockholm is stunning throughout the year, however, particularly for anyone visiting from more southerly locations, Sweden’s capital is a winter wonderland. The city stands on 14 of the roughly 30,000 islands that make up the Stockholm archipelago. In winter, the water that surrounds the city freezes over and snow dusts the rocky hilltops of Södermalm (the south island) like a scene straight from a Christmas card. As well as being picturesque, the city offers a variety of wonderful things to do during winter. It is also the best time of year to get an authentic taste of Stockholm life, as in summer many of the locals head to their summer houses in the archipelago, leaving the city to the tourists.

Table of Contents

Stockholm in winter: weather and daylight hours

Winter in Sweden officially begins when the average temperature for the day is 0˚C or below, for five days in a row, and ends when the average daily temperature once again rises above 0˚C, for seven days in a row (according to Sweden’s weather agency, SMHI). In Stockholm, this is usually between early December and mid-March. During these months the average temperature is just below 0˚C, however there can be days where it drops to -15˚C. While snow sometimes arrives as early as October, it isn’t always guaranteed, so for a better chance of experiencing the city in a blanket of white, it’s best to visit in January or February.

  Towards the end of the year Stockholm gets about six hours of daylight, with the sun rising at around 8:45 am and setting just before 3 pm. By the end of February, however, the number of daylight hours increases to roughly 10 hours a day. Swedes fend off the darkness with a plethora of fairy lights and candles, lighting up every window and doorway with a welcoming glow.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Things to do during winter in Stockholm

Christmas markets and new year’s eve fireworks.

Christmas in Stockholm is magical as the city is decorated with advent candles, stars, Yule goats (“julbock” – straw goats with their origins in pagan celebrations) and Christmas gnomes (“tomte” – a kind of Scandinavian Santa Claus). Stockholm is also home to what is said to be one of the tallest real Christmas trees in the world. At around 40 metres high and adorned with 5,000 lights, it is a Christmas sight worth seeing. Located at Skeppsbron, near the royal palace, it’s easy to drop by on route to the Gamla Stan Christmas market. Gamla Stan, meaning “the old town”, is a must see for any visitor to Stockholm, with it’s narrow, cobbled streets and old-world charm. At the centre lies the town square and, for most of December, one of thebusiest Christmas markets around. The wooden stalls offer a range of traditional foods and handicrafts, which make charming gifts for friends and family.

Another excellent Christmas market and all-around fun day out can be found at Skansen , the world’s oldest open-air museum, which showcases the history of Sweden through its original buildings and farms. Christmas at Skansen is celebrated by dancing around the Christmas tree in the town square, live music, and craft demonstrations. Skansen also has a zoo, with many Nordic animals such as wolves, lynx, and reindeer. Additionally, there is a children’s petting zoo and a large aquarium, including the World of Monkeys, which contains around 200 exotic species. New Year’s Eve celebrations at Skansen include a reading of Lord Tennyson’s poem “Ring out wild bells” on the main stage at midnight and Skansen’s location on top of a hill overlooking Stockholm provides perfect views of the city’s firework display, while a glass of champagne can be enjoyed from one of several on-site bars. Other places with great views of the fireworks include Skinnarviksberget, the city’s highest natural viewpoint, and two of the city’s main bridges, Västerbronand Skanstullsbron.

Skiing, skating and saunas

Swedes are active people and the weather doesn’t stop them. In winter, when the lakes freeze over, skating is a popular activity and there are several outdoor skating rinks in Stockholm. At the ice rink in Kungsträdgården, a large central park, skates are available to hire, lively music plays and there are also plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops in the surrounding area to explore. There are often other events going on in Kungsträdgården too, such as festivals of food, culture, and art. For people who want to get off the ice rink and out onto the frozen water, it is possible to skate both on the inner-city lakes as well as further out into the archipelago. Skating on natural ice can be dangerous, so it’s highly recommended to book a tour and go with an experienced guide who will have safety equipment and knowledge of the local conditions. Lessons for beginners are also available for those with little or no skating experience.

Downhill and cross-country skiing are also common winter activities, once the snow has arrived. Downhill skiing can be enjoyed at Hammarbybacken , which has a blue, red and black run and is easily accessible by public transport from central Stockholm. While Hellasgården , also close to the city centre, is popular for cross-country skiing. For a really Swedish experience, at Hellasgården it is possible to take a sauna before cooling off by jumping into the freezing lake, with a hole in the ice kept open during the winter for this very reason.

Getting into nature

There are also many ways to enjoy the beautiful winter scenery at a calmer pace. Stockholm itself is a beautiful place to just stroll around, with each island having its own character. However, there are several places to escape the bustle of urban life. Vinterviken, in south Stockholm, is a bay surrounded by cliffs and trees. It is here Alfred Nobel had his research laboratory and dynamite factory and is now a well-liked area for walks and relaxing. There is also a cafe serving light lunches and home-made baked goods. To experience Swedish nature further, just a 40-minute bus journey outside of the city center is Tyresta National Park, which has 55km of hiking trails through the unspoiled countryside, including forest, lakes and shoreline cliffs.

Click here for more information and to book a hike.

Exploring the archipelago

The archipelago is one of Stockholm’s best features and, while much of it freezes over in the winter, there are several routes that are kept open, making a boat trip essential. Winter archipelago boat tours last a few hours and include a tour guide to provide fun facts and stories about the islands. The boats have indoor and outdoor areas and wrapping up warm before heading out onto the deck is a good idea. It’s also possible to combine a boat tour with lunch; a great time saver with a luxurious feel.

Click here for more information and to book an archipelago cruise with a guide.

For those with more time to spare, there are many islands further out in the archipelago that are accessible during the winter months. Fjäderholmarna and Vaxholm are the closest islands to the city center and can be easily visited in a day. However, for a night away from the city, Finnhamn, Sandhamn, and Svartsö are great options. In winter, Finnhamn is incredibly peaceful and tranquil, there is not a lot to do there, but it is a lovely place to disconnect and enjoy nature. Sandhamn is one of the furthest islands out in the archipelago and is inhabited all year round, but as with all the islands, it is much less busy in winter. The island’s inn serves gourmet meals inspired by the sea. Svartsö lies in the middle of the archipelago and can be reached in a few hours from central Stockholm. Here it is possible to book a wood burning sauna or take a trip to neighboring Ljusterö via hovercraft across the frozen water.

Click here for more information and to book a day trip to the archipelago.

Museum hopping

If it really is too cold to spend time outside there are a number of excellent museums in Stockholm. One of the most famous is the Vasa Museum , home to the Vasa warship, which sunk in the archipelago in 1628, only to be salvaged from the seabed over 300 years later. The ship was incredibly well preserved, making it a truly impressive and unique sight. Another of Stockholm’s best museums is the Nordic Museum . It is Sweden’s largest museum of cultural history and has many exhibitions about everyday life in Sweden throughout the ages.

A more modern experience can be had at Fotografiska (the museum of photography); a popular destination for tourists and Stockholmers alike. Aside from its world-class photography exhibitions, Fotografiska has an excellent cafe, restaurant and bar, with stunning views across the water to the north. At weekends there is a highly-recommended brunch buffet, with seasonal, plant-based dishes and a noteworthy dessert table.

Fika (meaning a coffee and cake break) is a Swedish institution at any time of year, but is particularly important in winter, not least because there are several days dedicated to certain types of cake throughout the winter months. The first is cinnamon bun (kanelbullar) day, celebrated on October 4. Then comes Lucia, the festival of lights, on December 13, which is celebrated with saffron buns (lussekatter). Christmas brings an abundance of gingerbread (pepparkakor), typically enjoyed with a type of mulled wine (glögg) replacing the usual coffee. After Christmas, in February, is Shrove Tuesday, meaning February and March are awash with cream and marzipan filled buns (semlor). Whatever the month, for any visitor it is important to fika often, as there is nothing more satisfyingly Swedish than cosying up in a warm cafe with a hot cup of coffee and home-made cake.

Where to eat in Stockholm during winter

Christmas buffets and swedish food.

From the end of November until Christmas, many restaurants serve traditional Christmas buffets (julbord). This typically comprises of pickled herring, white fish, salmon, meatballs, beetroot salad, cheeses, sausages, and ham. While there are restaurants all over that serve excellent julbords, Fjäderholmarnas Krog , provides the opportunity to combine a trip to the archipelago with a Christmas dinner. With stunning scenery, a glowing fireplace and an extensive buffet, it is the ultimate in luxury Swedish Christmas dining experiences.

While the traditional julbord is not so vegetarian-friendly, there are some restaurants with excellent vegetarian alternatives. Hermans is a vegetarian restaurant worth visiting any time of year, but which has a delicious range of vegetarian and vegan foods on its julbord. The restaurant itself sits high on a hill overlooking the water across Stockholm and is situated on one of the oldest streets in the city, giving the feeling of stepping back in time.

