Best 33 Free Things to Do in Stockholm
Stockholm is the capital and largest city of Sweden, a cosmopolitan city with a blend of stunning medieval and modern architecture. Built on 14 islands connected by bridges, with abundant waterways and green spaces, Stockholm offers many free activities, despite its reputation as an expensive city. In this guide I have outlined the best 33 free things to do in Stockholm some cool unusual tips to enjoy Stockholm on a budget.
Free museums in Stockholm
1.Moderna Museet
A world-class collection of modern art featuring works by Swedish masters like Vera Nilsson, Öyvind Fahlström, Siri Derkert, and Dick Bengtsson. The museum houses 6,000 paintings, sculptures and installations, 25,000 watercolors, and 100,000 photographs.
Free admission: Every Friday from 6:00-8:00 PM Normal Price: 150 SEK
Address: Exercisplan 4, 111 49 Stockholm Hours: Tue 10am-8pm; Wed-Thu & Sat-Sun 10am-6pm; Closed Mondays
2. ArkDes
Located on Skeppsholmen island in the same complex as Moderna Museet, this museum showcases Swedish design excellence with over 3 million documents, 600,000 photos, and 2,000 models.
Opening hours: 10am-8pm Free admission: Throughout 2025
Address: Exercisplan 4, 111 49 Stockholm
3. Stockholm City Museum
This venue serves as the premier destination for discovering the capital’s past, spanning from its establishment through modern times. While general entry costs nothing, certain activities such as guided visits to historic residential spaces throughout the city do require ticket purchases.
Opening hours
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 11.00–17.00
Wednesday 11.00–20.00
4. Tensta Konsthall
This art space emerged in 1998 when Stockholm held the title of European Cultural Capital, born from community-driven efforts. The gallery has since evolved into a significant platform showcasing both regional and global modern artistic works.
Getting there: Tensta konsthall is located in Tensta, 21 minutes by subway from T-centralen. Take the blue line towards Hjulsta, get off at Tensta and choose the exit towards Tensta Centrum
Note that the museum is closed till 10th May 2025 but will reopen after that
5. National Sports Museum
At the National Sports Museum (Riksidrottsmuseet) visitors can experience legendary moments from the nation’s athletic past, from the 1912 Olympic Games in Stockholm to discovering celebrated sports figures from the present day, or engage colleagues in competitive activities within the hands-on exhibit areas.
Address: Djurgårdsbrunnsvägen 26, 115 27 Stockholm, Sweden
6. Mångkulturellt Centrum
This welcoming community hub in Fittja, southern Stockholm has been spreading knowledge about migration as a natural part of Swedish society and cultural heritage since 1987.
Their in house restaurant Tavernan is a highlight in its own respect, serving plant based dining, cooked from scratch in our own kitchen. Ingredients are chosen according to season, and the seasoning and seasoning is inspired by cuisines from all over the world. The Tavernan also has a popular Sunday brunch once a month and on Fridays is open for dinner.
7. Bergius Botanical Garden
Located by Lake Brunnsvike, this horticultural haven is a paradise for plant-enthusiasts with thousands of trees, shrubs, and herbs from around the world. Highlights here include the iconic Victoria House which is home the world’s largest water lily! While conservatory access requires payment, the outdoor garden areas remain freely accessible and ideal for a nice stroll on a sunny day.
Address: Gustafsborgsvägen 4, 114 18 Stockholm, Sweden
8. Bonniers Konsthall
The Torsgatan gallery space is great place to get to know some of the emerging talents and fresh voices beginning to gain recognition in the local arts scene. Entry is free every Friday.
9. Jewish Museum
Housed within Stockholm’s most ancient synagogue, this institution narrates the journey of early Jewish settlers to Sweden and their integration into the nation’s social fabric and cultural landscape.
Saturday visits between 11:00 AM and noon require no admission fee.
10. Explore Gamla Stan ( Old Town )
Gamla Stan or Old Town, located in the historic heart of Stockholm is the city’s oldest district dating back to the 13th century! Roam the cobbled streets to drink in the stunning architecture, highlights include The Royal Palace and the Swedish Brick Gothic cathedral of Storkyrkan.
