Top 15 Must-Experience Tours in Stockholm

With a populace nearing one million, Stockholm is the most populous city in Sweden. It serves as the nation’s capital, gracefully positioned along a stunning stretch of the Baltic coastline, embellished with numerous islands. The city showcases several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Royal Palace and Parliament, while also fostering a contemporary art, culinary, and music scene that attracts youthful, artistic, and bohemian visitors. Outdoor recreational activities are plentiful, complemented by numerous guided tours that explore the adjacent countryside, ideal for those seeking respite from the urban hustle.

1. Christmas Spirit Walking Tour

Experiencing Christmas in Stockholm is delightful for those with adaptable holiday schedules. Starting in November, the city radiates with lights, festive decorations, and joyful carolers sharing holiday spirit. During this Christmas spirit walking tour, guests will join their guide to explore the historic Old Town area in the late afternoon as evening approaches. Participants will gain insights into Swedish Christmas customs while enjoying mulled wine and gingerbread cookies. Tours typically commence in the late afternoon, enduring approximately 75 minutes, with a requirement for moderate walking. It is advisable to dress warmly and wear waterproof footwear if available.

2. Royal Bridges and Canal Cruise

Enveloped by canals, inlets, islands, and historical bridges, Stockholm warrants exploration from the water’s perspective. This cruise commences at the Royal Palace in Old Town, where guests board their tour boat before embarking on a journey through the archipelago surrounding the city center. While aboard, participants will enjoy panoramic views of key attractions in Stockholm, including the vibrant buildings of Gamla Stan, the Royal Game Park on Djurgarden Island, and the chic streets of Södermalm. Onboard amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, clean restrooms, and a café. Audio guides are accessible in over a dozen languages.

3. Stockholm Vegetarian, Vegan, and Raw Food Tour

The Södermalm neighborhood represents one of the city’s most fashionable gastronomic destinations. It offers a notable range of traditional and modern eateries, establishing itself as a hub for raw, vegan, and vegetarian diners who prefer to avoid cooking at home. Under the guidance of a knowledgeable host, participants will sample some of the finest culinary offerings in the city while delving into its culture and history, mingling with locals and international visitors. The restaurant scene reflects a variety of influences, spanning Asian, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian cuisines. Tours last approximately four hours and commence at a central location in the late morning.

4. Stockholm Highlights 2-Hour Segway Tour

Exploring a historic city like Stockholm on a Segway provides an enjoyable method of observing the landmarks while experiencing the outdoors without excessive exertion. After a brief orientation on safe Segway operation, participants will glide past significant attractions, including the Royal Theater, Opera House, and Parliament. The insights from the guide throughout the tour enhance the experience. For first-time visitors, this offers an excellent way to familiarize oneself with the layout of the city and identify additional sites to explore later independently.

5. ABBA the Museum Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket

For ardent fans of ABBA, the iconic ’70s Swedish supergroup, a visit to the dedicated museum in Stockholm is a thrilling opportunity. The advantageous skip-the-line tickets allow visitors to bypass the crowds on busy days and immerse themselves in the museum’s extensive collection of ABBA memorabilia. Exhibits include gold records, original costumes, recording equipment, and musical instruments utilized by the band. Guests have the freedom to explore the museum at their own speed, making this experience personal and enjoyable without the need for a costly and talkative tour guide.

6. Best Pub Crawl and Nightlife Tour

Spanning seven hours, this premier pub crawl and nightlife tour resembles more of a marathon than a typical outing. Stockholm’s vibrant nightlife blends locals and tourists, making pub crawls ideal for those desiring a lively atmosphere distinct from older crowds. The itinerary includes three bars and one nightclub, with two guides accompanying participants throughout the evening. Enthusiastic revelers are treated to complimentary shots or cocktails at each venue, along with free entry and discounts on various beverages. It is advisable to have a meal prior to the tour to ensure stamina throughout the duration.

7. Red Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Boat

Whether traversing by boat, bus, or both, hop-on-hop-off tours provide excellent opportunities for those intent on experiencing Stockholm’s highlights without exorbitant costs. These modes of transportation operate on a consistent schedule, traversing through the city’s diverse neighborhoods, islands, and canals. Depending on the selected package, tickets are valid for a period ranging from 24 to 72 hours, inclusive of complimentary audio guides available in ten languages. This format allows guests to explore iconic sites such as the Royal Palace, City Hall, and several fashionable dining and shopping areas at their own pace.

