15 Best Free Things to Do in Stockholm (A Local’s 2025 Guide)
Stockholm is often called the Venice of the North — a city built on 14 islands connected by more than 50 bridges. With its royal palaces, cobbled old town, peaceful parks and waterside promenades, it’s a destination that effortlessly mixes History, design and nature.
But there’s one thing that often scares visitors away: Stockholm is expensive.
But while it’s true that Sweden’s capital has quite high living costs, there are so many things you can see and do for free. Whether you’re into architecture, photography, nature walks or local culture, Stockholm offers plenty of experiences that don’t cost a single krona.
From wandering the medieval streets of Gamla Stan to watching sunsets from Monteliusvägen, here are 15 of the best free things to do in Stockholm — handpicked for travelers who love authentic experiences that won’t break the bank.
1. Explore Gamla Stan — Stockholm’s Colorful Old Town
If there’s one place you absolutely can’t miss in Stockholm, it’s Gamla Stan, the city’s historic old town. It was actually one of the very first places I visited when I moved to Stockholm nine years ago — and it was right there, walking through those narrow cobblestone streets, that I completely fell in love with this city.
Gamla Stan is a must-visit in Stockholm
Founded in the 13th century, Gamla Stan is like stepping into a living postcard. The streets twist between mustard-yellow and terracotta buildings that look straight out of a storybook. Take your time there — just wandering, peeking into quiet courtyards, taking pictures of colorful doorways and soaking up centuries of history.
Take your time wandering around Gamla Stan, because it’s so worth it
Yes, it’s a super touristic part of Stockholm. But honestly, that’s understandable.
It’s so incredibly well preserved and full of charm that it deserves a spot on every Stockholm itinerary. Don’t miss Stortorget, the city’s oldest square, and Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, the narrowest street in Stockholm — only 90 centimeters wide at its thinnest point!
Don’t wanna miss the best hidden spots in Gamla Stan? Book this top-rated guided tour for only 13€ 🤑
And if you visit in winter, you’re in for something really magical: the Gamla Stan Christmas Market, one of the most beautiful in Sweden. It transforms the old town into a glowing festive wonderland that you really can’t miss out on.
No matter the season, Gamla Stan never loses its magic — it’s the perfect place to start your Stockholm adventure.
2. See Stockholm’s Most Beautiful Bridge — Skeppsholmsbron
When people ask me where to find the best view of Stockholm, Skeppsholmsbron is one of the first places that comes to mind. This bridge that connects the city center with the small island of Skeppsholmen. It might not be the biggest bridge in Stockholm, but to me, it’s definitely the most beautiful.
There’s no question that this is Stockholm’s most beautiful bridge
Skeppsholmsbron is famous for the golden crowns fixed to its railing, one of Stockholm’s most photographed details. From here, you get a postcard-perfect view of Gamla Stan, the Royal Palace and the boats moored along Strandvägen. It’s the kind of spot that makes you stop and just breathe it all in — especially at sunset, when the light hits the pastel facades across the water.
I still remember the first time I crossed this bridge, with the city glowing in soft light. I instantly understood why Stockholm is called “The Venice of the North”
The bridge leads straight onto Skeppsholmen Island, which is lovely for a quiet walk surrounded by water, art museums and old wooden boats. Whether you come for photos, peace or a romantic stroll, Skeppsholmsbron is pure Stockholm magic — and completely free.
3. See the Swedish Parliament and Royal Palace
Two of Stockholm’s most important landmarks — the Riksdag (Swedish Parliament) and the Royal Palace — are within walking distance of each other in Gamla Stan. Even if you skip the paid tours, you can explore their grand exteriors, open courtyards and the surrounding bridges that connect to the city center.
This is one of the most beautiful areas of Stockholm
At noon, the Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place in front of the Royal Palace — one of the best free performances in Stockholm. You’ll see uniformed guards, live marching bands and a touch of royal pageantry that feels uniquely Swedish.
The schedule of the Changing of the Guard depends on the season. Check all the details and times here, so you don’t miss it on your trip to Stockholm
From the nearby Norrbro Bridge, you also get one of the most photogenic views in all of Stockholm. Standing there, you’ll see the Royal Palace reflected perfectly in the water, with the historic buildings of Gamla Stan in the background and the Swedish Parliament just across the way. On a calm morning or during golden hour, the whole scene glows — it’s one of those moments when Stockholm looks almost unreal in its beauty.
