20 Free Things To Do In Stockholm, Sweden

Last Updated: September 26 2024

Stockholm is an incredible city, and in our opinion, it’s one of the best in all of Europe. Boasting unparalleled beauty, fantastic attractions, and incredible architecture, this city has so much to offer.

Honestly, you’ll love this amazing destination. We certainly did!

Unfortunately, there’s no denying that Stockholm is expensive. Accommodation can take up a good chunk of your budget, so naturally, you may want to make the most of the city’s free attractions.

This guide is going to detail the best free things to do in Stockholm. This includes city walks, incredible museums, and lush parks, so there’s something for everyone!

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The Best Free Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden

1. Explore Gamla Stan

Also known as the city’s old town, Gamla Stan is one of Stockholm’s most beautiful areas. Many of the buildings date back to the 1700s, although the old town itself was founded in the 13th century.

Being one of the best medieval centres in Europe, you don’t want to miss out on this area. The main square is Stortorget, which is the highlight in our opinion, although you’ll also find several notable attractions here.

This includes the Royal Palace, the Royal Chapel, and Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, with the latter being the narrowest street in Stockholm. At its narrowest point, the street is just 90cm wide!

Gamla Stan is completely free to wander around. However, this walking tour will allow you to learn all about the area’s history. To keep with the ‘free’ theme, we’ll talk about an alternative option for walking tours later on in this guide!

2. Take in the views from Monteliusvagen Cliff Path

If you’re looking for free things to do in Stockholm then make sure you walk the Monteliusvagen Cliff Path. It offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and Lake Mälaren, and it won’t cost you a penny.

This incredible cliff path is found on the island of Södermalm and it’s just 500m (1,640 feet) long. It’s not taxing by any stretch of the imagination, which means it’s suitable for the majority of people. Just keep in mind that after a lot of rainfall, the path can feel quite slippery.

There are benches along the cliff path, and these are a great place to relax and admire the views. Don’t forget to take plenty of photographs, especially if you head here for sunset. If you’ve only got one day in Stockholm then you don’t want to miss out on this place! 

To reach Monteliusvagen Cliff Path, you’ll want to get the metro to Slussen station. From there, it’s just a 12-minute walk so it’s easy to access.

3. Check out Riddarholmen Church (from the outside)

While exploring Stockholm City, take some time to admire the architecture of Riddarholmen Church. This iconic church dates back to the 13th century and is the only medieval Abbey in Stockholm that still stands.

What’s interesting about Riddarholmen Church is that all kings and queens of Sweden (bar one) from the 17th century have been crowned here. Some of these kings were also laid to rest here, so this church is one of the city’s most important landmarks.

It’s important to note that there’s an entrance fee to access the cathedral’s interior. For that reason, we just admired the church from the outside, and that was enough for us! The architecture is incredible, and it’s a great building to take photographs of.

We’d recommend getting here early, as the area can get pretty busy. Many people come to admire the church’s design, and it can sometimes feel quite crowded with people trying to take photographs.

4. Head for a swim from one of Stockholm’s beaches

If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Stockholm then head to some of the city’s beaches. There are plenty to choose from in and around the city, and many of them give you the chance to go for a swim.

Now the temperature may not be very enticing, but it’s certainly refreshing. Of course, this is only a suitable activity during the summer months, as temperatures drop below freezing during the winter.

Some of the best beaches in Stockholm include Smedsuddsbadet, Långholmens Strandbad, and Tanto Strandbad. They’re all family-friendly but they can get pretty busy during the summer, so try to come here early.

You can simply sunbathe here if you wish, but heading out for a swim is extremely popular. Other popular spots for this include Fredhällsbadet, Lilla Essingebadet, and Brunnsvikens Strandbad. Some of these offer a sandy beach, while others feature a jetty that you can jump off.

5. Watch the sunset from Skinnarviksberget

Skinnarviksberget was one of our favourite places to visit during our 3 days in Stockholm! It’s one of the highest points in the city. Once you’ve made it here – you honestly won’t want to leave.

At the top of Skinnarviksberget, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Stockholm and its many attractions. That includes Gamla Stan, Lake Mälaran, and Stockholm City Hall.

No matter what time of year you visit Stockholm, the views from this point are unparalleled. Many people take snacks, a picnic, or a takeaway here and enjoy the scenery while they dine. However, for the best experience, you’ll want to watch one of the city’s epic sunsets from here.

