3 Days in Stockholm: The Ultimate Stockholm Itinerary
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Considering a Scandinavian city break? Spending 3 days in Stockholm is always a good idea.
This beautiful (and highly underrated!) seaside city spans fourteen islands and overflows with medieval architecture and history, cool cafรฉ culture, amazing restaurants and bars, world-class museums, and chic Scandinavian boutiques.
After multiple trips to Stockholm, Iโve created the ultimate 3-day Stockholm itinerary just for you! It offers the perfect combination of must-see attractions and hidden gems that only the locals know about.
Whether you want to wander the cobblestone streets of Old Town, visit opulent palaces, try traditional Swedish food, or explore the archipelago, you’re in the right place.
In this 3-day Stockholm itinerary, you’ll find the best things to do and see in Stockholm, canโt-miss bars, fantastic restaurants, the best neighborhoods to explore, and other must-know tips.
Where to Stay in Stockholm for 3 Days
Before we discuss the best things to do in Stockholm in 3 days, let’s cover Stockholmโs best neighborhoods and hotels.
Best Areas to Stay in
- รstermalm: This is my favorite neighborhood to stay in, by far! A cool neighborhood with an upscale feel, รstermalm is where you’ll find the city’s best restaurants, bars, and hotels; beautiful architecture; designer shopping; and lovely views of Nybroviken (a small bay). The peaceful, must-visit island of Djurgรฅrden is also just steps away.
- Norrmalm: Norrmalm is the heart of Stockholm, so itโs a great base for first-time visitors. Most of Stockholmโs main attractions are within walking distance – or a quick metro ride away via Stockholm central station. Norrmalm is home to many great restaurants, cafรฉs, shopping streets, and museums.
- Sรถdermalm: A trendy neighborhood with a grittier, bohemian vibe, Sรถdermalm is known for its hipster cafรฉs, boutique shops, art galleries, and cool bars. Most museums and must-sees are 15-30 minutes away via the metro.
- Gamla Stan: The historic Old Town of Stockholm is picturesque and charming, with plenty of things to see and do! Its central location makes it a convenient base, but itโs also very touristy. In other words, youโll seldom see locals hanging out here!
- Nacka Strand: Nestled between the bustling city center and the sublime archipelago, Nacka (and specifically, Hotel J) is the place to stay if you want a peaceful, oh-so-Scandinavian stay. Just note, itโs a scenic 30-minute ferry ride into central Stockholm. I stayed here recently and loved it!
Best Hotels in Stockholm
Luxury ($$$)
- Lydmar Hotel (Norrmalm): This chic, modern waterfront hotel offers sensational views of Nybroviken and The Royal Palace. Choose from The Terrace, The Patio, or The Dining Room to recharge, or refresh at Nordic Spa & Fitness. The Lydmar Hotel and staff are sure to impress. Click here to book it.
- At Six (Norrmalm): Centrally located with many attractions within walking distance, At Sixโs luxurious suites offer stunning city views and mini-bars for mixing cocktails. Downstairs, the in-house bakery and music events in At Sixโs Listening Lounge add that special touch. Click here to book it.
- Hotel Ruth (Vasastan): Located in the northern borough of Vasastan, Hotel Ruth is full of green spaces and foodie venues for every occasion, yet it’s only 1-mile from downtown Stureplan. Hotel Ruth is so elegant and charming that you wonโt want to leave. Click here to book it.
Mid-Range ($$)
- Hotel J (Nacka Strand): Looking for a uniquely Scandinavian stay off the beaten path? 4-star Hotel J is a waterfront design hotel offering a traditional sauna, spa, serene outdoor areas, nature trails nearby, and even a dock for polar plunging! The cozy sea-view hotel rooms are all you need for a rejuvenating nature stay in Stockholm – oh, and the heavenly breakfast spread. Simply hop on the 30-minute ferry to reach central Stockholm. I loved my stay here! Click here to book it.