Seafood is a big part of Swedish cuisine and Stockholm Fisk is one of the best Seafood restaurants in the city. At Christmas they serve a huge seafood buffet, however, the menu is excellent all year round. For more of a hearty Swedish dish, Pelikan , located in a one-hundred-year-old beer hall, is a good option, serving classic dishes such as meatballs and mashed potato as well as Västerbotten cheese pie. A more sophisticated alternative is  Fem Små Hus , located in the vaulted cellars of Gamla Stan, serving Swedish cuisine with a touch of French inspiration. It also has a small, stylish bar, perfect for a pre-dinner drink or two.

Another superb winter location for lunch, dinner or just a coffee or a few drinks, is Orangeriet, located by the edge of the water on Kungsholmen. There is a more formal restaurant in the same location (Trattorian), but the casual bar, which also serves food, is one of the coziest winter spots in Stockholm, with a huge fireplace in the center of the room, surrounded by comfy armchairs covered with cushions, overlooking the frozen lake.

Where to stay in Stockholm

Stockholm is relatively small and it is possible to travel across the inner city in around half an hour using public transport, so choosing which area to stay in is really just a matter of taste and budget. For a bit of luxury, some of the best waterside views and a central location, Grand Hotel is the ideal choice. Aside from the spa, Grand Hotel is also home to award-winning Swedish chef Mathias Dahlgren’s Michelin-starred, modernbistro Matbaren and his more recently opened, vibrant vegetarian restaurant Rutabaga.

Click here to check the latest prices and to book a room.

The boutique-style Lydmar Hotel is also centrally located and overlooks the water across to the Royal Palace. It has a comfortable-but-luxury feel and quirky-yet-stylish interior design. On Sundays there is a DJ in the restaurant/lounge area, creating a laid-back vibe and an enjoyable way to while away the afternoon.

On the other side of town, in the hipster hotspot of Södermalm, is Hotel Rival , owned by ABBA’s Benny Andersson and with subtle nods to this throughout. The hotel also boasts several fashionable bars and a lively cafe.

Despite Stockholm’s high prices, there is also more budget accommodation available, including several options that provide something a bit different from the usual hotel experience, such as one of the boat hostels moored along the side of the lake Mälaren, each with stunning views across the city. There is also a hostel and hotel situated inside the old prison on the island of Långholmen, which includes a restaurant and a museum exhibiting the 250 year history of the prison, which closed in 1975.

What to pack for Stockholm in winter

As the Swedes say, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes,” however a large suitcase might be necessary for a winter trip to Stockholm, filled with winter boots , a warm coat , hat, gloves, scarf, thick socks and many, many layers to deal with changeable weather and going from the extremely-warm indoors to the freezing-cold outdoors. The streets get slushy and icy during the winter so it pays to have sensible shoes; something with a soft rubber sole typically works best to avoid sliding around too much, particularly on the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan. Swedes manage to stay stylish while protecting themselves against the winter weather, with a wool coat and black boots being pretty standard for men and women and recommended for those wanting to fit in with the crowd.

One important point to bear in mind when traveling in winter is that while the local authorities are typically very good at keeping public transport running, with an army of snowplows and gritting machines, there are rare occasions when airports are closed and buses and trains don’t run. This is usually only if there is unexpectedly heavy snow, but it pays to have some contingency time built into travel plans, particularly if traveling in early winter.

No one makes winter feel as cozy and sophisticated as the Swedes. So for anyone who is excited by the idea of the orange glow of the candles contrasted against the cold blue of the icy lakes, then Stockholm is the ultimate winter travel destination.

Laura is a Nordics-obsessed Brit currently living in Sweden where she writes about reindeer and kanelbullar. You can find her on instagram @stockholmsoul

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20 Things to do in Stockholm in Winter (2023)

Wondering what to do in Sweden’s capital in winter? Look no further. These are the 20 best things to do in Stockholm come December!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I make a small commission at no extra cost to you if you kindly choose to book via my links!

The days may be short and the temperatures may be low, but don’t let that stop you from visiting Stockholm in winter. It’s during this time of the year that the hip capital of Sweden comes alive!

Come December, Stockholm turns into a winter wonderland. The streets get bedazzled with fairy lights and twinkling Christmas trees. The Old Town fills up with festive Christmas markets. Ice-skating rinks pop up throughout the city.

There are so many fun things to do in Stockholm in winter, so rug up, and get ready for a magical side to this Scandi city!

Stockholm All-Inclusive Attractions Pass

If you’re planning to do a selection of activities from this list, it may be worth buying a Stockholm all-inclusive attractions pass . You can choose your pass duration (from 1- 5 days) and you’ll get entry to over 45 attractions, galleries, museums, boat tours and more around Stockholm.

You can check pricing + purchase a Stockholm all-inclusive attraction pass here.

1. Visit the World’s Longest Art Gallery

2. admire stockholm’s public library, 3. go on a self-guided walking tour of gamla stan, 4. watch the royal guards ceremony at the royal palace, 5. peruse stockholm’s modern art museum, 6. explore the old town christmas market, 7. visit the marzipan boat market, 8. try some heart-warming swedish food, 9. check out the international film festival, 10. go for fika, 11. visit the fascinating vasa museum, 12. take part in a stockholm food tour, 13. take a guided tour of the stockholm city hall, 14. visit stockholm’s abba the museum, 15. go on the stockholm fire and ice tour, 16. explore stockholm via ferry, 17. winter kayaking, 18. visit drottningholm palace, 19. explore the world’s oldest open-air museum, 20. go skiing at hammarbybacken, stockholm in winter faq, free things to do in stockholm in winter.

Riding the subway may sound like a strange suggestion of what to do in Stockholm in winter, but hear me out. This is seriously one of the coolest things to do in the city!

Around 90 or so of Stockholm’s underground stations have been decorated by artists who have created a funky variety of designs for each station. This makes the 110-kilometre stretch of subway stations the world’s longest art gallery.

Address : Check out this guide to Stockholm’s Subway Art to find out all the best stations to visit.

Listed as one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, a visit to the Stockholm Public Library is a must-do. Indoor activities like this are key to surviving Stockholm in winter! Designed by the famous architect Gunnar Asplund, it’s one of the city’s most notable structures.

The stucco-clad exterior of the building is a striking composition of a cylinder rising out of a rectangular base. The interior is even more magnificent, with three stories of books forming the circular walls of the building.

Address: Sveavägen 73, 113 80 Stockholm

By Taryn from Happiest Outdoors

If you visit Stockholm in winter, don’t miss the old town, Gamla Stan. The 13th-century town is situated across several interconnected small islands at the edge of the Baltic Sea archipelago.

The maze of cobbled streets, tiny alleyways, soaring church spires, and quaint squares are perfect for wandering through. Most of the district is closed to cars, making it perfect to explore on foot.

To make sure you hit the key sights, take a self-guided Gamla Stan walking tour . The tour is totally free and lets you set your own pace. Alternatively, you can book an Old Town Walking Tour to have an expert local guide show you around.

By Lucy and Dan from Thoroughly Travel

The Changing of the Royal Guard is an activity not to be missed on a trip to Stockholm in Winter. It’s a colourful military tradition that dates all the way back to the 1500s! Those on a budget in Stockholm will be pleased to know attendance is free.

During winter in Stockholm, a ceremony is held on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 12:15pm, with a parade held on Sunday at 1:15pm. Try to arrive 10 minutes early for a front-row position to this historical procession, which takes place in the Royal Palace’s Outer Courtyard.

Afterwards, escape the cold and explore inside the Royal Palace, which is one of Europe’s largest. As the official residence of the King of Stockholm, the Baroque-style Royal Palace consists of 11 floors of 600 ornately decorated staterooms and three museums.

Cost : Admission inside the Royal Palace costs 160 SEK for adult and 80 SEK for kids. The tickets include entrance to the Royal Apartments, the Treasury and the Tre Kronor Museum.

Address : Kungliga slottet, 107 70 Stockholm

By Alina from World of Lina

Another one of the best things to do in Stockholm in winter is visit the Modern Art Museum, the “Moderna Museet”. This museum is located on the island of Skeppsholmen, not far from Stockholm Palace (which is one of the most famous landmarks in Sweden ).

As the name indicates the museum houses a great selection of modern and contemporary art pieces. This includes pieces from famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí and Henri Matisse. Plus, if you head to the museum between 6pm-10pm on a Friday, you can get in for free.

Address : Exercisplan 4, 111 49 Stockholm

Christmas things to in Stockholm in Winter

If you are visiting Stockholm in December, do not miss the city’s fabulous Christmas markets! The Old Town Christmas Markets are a small cluster of cheerful cherry-red stalls nestled in Stortoget Square. The square dates back to medieval times and is surrounded by a mishmash of colourful buildings from bygone centuries.

The stalls sell various Christmas goods ranging from hand-decorated local crafts to Swedish Christmas market food and drink. Try your luck at one of the game stalls. Or, go for a wander whilst clasping a steaming mug of glögg (mulled wine) or hot chocolate topped with cream and marshmallows.