This place can get pretty busy during the peak months so come early to grab the best spot. It’s just 30 minutes away from Gamla Stan on foot. Or you jump on a metro train to Zinkensdamm stadium and just walk from there.

6. Go on a free walking tour

For those who don’t want to pay for a walking tour (this is a ‘free things to do’ article after all), then you’re in luck! Free Tour Stockholm offers guided tours and the best part? You don’t need to pay for them – of course, you should always leave a tip though.

They offer three different tours in English; the Old Town Tour, the City Tour, and The Death in Old Town Tour. There are also two tour options in Spanish (La Ciudad Vieja and Tour Siniestro), and you can book any of these online.

The walking tours last between 1.5-2 hours and your guide will have over 10 years of experience. They will show you the best spots in Stockholm and will teach you all about the city’s history. The time of the tour and meeting place will all depend on which tour you choose and the day you opt for.

7. Walk around Royal National City Park

You’ll find plenty of free things to do in Stockholm but don’t miss out on Royal National City Park. It stretches from Djurgården and Fjäderholmarna in the South to Sörentorp and Ulriksdal in the North of the city.

Covering over 6 miles (9.6 km), Royal National City Park is the first urban park in the world. With walking trails, sports facilities, museums, and secluded swimming spots all found here, you won’t run out of things to do. However, it’s also a great place to just relax.

Another great thing about Royal National City Park is the wildlife. There’s a variety of species that call this place home including deer, hare, foxes, and rare birds. If you’re lucky, you might get to spot some while you wander around.

Honestly, you could easily spend a couple of hours walking around the park and admiring the beautiful scenery.

8. Watch the Changing of the Guards at the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is one of the most famous places in Sweden as it’s the official residence of the King of Sweden. Boasting over 600 rooms and 11 floors, it’s no wonder that this place is one of the largest palaces in Europe!

Although you have to pay to enter the Royal Palace, there’s a completely free activity which you can do here and that’s watching the ‘Changing of the Guards’. This ceremony features a parade and marching band and is held throughout the year.

The Royal Guards Ceremony takes around 40 minutes and is a sight to see. Just keep in mind that the ceremony time depends on when you visit and on which day. During the summer, the Changing of the Guard takes place every day, although it’s less frequent during the Autumn and Winter.

If you’re after free things to do in Stockholm then don’t miss out on this experience!

9. Take a look at Stockholm’s underground art

You’ll find plenty of free things in Stockholm, but the metro stations probably won’t come to mind. As you’ll be paying to get around the city anyway, we don’t classify this as a paid activity!

Covering 110 km (68 miles), the Stockholm subway system is said to be the world’s longest art exhibit. There are more than 100 stations in the city, and the majority of them all feature artwork. This could be installations, murals, or statues, but each station has something unique to offer.

For the best experience, check out these metro stations:

• T-Centralen Station – Known for its painted blue leaves.
• Solna Centrum Station – This station is painted red and green to represent the sunset and Stockholm’s trees.
• Stadion Station – Home to colourful rainbows.
• Kungsträdgården Station – Has a colour scheme of red, white, and green.
• Tekniska Högskolan Station – Known for its installations and artwork.

10. Admire the cherry blossom at Kungsträdgården

Kungsträdgården is one of Stockholm’s oldest public parks as it dates back to the 15th century. It’s open all year round and is associated with the city’s Royal History, hence its name in Swedish, ‘The King’s Garden’.

Throughout the year, over 200 events and festivals take place here, so there’s always something going on. However, if you head to Stockholm during Spring (generally in the middle of April), you can appreciate the cherry blossom trees.

Within Kungsträdgården, there’s a gorgeous avenue of these cherry blossom trees and you can walk right underneath them. Better yet, there are several benches found here, so grab something to eat, and relax while admiring these gorgeous plants

Even if you don’t visit during April, don’t miss out on this park. It’s a great place to relax and take a break.

11. Look for beavers at Arsta Lake (Arstaviken)

There are plenty of places to visit in Stockholm for free but Arstaviken (Arsta Lake) doesn’t often come to mind. What you may find surprising about this incredible city, is that there’s tons of wildlife to be found here.

Although they were believed to be extinct 100 years ago, beavers have started to call Stockholm home once more. They’ve been spotted at Arsta Lake and Karlbergskanalen among other locations, and after hearing this, we just had to try our luck.