If you’re into photography, this spot is a must. I’ve stopped there countless times over the years and I still find myself taking the same photo again and again — it never loses its charm.
4. Walk Around the Island of Djurgården
If you love nature, make your way to Djurgården. This peaceful island filled with leafy paths, waterfront trails and centuries-old oak trees is definitely one of the best places to visit in Stockholm.
Djurgården is one of Stockholm’s most beautiful islands
Djurgården is home to some of Stockholm’s best museums, including the Vasa Museum, Skansen and the ABBA Museum — and honestly, they’re all worth the ticket price if you have the time and budget for it.
Want to explore more of Stockholm’s museum scene? Check out these posts:
🧭 Best Museums in Stockholm for Every Type of Traveler
🌼 Skansen: A Complete Guide to the World’s Oldest Open-Air Museum
But even if you don’t plan to spend any money, Djurgården itself is absolutely worth visiting. The island is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in the city, full of nature, waterfront views and charming cafés. Just wandering around here feels like stepping into the countryside — all while still being in the heart of Stockholm.
Locals go there to jog, picnic or simply escape the city noise. Take a walk along the Djurgårdsbrunn Canal, where the water sparkles under the trees, or stop by Rosendals Trädgård, a beautiful organic garden and café.
There is so much to see and do in Djurgården
In summer, you can even swim from small docks along the island’s edge. I’ve seen very few places in the world that combine culture, history and calm nature like Djurgården does.
5. Stroll Along Strandvägen — Stockholm’s Most Elegant Boulevard
For a touch of elegance, take a walk along Strandvägen, one of the most beautiful streets in Stockholm. This grand waterfront boulevard, stretching from Nybroplan to Djurgården, is lined with ornate 19th-century buildings and elegant restaurants — most of them far too expensive to actually include in your itinerary, but fun to admire as you pass by.
Still, the real charm of Strandvägen is in the atmosphere — which, thankfully, is completely free to experience.
Strandvägen is one of the most beautiful streets in Stockholm
It’s the perfect stroll for architecture lovers, photographers or anyone who enjoys people-watching. On warm summer evenings, Stockholmers gather here to sip rosé by the water, while cyclists glide past and the scent of Fika drifts from the cafés.
In winter, the vibe changes completely — the air turns crisp, lights twinkle from the waterfront restaurants and the frozen harbor sparkles under the streetlamps. Whether it’s bathed in golden summer light or dusted with snow, Strandvägen always feels magical. It’s one of those Stockholm spots that I never get tired of.
The views from Strandvägen are so gorgeous no matter the season
6. Relax in Kungsträdgården — The King’s Garden
Kungsträdgården is the beating heart of central Stockholm — a park that’s lively in every season and loved by both locals and tourists. It’s such an iconic place to meet up with friends, join festivals and attend different events that keep popping up.
In spring, the park turns into a sea of pink as the cherry blossoms bloom, drawing photographers and picnickers from all over the city.
The cherry blossoms in Kungsträdgården can’t be compared to the ones in Japan, but they are still gorgeous
In summer, open-air concerts, food festivals, and long café afternoons take over. Even during winter, this park is a must visit in Stockholm. The Christmas Lights are on and you can even go ice-skating.
Whether you’re people-watching, listening to street musicians or just enjoying a quiet moment on a bench, Kungsträdgården proves that some of the best things to do in Stockholm are completely free.
7. Explore the World’s Largest Art Gallery — Stockholm’s Subway
I still remember when I first moved to Stockholm and took the subway, thinking it would be just another uninteresting commute. I had no idea what was waiting underground. Who knew that something as ordinary and mundane as a metro system could be so beautiful?
Stockholm’s subway isn’t just public transport — it’s an art experience.
Often called “the world’s longest art gallery”, the metro features installations at more than 90 stations, each with its own distinct character. There’s the dreamy blue-and-white cave of T-Centralen, the fiery red tunnel of Solna Centrum and the ancient ruins of Kungsträdgården station, where art and archaeology meet.
