Walking Around Stockholm
Walking Around Stockholm - A Walking Tour of a Beautiful Scandinavian City
In the Spring of 2016, I spent two days visiting the beautiful city of Stockholm, Sweden. Although Stockholm has an excellent subway and train network, I decided that walking around Stockholm would allow me a better chance to take in the city’s unique attractions. I began my tour by walking around Stockholm at Stockholm’s Central Station, where my Radisson Blu Hotel was located. These pictures are not as high quality as many on my website as they were taken before I purchased my camera. My iPhone5 took all of the photos below.
Walking Around Stockholm - Table of Contents
- Walking Around Stockholm – A Walking Tour of Stockholm
- Walking Around the Central Station Area
- Walking Around Gamla Stan
- Walking Around the Royal Palace and Parliament Area
- Walking Around Kungsträdgården
- Walking Down Strandvägen Street
- Why I Enjoyed Walking Around Stockholm
- Stockholm City Tours
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Walking Around Stockholm - The Central Station Area
The Central Station Area of Stockholm is more modern than the historic areas of Old Town. The entire Central Station area is geared towards shopping and within a short walk of the station is the famous pedestrian shopping street Drottninggatan. On my way to Gamla Stan, I chose to walk rather than take the subway from Central Station to Gamla Stan.
The walking route was about 1 kilometer, and it was my first experience walking around Stockholm. Cutting through the Drottninggatan shopping district allowed me to window shop on my walk toward Gamla Stan.
Walking Around Stockholm - Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan is the famous Old Town of Stockholm and is a great place to begin a tour walking around Stockholm. Although an island, Gamla Stan is accessible by walking across various bridges or by taking the subway. I entered Gamla Stan through the gate, which was open to pedestrian traffic only.
The cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan are closed to cars of motorized vehicles. Some of the streets are so narrow that pedestrian traffic can hardly pass through during crowded times.
Gamla Stan has a real Old Town feeling. The historical Scandinavian Style buildings feature various shops, from tourist gift shops to clothing, to high-end items like fine glasswork. There were many interesting items to purchase, although my purchases were mostly gifts for my family members and souvenirs for my showcase.
While walking around Stockholm, it is easy to get lost in the charm of Gamla Stan. The narrow streets, tunnels, bridges, and a large number of shops can slow down even the most impatient tourist. As I got closer to the end of Gamla Stan, I noticed an area that as much more Americanized. This area included shops such as 7/11, The Body Shop, H&M and others that were familiar.
I exited the Old Town portion of Gamla Stan on the northern edge of the island and began walking towards my next stops, the Royal Palace and Parliament Building of Stockholm.
Walking Around Stockholm - The Royal Palace and Parliament Area
The Royal Palace of Stockholm is at the very Northern End of Gamla Stan. It was built in the late 1700s, and although it is no longer the home of the Royal Family, it is their working place. King Carl XVI Gustaf’s office is located in the private area of the palace. Tours are available in both guided and self-guided forms. I took the self-guided tour due to a lack of time. I thought it was interesting but probably would have preferred to only look around the outside of the building. Inside, it reminded me of any European Palace that I have visited.
I enjoyed walking around the outside of the palace. There were rows of cannons outside the entrance, and the entries were all protected by Swedish Guards. There is a changing of the guard around noon. I was not around for the changing of the guard, but if I ever return to Stockholm, I hope to see the ceremony.
After leaving the Royal Palace, I walked down the waterway on my way to the Parliament building. I was able to get some great views of the Royal Palace. My next stop was the parliament building which I did not go inside.
The House of Parliament opened in 1905 and is located directly next to the Royal Palace. Although Sweden still has a King, he doesn’t rule over Sweden instead, he reigns merely acting as a figurehead. The real power comes from Parliament and the Prime Minister. It is possible to visit the House of Parliament, but only during certain times. There are also public hearings that can be attended by the public. As I left Gamla Stan, I crossed the bridge and walked towards Kungsträdgården.
Walking Around Stockholm - Kungsträdgården
Kungsträdgården is a beautiful public park just North of Gamla Stan. The park has many statues, an outdoor amphitheater, and various walking paths. I chose to walk to Kungsträdgården from the Royal Palace and House of Parliament, but it is also accessible via the metro station Kungsträdgården.
At the end of the park is Gustav Adolfs Square which features the Stockholm Opera House. I did not go into the opera house. Instead, I kept walking towards Strandvägen Street.
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Walking Around Stockholm - Strandvägen Street
Strandvägen Street is a famous street on the water and has some of the best views of Stockholm. There is a pedestrian path down by the waterway, which includes lanes for bicycles. The opposite side of the harbor features some of the most picturesque buildings that look traditionally Swedish.
It was enjoyable walking around and looking at all of the Swedish Style Buildings. This trip was my first time in Europe, and I was in awe of the Scandinavian Architecture.
I walked the entire length of Strandvägen Street, eventually crossing at the Djurgårdsbron Bridge
After crossing the bridge, I would make my final stop of my walking tour at the Nordic and Vasa Museums.