Arstaviken is located on Södermalm, and there’s a path that runs along the lake’s shoreline. This trail provides the best opportunity of spotting the elusive creatures, but keep in mind that they’re incredibly difficult to find.

Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see any but that just means we’ll have to come back! In truth, we didn’t stay here for too long as we had lots of other places to see.

12. Go on a free tour of The Riksdagen

The Riksdagen (or Stockholm Parliament House) is undeniably one of the city’s most impressive buildings. It was completed in 1905 and was designed in a neoclassical style, with two wings – one is the original House of Parliament, while the other used to be the National Bank’s head office.

What’s great about The Riksdagen is that anyone is welcome to attend a debate or public hearing. Better yet, free guided tours are run here between September and June. On these tours, you’ll get to learn all about how the country is run and the history of Swedish politics.

These tours are run in English on Saturdays and Sundays, and they start at 1:30 pm. Although they’re free, you’ll still need to book in advance as spots can fill up fast. Another fantastic thing about The Riksdagen is that measures are continuously implemented to ensure accessibility.

13. Marvel at the beauty of Strandvägen

You’ll find plenty of free Stockholm tourist attractions but sometimes, it’s just the city’s beauty that will take your breath away. One such place to visit is Strandvägen which is a charming boulevard located on the island of Östermalm.

Stretching for 1 km (0.6 miles), Strandvägen is one of the most scenic and exclusive areas in the city. Here, you’ll find breathtaking architecture, luxury yachts, and high-class hotels. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants located along this boulevard, but just be aware, that food prices may be higher here.

If you’re looking to simply admire the views, then take a stroll or park up on one of the many benches found along Strandvägen. If it’s a clear day, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Djurgården, Gamla Stan, and Skeppsholmen.

For those heading out on an archipelago tour or taking a water taxi, this is often where they depart from.

14. Spend some time at Medeltidsmuseet

There are several free museums in Stockholm but Medeltidsmuseet is a must-visit. Also known as the Medieval Museum, this awesome attraction is the place to be if you’re looking to learn about the city’s history.

For starters, the building is located around one of Stockholm’s largest excavations. In the underground exhibit, you’ll find part of the city wall that dates back to 1520. The wall is 55 meters (180 feet) long, and there’s also a warship and medieval graveyard found in this part of the museum.

In Medeltidsmuseet, you’ll also find the entrance to Norrbro which is the oldest stone bridge in the city. Not only that, but this Museum will take you through reconstructions of what life was like during medieval Stockholm.

Considering this museum is free to visit, there’s so much to see. Offering hands-on exhibitions and multimedia elements, you’ll be able to learn so much about Stockholm’s past.

15. Walk around Vitabergsparken

Stockholm is full of beautiful parks and Vitabergsparken is no different. Boasting epic city views, a charming church, and a restaurant and bar, this is the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle.

The church found here is called Sofia Kyrka and it’s located on a hill. There are also some traditional houses found in this park too, which makes it a great place to wander around. If you’ve got the time, you can even grab something to eat in the restaurant. Better yet, if you’re on a budget, then why not bring a picnic here?

Although Vitabergsparken isn’t one of the most popular destinations in the city, it’s a good place to wander around. During the summer, free concerts are also held in this park which you can take advantage of. There’s also an open-air theatre so make sure you check if anything is on during your visit.

16. The Stockholm Public Library

If you’re after non-touristy things to do in Stockholm then head to the city’s Public Library. The building’s design was created by Gunnar Asplund; one of Sweden’s most famous architects. Therefore, it’s no surprise to learn that it’s been voted one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.

Although the building’s exterior is notable, the library’s interior is strikingly aesthetic and it’s a great place to get lost in. Of course, to take anything out, you’ll need a free library card. However, you’re welcome to take a look through the books if you’ve got some spare time.

If you’re travelling through Stockholm with your family, then this museum also has a kid’s section. Here, activities are held all year round, and this includes theatre, films, and sing-songs.

Even if you’re short of time, just take a few minutes to at least wander inside and admire the architecture.

17. Wander around The National Sports Museum

Often referred to as Riksidrottsmuseum, the National Sports Museum is another great place to visit. It’s one of the best free things to do in Stockholm, especially if you’ve got children.

