Stockholm is an incredible Swedish city made up of 14 islands all joined together through pictures bridges and waterways. It’s an impressive blend of the old and the new world.

This European capital city is diverse, inclusive, friendly, and welcoming, with a fascinating history dating back centuries.

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Meanwhile, its stunning architecture is as photogenic as its natural landscape.

You can explore this impressive archipelago of islands by boat or by foot through the cobblestone streets.

Most travelers find 2 days in Stockholm to be enough time to enjoy all the main sights.

So, if you’re wondering how many days in Stockholm you’ll need – 2 days should be enough!

Therefore, we have put together this Stockholm itinerary detailing everything to do, see, and eat on your upcoming Stockholm city break.

Stockholm, Sweden

Day 1

Your first day in Stockholm will be the perfect introduction to the city as you will experience some of the incredible food, sightseeing, and music it has to offer.

Morning

We are starting off this trip in Stockholm with an incredible food tour which is not to be missed. Here you can visit some historic areas of Stockholm while enjoying the tastes of the city in some really charming settings.

Stockholm is very well known for its tasty food and variety of food markets, old and new and you will see lots of them during this four-hour food tour.

During this tour, you will see some of the most famous tourist attractions in Stockholm, while sampling lots of dishes.

Stockholm old town in Summer, Sweden

This tour starts in Östermalmshallen, which is an old market in the city. You will be treated to different types of meats and cheeses here to get things started.

Sweden is known for its seafood, so you will be treated to some at Stockholm’s food market.

Continue with your guide to Gamla Stan, or Old Town, where you’ll admire some of Stockholm’s original houses. Stop at a tiny factory that makes polkagris, the most traditional of all Swedish candies.

Your final stop is for coffee in a romantic courtyard, where you can enjoy the best cinnamon rolls in town.

Afternoon

Now, for something completely different, it’s time to visit the ABBA museum! This is a truly unique experience and an in-depth look into the iconic Swedish band.

This is a really popular attraction as their music is still so universally loved so be sure to book tickets in advance.

Here you will be able to sing along to your favorite ABBA songs, enjoy lots of interactive experiences as well as see original costumes and instruments from the band.

Be sure to purchase the audio guide when you arrive so. you can hear the band members share their personal stories and memories.

Evening

Now it’s time to grab some dinner and head to Fotografiska. Fotografiska provides a home for contemporary art in the middle of Stockholm. This photography museum really is for everyone, not just photography fanatics.

It is one of the most important photography museums in the world, with works from Annie Leibovitz and other well-known and upcoming photographers.

Stockholm at night, Sweden


 

 


Found in a waterfront warehouse, the museum also houses an award-winning restaurant and a bookshop. You can spend a couple of hours strolling around here and enjoying the photographs in this beautiful setting.

Day 2

Your second day in Stockholm will be a relaxed one for you to cruise along the water and immerse yourself in all the old town has to offer. 

Morning

The first activity for your second day in Stockholm is to see this city of islands from a different perspective, by boat.

On this relaxing cruise of Stockholm, you will see the best of the Swedish archipelago while sailing along with a guide. During this tour, you will sail on the waterways of Stockholm and learn the history of the city and fascinating stories.

Stockholm from the water, Sweden

You will start the tour from Strandvagen and it will take a total of 2.5 hours.

To add to the relaxed vibe of this tour, you can enjoy your breakfast on the boat as hot drinks and a variety of food will be for sale.

Afternoon

After a relaxing morning on the water, it’s time to stretch your legs and join a walking tour of the old historic town of Stockholm.

This tour is an educational insight into life in Stockholm in the past and you will see many important landmarks en route.

You will spend 1.5 hours walking along the cobbled streets and through all of the narrow alleys in the old town.

Stockholm old town during the day, Sweden

Listen to the incredible stories about those who have lived in Stockholm and the founding fathers of the city. You will enjoy some stunning views of Lake Mälaren during the tour which is a great spot for a pit stop and some pictures.

Evening

We will stay in the Old Town for the last evening of your trip to Stockholm. It is an extremely safe area and even solo travelers can walk around here at night and feel at ease.

This area is particularly special at night during the winter. The old town is dotted with Christmas markets and places to buy mulled wine and sweet treats.

Stockholm old town at night, Sweden

So this is the perfect place to have a leisurely walk, stopping off in different bars, market stalls, or restaurants for the evening.

Is Stockholm Worth Visiting?

100% yes! It is a city filled with culture and art. It is an extremely safe city and has lots to do here.

Best Time To Visit Stockholm?

Luckily, it is a city that can be visited for the majority of the year. It is warm and bright almost round the clock in the Summer. It is snowy and magical and dark in Winter. Both are incredible.

How Many Days In Stockholm Is Enough?

2 days in plenty. If you want to limit yourself to one activity a day and take things at a slow pace, consider more days. But we think 2 days is plenty of time.

For more information on this, check out our full guide to how many days you should spend in Stockholm here.

Where To Stay In Stockholm?

Wondering where to stay in Stockholm? You won’t be short of accommodation choices in Stockholm, and you can enjoy staying in the city center no matter your budget.

Here are our top hotel recommendations for your 2 days in Stockholm.

Best Budget Accommodation

If you’re on a budget for your trip to Stockholm, we suggest staying at the Best Western Plus Time in the city.

This hotel is situated right next to the lovely Vanadislunden Park in a very central area and it is located very close to the metro station.

The rooms are clean and comfortable and guests have sauna access during their stay.

Best Mid-range Accommodation

For a mid-range accommodation option in Stockholm, we suggest you stay at the Radisson Blu Royal Viking Hotel. This hotel is located right beside Central Station, making it the perfect base to explore the city.

Guests have access to the gym, pool, hot tub, and sauna in the hotel for an extra level of relaxation. A highlight of this hotel has to be the cocktail bar, HIGH, located on the 9th floor with views of the entire city.

Best Luxury Accommodation

For those in search of more high-end accommodation, the Grand Hotel Stockholm is the perfect option. This hotel has a perfect location on the waterfront right across from the Royal Palace and the Old town.

Guests have access to a luxury spa while staying here and are just 1km from Central Station. There is also a Michelin-star restaurant located in the hotel.

Final Thoughts On Stockholm Itinerary

Whether you’re traveling through Sweden on a summer backpacking trip or planning your next trip to Europe, Stockholm is well worth a visit.

With so much culture to explore and cuisine to taste, spending one or two days in Stockholm is bound to be a fantastic experience because there are enough things to do in Stockholm to keep you entertained.

However, be sure to follow an itinerary like ours to make the most of your short trip.

Traveling to Europe soon? Read one of the following guides:

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015. She is been living abroad since 2014. Originally Canadian, she has been living and working online in many destinations around the world. She is passionate about traveling, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit.

She has traveled extensively in Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. She is now living in Thailand.


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