There are so many beautiful subway stations to explore in Stockholm
A single metro ticket gives you 75 minutes of unlimited transfers, so you can easily turn a regular commute into your own self-guided art tour. Just hop on, hop off and let Stockholm’s creativity surprise you — one station at a time.
🎨 Wanna discover the incredible art hidden in Stockholm’s subway? Take this top-rated tour with an expert local guide who will show you the most beautiful and unique stations across the city 🚇
Visiting on a Saturday in autumn? Then you’re in luck! You can take this cheaper tour to explore Stockholm’s subway art 🖌️
8. Walk Around the Island of Södermalm
Södermalm — or simply “Söder” as locals call it — is Stockholm’s creative heart. Once a working-class district, it’s now full of cozy cafés, vintage shops and indie boutiques. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an afternoon wandering aimlessly — completely for free.
The streets and views from Södermalm are beyond gorgeous
Stroll along Götgatan for lively street vibes, then veer off into the cobbled backstreets of SoFo (short for “South of Folkungagatan”). If you love street art, you’ll find colorful murals tucked between apartment buildings and quirky design stores.
And even though it’s not free, I can’t resist sharing this restaurant recommendation: Meatballs for the People. It’s easily one of Stockholm’s most iconic spots — and for good reason. Here, you can try Sweden’s national dish in its most authentic form, along with some truly unique versions made from moose, elk and even bear 🐻
From there, head toward the edges of the island, where cliffs and leafy parks open up to breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline — especially around sunset. That’s why Södermalm is such a favorite among locals. It even has Stockholm’s best viewpoint — keep reading to find out its exact location!
9. Get the Best View of Stockholm from Monteliusvägen
If you only have time for one viewpoint in Stockholm, make it Monteliusvägen. This narrow walking path runs along the northern edge of Södermalm and offers jaw-dropping views of Lake Mälaren, City Hall and the spires of Gamla Stan.
If you haven’t fallen in love with Stockholm yet, I can guarantee you that you will when you see the city’s skyline from this amazing viewpoint.
This is my number 1 favorite viewpoint in Stockholm
For me, it’s such a special place — I keep finding myself here whenever I’m wandering the city without a plan. It’s the place where I saw the Northern Lights for the first time (yes, it’s possible in Stockholm!), where I’ve admired the city’s skyline on endless summer nights, when complete darkness doesn’t exist in Sweden. It’s even a place where I stood in complete silence during an ice-cold winter morning, admiring a completely frozen Lake Mälaren.
Can you see why it’s one of my absolute favorite places in Stockholm?
1st photo taken on a frozen February afternoon; 2nd photo taken on June 4th at 23:42 – can you see what I mean when I mention endless summer nights?
Monteliusvägen is especially magical during golden hour, when the city glows in warm light and the water reflects every shade of pink and gold. Bring a takeaway coffee or a small picnic — locals often come here to unwind after work.
It’s peaceful, romantic and completely free — perfect for a low-cost trip to Stockholm!
10. Visit the Stockholm City Hall
Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset) is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. While the guided tours and tower visits require a ticket, the courtyard and waterfront area are open to the public for free — and both are absolutely worth a visit.
You can visit the courtyard and the waterfront park of Stockolm’s City Hall for free
When you pass through the wooden doorway into the courtyard, you’ll instantly see why it’s one of the best places to visit in Stockholm. The red-brick walls are so majestic, and there’s almost a Harry Potter vibe to the whole place — am I the only one seeing it?
This spot is so worth a visit all year round, but especially in autumn, when red and orange leaves cover the walls, turning it into one of the best places to enjoy Stockholm’s autumn colors.
The City Hall is one of the best places to visit in Stockholm during Autumn
Planning an Autumn trip to Stockholm? Check out my Stockholm Autumn Guide to find out the coziest cafés, best colorful walks and most magical hidden corners — all my top tips after living here for 9 years 🍂
Even though the courtyard is truly impressive, don’t miss the rest of what Stockholm’s City Hall has to offer. There’s a waterfront park called Stadshusparken and it’s completely free to visit. It’s actually one of my favorite spots in the city.