- Hobo (Norrmalm): This trendy, 4-star hotel in Norrmalm focuses on sustainability and offers comfort amenities a gym, free breakfast, and an organic, veggie-foward rooftop restaurant (with unparalleled views!). With plenty of room options, Hobo Hotel can accommodate any travel style! Click here to book it.
- Hotel Sven Vintappare (Gamla Stan): Located in Stockholmโs Old Town, Hotel Sven Vintappare is housed inside a restored 17th-century building. Each guestroom features exposed wooden beams, traditional Gustavian-style decor, and heated marble bathroom floors. The hotel cafรฉ is located in the medieval wine cellar. Click here to book it.
- Victory Hotel (Gamla Stan): This charming naval-themed hotel will feel like your home away from home. A few minutes walk from Gamla Stan station, itโs hard to find a better spot to stay in Stockholmโs Old Town! Click here to book it.
HOT TIP: Accommodation in Stockholm is expensive – just like everything else in the city. For stays between May and October, book well in advance to get a great deal! This is the website I always use to book top-rated, affordable hotels (on free cancellation, just in case)!
Budgeting with a Stockholm Pass
Speaking of how pricey Stockholm is, hereโs a quick budgeting tip for you!
I highly recommend purchasing the Stockholm Pass, which grants you access to dozens of Stockholm attractions (like the Vasa Museum, Royal Palace, Nordiska Museet, and Drottningholm Palace) for one discounted price. Check it out here!
3-Day Stockholm Itinerary:
Best Things to Do & See in Stockholm
I hope youโre prepared to fall in love with Stockholmโฆ Because, with my 3-day itinerary at your fingertips, thereโs no other option! Letโs dig into the best things to do in Stockholm. As always on Maddyโs Avenue, weโll focus on amazing food and drink, culture and history, and nature!
Day 1 of 3 Days in Stockholm
Explore Gamla Stan (Old Town)
Gamla Stan is Stockholmโs Old Town, which is one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. Stockholm was founded in Gamla Stan in 1252!
It should go without saying, but Gamla Stan is incredibly charming… if you can look past the countless souvenir shops!
In Gamla Stan, spend some time wandering the narrow, winding streets lined by old and colorful buildings. The amount of history preserved in Gamla Stanโs walls will blow you away.
As you stroll, there are a few popular spots to consider visiting:
Stortorget
As you roam around Gamla Stan, seek out its iconic central plaza: Stortorget. This is Stockholm’s oldest square – first mentioned in historical documents in 1420!
There, youโll see colorful medieval houses towering above the square, an 18th-century water well, people enjoying rich hot chocolates at Chokladkoppen, and benches to enjoy the atmosphere (when the weather’s nice, that is!).
Visiting during Christmastime? You’ll find a magical Christmas market here, complete with more than 40 stalls selling treats, gifts, and of course, glรถgg!
Nobel Prize Museum
Stockholm’s Nobel Prize Museum is located in Stortorget, inside the old Stock Exchange building. This small museum covers the history of the Nobel Prize and the inspiring, ground-breaking accomplishments of Nobel Laureates.
My advice? Unless youโre very into science, you have the Stockholm Pass, or need an escape from the rain, skip this museum. There are better things to do during your three days in Stockholm!
Stockholm Cathedral
As you explore Old Town, you’ll find Storkyrkan – the Old Stockholm Cathedral.
This Gothic cathedral, which opened in 1306, features a pink faรงade and is stunning inside. It contains the oldest-known image of Stockholm (pretty cool!), as well as an imposing gilded statue of St. George and the Dragon.
The entry fee is pretty steep, though, at 100 SEK ($10 USD) per adult. However, if you have the Stockholm Pass, entry is included.
Go on a Free Walking Tour
If you want to learn more about Stockholmโs culture and medieval history, go on this free walking tour! It runs most days at 10 AM and takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
This tour is completely free, but you still have to make a booking!