Address : Stortorget, 111 29 Stockholm

If you’re looking for festive things to do in Stockholm in December, visit the Marziban boat market! This is a Christmas market located on a 1930s ferry moored at the quay. Scamper aboard to sample all the sweets you can get your hands on!

There is a bounteous supply of the finest quality marzipan. They also have a great selection of other sweet treats in the form of chocolate, toffee, truffles, mints, and jams. It’s the perfect place to buy a Christmas present for your loved ones.

Address : Strandvägskajen 18, 114 37 Stockholm

Indoor Things to Do in Stockholm in Winter

If you’re visiting Stockholm in winter, you will need some serious comfort food to keep you warm. Thankfully, Swedish cuisine is seriously hearty! Here are some of the most iconic Swedish foods to try in Stockholm during winter:

Swedish Meatballs – You can’t leave Sweden without eating everyone’s favourite IKEA meal. Meatballs are served in a creamy sauce with mashed or boiled potatoes and accompanied by lingonberry sauce. Comfort food doesn’t get better than this!

Kroppkakor – Kroppkakro is another popular dish made up of, you guessed it, meat and potatoes! Potato dumplings are typically filled with fried pork and topped with bechamel and lingonberry sauce.

Pickled Herring – Pickled herring is a very traditional Swedish dish, dating back hundreds of years. Still to this day, it is served around Christmas, Easter and Midsummer. If you are visiting Sweden in winter, it’s a food you have to try at least once!

Kalops – This hearty meat stew is the perfect dish to eat during winter in Stockholm. Meat in slow-cooked with allspice and bay leaves, then served with picked beetroot and boiled potatoes.

by Izzy from The Gap Decaders

One of the best things to do when you visit Stockholm in winter is to check out the International Film Festival. Inaugurated in 1990, the film festival is held annually in the second half of November.  

The city comes alive during the festival, as celebrities visit and regular screenings take place in Stockholm’s cinemas, namely Skandia, Victoria, Sture, Zita, Filmhuset and Klarabiografen. There are also digital and live seminars and the opportunity to meet international filmmakers and actors.

Cost : To attend screenings and other events, you need to purchase festival membership online , which costs 300SEK for a year. You can buy tickets for the films and events you want to attend during the festival.

While in Sweden partaking in fika is a must – particularly during winter. This is a great Swedish tradition that consists of meeting with a friend to chat over coffee and a sweet treatin the warmth of a cosy café or bakery.

Cinnamon buns (kanelbullar) have got to be the most popular treat to have for fika. Valhallabageriet, Gateau, Rosendals Trädgård and Fabrique are highly-rated bakeries around Stockholm that offer exceptional buns and other Fika treats.

Alternatively, book a guided Fika tour to have a local show you the ins and outs of this Swedish social ritual (and try some delicious treats along the way!)

By Kristin from Global Travel Escapes

If you’re visiting Stockholm for a limited amount of time , one attraction you won’t want to pass up on is the Vasa Museum. This museum is dedicated to the 17th century Vasa Ship, which sank in the Stockholm Harbor just 20 minutes after it set sail!

Inside, visitors have the opportunity to learn all about the story of this incredible ship as well as Stockholm’s history during the time period. There’s also a film visitors can watch to gain insight on exactly how the ship was recovered from the hundreds of feet below the water’s surface.

Address : Galärvarvsvägen 14, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden

Cost : 170 SEK (October – April); 190 SEK per adult (May – September). Pre-book your tickets here.

By Kasia from Perfect Day Somewhere

If you’re wondering what to do in Stockholm in winter, look no further than the Stockholm Food Tour. The tour takes place in various neighbourhoods around Stockholm and includes stops at local markets, food shops, and restaurants.

This food tour is a perfect winter activity for the following reasons:

• It’s a fun and interactive way to explore the city and learn about Stockholm’s history and food culture.
• Many of the dishes and food items featured on the tour are perfect for the cold winter months. Think hearty stews, cured meats, and warm breads.
• The tour mostly takes place indoors and out of the cold. This means you can enjoy the culinary experience without having to brave Stockhom’s winter weather!

Starting Point :  Östermalms Saluhall

Cost : You can find out pricing + book your food tour here .

by Kenny from Knycx Journeying   

As one of the city’s most striking landmarks, Stockholm’s City Hall is a great place to escape from the winter weather. Located on the waterfront and within walking distance of the main train station, it is one of the  must-see places in Stockholm .

Built in 1923, the Stockholm City Hall was originally the city’s civil office. Nowadays, it functions as a government office and is also the venue for the Nobel Prize ceremony. If you want to peek into the beautiful rooms of this landmark, be sure to sign up for a 45-minute guided tour.

Cost : The guided tour is about 45 minutes, it costs 90 Krona (~ US$8) and the Stockholm Pass holders can enjoy free entry. 

Address : Hantverkargatan 1, 111 52 Stockholm

By Emma from Travel on a Time Budget

If you’re a fan of Abba, then a visit to the ‘ Abba the Museum ’ is a perfect thing to do on a winter day in Stockholm. Not only will it get you out of the weather and into the warm, but it’s also a really feel-good thing to do which is bound to lift your spirits!

There is a range of things to see and do in this unique museum. These include displays of costumes, records and other interesting memorabilia, plus information on the history of the band and the four members.

The museum is also interactive which adds to the fun of it. You can go into a recording booth and sing some songs, mix some music and join holograms of the band on stage. At the end, there’s even a dance floor where you can bop along to some of Abba’s most iconic songs.  

Address : Djurgårdsvägen 68, 115 21 Stockholm, Sverige

Cost : See pricing + pre-book your tickets to the Abba Museum here.

Outdoor things to do in Stockholm in Winter

By Alison from the Gallivanting Spoon

The Stockholm Fire and Ice Tour is a great way to rejuvenate your body in the wintertime. This fun all-day excursion includes a very scenic bike ride, a sauna, a rustic lodge lunch, and even a cold plunge into an icy lake!

The guided tour starts in the centre of Stockholm, where you hop on bikes and ride for half an hour to the natural reserve. Next, you’ll relax in the sauna before the ultimate adrenaline rush of a cold plunge into a lake! Finally, you’ll cozy up by the fireplace and enjoy a well-deserved lunch with wine and beer.

Cost : This all-day affair will put you back about $280 but it is well worth the unique experience.

By Noel with USA Road Trip Now

Exploring the city by ferry is one of the cheapest and best things to do in Stockholm during winter! Stockholm is a city built on islands, so there is no better way to explore the many neighbourhoods than from a water vantage point.

The ferry system is part of Stockholm’s SL public transport network. This means you can use a contactless card or mobile device for pay-as-you-go travel on all ferry services, which is fairly inexpensive. This will save you the money you’d spend on a touristy boat ride around the city and allow you to travel through the city like a local!

by JJ from Travel Across the Borderline

One of the best things to do during the winter in Stockholm is to go kayaking. Winter kayaking is a unique experience and very different from kayaking in the summer. The water will be full of ice that you’ll need to smash a path through with your oats. This is all part of the fun!

Once you are on the water, you will find yourself surrounded by stunning icy views of the Swedish archipelago. You can explore small islands, go around rocky outcrops and take in the stunning winter scenery.

The best place for winter kayaking is Vaxholm, which is a short bus ride from the centre of Stockholm. You can rent kayaking gear or book a guided tour of the archipelago at Skargardens Kanocenter. Make sure to wear several layers of warm clothing and pack a dry suit in case of emergencies.

By Gabi from Under Flowery Sky

Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site belonging to the Swedish royal family, is a must-visit in winter. The palace dates back to the 17th century. With its elegant gardens and lake, it holds a similar allure and beauty to Versaille.

The entire Palace is open to the public, except the southern wing where the royal family lives. Beyond the main building, the Palace consists of a Theatre, Church and Chinese Pavilion. The theatre itself still holds performances, particularly during summer.

Drottningholm Palace is located on the lovely Lovön island Ekerö municipality. Ekerö is actually a peninsula, easily reachable by metro and bus from Brommaplan. There are also boat tours that depart from Stockholm City Hall, which is a popular way to visit the Palace. 

Cost : The gardens are free to visit, but entry inside the palace costs SEK 130 (US$16.30) for an adult and SEK 65 (US$8.10) for a concession.

Address : 178 93 Drottningholm, Sweden

By Holly from Budget Bon Voyage

Skansen is the world’s oldest open-air museum and is another great thing to do in Stockholm in winter. Here, you can learn about Swedish history from 1720 to the present day.

At Skansen, you can see traditional Swedish houses and farmsteads from across the country all in one place. There is also a wildlife park where you can see Bison, Moose and Reindeer, as well as the Baltic Sea Science Centre and Skansen aquarium.

As Skansen is mostly outdoors, make sure you wrap up warm during the winter. Also, bring some comfortable sturdy boots as you may encounter some snow or ice.

How to get there : To get to Skansen from the city centre, you can walk, ride a bike or take the number 7 tram which takes you to the front entrance of the museum.

Cost : Adults from 185 SEK depending on the season. Children from 70 SEK. Children under 4 always have free entry. You can pre-purchase your ticket here.