Address: Gamla Stan, Stockholm
11. Watch for free the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace
Move over Buckingham Palace! If you thought the UK was the only place to witness this ritual of pomp and tradition, you would be wrong. This is a year round event that takes place at Stockholm’s Royal Palace at 12.15 every afternoon and 1.15 pm on Sundays. Don’t miss the marching bands and gun salutes of the men in blue!
Note: During the summer months (April 23 – Aug 31), it occurs daily, but the schedule is different in autumn and winter, and not every day.
12. Visit Skogskyrkogården , a UNESCO World Heritage Cemetery!
This UNESCO-recognized woodland cemetery lies in the Gamla Enskede district south of central Stockholm. Skogskyrkogården has had a major influence on the design of burial sites throughout the world. It is also the burial place of the most famous Swede of all, Greta Garbo. Guided tours in English are offered from July to September.
Address: Skogskyrkogården, 122 33 Stockholm
13. Visit the UNESCO world heritage listed Drottningholm Palace Park for FREE
While the city does have a wealth of distractions to offer, if fairytales are your thing and you have ever fantasized of what it is like to be king or queen for the day, then do not pass up the opportunity to actually pay a visit to the place that Swedish royalty call home, the dreamy UNESCO World Heritage listed Drottningholm Palace.
Home to the Slottsteater, the oldest working theatre in the world and the magnificent Chinese Pavilion, the Palace requires a ticket to enter but it is FREE to visit the gardens. Modelled on the gardens of Versailles, the dreamy Park is a key reason why Drottningholm Palace, Sweden’s first World Heritage site, appears on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Open all year round and free to visit , walking through the gardens you can see the key influences from each of the major eras of Europe’s gardening design and landscaping movements. The gardens consist of three sections: the Baroque Garden, The Chinese Pavilion, and The English Garden. Download the Royal Walks App which guides you on a walks through Drottningholm Park’s unique gardens.
For more about visiting Drottningholm Palace, checkout my earlier post about the perfect day trip from Stockholm .
14. Swedish Parliament (Riksdag) Tours
A great example of Sweden’s tolerance and transparency is the Riksdagshuset – the Parliament House which is open to both locals and tourists who may want to attend a debate or public hearing. The Riksdagshuset offers free guided tours in English to educate visitors about Swedish government and democratic processes.Tours are free of charge but can only be booked on-site.
Schedule: Weekdays during summer; weekends during other seasons Address: Riksgatan 1, 100 12 Stockholm Booking: Required in advance
15. Stockholm Public Library (Stadsbiblioteket)
Listed as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world by Conde Nast Traveller , the Stockholm Public Library is a creation of the architectural genius, Gunnar Asplund and is a great example of the Swedish Grace style. Famous for its impressive rotunda reading room, the museum is currently closed for renovations till 2027.
Address: Sveavägen 73, 113 50 Stockholm
Parks & Nature
16. Royal National City Park (Djurgården)
The Royal Djurgården has the unique distinction of being the world’s first national city park. Celebrates 30 years in existence this year, this park in the heart of the city covers a staggering 27 km², stretching from Sörentorp in the north to Blockhusudden in the south. The park is the beating heart of the city o Stockholm, home to an astonishing 22 museums, concert venues, theaters, and a rich collection of restaurants and cafés.
17. Tantolunden Park
Tantolunden is a large park by Årstaviken on the island of Södermalm. Its location close to the restaurants and cafés of Hornstull, Mariatorget, and SoFo has made the area a popular meeting place for young Stockholmers. People of all ages meet here for swimming and picnics in the summer and for sledding in the winter. There’s a playground, beach volleyball court, minigolf, a frisbee golf course, and an open-air theater. Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll up the hill and enjoy the more than 100 allotment gardens and garden sheds. Creative carpentry and gardening have been blooming behind the fences since 1915.
Address: Zinkens väg, 118 42 Stockholm
Långholmen in the sunset by
Tove Freij – stockholmmediabank.com.
18. Långholmen Beach
From its origins as the home to one of Stockholm’s most notorious prisons, the island of Långholmen has transformed into an idyllic paradise with a beach, an open air stage for concerts, allotments , the prison has now become a popular hostel , plus you will find the Mälarvarvet (The Mälaren Yard), one of Stockholm’s oldest shipyards.