Enjoy a Fika
One quintessential experience you can’t skip in Sweden? Of course, itโs the fika. In fact, you should aspire to savor a fika daily during your 3 days in Stockholm!
Fika (which is both a noun and a verb!) is the Swedish way to take a break – to enjoy a coffee, usually with a pastry or sweet treat (like kanelbullar, a Swedish cinnamon bun, or kardemummabullar, a Swedish cardamom bun).
But it’s not just about the caffeine and sugar fix. Fika is about socializing with friends and family and enjoying a conscious time-out from the demands of daily life.
While in Gamla Stan, FIKA & WINE is the best place to go.
Tour the Royal Palace
During your 3 days in Stockholm, you have to visit the imposing Royal Palace, located in Gamla Stan.
The palace is the official residence of the Royal Family, though they donโt actually live there. With more than 600 lavish rooms across eleven stories, itโs one of Europe’s largest palaces!
The opulent decor and priceless antiques inside the Royal Apartments are mind-blowing. In the dark vaults of the Treasury, youโll see the Regalia – or the crowns presented to the King, Queen, Prince, and Princess on coronation day. In the Tre Kronor Museum, youโll discover the history of the old palace (which burnt down in 1697). And finally, in Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities, you can see the kingโs collection of impressive sculptures.
The Royal Palace ticket costs 180-200 SEK (about $17-19 USD) for adults and 90-100 SEK (about $8-9 USD) depending on the month of your visit. Tickets include entry to all four museums I mentioned above! Or, get in โfreeโ with your Stockholm Pass.
Visit the Royal Armoury
After you visit the Royal Palace, travel back in time at the Royal Armoury.
Incredibly preserved royal carriages and sleds, armor and weapons, coronation robes and wedding gowns, and other precious artifacts depict how Swedenโs political ties, costumes, and customs have evolved through the centuries.
I really enjoyed this museum and think itโs well worth a visit!
Unfortunately, the Royal Armoury is not included in the Royal Palace ticket. Itโs 150 SEK (about $14 USD) per adult. Ages 0-18 enter free. On Thursday evenings (5-8 PM) adult entry is 75 SEK (about $7 USD).
Watch the Royal Guards Ceremony
If (and only if!) you’re near the palace around 12:15 PM on a weekday, or 1:15 PM on Sunday, stop by to watch the Royal Guards Ceremony (A.K.A. the changing of the guards).
The ceremony lasts about 40 minutes. And yes, it’s incredibly touristyโฆ But also, it’s an interesting process to watch for a few minutes. Plus, it’s free!
Have Lunch in Gamla Stan
While Iโd generally stray away from dining in Gamla Stan (itโs a bit too touristy!), there are a few worthy restaurants to consider for lunch!
For traditional Swedish food, I recommend Restaurang Tradition, Kryp In, or Slingerbulten in that order.
See the Golden Hall at Stockholm City Hall
Just one more museum today, okay?
While you wouldnโt expect Stockholm City Hall to be one of the most spectacular places to visit in Stockholmโฆ it is!
Entry is permitted via a guided 45-minute tour that shows you through many rooms, including the Blue Hall, the Council Chamber, and the Gallery of the Prince. Along the way, youโll learn a plethora of information about Stockholm, its politics, and its history.
My favorite part is the iconic Golden Hall. The walls dazzle with more than 18 million gold mosaic tiles. I canโt even begin to imagine how much this room is worth, but itโs truly amazing!
Adult tickets cost 150 SEK (about $14 USD). Click here to plan your visit as guided tour dates and times vary.
NOTE: The City Hallโs courtyard and peaceful waterfront garden, Stadshusparken, are free to visit and offer beautiful views across the bay. A must-see even if you donโt want to do the tour!
Try Traditional Swedish Cuisine on a Food Tour
Other than Swedish meatballs, what do you know about Swedish food? My guess is, not much! In that case, I highly recommend booking this Nordic Food Walk of Stockholm.
I absolutely love Swedish cuisine – and the feeling has only grown stronger since going on this Nordic Food Walk!
