Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network, Chen Guanxin; compiled and reported. Source / MOOK Editorial Department
When it comes to Sweden, nothing is more iconic than the colorful and generously designed IKEA. As for the capital of Sweden—Stockholm—it is the second-largest city in Northern Europe. Comprising 14 large and small islands, Stockholm is often referred to as the "Beauty on the Water" due to this unique aquatic landscape. The northern district, which is the political and commercial hub, features key attractions such as City Hall, the National Gallery, and the Royal Park. To the south lie the Royal Palace and the Cathedral, which belong to the Old Town. Further south is the South Island district, known for its leisurely pace and rich cultural atmosphere. On the first day of your trip, you can explore all three districts. The next day, visit Djurgården Island to admire several museums with traditional charm. On the third day, head to the nearby Drottningholm Palace to experience the elegance of classical palace architecture.
The rare water-city scenery is what makes Stockholm uniquely charming. (Image provided / MOOK Editorial Department)
Day 1: City Hall → Royal Park → National Gallery → Royal Palace → Cathedral → Nobel Museum → South Island
Must-visit attraction: City Hall
Located by the fjord, this beautiful building topped with the Swedish Three Crowns on its tall tower is Stockholm City Hall. This landmark of Stockholm was built by architect Ragnar Östberg between 1911 and 1923, using 8 million red bricks and 19 million mosaic tiles, making it a grand structure. Architect Östberg adopted the style of Renaissance palaces, centering the design around two square courtyards: the Blue Hall and Borgargården. Visitors must join the daily guided tours to explore the interior of City Hall.
The magnificent City Hall is a must-visit when in Stockholm. (Image provided / MOOK Editorial Department)
Must-visit attraction: Royal Park
The park is one of the green spaces in Stockholm, covering nearly 38 hectares. This long, narrow park is home to vibrant flowers in the summer, and concerts are often held in the afternoons. The outdoor cafés and restaurants lining the park are perfect for enjoying the sunshine. In winter, the entire park transforms into a large ice-skating rink.
The spacious and comfortable green space is a favorite escape for locals. (Image provided / MOOK Editorial Department)
Must-visit attraction: National Gallery
The National Gallery, which blends styles from Italy, Vienna, and Florence, is situated by the canal. Cross Skeppsholmsbron Bridge to reach the Moderna Museet and the Architecture Museum. The gallery has three floors and houses over ten thousand works, including paintings mainly from the late Middle Ages to the early 19th century, along with sculptures—the largest collection in Sweden. Among them, works by Dutch painter Rembrandt are particularly notable. Many of these artworks come from the collections of the Swedish royal family across generations.
Art lovers who admire Rembrandt’s works should not miss the National Gallery. (Image provided / MOOK Editorial Department)
Must-visit attraction: Royal Palace
The Royal Palace of Sweden is located in the Old Town. The original Tre Kronor Castle was destroyed by fire and rebuilt in 1754 in the Italian Baroque style. The current Swedish royal family resides here, and the approachable royals generously allow the public to visit certain rooms and museum exhibition halls. Open areas include the Royal Apartments (Kungliga Slottet), the Treasury (Skattkammaren), two churches, the Royal Armory, the Three Crowns Museum (The Tre Kronor Museum), the Royal Stables (The Royal Mews), and the Gustav III's Antiquities Museum (Gustav III’s Antikmuseum). Additionally, the changing of the guard ceremony at 12:15 pm every Wednesday and Saturday is open to the public in the palace square.
The Royal Palace, shared by royalty and the public, offers everyone a chance to catch a glimpse of its splendor. (Image provided / MOOK Editorial Department)
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