By Jessie Moore from Pocket Wanderings

For a fun adventure-filled day trip just outside of the city, head to Hammarbybacken ski resort. With the snow-covered hills and beautiful views, it’s the ideal winter activity in Stockholm. 

Featuring a green run and a blue run, it’s a great little  ski resort for beginners . There are also plenty of red and black runs and a snow park featuring jumps, boxes and rails for more experienced skiers.  The ski resort is also very family-friendly, with a children’s area, wind shelter and café serving up a wide menu of comforting food.

How to get here: Take the number 74 bus and get off at Sickla Quay stop, then it’s a short walk to get to Hammarbybacken.

How many hours of daylight does Stockholm get during winter?

Winter in Stockholm begins in December and carries on through to March. Although Stockholm receives more daylight hours than the rest of the country during winter, the days are still short. December 21st marks the shortest day of the year, with 6.05 hours of daylight in total.

What is the weather like in Stockholm in Winter?

To put it bluntly, Stockholm in winter is very cold. December, January and February are the coldest months of the year. The temperature during this time sits at an average of 1°C during the day. However, it can drop down to as low as -15˚C.

On the plus side, Stockholm in winter is pretty dry compared to other European cities. The air feels very crisp. As long as you come prepared to Stockholm with lots of warm winter clothing, you will be more than fine!

Will it snow in Stockholm in December?

If you’re hoping for a white Christmas in Sweden, you may just be in luck! It is very likely to snow in December in Stockholm. On average, snow is observed on 20% of those days, with the likelihood of a snow shower increasing towards the end of the month.

Get more winter travel inspiration:

• Why You Should Visit Helsinki in Winter
• Winter Packing Tips: A Guide
• 10 Best Things To Do in Hokkaido in the Winter

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STOCKHOLM WINTER TRAVEL: WHAT TO DO IN 3 DAYS IN STOCKHOLM SWEDEN

I visited Stockholm, Sweden in February in the dead of Stockholm winter after wanting to visit this Nordic city for a while and paired it with a trip to the North of Sweden. I spent 3 days in Stockholm exploring this city made up of thousands of islands that delivers stunning views, beautiful European architecture and a huge food scene. And if you know Nordic winters – they are COLD. Keep reading for how to travel during Stockholm Winter and what to do in 3 days in Stockholm.

Disclosure: This “Stockholm winter travel guide” guide may contain affiliate links. I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As always, all opinions are my own and I would never post about something I have not personally used/verified.

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Stockholm Winter Travel Tips

• If you want to head up to Swedish Lapland during your time in Stockholm, check out my detailed Swedish Lapland travel guide and Sweden Country Guide . Again, we did this in the dead of winter and it was stunning.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world. We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads . This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. 

Stockholm Packing Tips: Stockholm is coldddddd in the winter and not SO warm in the summer. Pack accordingly. These hand and toe warmers are my lifesaver for cold destinations (buy here) . I would not have survived around Stockholm without them. For the rest of my fave travel essentials I bring on any trip compiled together, head to my influencer page on Amazon here for a complete list or my descriptive carry-on packing guide here !

How To Get To Stockholm

The main airport you will fly into internationally is Stockholm-Arlanda Airport. Most airlines fly here as it is a major hub. We took Norwegian Air from NYC and I really loved the airline. They were extremely nice and the seats had a large amount of leg space (compared to US airlines). We also had an empty middle seat between us so that was huge for the overnight flight!

Once arrived, there are 3 ways to get to the main area of Stockholm:

• High-Speed Train: 196 SEK ($21): Book this 30 days in advance for this price, if closer to date will be a little more. 20 minute ride, runs every 15 minutes from airport. Goes to Central Station in Norrmalm (T-Centralen). We took this route and highly suggest – train was clean and quick. Book Stockholm train here.
• Coach Bus:  99 SEK ($11): 35-45 minute ride, runs every 10-15 minutes. Goes to Central Station in Norrmalm (Cityterminalen). Most popular route due to price, but takes a longer time and is dependent on traffic. Book Stockholm bus here .
• Taxi : 675 SEK ($70). Around 45 minute drive.

Related Post: Sweden Travel Guide

3 DAYS IN STOCKHOLM ITINERARY

Stockholm consists of thousands of islands (the largest archipelago in Sweden) with a few main ones to note and visit. Even in the middle of Stockholm winter, this city is beautiful and you must take advantage of the different islands and seeing them from the water – as long as you wear layers!

Day One In Stockholm

Spend full morning in gamla stan.

The Old Town of Gamla Stan is a tiny, tiny island in the center of the city and is the main area of Stockholm . It includes the main square and the Royal Palace and is very touristy, however, this island is the cutest! You can get lost in the little winding streets for hours. I suggest spending half of your first day in your 3 days in Stockholm in Gamla Stan . Find more information on Gamla Stan here . Here is what to do in Gamla Stan:

• Stotorget : The famous square with lines of colorful buildings. Just stand in here and admire the beauty and people.
• Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet) : See the Changing of the Guards during the day and/or do a tour inside of the Palace.
• Swedish Parliament (Riksdag) : Can do a tour inside if interested.
• Alley of Mårten Trotzigs : The smallest street in country – can touch both sides at once!
• Västerlånggatan   Street : Main tourist/souvenir shop drag.
• Walk around the hundreds of winding tiny streets and get lost, eat and shop.

Related Post: Swedish Lapland Travel Guide

Spend Afternoon/Evening In Sodermalm

Sodermalm is the trendy/young area and is south of Gamla Stan. It was also voted one of the coolest neighborhood in Europe by Vogue a few years ago.

• Fotografiska :  really good contemporary photography exhibitions, along the waterfront. good cafe/coffee place on top floor w good views
• Monteliusvägen :  Walk to this small walking path that starts on Mariatorget for the best view of Stockholm (best sunset viewing point).
• SoFo:  Trendiest area of Sodermalm. Lots of cool restaurants/bar/clubs, definitely have dinner here tonight (restaurant recommendations below).

Related Post: St. Petersburg Russia Travel Guide

Day Two In Stockholm

Morning in djugarden: 2-3 hours.

Djugarden is also known as the Museum Island and is a really pretty, green island to walk around (as well as visit all the museums).

• Vasa Museum : Must do, a massive ship that sank in 1628 and they resurrected in one piece.
• Skansen Museum : Open-air interactive museum that shows the Swedish way of life, architecture, zoo. A very kid-oriented, young tour.
• ABBA Museum : If you are into ABBA then it is a must-see.
• Grona Lund : Big amusement park (better for an activity in summer).

Boat Ride Around Stockholm Archipelago

As I mentioned, Stockholm is a massive Archipelago: the name for all of the little islands around Stockholm is Skärgård . You MUST take a boat tour (even in the winter!!!) operated by Stromma Boat Tours . This was a highlight of my time in Stockholm and highly recommended! It is a great way to see all the islands and the outsides of the city. It was so, so picturesque in the winter with snow on all the islands. The tour is 1.5 hours and leaves from Stromkajen.

Afternoon In Ostermalm & Norrmalm

Ostermalm and Norrmalm are nice, popular areas north of Gamla Stan where a lot of Swedes live and are bustling with locals and tourists alike. This is generally the main, busiest area of the city and is on the mainland of Sweden .

• Strandvagen Boulevard :  a popular upmarket street to shop on, especially the prestigious department store Svenskt Tenn .
• Ostermalms SaluHall :  historic food market, great spot for lunch today!
• Sergel’s Torg (Central Square) : nice, bustling square in the middle

Related Post: Reykjavik City Travel Guide

Day Three In Stockholm

Half-day trip outside of stockholm.

Drottningholm Palace is a world UNESCO heritage site and is a massive gorgeous palace inspired by Versailles that is a quick trip from Stockholm. I highly recommend doing this for a half-day tour from Stockholm! Have to take steamer boat here which runs from Stockholm and is super easy to catch. You can buy your round trip boat tickets to Drottningholm here in advance !

Afternoon Metro Station Hop

The Stockholm metro stations have awesome art installations in them. It is known as the largest art exhibit in the world . I suggest getting on the subway and just getting on and off at random stops to walk around underground. There are also official metro station tours to take – book a metro tour here!

Related Post: 6 Day Iceland Itinerary

If you’re going to Stockholm during Christmas, read this perfect Christmas Stockholm guide !

Check out this other great itinerary for some inspiration while visiting Stockholm .

Where To Eat In Stockholm

Swede’s love their  Fika break , which is just coffee break during the day! You have to take advantage of their favorite pasttime. If you go during Stockholm Winter, you must try Semla . This is their signature pastry only available during this time period and it is delicious. Every main restaurant/cafe/bakery serves it! The Semla in Stockholm is delicious and can’t be missed in-season in winter in Stockholm.