This museum depicts Swedish sports from ancient times right up to the present day. This includes exhibits on traditional sports, the 1912 Olympic Games, and sports stars. While here, you’ll get to watch sporting highlights, read old reviews, and listen to old radio commentaries.

Not only is this place very informative, but the exhibits are extremely interactive. There’s a lot to look at here but the National Sports Museum is also very hands-on. You can try out different sports and activities, and challenge each other to competitions if you’re not travelling solo.

This includes trying out an indoor climbing wall, testing your equilibrium, and measuring your reaction time. For the best experience, you’ll want to allow at least 1-1.5 hours for your visit.

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18. Spend some time on the island of Djurgården

Djurgården is one of Stockholm’s popular islands and is home to a whole host of awesome attractions. The majority of these are paid attractions and include Skansen Open Air Museum, Gröna Lund, and the ABBA Museum.

However, there are a couple of free places for you to visit on the island. Royal National City Park is the most popular, but you’ve also got Rosendal’s Garden which is another charming spot. If you’re heading to Stockholm on the first Thursday of each month, then admission to the Nordic Museum is also free.

One of the best things to do is simply walk, as the scenery is beautiful. You’ll find walking trails all across the island, and some of them run parallel to the water. In fact, you can walk all around Djurgården if you wish, although it will take a couple of hours.

19. Enjoy some peacefulness at Vinterviken

There are plenty of attractions in Stockholm for tourists, but Vinterviken isn’t often frequented. It’s a bay located along Lake Mälaren and is just a 15-minute drive from the city’s old town. The scenery here is incredible, making it the perfect place for a stroll.

Popular with both locals and tourists alike, Vinterviken is the place to go if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Many people even choose to swim here during the summer months, if the weather is warm enough. In fact, during the summer it can get really busy here so it’s best to come early.

You’ll also find a cosy restaurant in this area which is a great place to grab something to eat. However, if you’re on a tight budget, then why not bring a picnic here instead? This way, you’ll save money, but can still enjoy the views while you dine.

20. Visit Moderna Museet

Last but certainly not least, there’s Moderna Museet which is another of the city’s free attractions. It’s located on the island of Skeppsholmen and is the place to go if you’re an art lover.

Moderna Museet is the country’s National Museum of Contemporary Art, and it’s been around since 1958. Today, it’s home to one of Europe’s most important art collections dating from the 20th century up until the present day.

At this museum, you can admire incredible pieces from notorious artists including Dali, Derkert, Matisse, and Picasso. There’s plenty to see, so you should take your time wandering around.

After you’ve explored the exhibits, you can grab something to eat or drink in the on-site cafe. The views from here are pretty impressive, and there’s also a souvenir shop which you can visit.

Just keep in mind that Moderna Museet is only free on Fridays between 6 pm – 8 pm.

Helpful Information for Visiting Stockholm, Sweden

How to get to Stockholm

The majority of people fly into Stockholm Arlanda Airport as it’s just 39 km (24 miles) outside of the city centre. This is where international flights land, and there are multiple ways to reach Stockholm from the airport.

One of the quickest ways into the city is on the Arlanda Express which takes less than 20 minutes. There are also commuter trains that run into the city centre, or you can jump on the airport coach which is the cheapest option. It costs 50% less and the journey takes around 45 minutes.

If you’re coming from Europe, then you can catch a ferry or travel by land. Of course, you can just travel over the border in your car too.

Ferries operate from several European countries including Finland, Estonia, Poland, and Latvia. You’ve also got several train and bus services that depart from Denmark, Norway, and other countries on the continent.

How to get around Stockholm

You’ll have no problems getting around the city as Stockholm has an efficient public transport system. The easiest way to travel around is via the metro system as there are more than 100 subway stations, and most of the lines run from 5 am in the morning till 1 am the next morning.

There are also several bus and tram routes that run throughout Stockholm. These often go to places the metro can’t reach, so they’re a really handy way to get around!

Another great way to get around is via ferry, as so much of the city consists of islands. To make the most of your money, check out the SL Travel Card. Buses, trams, commuter trains, the metro, and specific ferry routes are all included on this pass.

Another popular way to get around is via this combined bus and boat ticket. Many people also opt for electric scooters and e-bikes, so as you can see, there are lots of options.