During this foodie walking tour, I learned a ton about Swedish culture and history through food! We visited six different foodie establishments across three different neighborhoods (รstermalm, Norrmalm, and Gamla Stan) and tried around sixteen different delicacies.
So what did I eat during my Nordic Food Walk of Stockholm?
- Swedish meatballs, mashed potatoes, pickled cucumbers, and lingonberry sauce
- A variety of delicious artisanal cheeses (including a Christmastime one infused with cumin and cloves);
- Wild game meats like smoked moose, bear jerky, and cured reindeer;
- The cityโs most iconic bowl of fish soup;
- Vรคsterbottenpaj, which is like a savory cheese quiche;
- And so many more truly delicious delicacies – but Iโll leave the rest a surprise!
This Nordic Food Walk of Stockholm is about 4 hours long and (usually!) runs daily at 10 AM, 2 PM, and 4 PM. It sells out between May and September, so book in advance!
Day 2 of 3 Days in Stockholm
Kayak Stockholm’s Waterways (May to September Only)
As you explore the bustling city streets, you can easily ignore the fact that Stockholm is part of an archipelago of more than 30,000 islands! But if you’re into active city breaks and nature, then why not paddle around the islands of the Baltic Sea and get a new perspective of the city?
If youโre visiting between May and September, go on this 2-Hour Stockholm City Kayak Tour. Along the way, you’ll float by Stockholm’s central islands, landmark buildings, and many bridges.
Click here to book your Stockholm City Kayak Tour!
Visiting in the winter? Head out on this winter kayaking tour of the local archipelago instead! You’ll kayak around the beautiful Vaxholm area of the archipelago, passing by small islands, ancient fortresses, and abundant bird and animal life. The only catch is, youโll have to travel to Vaxholm on your own first (one hour from central Stockholm via this very scenic ferry!). Click here to book your winter kayaking tour!
Cruise the Canals on a Boat Tour
If you want to see Stockholm from the water (without having to paddle!), go on this royal canal boat ride instead.
You’ll float along the canals, past many historical buildings and museums, cute old houses, and beautiful green parks, while learning more about Stockholm’s history.
Yes, this boat tour is touristy. But if itโs raining, or your feet are tired from walking all day on Day 1, it’s a good option. Plus, it’s only 50 minutes long!
Click here to book your Royal Canal Boat Cruise.
Visit Peaceful Djurgรฅrden (Museum Island)
After you’ve explored the city by water, it’s time to hit a museum or two on Djurgรฅrden – or Museum Island.
From the famous Vasa Museum and the world’s oldest open-air museum, to the National Museum, the ABBA Museum, and even the Grรถna Lund amusement park, there’s SO MUCH to see and do here.
Plus, itโs incredibly peaceful. Strolling (or renting a bike and cycling!) around Djurgรฅrden is one of my all-time favorite things to do in Stockholm.
Visit the Vasa Museum
The Vasa Museum is a non-negotiable for your 3-day Stockholm itinerary.
The Vasa Museum is the most-visited museum in all of Scandinavia for a reason! This incredible Viking ship museum houses King Gustav II Adolfโs beloved Vasa, who sank on her maiden voyage in 1628.
333 years later, in 1961, she was pulled from the depths of the sea to be restored. Now, you can see her with your own eyes. How amazing is that?
Iโve been to this museum twice. I love it. Do NOT miss it!
Tickets cost 190 SEK ($18 USD) per adult. Ages 0-18 enter free. The Vasa Museum is also โfreeโ to enter with the Stockholm Pass.
Stop by the Nordic Museum
The Nordic Museum (Nordiska Museet) traces Nordic culture, traditions, and history from the 16th century to the present day through fascinating historical objects (over 1.5 million artifacts, in fact!).
Youโll leave with a deeper understanding of Nordic culture – how these peoples were shaped through the centuries and why they think, believe, pray, celebrate, eat, and live the way they do.