Coffee/Breakfast/Lunch in Stockholm

• Drop Coffee Roasters : Stockholm coffee staple, good small plates.
• Kaffekoppen : Famous, cozy coffee hangout in Stotorget. Must go. The bottom floor is a cave/cellar and the food, drinks and hot chocolate (served in a bowl) are amazing.
• Greasy Spoon : Brunch of all brunch spots.
• Pom & Flora : Another must-visit brunch spot.
• Barobao : Amazing trendy lunch spot.
• STHLM Brunch Club : Good staple brunch food, sick milkshakes.
• Ostermalm Saluhall : Food market in Ostermalm.

Best Restaurants in Stockholm

• Sturehof : Amazing culinary destination, famous and expensive.
• Brasserie Le Rouge : Very good, famous, expensive restaurant.
• Koh Phangan : Popular Pan Asian food. Really cool atmosphere and decorations. Amazing Pad Thai.
• Pelikan : Award-winning menu, restaurant decorated like Ikea.
• Herman’s : Mostly a local’s spot. Vegetarian buffet with amazing views and food. Unlimited food for cheap. Student discount with ID also. There is also live music Saturday nights from 7-9pm.
• Fem Små Hus : Speciality Swedish food, next to royal palace.
• Smak : Creative multi-dish dinner. Good deal; 3 dishes for $40.
• Grill : 8 different themed rooms, very cool and good food.
• Babette : Trendy pizza/wine place, casual, Michelin star.

Click all the restaurant links above to find out more/make reservations!

Related Post: What To Do In London On Your Own

Stockholm Nightlife

• Morfar Ginko : Trendy big club.
• Indigo : Colorful bar on the main street in Sodermalm with fun drinks.
• Tweed Bar : Good trendy cocktail bar.
• Pharmarium : Themed cocktail bar & good light food in Gamla Stan.
• Corvina Enoteca : Extensive wine bar in Gamla Stan.
• Aifur Krog & Bar : Viking-like traditional bar.
• Snaps Bar and Bistro : Trendy Sodermalm bar.
• Stampen : live music, great cocktails, jazz bar.

Click the bar links above to find out more!

Where To Stay In Stockholm

I stayed with my cousin who lives there in the Norrmalm area and it was perfect. I suggest staying in Norrmalm or Sodermalm depending on your interests. Everything is walking distance and very close. Search and book Stockholm hotels here !

AIRBNB Stockholm : There are also so many cute apartments in Stockholm with extra nice hosts. They are generally cheaper than hotels so if you like the Airbnb route instead of hotels I definitely recommend it. Also, if you use my Airbnb link you get $40 off your first stay!

Search and book Stockholm hotels here !

Like this 3 day Stockholm itinerary guide? Pin it for later or share with friends!

Did I miss something in this 3 day Stockholm Winter Itinerary that you loved? Let me know in the comments for my next visit! See the rest of my Sweden country travel guide here ! Looking to head North to Swedish Lapland? Check out my Swedish Lapland (Abisko and Kiruna) travel guide here !

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About The Author

Rachel Shulman is the owner of From East To West and a seasoned traveler having been to 45+ countries and no intention of stopping soon. She is obsessed with planning and specializes in creating detailed, efficient travel itineraries and guides so you don’t have to when planning your next destination.

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Stockholm in Winter for First Time Visitors

Stockholm in winter is always a good idea in my opinion. Sure, you’ll need to bundle up so you don’t freeze to death while you’re out exploring, but it’s worth cramming those extra clothing layers in your suitcase, I promise.

I just returned from a visit to Stockholm myself and ended up loving this city so much. To be honest, I had not done much research before my trip, so I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I assure you, I was not disappointed.

There is so much to see and do in Stockholm, from taking a walking tour around old town to joining a boat tour around the city’s islands to visiting city hall, or my personal favorite, sampling all the delicious restaurants.

I found winter to be a perfect time to visit Stockholm, even if it was a bit on the chilly side. The city was covered in festive holiday decorations and the Christmas markets were in full swing. I just loved wandering around the old town area sipping mulled wine, taking pictures, and watching the locals and their families enjoy the holidays.

Visitors to Stockholm in winter will also get to enjoy the city with fewer tourists and lower prices on flights and hotel rooms.

Want to know more? Keep reading.

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Table of Contents

Stockholm in Winter Travel Guide

Winter in Stockholm runs from mid December to mid March. December is the wettest month with the most precipitation, but for the record, Stockholm weather in winter is COLD. If you’re curious, February is typically the coldest.

Here are the average temperatures per month in winter in Stockholm. My blog has an international audience, so I am providing average temperatures in both Fahrenheit (F) and Celsius (C).

• November 37.4 (F) / 3 (C)
• December: 31.5 (F) / -0.3 (C)
• January: 29.1 (F) / 1.6 (C)
• February: 29 (F) / – 1.6 (C)
• March: 34.2 (F) / 1.2 (C)

In case you’re wondering, I included November because that’s when the holiday market opens up, though technically winter does not begin until the following month.

If you plan to do quite a bit of sightseeing while in Stockholm, I encourage you to take a look at the Stockholm Pass . It’s a city pass that get’s you into the city’s biggest tourist attractions for a big discount.

Just make sure you plan to visit enough places to make the pass worth it. If you don’t plan to be around Stockholm for at least two days, you’ll be better off paying regular admission at whichever attractions you visit.

Also, just a few tips for visiting Stockholm during winter:

• When you visit Stockholm in winter you’ll want to dress warmer than you think you need to. This means a thick winter coat, hat, scarf, and mittens or gloves.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes. Stockholm is very walkable, but it’s also kind of big so you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Don’t forget warm socks.
• Get up early to explore the old town area of Gamla Stan. It’s a lovely area to explore especially when no one else is around.
• Book your hotel in the city center or old town area to save on time. I include several hotel recommendations down below.
• Don’t forget that Stockholm winter daylight hours may be shorter than you’d expect. In December for example, sunrise is around 8:40 a.m. and sunset is around 2:45 p.m. This gives you about 6 hours of daylight, but don’t worry, Stockholm is still fun after the sun goes down.
• Definitely visit the Christmas market. It makes for a fun afternoon or evening and it will surely get you into the holiday spirit. Also, because there is mulled wine.

Stockholm Christmas Market

Stockholm in December is especially fun and festive due to the holiday market and abundance of citywide decorations on display this time of year.

In my opinion, the Stockholm Christmas Market is one of the best things to do when visiting Stockholm during the winter months.

The Christmas market is located in Gamla Stan, which is the old town neighborhood of Stockholm. The historic buildings here provide a beautiful and historic background for this lively holiday festival.

The Stockholm Christmas Market runs from about mid November to just before Christmas each year and is typically open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Visiting the market is a fun way to get into the holiday spirit. You can visit the markets many chalets where vendors sell everything from local candies to Christmas ornaments.

There are also food vendors selling hot chocolate, waffles, hot dogs, and my personal favorite, mulled wine.

Plan to spend an hour or two enjoying the market and sampling food from the local vendors.

Be sure to check the market out after sunset as well, it’s extra festive with the holiday lights turned on.

Remember, sunset is early here in Sweden in winter. In December the sunset time is between 2:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

While I’n not normally one to rave about museums, Stockholm really does have some incredible museums, many of which are very much worth visiting.

Also, I think visiting museums is one of the best things to do in Stockholm in winter because they are warm inside and will give you a break from the cold weather outside.

At the very top of that list is the Vasa Museum pictured above. While it doesn’t look like much from the outside, it’s the coolest museum I’ve ever been to and I’m not joking.

The Vasa Museum is home to a real viking ship that capsized and sank in Stockholm in 1628. The ship sat at the bottom of the sea for 333 years before it was pulled up to the surface and restored. You seriously have to see it in person, it’s the coolest thing ever.

Seriously, If you visit only one museum in Stockholm, let it be this one.

Another very popular museum in Stockholm is the Abba Museum . Full disclosure, I did not visit the Abba Museum during my visit because I ran out of time, but I heard it’s an impressive museum even if you’re not a big fan of the band. I plan to visit this museum next time I’m in Stockholm, which will hopefully be soon.

The third museum that I highly recommend visiting is Fotografiska which is a large urban and modern photography museum. They have really cool exhibits from photographers around the world focusing on a variety of subjects.

Fotografiska is currently featuring an exhibit called The Pet Show which runs through February 13, 2022. This is a rather adorable exhibit showcasing some of the cutest dogs you’ve ever seen.

If you have even more time, head to the Nordic Museum to learn about Nordic history and culture. The Nordic Museum is located a short walk from the Vasa Museum, so you could see these one after the other.

Stockholm Food Tour

If you’re going to visit Stockholm you won’t want to miss an opportunity to sample the city’s best local restaurants and markets. In case you didn’t know, Stockholm is very much a foodie city, so there’s no shortage of great food options in the city.

One of the most efficient and affordable ways to sample the city’s best cuisine is on a Stockholm food tour. With a guided tour you’ll get to try local dishes like the country’s famous Swedish meatballs, but also have the opportunity to try things you may not have heard of.

Food tours also often come with the option to sample a local beverage such as beer, wine, or a popular local cocktail. You’ll also get to learn about how the dishes are made, all while learning about local customs and traditions.