Address: Långholmsmuren 21, 117 33 Stockholm Facilities: Showers, restrooms, cafes nearby
19. Go hiking or cycling in the Hellasgården Nature Reserve
Located just 15 minutes outside the city in the Nacka nature reserve, Hellasgården is a popular with thanks to its excellent hiking trails, beautiful lake, inexpensive sauna and also cycling and skiing tracks.
Address: Hellasgården, Nacka
20. Rålambshovsparken
Popular park on Kungsholmen island with excellent views of City Hall and Gamla Stan. Features Lake Mälaren access for swimming and seasonal outdoor movie screenings.
Address: Smedsuddsvagen 6, 112 35 Stockholm
Free Entertainment & Events in Stockholm
An outdoor event arranged by Parkteatern in Stockholm during the summer season. By Nicho Södling/Johnér stockholmmediabank.com.
21. Checkout Parkteatern for free Summer Concerts in Stockholm
If you are passionate about theatre and the arts and visiting Stockholm in the summer ( June to September 2025) definitely pay a visit to Parkteatern for their free outdoor performances including opera, jazz, folk music, and theater. Here is the link to their program: https://kulturhusetstadsteatern.se/visit-parkteatern
Location: Djurgården Season: June-September
22. Free Walking Tours in Stockholm
Multiple companies offer free walking tours ( English and Spanish ) of Stockholm’s historic areas and neighborhoods, highlights including the Royal Palace, The House of Nobility, and Stockholm’s narrowest street; Mårten Trotzigs Gränd. I highly recommend Stockholm Free Tours run by Nordic Freedom Tours
Starting Point: Usually Gamla Stan or central squares
Note: Tip-based tours
23. Go window shopping on Drottninggatan
Stockholm’s main pedestrian shopping street stretching from Riksbron Bridge to Observatorielunden – perfect for people-watching and window shopping.
24. Visit the 7th best food hall in the world, Östermalms Saluhall
Browse this historic food hall ( voted the 7th best food hall in the world!) from the 1880s featuring Swedish delicacies like pickled herring, Västerbotten cheese, and gravlax. Free to walk through but do remember that it gets very busy during lunchtime so go early ( opens at 9.30am ) or late ( open till 7pm )
Address: Humlegårdsgatan 5, 114 42 Stockholm
Best viewpoints in Stockholm
25. Get a Panoramic Shot of Stockholm from the Katarina Elevator
For panoramic views of Stockholm, head to the top of Katarinahissen or the Katarina elevator. The lift is across the road from Stockholm City museum and is free. Originally built in 1881 and revamped in 1936, this lift was closed for a major facelift in 2010 but reopened in October 2023. The views on the top are fantastic with a great view of Slussen, the ferry terminal and the Stockholm skyline.
Address: Stadsgården 1, 116 45 Stockholm Hours: Daily (weather permitting) Cost: Free
26. Go for a stroll on the Monteliusvägen Walking Path
A scenic clifftop walkway offering stunning views over Lake Mälaren, City Hall, and Gamla Stan – especially beautiful at sunset.
Location: Södermalm
Free Art & Galleries in Stockholm
27. Galleri Kontrast
Free admission to view contemporary documentary photography exhibitions.
Address: Hornsgatan 8, 118 20 Stockholm
28. Stockholm : Public Art highlights
Thanks to the 1% rule implemented in 1963, whereby at least one percent of the total cost of built projects in Stockholm should be used to allocated to support the creation of publicly accessible art, you will find a wealth of public art. You will find art everywhere in the city, from numerous sculptures to murals and some astonishing public art installations , the best examples which are found in the subway system which is considered the world’s longest art gallery!
Here are a few highlights to keep an eye out for
Margareta Krook Statue: A warm bronze statue by Marie-Louise Ekman (2002) placed outside the Royal Dramatic Theatre, where the actress used to take smoke breaks.
Art Made This: A city art project where female artists create public art on buildings and doors; a map of their artworks can be found here: https://www.artmadethis.com/platser/
“Vårbergs Jättar” (The Vårberg Giants): Two large sky-blue concrete sculptures in southern Stockholm by Xavier Veilhan.
Yash’s Mural: A colorful street mural by visual artist Yash located at Luthens Gränd in Södermalm.