I loved this museum – specifically the permanent Nordic Life, Tradition, and Table Settings exhibitions. You will too!
Tickets cost 170 SEK ($16 USD) per adult while ages 0-18 enter free. Entry is also included in the Stockholm Pass.
Experience Swedish Culture at Skansen
Skansen is the world’s oldest open-air museum. And on a sunny morning, there’s no better place to learn about Swedish history, culture, and food, indigenous Sami culture, and Swedish wildlife. Especially with kids!
The Skansen Museum features houses and farmsteads from every part of Sweden – most of which are original and were transported there whole, or piece-by-piece.
Plus, youโll spot all kinds of Scandinavian wildlife, including reindeer and bears, wolverines and lynx, and owls and rabbits.
Adult tickets vary from 200-260 SEK (about $18-24 USD), depending on the season. Tickets for kids aged 4-15 cost 80 SEK (about $7 USD) year-round, while kids aged 0-3 enter free. Or, use your Stockholm Pass to get in!
Enjoy Farm-to-Fork Lunch at Trรคdgรฅrdskafรฉ
After visiting a museum or two, stroll along Djurgรฅrdenโs leafy walking trails until you reach Rosendals Trรคdgรฅrdskafรฉ (A.K.A. the most sublime foodie oasis) inside Rosendals Garden.
Surrounded by biodynamic grapevines, flower beds, orchards, vegetable gardens, and glasshouses, youโll enjoy a fabulous farm-to-fork lunch in the most soul-nourishing natural atmosphere!
The menu changes seasonally, but you can count on the most delicious sandwiches, soups, sweet and savory pastries, woodfired sourdough goods, craft beer, biodynamic wine, homemade ciders, and more. Everything is certified organic.
Trรคdgรฅrdskafรฉ is one of my favorite places to eat (and to just be) in Stockholm. Donโt miss it!
Rain or shine, the cafรฉ is open daily from 11 AM to 3 PM.
Explore Norrmalm & รstermalm on Foot
After lunch, itโs time to stroll around Stockholmโs bustling hubs of modern culture and city life – Norrmalm and รstermalm – without an agenda.
From the restaurants, bars, and Swedish design and fashion shops that line bustling streets like Kungsgatan, Nybrogatan, Birger Jarlsgatan, and Drottninggatan to the Royal Swedish Opera, the Medelhavsmuseet (Museum of Mediterranean and Near-Eastern Antiquities), and the cherry blossom trees of Kungstrรคdgรฅrden Park – you can’t miss these neighborhoods!
Dinner & Drinks in รstermalm
There are too many incredible restaurants and bars in รstermalm to list them all. Truly! However, these are my favorite spots. Whichever one(s) you choose, you cannot go wrong!
- Sturehof: A white-tablecloth Stockholm institution serving up classic Swedish seafood dishes alongside Sturehofโs own creative takes.
- Sturehof Matbaren: Sturehofโs casual and cozy tapas-style bar where you can watch the chefs prepare your food (with seasonal ingredients only) as you sip fine wine.
- Tyge & Sessil: Natural wine and scrumptious Scandi-Med tapas. Love!
- Babette: After authentic Italian food done to perfection? Ciao, Babette.
- OMAKA: Stockholmโs best craft beer brewery. The food and the stylish setting are equally fab.
- A Bar Called Gemma: Welcome to the best craft cocktail bar in Stockholm in a welcoming and relaxed space! Enough said.
Day 3 of 3 Days in Stockholm
Visit Drottningholm Palace
How about a little more palace action on the peaceful island of Lovรถn?
Drottningholm Palace is worth visiting for its unrivaled royal opulence and well-preserved architecture that dates back to the 1600s.
The palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the permanent residence of the Swedish Royal Family. Itโs also home to a Chinese Pavilion pleasure palace, a theater, and fabulous gardens (perfect for a picnic on a sunny day!).