8. Stockholm Archipelago 1-Hour Tour by RIB Speed Boat

Whether one is in a tropical paradise or a northern realm like Sweden, riding rigid inflatable speedboats (RIBs) offers a delightful method for viewing stunning scenery in a short timeframe. After greeting their skipper at a convenient location on the Blaiseholmen Peninsula, participants will don life vests and waterproof attire before embarking on a thrilling coastal cruise. Key highlights include the Stockholm National Museum, Grönalund Amusement Park, and captivating views of unspoiled marshes and islands. Due to the inherently bumpy ride associated with speedboats, these tours are recommended for individuals with at least a moderate level of fitness.

9. Old Town Walking Tour

Footsteps along the paths taken by Stockholm’s founders become accessible through this Old Town walking tour. The historic area is rich with significant attractions and features a pedestrian-friendly environment, providing an enjoyable 90-minute exploration, especially for those who prefer walking over cramped tour buses. Tour highlights encompass the magnificent Riddarholmen Church, the statue commemorating Stockholm’s founder, and breathtaking views of Lake Mälaren. Tours originate from a central location, granting new visitors a comprehensive overview of the city’s sites within a manageable timeframe.

10. Nordic Food Walk

Östermalmshallen serves as Stockholm’s oldest central market and initiates this four-hour Nordic food walk. Accompanied by an informed local guide, guests will traverse several centrally located neighborhoods, acquiring insights into Swedish culture while tasting a variety of traditional and contemporary culinary delights. Ample opportunities exist for interactions with local vendors, inquiries on specific items, or brief pauses to absorb the ambiance. By the tour’s conclusion, participants will have enjoyed an array of offerings, from fresh seafood and artisanal chocolates to baked goods and cured meats. Tours operate twice daily, in both the morning and afternoon.

11. Guided Vasa Museum Tour

After spending over 300 years submerged, the Vasa is remarkably well-preserved and currently resides in a dedicated museum in Stockholm. Built in the early 17th century, this ship offers an extraordinary glimpse into the maritime history of the region. The Vasa Museum stands as one of Stockholm’s prime attractions. During this guided tour, guests will explore its extensive exhibits for two hours, engaging with interactive displays and riveting historical narratives, making it a perennial favorite among families traveling with children. Tours are available in both morning and afternoon slots.

12. Snowshoeing in the Wild

Among outdoor winter activities, snowshoeing stands out as being both exhilarating and high in caloric expenditure. Sweden’s winter scenery is breathtaking, and it only takes a brief departure from the urban environment to immerse oneself in expansive snowy landscapes. Prior to the adventure, participants will receive instruction in proper snowshoe techniques before venturing into nature. Activities during the tour include learning about the local history and culture, recognizing animal tracks in the snow, and enjoying hot beverages and a traditional meal by a cozy bonfire. Round-trip transportation from Stockholm and all necessary gear are provided.

13. Subway Art Guided Tour

Stockholm boasts one of Scandinavia’s most vibrant underground art scenes, particularly within its subway network. While graffiti is ubiquitous worldwide, in Stockholm, it transcends the notion of vandalism to become a recognized form of art. This guided subway art tour allows guests to appreciate these impressive works up close. After meeting their amiable guide, participants will descend into the subway system and discover remarkable art pieces, some originating from the 1950s. Tours generally last two hours and are offered at various starting times.

14. Private Photography Class and Tour

Particularly for first-time visitors, Stockholm offers a wealth of photogenic landmarks. While exploring independently is certainly feasible, those with a keen interest in photography may benefit from a guided photography class and tour. The city features a stunning array of architecture, historical sites, and natural beauty ideal for capturing memorable images. This private, small-group tour, led by a professional photographer, encompasses lessons in camera techniques, composition, and lighting, ensuring that guests achieve their desired photographs effectively.

15. 5-Hour Medieval Churches Tour

Exploring Sweden’s preserved medieval churches provides a unique opportunity to venture outside the city for several hours and delve into the region’s religious heritage. During this guided tour, participants will accompany an experienced local guide to explore a selection of preserved churches in the surrounding countryside, some dating back to the 12th century. Architectural features include intricate wood carvings, masonry, and stained glass, with many churches remaining in near-original condition. The tour includes round-trip transportation to and from accommodations in Stockholm, along with time allocated for lunch and refreshments, though these meals are not part of the tour package.