Here are a few food tours I recommend in Stockholm:

• Stockholm Nordic Food Tour
• Stockholm Culinary Tour

What I love most about food tours is that you get to try a lot of local dishes in a short amount of time, which makes the cost of the ticket worth it to me. The food tours above run about 4 hours each, so you’ll still have plenty of time before and after to see the sights.

Also, the guides will typically put together a tour with multiple stops within walking distance to one another, which will minimize your time in the frigid outdoors. You will 100 percent appreciate this during the cold winter months.

Old Town Stockholm

No matter how icy the temperature outside, plan to layer up to keep warm and head to the old town area of Stockholm known as Gamla Stan.

Gamla Stan is where you’ll find cobblestone streets lined with colorful 17th century and 18th century buildings. It’s the kind of place that’s just begging to be photographed. This is also where you’ll find the city’s Christmas market I mentioned above.

Besides the Christmas market, Gamla Stan is also home to Swedish bistros serving local and international cuisine, and plenty of bars and pubs to wind up in at the end of a long day exploring the city.

Stockholm’s famous Nobel Prize Museum is here as well, along with The Royal Palace and the Medieval Storkyrkan cathedral. The Nobel Prize Museum is really cool if you have the time to stop in for a visit.

Exploring Gamla Stan in the early mornings was one of my favorite things I did while in Stockholm. I love visiting historic city centers in Europe because they’re usually beautiful with unique architecture, which makes for great photograph opportunities.

Plus, historic city centers also hold so much history. I feel like I’m stepping back in time whenever I visit them.

Ice Skating

If you’re feeling brave and want to show off your ice skating talents, head over to the King’s Garden outdoor ice rink near the city center. This is one of the most popular Stockholm attractions in winter. Not only because it’s festive and fun, but also because it’s a great way to interact with the locals.

You’ll find the skating rink is very popular with locals and families on the weekends, so it’s a fun place to visit if you have the time. You’ll also immediately notice that the Swedish are very good at ice skating.

Even is you’re not brave enough to put on skates of your own, you can always just grab a cup of hot cocoa and enjoy watching everybody else. It’s rather entertaining if I do say so myself. I stood around watching the skaters for at least 30 minutes one night on the way back to my hotel.

The King’s Garden ice rink is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Adult skate rentals are 70 SEK, or about $7.65 USD.

Located just south of the Gamla Stan neighborhood you’ll find Sodermalm, one of Stockholm’s coolest neighborhoods.

Sodermalm is the city’s bohemian artsy neighborhood where you’ll find trendy restaurants and cafes along with art galleries, bars and pubs.

Stockholm’s popular Fotografiska photography gallery (mentioned above) is also located here. I recommend vising the gallery first then walking around Sodermalm on foot and just exploring the neighborhood.

If you’re looking for a fun lunch spot in Sodermalm, head over to Meatballs for the People. It’s about a 20 minute walk from Fotografiska.

Before leaving Sodermalm, be sure to make your way down by the waterfront for the impressive views of Gamla Stan across the water.

Enjoy a Fika Break

While you’re out exploring beautiful Stockholm during your visit you’ll need to schedule in time to enjoy what the locals refer to as a Fika.

Fika can loosely be described as a “coffee break with friends,” but its part of the culture and an important part of the day for Swedes.

Typically taking a Fika would consist of socializing over a cup of coffee with a small bite to eat, usually something sweet like cake or a muffin.

As a tourist (or traveler) you’ll find many places around town to sit down and enjoy your own Fika. Here are a few popular options to consider visiting during your trip:

• Kaffekoppen
• Cafe Pascal
• Chokladkoppen
• Vete-Katten

If you’d like to learn more about the Fika tradition and sample several of the city’s best Fika spots, you can also book yourself a spot on a Stockholm Fika Tour .

The tour runs about two hours and you’ll get to sample local coffees, traditional Swedish cakes and pastries, and of course visit some of Stockholm’s best cafes.

Stockholm Ghost Walk

If you’re looking for something fun and a bit more unique to do in Stockholm in the winter I recommend signing up for the Stockholm Ghost Walk .

This is a very popular 90 minute guided tour exploring the Medieval haunted history of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan neighborhood. You’ll get to learn about unsolved mysteries, murders, and more. You’ll also hear true accounts of mysteries, myths, and legends.

This is honestly a very fun tour and I highly recommend signing up. Stockholm’s history is truly fascinating, especially it’s Medieval and haunted history.

If you want to learn more about the history of Stockholm in a fun and entertaining way, this is the tour for you. Plus, you’ll be guided through the darkened streets of Stockholm with lighted lanterns.

After your Stockholm Ghost Walk, you can enjoy the rest of the evening with a night out in Gamla Stan visiting the neighborhood’s trendy bars and restaurants.

Stockholm Subway Art

While it may seem a bit strange I’m telling you to go explore Stockholm’s subway stations, I think you’ll agree they’re pretty neat once you see them for yourself.

Stockholm’s subway stations are like urban art galleries, they’re colorful and artsy and fun to look at. They also make for great photo spots.

If you’re just hoping to see the art, you can visit the various stations just about any time of day. They open early in the morning and stay open late into the night.

However, if you’re hoping to get photographs, especially those without other people in them, you’ll want to get there early. I arrived at the station above around 6:00 a.m. on a Sunday and had the station mostly to myself.

Here are some of the best subway stations to visit:

• Stadion Station (pictured above)
• T-Centralen Station
• Solna Centrum Station
• Tensta Station

To find the various subway stations, you can just enter the station names into Google Maps. There you can get transit, walking, or driving directions to any of Stockholm metro stations.

Where to Stay in Stockholm

When looking for a hotel in Stockholm in winter you’ll want to choose a hotel near the places you want to visit. This will make it easier to get around and reduce the amount of time you spend outdoors in the cold.

Here are a few of my favorite options, including the hotel I stayed at during my visit.

• Nobis Hotel Stockholm : I loved this hotel and thought the location was perfect for exploring the city. Nobis Hotel is a boutique hotel with modern rooms and an impressive buffet style breakfast.
• Hotel Reisen : Hotel Reisen is right in the Gamla Stan neighborhood next to the Christmas market. The hotel features upscale rooms and an ideal location in the city’s historic center.
• Sheraton Stockholm : The Sheraton is an affordable option located right between the historic center and city center.

I hope you found this Ultimate Guide to Stockholm in Winter helpful and that I’ve inspired you to plan a visit of your own. If you enjoyed this article please consider sharing. As always, thanks for reading.

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8 Magical Reasons to Visit Stockholm in Winter

Winter holidays in stockholm.

A winter vacation in Stockholm is magical. Ice breakers slip through the freezing sea while Christmas trees blaze with shimmering lights. Seasonal markets are full of sugar plum fairies and glasses of warming mulled wine are the order of the day.

While it’s true that some tourist attractions do close through the winter months, the ones that do stay open receive far fewer visitors. This means you can often get stunning locales all to yourself. A winter trip to Stockholm is a vacation to treasure.

Winter boat trips

Sail the canals and break the ice.

A winter boat trip can be simply magical but make sure you wrap up well to shield you from the cold. The ice slowly breaks as the boats slip past Stockholm’s islands. With snow covering the buildings and frost sparkling on the bare tree branches, Stockholm takes on a very different look.

Go out to Vaxholm island and book a lunch buffet on board a steamboat. Alternately, make a day of it on Fjäderholmarna and join the locals for a Christmas smorgasbord (known as julbord in Swedish) at Fjäderholmarnas Krog.

Festive entertainment

Enjoy carolers, night-time processions and a joyous ambience.

Christmas music begins with Advent carols joyously ringing out under the pale blue and gold domes of baroque gems like Katarina Kyrka or in the somber redbrick Gothic Storkyrkan cathedral. More secular but just as sacred to the Swedes is the 13th December – the candlelit procession of Lucia, Queen of the Light, and her attendants, snake through the streets and up to Skansen.

In the lavish red and gold setting of the Royal Swedish Opera House, The Nutcracker dances into the hearts of generations of ballet lovers. Crowds throng the streets on New Year’s Eve; the churches ring their bells and fireworks soar over the water.

photo by Bengt Nyman ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

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Christmas shopping, pick up handcrafted gifts for all the family.

From early December, Christmas markets fill Stockholm’s streets and squares. Traditional wooden toys, festive food and handmade decorations tempt seasonal shoppers in Stortorget square on Gamla Stan, at Skansen, and the royal palaces of Rosendals and Drottningholm.

Stores vie with each other with their window displays of animated fairy-tale characters, and the greatest crowds gather daily in front of upmarket department store NK.

Feast on a Christmas smorgasbord

Eat and drink sweden’s special winter recipes.

Spoil yourself at a 3-course Christmas julbord buffet of herrings and eel, Jansson’s Temptation (a potato gratin with sprats), Christmas ham and dishes using every part of the pig, then followed by sweet desserts with sharp berry sauces. Glasses of fruit schnapps help it all down.