There are many ways to get to the palace, but the best is via a lovely boat cruise departing from City Hall Quay in the summertime. Otherwise, you can take SL public transportation there with your SL 3-day ticket.
Entry costs 160 SEK (about $15 USD) for adults and 80 SEK (about $7 USD) for ages 7-17.
Explore Sรถdermalm
Sรถdermalm is Stockholm’s trendiest neighborhood, known for its hipster vibes and cool Scandinavian style. I saved the best for last!
This is the neighborhood to come to shop for vintage finds; have a fika (at Drop Coffee!); eat at trendy internationally-inspired restaurants; drink some local craft beer (at Stigbergets Fot or Udda!); browse cool and local boutiques; and simply wander around, taking in the sights and sounds of Stockholm.
Visit the Fotografiska Museum
Love photography and contemporary art? Donโt miss Fotografiska, Stockholm’s photography museum, located on the waterfront in Sรถdermalm.
The experience was interesting, passionate, emotional, and even a little disturbing at times, and I highly recommend you visit. Itโs open until 11 PM every night, so you can easily squeeze it into your 3-day Stockholm itinerary.
Adult tickets cost 179โ19 SEK (about $16-18 USD) based on the date/time of your visit. However, entry is included in the Stockholm Pass.
Go for Cocktails at Hernรถ Gin Bar
In Sรถdermalm, youโll find the worldโs best gin distilleryโs flagship bar: Hernรถ Gin Bar.
And yes, I truly mean the best gin. Hernรถ has won just about every gin award possible – from Worldโs Best Gin in 2017 to Distillery of the Year in 2024.
I love a creative, carefully crafted cocktailโฆ And these are some of the best Iโve ever had!
We ordered the โSmokeโ (with pink gin, coconut, shiso, gooseberry, and lime leaf), โSpiceโ (with navy gin, honey, gooseberry, habanero, and ancho), and a classic negroni. They were all winners!
Enjoy Swedish Fare at Freyja + Sรถder
A few locals recommended we have dinner at Freyja + Sรถder – an artsy rooftop bar and restaurant in Sรถdermalm – and it didnโt disappoint!
Between the panoramic views of the city at sunset, the seasonal veggie-forward menu focusing on Swedish ingredients, the great service, and the warm, moody vibe, we loved Freyja + Sรถder!
Our slow-cooked lamb stew with roasted tomatoes, white beans, potatoes, and roasted garlic mayonnaise (for two people) was perfection.
Make a reservation!
Go on the Stockholm Ghost Walk
Ready for the grand finale? After dinner, stroll up to Gamla Stan for an equally fun and frightening experience that youโre going to love: the Stockholm Ghost Walk.
I wasnโt sure what to expect when I booked this Stockholm Ghost Walkโฆ But it was one of the most memorable walking tours Iโve ever been on! Our guide was incredibly entertaining and took us through parts of Gamla Stan we hadnโt yet seen.
On this lanternlight walking tour, you’ll learn about Stockholmโs ghostly legends and TRUE war and murder stories (like the Stockholm Bloodbath of 1520 executed by the Danes).
This tour is “scary,” fascinating, amusing, and so much fun! The Stockholm Ghost Walk will be the perfect ending to your 3 days in Stockholm!
Book your Stockholm Ghost Walk here!
HOT TIP: Have time for one final cocktail in Old Town after your Ghost Walk? Pharmarium is a craft cocktail bar housed in a jaw-dropping alchemic pharmacy dating back to the 1500s. A must-visit!
Arriving in Stockholm
Letโs quickly cover how to get to downtown Stockholm, whether youโre flying, bussing, or taking the train.
Arriving via Airplane
From Stockholm Arlanda Airport, you have three easy ways to reach the central metro station (T-Centralen):
- Arlanda Express: The quickest (and most expensive) way to reach the city center is via the Arlanda Express; the train departs every 10 or 15 minutes and takes less than 20 minutes to reach central Stockholm. A one-way adult ticket costs 340 SEK (about $32 USD), while kids ages 0-7 travel free. This is a great option if your hotel is within walking distance of the central metro station (T-Centralen).
