How to Spend 24 Hours in Stockholm
In 24 hours, you can’t see everything in
Stockholm, but you'll have enough time to get a taste of the “Venice of the North” built around 14 islands. Here’s how you can spend 24 hours in Stockholm without missing out on the must-sees.
Stay at a centrally located hotel
Find a hotel that is close to all the major attractions, restaurants, and shops. You have the advantage of saving time and money on commuting to the city. There are many centrally located hotels that suit any budget.
Check out the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel located next to the Central Train Station, Hotel Kungstradgarden, next to the King’s Garden and Nobis Hotel Stockholm situated in Stockholm’s shopping district. These hotels are close to everything. Gamla Stan (Old Town) is just minutes away, Vasa Museum and the other museums located on the island of Djurgården is accessible by Tram 7.
Try Swedish breakfast
Get a taste of Swedish breakfast at your hotel. If you prefer, you can join other tourists and locals in one of the cozy cafes close to your hotel. Try the cracker-like crispbread with cheese, cold cuts, and “caviar” in a tube (Kalles Kaviar spread). And of course, the amazing black coffee before you head out to explore.
Visit Vasa Museum
It doesn’t matter if you’re in Stockholm for 24 hours or 24 days; Vasa Museum is one place you need to visit. Vasa sunk in Stockholm harbor minutes after it set sail on its maiden voyage on August 10, 1628. This 226-foot warship stayed underwater for 333 years before it was salvaged in 1961. It’s the most well restored wooden warship of its era, and 98 percent of the ship is original. It’s Scandinavia's most famous museum and a must-see in Stockholm.
If you’re in a hurry, the museum suggests watching the 17-minute video presentation and joining the 25 minute guided tour on Level 4 (entrance level). You only need one hour to do both, with enough time to go to the top floor and the lowest floor to see the ship from the top and the bottom.
Enjoy Abba Museum
Abba fans can walk to the Abba Museum after visiting the Vasa Museum. Both museums are located in Djurgården. The museum has a restaurant, and you can grab a quick bite there before heading to Gamla Stan.
Visit Fotografiska Museum and have lunch
Skip Abba Museum if you're not a fan. And fans of contemporary photography should go to Fotografiska Museum in Södermalm district.
Fotografiska Museum’s award-winning restaurant, located on the top floor offers amazing views of Stockholm including Gamla Stan. Those who aren’t visiting the museum can also eat there. Make sure to book ahead. The cafe located next to the restaurant serves delicious pastries and coffee. The views over at the cafe is just as amazing as the restaurant.
Join a walking tour of Gamla Stan
Stromma offers a one hour 15 minutes guided walking tour starting from Strömkajen at 220 SEK per person. This tour is only available in summer. For a self-guided walking tour, download the
GPSMYCITY app and let the app be your personal guide.
Founded in the 13th century, Gamla Stan or Old Town is a living museum showcasing medieval alleyways, period buildings, and cobblestone streets. Highlights of Gamla Stan include:
- The Royal Palace
- Stortorget Square
- Coronation Church
- Gamla Riksbanken (The Old National Bank)
- The House of Nobility
- Bonde Palace
- Cozy cafes and quaint shops housed in old buildings
In the evening, you have several options:
1. Evening food walking tour
Join a 2.5 to 3 hour
guided food walking tour starting at 5 pm at Östermalms Saluhall. This food tour includes small dishes in the modern Nordic kitchen, a gourmet restaurant for the main course with wine, and a beer and dessert at a bar/lounge. After the tour, guests can hang out longer and order more drinks at their own expense.
2. Dinner and boat tour
Stromma offers evening cruises with dinner on selected days starting at 7 pm from March 7 to November 13. The two-hour cruise around the beautiful waters of Stockholm is an excellent option for those who like to admire Stockholm’s views from the water.
3. Enjoy Stockholm nightlife
Stockholm has outdoor clubs and places where you can dance the night away. Or if you prefer clubs, Visit Stockholm has a list. Check out the following:
- Under Bron
- Berns
- F12 Terrassen
- Colosseum
4. Wine bars and restaurants
For a quieter evening enjoying wine and food, there are wine bars and restaurants. Take a look at Visit Stockholm's wine bars and restaurants
list.