STOCKHOLM FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Stockholm is a city of contrasts that creates a dazzling array of impressions. A modern city with a flourishing business culture, it has successfully retained its history and natural splendour. The narrow streets of the Old Town sit comfortably alongside the modern city centre, hotels, museums and shops. Below are some must-do experiences for the first-time visitor.

Day one

Arrival: Start a stay in Stockholm with a combined sightseeing tour by bus and boat. Frequent departures are available from Gustav Adolfs Torg near the Royal Opera House. Continue with a light lunch at the old indoor market, Östermalmshallen. This 19th century setting houses a number of excellent restaurants and cafés.

Afternoon: Explore the Vasa Museum, home to the richly ornamented 17th century sailing vessel that sank on her maiden voyage.

Evening: Take an early evening walk through the lanes of the Old Town and dine at one of the many restaurants.

Day two
Morning: Begin the day with a visit to Stockholm City Hall, a remarkable architectural landmark and the site of the annual Nobel Prize Banquet. Next, stop at the Royal Palace for the changing of the guard and then meander along the streets of the Old Town for shopping and lunch at one of the many pavement cafés.

Afternoon: Cross over to the island of Djurgården by shuttle ferry and visit Skansen, the world’s first open-air museum. Founded in 1891, it showcases the rich culture and a tradition of Sweden’s past and present.

Evening: Dine at one of Stockholm’s many stylish new restaurants with their innovative menus. The interior design often adds to the experience.

Day three
Morning: Travel by steam ship to the 18th century Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Swedish Royal Family and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the beautiful baroque garden and the English park.

Afternoon: Enjoy the extensive array of shopping opportunities on offer in Stockholm. Everything from antiques to modern Swedish design is at hand.
Evening: Try a traditional Swedish smörgåsbord (a Swedish buffet) at the Grand Hotel. Reservations are advisable.

For a great Stockholm weekend break package visit ActivitiesInSweden.com