- Flygbussarna: The airport bus, Flygbussarna, departs every 15 minutes and takes about 40 minutes to reach the central bus station (Cityterminalen). It costs just 129 SEK ($12 USD).
- Uber: An Uber from the airport to the city center usually costs 400-600 SEK ($37-56 USD), depending on the time of day. The journey takes about 30 minutes without traffic.
If you choose option 1 or 2, upon arrival at the central bus or metro station, you can either walk, use the SL public transportation network, or hail an Uber/taxi to reach your hotel.
Arriving via Train or Bus
If you’re taking a long-haul bus or train to central Stockholm (maybe after spending 2 days in Oslo?), then youโll arrive at T-Centralen (the metro station) or Cityterminalen (the bus station). Theyโre located right next to each other, in the heart of Norrmalm.
From either station, you can walk, metro, bus, tram, Uber, or taxi to your hotel.
How to Get Around Stockholm
Stockholm is walkable but sprawling. Youโll need public transportation to see it all! Luckily, the public transportation system in Stockholm is easy to navigate and very affordable.
I highly recommend downloading the SL ticket app on your smartphone and purchasing a 72-hour ticket for 350 SEK (about $23 USD). This grants you unlimited access to Stockholm’s SL metros, buses, trams, and ferries.
So how do you figure out which SL routes to take? Simply type your destination into your Google Maps app to see all the public transportation routes and departure times. You can even modify your desired departure time/date to plan ahead. You can also plan your journeys in the SL app.
Stockholm Packing List
Wondering what to pack for 3 days in Stockholm? Here are some tips to get you started…
General Packing List
Any time of year in Stockholm, you should bring:
- Travel insurance: Whenever you travel internationally, you should purchase travel insurance in case anything goes wrong. From medical emergencies to travel delays, it’s best to be prepared!
- Rain jacket and umbrella: Stockholm gets its fair share of rain! Don’t forget a rain jacket and a travel umbrella.
- Electronic adapter/converter: Visiting from outside of Europe? You’ll need an adapter to charge your electronics. I love this one!
- Camera: There are too many beautiful buildings and canals in Stockholm. I love using this pocket camera to capture my adventures.
- Reusable water bottle: Remember to keep hydrated during your adventures! Bring a reusable water bottle so you can keep topped up.
- Tote bag: To carry all of the souvenirs you’re bound to pick up in Gamla Stan!
Warmer Months (June-September)
Of course, summers are “warmer” in Stockholm, though they’re certainly not hot! The warmest month is July, with an average high of just 75ยฐF and an average low of 59ยฐF. That means you still need to pack for chilly weather year-round!
- Flowy summer dress: In the summer opt for a long floaty dress to stay cool and comfy as you explore.
- Lightweight scarf: There are so many reasons to bring a light scarf – to enter churches, cover up if you get chilly, and protect yourself from sunburn.
- Jeans: Pack a pair of jeans for casual wearing and staying warm in the cooler evenings.
- Comfy sandals: On warm days, I love to explore in these sandals. They’re super comfy!
Colder Months (October-May):
In Stockholm, the coldest month is January, with an average high of 33ยฐF and low of 26ยฐF.
- Wool coat: You’re going to need a warm coat in the winter! I love a wool coat for style and practicality. You will fit in with the locals with this one.
- Comfortable boots: As expected, you’ll walk a lot in Stockholm in 3 days! Opt for some comfortable yet stylish boots that you’ve already broken in. I love these Chelsea boots!
- Warm beanie, scarf, and gloves: You absolutely need these to keep warm.
Three-Day Stockholm Itinerary: FAQs
In short, yes. Stockholm is very expensive! The best way to stick to a reasonable budget is to purchase a Stockholm Pass. It grants you access to dozens of Stockholm attractions (like the Vasa Museum, Nordiska Museet, and Drottningholm Palace) for one discounted price. Check out the Stockholm Pass here.