Osagd/Untold: A 4-meter-high bronze sculpture by Charlotte Gyllenhammar, placed in Royal Djurgården by the Princess Estelle Cultural Foundation.
Iron Boy (Järnpojke): A 15 cm bronze statue by Liss Eriksson (1967), known as the “Boy Looking at the Moon,” located in Gamla Stan.
Max Ockborn’s Sculptures: In Bredängsparken, Max Ockborn installed aluminum sculptures and transformed rocks into troll figures.
Amara Por Dios Mural: A vibrant, colorful mural painted in 2017 in Södermalm by artist Amara Por Dios.
Mari Rantanen’s Mural: A dynamic mural in Hjulsta by Mari Rantanen, based on local youth’s thoughts and emotions.
Mihály Kolodko’s Miniature Statue: A tiny bronze sculpture of Alfred Nobel near the Hungarian Embassy, created by Mihály Kolodko.
Elmgreen & Dragset’s Life Rings: A sculpture in Royal Djurgården made of stacked life rings, designed by artist duo Elmgreen & Dragset (2021).
Tip: Museums NOT Currently Free in Stockholm
Please note: The following museums mentioned in older guides that now charge admission:
- Natural History Museum (120-250 SEK)
- Nobel Museum (admission fee required)
- Medieval Museum (admission fee required)
- Dansmuseet (currently closed as of 2025)
- Maritime Museum (admission fee required)
Stockholm on a budget
Few budget friendly tips to help you stretch your budget and some non touristy things to do in Stockholm
29. Cheapest place for a beer in Stockholm: Central Bar !
Stockholm is ridiculously expensive for beer and it took me some hard research to finally find an affordable to drink in the city which is how I found Central Bar. I recommend visiting during their Happy Hours ( 11am till 6pm ) when you can enjoy a 50 cl of the local Falcon beer for 49 Kr or an Eriksberg for 49 kr too. A glass of wine is 69 kr!
30. Where to stay in Stockholm on a budget
My pick: City Backpackers Hostel Stockholm
City Backpackers Hostel Stockholm hostel is located right next to the main train station is fantastic hostel with clean comfortable beds, a well equipped guest kitchen- v.imp for an expensive city like Stockholm , a generous and well priced buffet breakfast ( 75 SEK last time I checked ) , a lively bar with great local live music acts and the most magical perk of all- a free sauna!
Another option for a slightly less budget friendly stay in Stockholm is the Generator Stockholm. The 11-story building which sits in the tech district, is just 250 meters from the main train station and is famous for its in-house Restaurant Hilma which serves global and Swedish food cooked by celebrity chef Luke Thomas. The colorful bar onsite which includes art pieces, vintage arcade games and even a tattoo studio in an old safe is also famous for their in-house events and DJ sessions, attracting some of the best local talent.
31. Grab picnic supplies from the supermarket
Buy groceries for picnics instead of restaurant meals. The most affordable supermarket in Stockholm is Willy’s, ICA Maxi or Lidl. 7- Eleven also has some great deals on snacks ( pizzas, sandwiches ) or baked goods, Plus, be smart and bring your own shopping bag or else you will have to pay extra for your shopping bags.
32. Public Transport
Walk when possible-Stockholm is very walkable. If you need, there is the option of a 75 minute ticket for 40 SEK, a 24 hour pass for 190 SEK, 72 hour pass for 360 SEK and a 7 day pass for 470 SEK.
33. Experience Fika
Last but not least, another authentic and also great value tradition to experience when in Stockholm is Fika, a cherished Swedish ritual when friends coming together over a cake and conversation, bit like Kaffee und Kuchen in Germany and it usually featuring warm drinks paired with sweet baked treats. Embracing this cultural practice is simple in Stockholm, given the city’s abundance of charming cafeterias and coffee houses. For the best Fika in Stcokholm, I highly recommend Cafe Kaffekoppen in Gamma Stan ( old town ) where you can get a cup of filter coffee for 29 SEK and a Swedish Kanelbulle (Cinnamon bun) for 30 SEK
Planning a trip around Sweden and Scandinavia? Checkout my other posts and guides
More free things to do in guides on the BudgetTraveller