The best time to visit Stockholm

You can visit Stockholm at any time of year so you’ll have no problems planning a trip. Peak season starts in June and ends in August, and temperatures range between 11°C (52°F) to 22°C (71°F) during this time. Unfortunately, this is usually the most expensive time to visit too, so accommodation can be costly.

For those on a budget, it’s better to visit during Stockholm’s shoulder season. This falls between April-May and September-October, and accommodation tends to be much cheaper during this time. Just keep in mind that temperatures will be cooler.

Another popular time to visit Stockholm is during December as the city has some fantastic Christmas markets. You’ll just have to contend with low temperatures (as cold as -3°C), and short sunlight hours. In fact, the sun can set at 3 pm!

Honestly, it doesn’t really matter when you visit. Each season offers something different so it all depends on what you want from your trip.

Where to Stay in Stockholm

You’ll find plenty of free activities in Stockholm but unfortunately, you’re always going to have to fork out some cash for accommodation. Here are some of our top recommendations!

Luxury: Grand Hôtel Stockholm

This beautiful hotel is located at the waterfront in a central location. You’ll be right next to Gamla Stan and the Royal Palace, which puts you in the perfect place if you’re looking to explore the city.

Boasting a luxury spa, Michelin-star quality restaurant, and indoor pool, you’ll be well looked after here. Not only that, but the rooms are beautiful.

Mid-range: Victory Hotel

You’ll be a few minutes walk away from the metro station in Gamla Stan if you stay at the Victory Hotel. Not only will you be in the heart of the old town, but you’ll find plenty of awesome attractions to visit nearby.

You’ll be able to use plenty of facilities if you stay here including a restaurant, a plunge pool, and a sauna. There’s also a cosy lounge bar and a wine bar where you can relax.

Budget: STF Rygerfjord Hotel & Hostel

We stayed at STF Rygerfjord Hotel & Hostel during our Stockholm trip and would highly recommend it to anyone on a budget. The hotel features three ships that sit on Lake Mälaren and offer cabin-style rooms.

You’ll have the use of a communal kitchen, lounge area, and outside picnic tables, as well as an onboard restaurant and bar. This is the perfect place to relax and have a drink after a long day of exploring!

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Frequently Asked Questions about Free Things to Do in Stockholm

Is Sweden cheap for tourists?

Compared to other countries in Europe, Sweden is considered to be relatively expensive. You’ll find that accommodation in particular here can be costly, but there’s always a way to keep costs low.

Start by staying in a hostel or budget accommodation, and avoid restaurants if you can. There are plenty of great supermarkets in the cities especially, so you won’t be short of food options. Another bit of advice – stay away from alcohol if you can as it’s expensive.

Do I need to take cash to Stockholm?

In our experience, you don’t need to take cash to Stockholm. The city is primarily cashless and you’ll find that the majority of businesses don’t accept it. Just put money on a travel card and that way, you’ll save on fees.

We took plenty of cash with us during our trip and didn’t use any of it. After we returned home, we had to exchange it all back so just keep that in mind.

What is a good budget for Stockholm?

As we just mentioned, Sweden is an expensive country and its capital city is no different. Even if you’re sticking to free attractions in Stockholm, you’ll need a budget of at least £40-£60 per person.

For those who’d prefer to stay in a hotel rather than a hostel, then you’ll want to up your budget. We’d recommend allowing yourself a daily budget of £70-£90 in that case.

How many days do we need in Stockholm?

There are so many incredible things to do in Stockholm that you could easily spend days here. Not only that but there are ample day trip opportunities so you can head out of the city too.

In our opinion, we think you need to allow at least 3 days in Stockholm if you have the time. If you spend any less here, you’ll likely find yourself rushing around to see everything.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Stockholm

As you can see there are plenty of things to do in Stockholm for free! Although Sweden’s capital can be costly for sure, there are lots of awesome places and activities that you don’t need to pay for.

Whether you’re interested in some of the city’s amazing viewpoints, or you’re looking to explore museums, there are plenty of free and cheap things to do in Stockholm. No matter your interests, you’re sure to find something to do in this city without paying a dime.

If you have further questions about this amazing city then don’t hesitate to contact us via Instagram, Facebook, or in the comments below!

Here are some other Europe guides you may find helpful:

• The Best Stockholm Archipelago Tours
• How To Spend 3 Days In Oslo
• The Best Things To Do In Copenhagen

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