First, itโs important to know thereโs always the risk of rain and chilly weather in Stockholm. Even in the summer. So come prepared!ย
If you’re looking for mild weather and to avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting in April, May, September, or October.
The busiest and most expensive months to visit Stockholm are June, July, and August, but they’re also the months with the longest and warmest days!
November through March can be chilly, and the days are dark and short. However, the holiday season in Stockholm is magical – with festive Christmas markets, ice skating, concerts, and plenty of cozy bars serving up warming glรถgg!
3 days in Stockholm is the perfect amount of time to see Stockholmโs highlights. You’ll have time to visit some of the city’s best museums, wander around medieval Gamla Stan and hipster Sรถdermalm, explore the Royal Palace, taste some Swedish food on a food tour, enjoy a fika, and even experience the Stockholm archipelago via a kayak tour or a boat tour. That said, my last visit to Stockholm was 6 days and I wasnโt ready to leave yet! Itโs hard to get bored in this beautiful city!ย
Simply put, you need 3 days in Stockholm. Minimum! Whether it’s your first time in Stockholm or not, you can cover a lot of ground in 72 hours. For starters, you’ll have time to visit the city’s best museums (like the Vasa and Skansen!), visit the Royal Palace, soak up the beauty of the archipelago, and explore the medieval streets of Gamla Stan. Any less time, and your experience will be rushed! This itinerary walks you through the best things to do during 3 days in Stockholm!
3 Days in Stockholm: The Ultimate Stockholm Itinerary
From exploring the neighborhoods of Sรถdermalm and the medieval streets of Gamla Stan, to visiting world-renowned museums like the Vasa Museum, ABBA Museum, and Skansen, 3 days in Stockholm will be well spent.
Plus, this Stockholm City Kayak Tour, the Royal Palace, City Hall, this Nordic Food Walk, amazing views of the Stockholm harbor, and plenty of fikas await.
Get ready for an action-packed city break… sans relaxation! There’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Stockholm – and no time to waste!
Luckily, this 3-Day Stockholm Itinerary (perfect for first-timers) has you covered with the best of the Swedish capital.
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We skipped City Hall but your photos are making me wish we had visited. My entire family liked the Royal Palace, we even went into the treasury since it’s included in the Stockholm Pass. Though my kids did try to get lazy in the Palace and take the little folding chairs that are supposed to be used during the guided tour :)
Thanks for the information. Planning a Stockholm trip is overwhelming and this was very helpful!
Did you feel like you could’ve used more than 3 days there? Im traveling throughout Europe/Scandinavia this summer and planned for 3.5 days in Sweden, but can add more if I think thats needed. What do you think?
3 days is definitely enough time to explore the city’s Old Town, go to all of the great museums and spend some time simply roaming around and eating the food. But since you’re visiting in summer, there will be opportunities for you to really enjoy the sunshine, the city’s many parks, go on a wildlife safari, go hiking, biking and fishing, kayaking, boating, etc. If you like to do outdoor things, then Stockholm is great for that, and I would recommend extending your stay 1-3 more days! Enjoy. :)
Hi,
great post, loved it, which month did you travel to Stockholm ? as me and my family is also planning to visit Stockholm? thanks
But you have missed ABBA The Museum, a must see for first timers to Stockholm :)
Wow Stockholm looks amazing! Definitely one for the bucket list!
Stockholm looks like an impressive city, always wanted to visit (maybe because I’m half Swedish). I definitely need to explore more of Europe. Beautiful photos by the way, the food looks delicious!
https://www.mintnotion.com
Lovin’ these posts, lovin’ you even more Maddy! Keep up the fine work young lady!
-Rich
I thought this post was very great! Thanks for sharing your Stockholm experience
The food looks great and I did not really expect that from Swedish food!!
Can’t believe how pretty it is! it looks like you had a good time in Stockholm!
Gorgeous shots Maddy
Loved the article!