As you probably know by now, my ultimate favorite view of Stockholm is from Monteliusvägen — that one has no competitors. But the view of the city skyline from City Hall’s park is still one of the best in all of Stockholm.
It’s perfect for a peaceful stroll or for catching the sunset away from the crowds of Gamla Stan.
The views from Stockholm’s City Hall are some of the best in the city
FUN FACT: did you know this is where the annual Nobel Banquet is held every December? If you ask me, this adds even more prestige to an already unforgettable spot.
Wanna learn more about this iconic building? Join this top-rated guided tour that will take you to the City Hall, Gamla Stan and even the World-famous Vasa Museum 🎟️
11. See the Island of Riddarholmen During Golden Hour
That amazing view you get from the City Hall is the iconic island of Riddarholmen. Connected to Gamla Stan by a short bridge, this small island feels like a secret corner of the city. It’s home to several grand 17th-century palaces and to Riddarholmen Church, where many Swedish monarchs are buried.
But the real magic happens at sunset. The western promenade of Riddarholmen offers unobstructed views of Lake Mälaren, with boats drifting by and the light dancing on the water. It’s one of my personal favorite photography spots in Stockholm — especially in summer, when the golden light lingers for hours.
Riddarholmen island is one of the most iconic parts of Stockholm’s skyline
12. Take a Walk Along Norr Mälarstrand
For a taste of local life, join Stockholmers on their favorite waterfront walk: Norr Mälarstrand. This promenade stretches along Kungsholmen Island, lined with art deco apartment buildings, leafy trees and cafés that come alive in summer.
Locals jog, bike and walk their dogs here, while boats sway gently in the marina. Grab an ice cream or coffee and just stroll — it’s one of the best ways to experience everyday life in the city.
This is one of the best places to take a walk in Stockholm
If you keep walking west, you’ll eventually reach Rålambshovsparken, a large park perfect for picnics or swimming in Lake Mälaren.
13. Join Europe’s Largest Outdoor Cinema
Speaking of Rålambshovsparken, that’s where one of my favorite events in Stockholm happens every summer — Europe’s largest outdoor cinema.
I love life in Stockholm pretty much no matter the season — even though November is a bit dull — but never as much as when it’s time for this festival. I can’t even describe the vibe: it’s like the whole city gathers in one park to enjoy the last days of warm weather before the colder season returns.
Stockholm’s Sommarbio is one of my absolute favorite events in the city
My friends and I have been to this event so many times, but I never get tired of it. I can even remember moments when I got emotional — especially when people spontaneously started dancing at the end of Dirty Dancing. To this day, it’s one of my most treasured memories of living in Stockholm.
I have so many unforgettable moments from this outdoor cinema event
If you’re planning to visit Stockholm in summer and can be flexible with your dates, make sure to check when the outdoor cinema takes place! It’s usually in mid-August, though the exact dates are released a few months in advance.
If you manage to plan your trip for the exact dates when this event is happening, you’re truly in for a treat — bring a blanket and some snacks and get ready to soak up one of Stockholm’s most magical summertime experiences, all completely free!
🤫 Psst… you can even grab some free snacks from the stalls around the park during the event — a little bonus while you enjoy the movie under the summer sky!
14. Get Free Entrance to Stockholm’s Museums During Kulturnatt
Between Stockholm’s Outdoor Cinema and Kulturnatt, I honestly have a REALLY hard time choosing a favorite. Every single year, I’m eagerly waiting for Culture Night to come. It always happens in April, right when the weather starts warming up. Some years, it’s even the very first night I can wear a lighter jacket after winter, which is a huge deal in Sweden.
Kulturnatt is a celebration of everything Stockholm has to offer — art, music, performances and most importantly, free access to many of the city’s museums and cultural spots.
Wanna visit the best museums in Stockholm for free? Then make sure you visit during Kulturnatt!
Here is a full guide of the Best Museums to Visit in Stockholm — all of them have free entrance during Kulturnatt! 🤑
For locals, it’s such a big deal because it marks the end of winter. It brings so many people and life back to the streets of Stockholm — a welcome change after the long winter months.
For visitors, it’s all of that plus a big saving opportunity.