Dine at the 18th-century tavern Clas På Hörnet in Vasastaden or reward yourself at Djurgårdsbrunn after a walk beside the frozen canal on Djurgården.

photo by Renny B. Amundsen ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Skansen at winter

Relive yesteryear at skansen open-air museum.

A winter break in Stockholm must include a visit to the open-air museum, Skansen. Fires blaze in the old farmhouses as costumed characters alternately bewitch and frighten small children with long-forgotten fairy tales. It’s a charming family-friendly activity in Stockholm.

The weekend Christmas market offers hand-knitted gloves, sweets, toys and decorations. Crowds flock here on New Year’s Eve to hear the words of Tennyson’s poem “Ring Out, Wild Bells” herald the midnight hour.

photo by Brian Dooley ( CC0 1.0 ) modified

Ice skating on lakes and rivers

On fine clear days, the shouts of the skaters mingle with the scrapes of skates on the little outdoor rink at Kungsträdgården. A particularly cold winter tempts hardened skaters out on to the frozen waterways around Stockholm for impromptu races and long-distance skating.

The truly hardy make the 20-minute journey to Hellasgården Park to skate on the frozen lakes, tune up their muscles through cross-country skiing or make a hole in the ice for a spot of masochistic ice-swimming.

photo by dronepicr ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Experience fika in a cozy café

Hot coffee… sweet buns… cool designs.

Swedes love a coffee and cake in a cozy environment, and there’s no better time than winter to partake in this most Swedish of pastimes. Cinnamon buns, creamy choux pastries, chocolate cookies, and a host of other baked goodies can all be enjoyed with a strong cup of coffee in a warm and stylish café.

Coffee shops are on practically every corner in Stockholm, so finding a place you like the look of is simple. Head to the Old Town of Gamla Stan to find a host of excellent cafés.

Get lucky with the northern lights

Once or twice a year the aurora borealis can be viewed from stockholm.

The northern lights are one of nature’s greatest natural phenomena when the sky is ablaze with greens, pinks, and reds. It’s usually only visible from around 2,000 to 3,000 km south of the earth’s North Magnetic Pole, but occasionally you get to see this incredible sight from the streets of Stockholm. Winter is usually when this happens, but for a better chance to see the northern lights, you could always book a trip up to Lapland in northern Sweden.

photo by Arild Vågen ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Should you visit Stockholm in winter?

• 29 March 2024
• No Comments

For this visit to the Swedish capital in winter, for once I went on a city trip with some girlfriends. If you’re not too afraid of the cold and love snowy landscapes, it’s a great idea to explore the Swedish capital in winter.

Swedes are completely accustomed to these harsh winters, so everything is adapted to get around even in the snow. All you need is the right equipment to make the most of it.

We’ve already told you about our 3-day summer tour of Stockholm . In this article, we focus on typical winter activities in Stockholm. We’ll also tell you what you need to pack to withstand the cold.

Stockholm in winter temperature

What to wear in stockholm in winter, stockholm skating rink, stockholm archipelago in winter, stockholm christmas market, sauna in stockholm, museums in stockholm, take a fika and try the gastronomy, aurora borealis in stockholm, where to sleep in stockholm in winter, nos essentiels pour visiter la suède, why come to stockholm in winter.

• The first advantage, and not the least, is that airfares are fairly affordable. I left in January with the low-cost airline Ryannair, and found a flight for around 50 euros.
• The winter atmosphere , with cold or snow (if you’re lucky) and winter activities , will add a truly exotic touch to your stay.

• Swedes are obviously used to very harsh winters . As a result, we offer a wide range of outdoor activities. Get ready to put on ice skates, cruise the Stockholm archipelago or warm up in a traditional sauna .
• When it comes to indoor activities , you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to museums . You’re bound to find what you’re looking for, with themed museums, children’s museums and parks. The Swedes know how to showcase their heritage and make museums attractive, with interactive spaces that are often child-friendly. It’s one of our favorite cities for its museums, where you can learn while having fun.

The Swedish capital, located in south-central Sweden , experiences long winters. Temperatures and light levels drop drastically in early November.

Temperatures can reach -20 degrees in December, January and February, with an annual average of 0°C during the winter months.

Having lived through it, it’s impressive that when the pilot announced a temperature of -15 degrees, we almost wanted to stay on the plane to return to France. Finally, with the right clothing , it’s perfectly possible to enjoy the city to the full (even though I’m a great chiller).

It’s also worth noting that the Swedes are completely accustomed to these harsh winters, and everything is adapted to get around even in the snow.

A word of warning: be prepared to get up early to make the most of the short days, as the sun sets between 3 and 4 pm. We also advise you to plan your visits carefully, as everything closes very early at this time of year.

In our opinion, it’s not really bad weather, just bad clothing . So if you choose to visit Scandinavia in winter, don’t skimp on your equipment to make the most of it.

In December, January and February, we advise you to opt for the famous onion technique , which consists of layering several garments .

Here’s a list of clothes you can pack in your suitcase: a warm under-sweater (heattech or wool), a warm sweater, a fleece, tights, ski pants, booties or waterproof hiking boots, not forgetting gloves, hats and scarves.

What to see and do in Stockholm in winter

In a previous article, we detailed our 10 must-do things to do in Stockholm in 3 days in summer.

Some activities, such as visits to the city center and Stockholm’s various districts , can be enjoyed in all seasons.

We’ve listed below the best things to do in Stockholm in winter .

Ice skating is one of Sweden’s favorite winter activities, especially for Swedish families. The good news is that you can enjoy this activity on one of the downtown skating rinks or on the natural ice of a frozen lake.

• Ice rink : a large ice rink is set up every winter in the city center, in the Kungstradgarden park in the Norrmalm district (December to February). The rink is free, but skate hire costs around SEK 70 per adult and SEK 30 for children for 1 hour.

Even if you don’t skate (like me), I’d still recommend a visit to soak up the fairytale atmosphere and warm up with a hot chocolate and/or a cinnamon roll (you need what it takes to withstand the Swedish cold).

We loved watching the kids, who can barely walk on ice skates, doing so much better than us!

• Natural ice : Lake Trekanten in southwest Stockholm, the closest to the city center, freezes over from late January to late February. When the ice is thick enough, the lake is cleared of snow, forming a skating rink. However, you’ll need skates, as you can’t rent them on site. You can still take a stroll around the lake to watch the locals in action.

To make the most of winter activities, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trips are organized from Stockholm.

A visit to the Stockholm archipelago is a must when visiting the Swedish capital. Good news: even if some routes are frozen, others remain open all winter long !

To save time , you can opt for an organized cruise lasting 1h15, which will give you lovely views of Stockholm and take you deep into its archipelago. You can stay on the outside deck, where blankets are provided to keep you warm, or stay inside in the warmth of your cabin.

Your guide will tell you all about the Swedish capital and its beautiful archipelago. Activity possible from mid-December to the end of March.

Kayak trips around the archipelago are also organized in winter.

We haven’t yet had the chance to be in Stockholm during the Christmas market period, which runs from late November to mid-December. We spoke with friends who live there, and from the looks of it, the Christmas markets are magical and the wooden huts are generously decorated with snow (if you’re lucky), so the atmosphere is incredible.

If you visit the Swedish capital during this period, here are the two main markets not to be missed.

• The Christmas market in Stockhholm’s historic center (Gamla Stan) takes place on the pretty, colorful Stortorget square, where the Nobel Museum is located. Some forty exhibitors offer wooden objects, sweets (the Swedes love them), ceramics, jewelry and food stalls.
• Skansen Christmas Market (Djaurgarden Island or Stockholm’s Museum Island), located in the heart of the Skansen open-air museum. We’ve already mentioned it in our article on the Skansen museum , which is a small concentrate of Swedish culture , with many events on offer during the festive season. The site is beautifully decorated, with fir trees on every street corner and old-fashioned Christmas tables set up in the homes.

The sauna (bastu in Swedish) is a year-round activity in Sweden. A small room (often a wooden hut) is heated to between 70 and 100 degrees with very low humidity (around 20%).

After a fifteen-minute session in this “oven”, the Swedes jump into a lake or water that is often very cool. For my part, I only did the hot part.

We’ve noticed two little Swedish idiosyncrasies. They have a very relaxed relationship with nudity compared to us. We prefer to warn you, as most Swedes walk around naked in the changing rooms, and only wear a towel when sitting in the sauna. Swedish saunas are usually performed without a bathing suit.

My second point concerns the atmosphere in Swedish saunas, which is very different from the zen-like, quiet atmosphere in French saunas. After talking to the locals, we realized that this is as much a place to relax as to socialize .

During our first sauna, a family was listening to music on a Bluetooth speaker. The Swedes are naturally quiet and unassuming, and make the most of this moment of conviviality. The other thing that disturbed me (Floriane) was the atmosphere and rustic feel of some Swedish saunas. Nothing to do with the subdued, cocooning ambience of our own homes.