The Nordic Museum is one of the star attractions of Stockholm. Unfortunately, I did not realize that it was closed on Monday, which was my only full day in Stockholm. Had I realized that, I would have visited it on my arrival day. Still, it was a fun building to observe from the outside. The Vasa Museum was open and was one of the more interesting museums I had ever visited. You can read about my experience at the Vasa Museum by clicking on the link.
Why I Enjoyed Walking Around Stockholm
Stockholm is one of the most walkable cities I have ever visited. All of the sights I saw can be seen by completing a giant walking circle. There is also a metro and street trolly for tourists who do not want to walk the entire distance. As I finished up my walking tour of Stockholm, I returned to my hotel near Central Station. The next day I would continue my first European trip and visit Paris, France.
Stockholm City Tours
A self-guided walking tour allowed me to explore Stockholm at my own pace. This trip was the first time I’d ever been out of the United States, and I really didn’t plan appropriately. Many countries later, I now know how to better plan my route and research ahead of time. For people who do not want to do the research ahead of time, a guided tour is the way to go. Linked below are a few Stockholm City tours that caught my eye. Some of these tours include admission to the Vasa Museum.
I am an affiliate partner of Viator. If you book a tour using one of the links below, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I would greatly appreciate it if you would consider booking using one of my links.
 Best of Stockholm Photography and Sightseeing Tour - $121.34 Your vacation photos will never look the same after a 3-hour photography and walking tour of Stockholm. A professional photographer guides you around the city for fantastic shots of its finest landmarks, from the Old Town to the Royal Palace. Learn insider tips on everything from lighting to composition, and discover more about Stockholm’s history along the way. Want to show off your newfound skills? After the tour, upload your photos to a website to compete for a prize! Ideal for all skill levels, this tour operates with a maximum of 12 people, ensuring a small-group experience. |
 Stockholm Private Walking Tour - $174.83 Escape the crowd! Whether it’s just you and your significant other, or an extended group of friends, our private tour is specifically designed so that you will get to know Stockholm intimately. Learn about Stockholm’s tangled history and cool modern culture on this 3-hour walking tour. With our knowledgeable guide, you will explore the most attractive places in the entire Stockholm mixed with wonderful views. Your guide will also make sure you get all the local insights and travel tips you need for the rest of your stay. |
 Gamla Stan Walking Tour in Stockholm - $39.86 STOCKHOLM. 1,5hrs. Stockholm's Old Town (Gamla stan) is a wonderful place to wander, admire buildings and enjoy a coffee. For the best-hidden gems of Stockholm's Old Town, join our tour of Gamla stan, Stockholm Old town Walking Tour! |
 Private Tour: Stockholm City Walking Tour Including the Vasa Museum - $343.46 Admire three of Stockholm’s highlights on this absorbing 2.5-hour private walking tour. Led by a private guide, explore the charm-laden Gamla Stan (Stockholm Old Town) to see its beautiful Coronation Church and Stockholm Palace. Then, ride a ferry to Djurgården Island to visit the fascinating Vasa Museum. This impressive venue houses the 'Vasa,' a massive warship that sank in 1628 and that has been meticulously restored to its former glory. A fascinating introduction to three of Stockholm's gems, this private tour ensures you enjoy in-depth attention from the guide. |
 Stockholm Bike Tour - $47.72 Explore Stockholm and her beautiful central islands on two wheels on this 3-hour bike tour! Hop on your supplied, easy-to-ride bike and follow your guide around some of the Swedish capital’s famous sights and hidden gems, many of the latter inaccessible to cars and buses. Follow some of the city’s extensive cycle paths; pedal around Gamla Stan (Old Town); and cross bridges to roam idyllic islands and pretty shores. Add fascinating commentary from your guide and there’s no better way to get oriented in the 'Venice of the North!' |
 Private: Stockholm Old Town History Walking Tour - $90.99 Take a fully private walk in the Old Town with a expert guide. You will have him or her full attention during the tour and can ask as many questions you like. During our 3-hour walking tour we will see all the sights and quarters of the Old Town (Gamla Stan). |
 The Best of Stockholm Walking Tour - $489.68 Together with the professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. What is so interesting about Gamla Stan Stockholmolm old town? |
 Stockholm Super Saver: Gamla Stan Walking Tour plus Modern Stockholm Walking Tour - $39.35 STOCKHOLM. 1,5hr + 1,5hr. Old Town Walk and Modern Murder Mystery combined! Walk the historic, cobbled street stones of the Old Town, see modern buildings and hear about dramas that have taken place in the city centre of Stockholm. |
 Walking Tour of Stockholm Old Town - $23.81 Join us on our Old Town Tour to enjoy the beautiful island of Gamlastan and understand why the Vikings chose this island to create their next capital. Our tour is designed chronologically so you can experience history just like the city did. We will start from the Viking Era, the German influence in the country and the Danish clash which led to the most important Swedish event: the Stockholm bloodbath in 1520 followed by the succession of Gustav Vasa. |
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