If you add up the price of a Skansen ticket, the expensive Vasa Museum entrance, a ticket to the ABBA Museum… it easily adds up to a significant expense — all of which can be avoided if you plan your trip to coincide with Kulturnatt. The date for 2026 is already set: it will happen on April 18th.
Honestly, if you plan your trip around this event, I guarantee you won’t regret it. It will save you money and it’s an experience you’ll never forget. Even after living here for 9 years, I still love wandering between the exhibitions, discovering hidden gems and soaking up the lively energy as if it were the first time. Year after year, it’s such a magical experience.
15. Take Free Boat Rides to Stockholm’s Archipelago
Stockholm is a beautiful city, and exploring the city center is amazing — but one of the best experiences you can have here is venturing out to the archipelago. I have no idea why, but Stockholm’s archipelago is still such a hidden gem.
I’m convinced that the archipelago is Stockholm’s biggest hidden gem!
Wanna explore this huge hidden gem? Check my other blog posts about it:
🧭 Stockholm Archipelago Secrets: The Best Islands to Explore in 2025
🚤 Vaxholm: A Perfect Day Trip to the Capital of Stockholm’s Archipelago
Going to the islands during the summer high season is many people’s favorite activity, but unfortunately, you can’t get free rides then. However, if you’re in Stockholm during the low season (between September and April), you can take advantage of one of my favorite hacks for traveling cheaply around here.
Just a heads-up: this won’t be very relevant if you’re visiting Stockholm for only a few days. But if you’re staying for a while, or even better, living here like me, this is a tip you need to know! 💰
Here’s the trick: if you have a monthly SL card for Stockholm’s public transportation, it actually gives you access to the whole archipelago during the low season. That’s because SL collaborates with Waxholmsbolaget, one of the main boat companies connecting Stockholm to the archipelago. So people with a monthly pass get free rides on Waxholmsbolaget. Which means you can explore the archipelago without spending extra money!
For me, gliding through the quiet islands during the off-season is magical. The boats are less crowded, the scenery is peaceful and you get a completely different perspective of Stockholm. In fact, a perspective that most tourists never get to see!
Visiting Stockholm’s archipelago during the low season is so underrated
After nearly a decade of living here, I’ve learned that Stockholm’s beauty isn’t just in its royal palaces or stylish cafés — it’s in the quiet moments that cost nothing. Watching the sunset from Monteliusvägen, hearing laughter in Kungsträdgården or crossing a misty bridge at dawn… those are the memories that stay with you. I hope this list helps you fall in love with Stockholm the way I did — one free, unforgettable experience at a time.
Do you need more inspiration for your trip to Sweden? Check my other blog posts here:
15 Best Free Things to Do in Stockholm (A Local’s 2025 Guide)
Stockholm is often called the Venice of the North — a city built on 14 islands connected by more than 50 bridges. With its royal palaces, cobbled old town, peaceful parks and waterside promenades, it’s a destination that effortlessly mixes History, design and nature. But there’s one thing that often scares visitors away: Stockholm is […]
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Skansen: A Complete Guide to the World’s Oldest Open-Air Museum 🌼
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There’s so much to see and do in Stockholm that planning your itinerary can feel overwhelming — especially if it’s your first time visiting Sweden’s beautiful capital. I moved to Stockholm nine years ago and have explored nearly every corner of the city since then. While there’s plenty to love — from island hopping to a […]
Stockholm Archipelago Secrets: The Best Islands to Explore in 2025
When most travelers think of Sweden, iconic sights like Stockholm’s vibrant city life, the breathtaking Northern Lights in Lapland and the country’s pristine natural landscapes come to mind. But there’s a hidden gem that many miss: the Stockholm Archipelago — a stunning collection of thousands of islands and islets waiting to be explored. From uninhabited islands […]
Vaxholm: A Perfect Day Trip to the Capital of Stockholm’s Archipelago
With thousands of islands in Stockholm’s archipelago, there are countless charming spots to explore — but none compare to the charm and convenience of Vaxholm, the unofficial capital of the archipelago. Just 40 minutes from central Stockholm, this picturesque coastal town offers the perfect mix of small-town vibes, seaside beauty and historic charm — making it […]
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