If you’re looking for a traditional sauna in beautiful surroundings, we recommend the Hellasgarden nature park, south-east of Stockholm, recommended by a friend (of my sister’s) who lives in Stockholm. You can reserve your day and time slot here . from 110 SEK per person for two hours, remember to bring your own towel (or rent one at reception).

The sauna is located in the heart of nature , next to a lake and easily accessible by public transport, only 20 minutes away by bus (bus 401 leaves Slussen every 15 minutes), so we can only recommend that you go for it! A final word of advice: get there early on weekends, as it can get crowded. In summer, take a dip in the lake .

There are many beautiful, well-marked hiking trails around the lake, a great idea for a day out around Stockholm .

In Stockholm, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to museums . We’ve put together a list of our favorite museums in Stockholm . You’re bound to find what you’re looking for, with themed museums, children’s museums and parks. It’s the perfect way to keep warm in winter!

This is one of the things that struck us during our various visits to Stockholm: the Swedes really know how to showcase their heritage and make museums attractive, with interactive, welcoming spaces that are often child-friendly. The Vasa shipwreck museum is a must-see in our opinion. In short, places where you can learn by manipulating and having fun.

In winter, we really recommend the Go City Pass Stockholm , which gives you free access to many museums.

We recommend you try two dishes to warm you up: the meatballs (address below) and the Fika break (= coffee and gourmet break with friends) often accompanied by its Kanelbullar (a brioche rolled in cinnamon), the emblematic pastry of Sweden!

We recommend a stop at the Östermalm covered food market to try it all out.

To learn more about Swedish gastronomy, you can book a guided tour of Stockholm that includes a tasting of Swedish specialties.

Even if the chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Stockholm are low, we still recommend downloading the My Aurora Forecast application, which gives you forecasts of the appearance of the Northern Lights in different locations.

The best time to see the aurora is from late September to spring. If you’d like to find out more about this phenomenon, which we find incredible, we recommend (as is often the case) Jamy ‘s videos from the famous TV show C’est pas Sorcier .

For our part, we haven’t yet had the chance to see any. It’s one of our dreams, and an excellent reason to come back to Scandinavia.

To get the most out of your stay, we recommend the Norrmalm and Östermalm districts. These districts are located right in the center of Stockholm, so you can easily reach the main points of interest without spending too much time outside, in case of very cold weather.

For smaller budgets, the Södermalm district may be a good alternative.

Hotel Birger Jarl : Noormalm district (the best area to sleep in, in our opinion): the hotel’s location is perfect for visiting central Stockholm on foot. In a beautiful, completely renovated building, our accommodation was spacious with a mini fridge and carefully decorated, excellent value for money where you’ll feel right at home. We would definitely go back. (with breakfast)

Biz Apartment Hammarby Sjöstad : in the Södermalm district (one of our favorites), we hesitated for a long time before choosing this well-located accommodation. It’s an apartment, so it’s easier to cook than in a hotel. The building has been completely renovated.

City Backpackers Hostel : a nicely decorated hostel, certainly the best value in Stockholm, €75 for a double room in the trendy Södermalm district (one of our favorites). I stayed there on my first visit to Stockholm (Floriane).

Our good addresses on our map

We’ve listed all the places and addresses mentioned above on a map to help you find your way around.

We wish you an excellent trip ! Don’t hesitate to leave us a quick note or 5 stars below, to tell us if you’re planning this trip, to ask any questions you may have, here or on Instagram , we’ll get back to you with great pleasure.

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Foto: Nordiska Kompaniet

Find the light in winter Stockholm

Publiceringsdatum : 14 December 2021

Bright lights, sweet smells, and snow-covered archipelago surroundings. Here are our best tips for a Christmas in Stockholm.

Note: ArkDes is currently closed due to renovations.

The museum is scheduled to open again in September 2024. More info on the museum's website .

We’re both crazy for Christmas and have been Christmas-decorating our home as long as we’ve known each other. When we first met there was some trepidation. We were both thinking that compromises would have to be made come Christmas time. Maybe tone down the decorating, or have an X-mas-free room or two. As it turned out, we share a love of all things Christmas and decided to go all-in on the decorations!

The first couple of years it was an annual tradition and basically, we just added new decorations wherever there was room. As the number of lights and decorations grew, we discovered that it actually takes some planning, and a lot of time – 10-12 weeks of work – to get our apartment ready for Christmas. So, after the 2004’s holidays, we put our tradition on ice. In 2011 we started over, this time with even more lights and decoration, and decided to make it a bi-annual tradition in 2013. And since then, we're not the only ones going all-in on Christmas in the neighborhood. Our friends living at Fridhemsplan have started to decorate their balcony to its breaking point. And every year their neighbors are invited to the festive lightning of the annual "julballe".

“Why all these lights?”, you might ask. Well, for us, Christmas is about wonderful, homey aromas – like gingerbread cookies, saffron, and cinnamon – but also everyday glamour with glitz and gold. And naturally, warm, bright, lights. Because who doesn’t want to cozy up their home with lights and decorations, in the middle of Stockholm's darkest moth? Even the straightest guy will hang a sparkling silver star in his window.

So, with that in mind, our best Christmas tip is to take a relaxing walk and look at all the wonderful lights and holiday displays in Stockholm’s shops. Every year, the city of Stockholm puts up wonderful light installations all over central Stockholm in whats is called #stockholmsjul . #stockholmsjul has a handy map on their website , for anyone that wants to see all the Christmas lights. But first, we suggest that you warm yourself with something to drink at a Christmassy bar or restaurant. For example at Peppar , a classic bar in Vasastan. Peppar’s interior design is best described as charmingly overindulgent, and during December this translates into a Christmas-themed extraordinaire.

Once you’re warmed up and ready to go you should definitely stop by Nordiska Kompaniet department store. Their Christmas dioramas are a Stockholm tradition. Preferably when the sun has set and after business hours, to avoid large crowds. While you’re in the neighborhood you might want to take a short walk to the Kungsträdgården ice rink, for some ice skating fun. No skates? No problem. You can actually rent a pair on-site. If ice skating is not your thing, winter Stockholm offers lots of other fun outdoor activities. Why not grab a sled for some downhill sledding? Our favorite spot is in Kronoberg Park , with many slopes for both young and old, daredevils and cautious sledders alike.

Other not-to-miss attractions during winter are all the Christmas markets around town. They start to pop up all around Stockholm in late November, and if you keep your eyes peeled you’ll likely discover one in your area. Two classics are the Christmas markets in Skansen and on Stortorget in the Old Town . The Old Town cozy Christmas atmosphere makes it a great place for a stroll. And if you’d rather stay indoors we suggest the annual gingerbread house exhibition at ArkDes . See all the amazing edible constructions and vote on which should be crowned best-in-show. And don’t forget to stop by the museum shop. In what is a common thread running through Stockholm's museum gift shops, it's a great place to find cool and unusual Christmas presents.

Don’t forget that Christmas also is a time for rest and relaxation. To wind down and just spend time with your near and dear ones. For example, you could opt-out of the added stress of preparing a Christmas feast and eat a delicious restaurant dinner instead. If you simply just have to eat traditional Swedish holiday food, and not just any restaurant dinner, you have lots of options. Stallmästaregården consistently serves one of Stockholm’s best Christmas buffets. And just a short walk further north, along the shores of Brunnsviken Lake, you’ll find Radisson Royal Park Haga . Great food, and a lovely place to have a wintertime outdoor drink by one of the bonfires in front of the hotel. Celebrity Chef Niklas Ekstedt’s Christmas buffet is another marvelous experience. In 2021 he moved his Christmas venture from the National Archives to Norra Latin high school where he hosts over 37 000 diners throughout December. Further away from central Stockholm, in the suburb of Rinkeby, you’ll find Östergårds . The former estate-turned-conference-center has a phenomenal Christmas serving, with mini-size versions of traditional holiday dishes.

We’ve previously written about our favorite archipelago boat tours, and don’t mind doing it again. Seeing the stars reflected in the wintery waters and snow-covered islets of the archipelago is a magical experience. Furthermore, it’s easily combined with a Christmas dinner. Both Strömma has seasonal Christmas dinner cruises, for example.

And before we forget, lacking a solid playlist of holiday music? Don’t hesitate to check out our own and get into the spirit of Christmas!

Local i Stockholm

Pehr and Richard Hante are known for having if not the world's, then at least Sweden’s most Christmassy home (during the holidays, that is. Not all-year-round!). Pehr was born in Småland but has lived in Stockholm since 1985. Richard on the other hand was born in Stockholm but has also lived in Uppsala and the small village of Jormvattnet. They live on Kungsholmen, have a daughter (Cornelia) and two grandkids (Wiola and Wide). Together they simply devour movies (watching every Oscar-nominated film is an annual tradition) and love to play miniature golf, arrange board game nights, good food, good wine, and travel. And during their travels, they try out every Escape Room they can find!

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Experience stockholm with a personal guide, guided tours with a twist, vacation on two wheels, kayak adventures in stockholm, have an active vacation, winter activities in stockholm.