Visiting Stockholm With Kids: 22 Things to Do + Your 2025 Guide
Planning a visit to Stockholm with Kids? This guide will guide you through planning and making the most out of a city break to Stockholm, Sweden with kids.
Stockholm is known for its architecture, trendy cafés and boutiques, and idyllic scenery. I did not know what to expect from this gem of northern Europe, but I was pleasantly surprised by the mixture of medieval architecture, modern transportation and amenities, and the city’s natural beauty. Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and offers all the best modern amenities that make traveling with kids easier.
Parks are plentiful, there are kid-friendly attractions throughout the city, and transportation is easily accessible. Plus, the locals are friendly and helpful! Our time to explore the city was limited, but we made the most of it. Looking for the best things to do in Stockholm with kids? Check out my recommendations below.
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When is the best time to visit Stockholm?
Stockholm in December
Travel to Stockholm in December to revel in its one-of-its-kind Christmas atmosphere. November through December is known as the best time to visit Stockholm to explore the Stockholm Christmas markets and fairs.
Your kids will love the magic-oozing charm of the Swedish capital in winter. Don’t forget to indulge them in Swedish saffron buns, especially delectable at Christmas.
Visiting Stockholm from April to June
One of the most pleasant periods to visit Stockholm is April through June. Head to Stockholm, one of the best places to go in Sweden with your kids in late spring or at the beginning of summer, to take in its gardens, parks, and outdoor festivals.
If traveling in mid-April, you will see cherry trees blooming and can enjoy their lovely fragrance.
If you travel in June, you will benefit from the most pleasant temperatures. Bask in the temperate Scandinavian sun and even take a quick dip at one of its scenic beaches (Note: the temperature can still be shockingly cold at this time). This time of year is perfect for a short Stockholm weekend break.
Top 20 Things to Do in Stockholm with Kids
There are plenty of things to do in Stockholm with kids. In Stockholm, you can explore the city’s rich culture and history, visit the famous ABBA museum, and enjoy rollercoasters near the main museums.
1. Go on a Rollercoaster at the Grona Lund Amusement Park
Gröna Lund is a seasonal theme park in Djurgården. The park’s giant Eclipse ride (a swing that spins riders at 43 miles per hour high above the Stockholm waterfront) can be seen from all over Stockholm.
Built in the late 1800s, Gröna Lund is Sweden’s oldest amusement park and features over 30 rides and attractions. There are plenty of food options and they also host concerts and events throughout the summer. It’s a delightful and fun way to pass the day with the kids and take a stroll down memory lane!
Note: There are height requirements for some rides, so check the website before heading to the park. Also, try to go early in the morning when the crowds are smaller. The park can get quite busy later in the afternoon and in the evening.
2. Spend time in Stockholm’s Parks
If you want to get outside, Stockholm offers a variety of outdoor parks with playgrounds and family-friendly attractions available year-round. The city’s many parks contribute to Stockholm’s family-friendly atmosphere, so I had to mention a few of the hits.
In the heart of Östermalm, Humlegården provides hours of fun, with its skatepark and beautiful outdoor play areas, including a replica of Pippi Longstocking’s house, set amidst peaceful green spaces.
Meanwhile, in Kungsholmen, Rålambshovsparken offers riverside fun, complete with a playground, scenic views, and windsurfing during the warmer months.
For those exploring Vasastan, Vanadislunden is a hilly park with amazing city views that features multiple top-notch playgrounds and a pool in the summer.
Södermalm boasts Tantolunden, which doesn’t have a playground but makes up for that during the summer months with a variety of fun attractions. Enjoy walking trails, disc golf, a sandy beach, vendors selling hot dogs and ice cream, and more!
Of course, there’s Kungsträdgården, a gem in the heart of Stockholm! The park attracts both locals and visitors with its green spaces, a fun playground, and cafes, but also the events that are held here throughout the year! In the spring, you can come for cherry blossom festivals, and in winter there’s a popular ice rink.
3. Spiritual Sites of Stockholm
Discover Stockholm’s spiritual heart by visiting its central religious landmarks. From the ancient charm of Storkyrkan to the royal history of Riddarholmen, these sites offer both architectural beauty and a deep connection to Stockholm’s past.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual insight or historical exploration, these churches are must-visit spots in the city’s scenic downtown.
Highlights:
- Storkyrkan Church: Experience the serene beauty of Sweden’s oldest church, known for its captivating yet simple architecture.
- Riddarholmen Church: Explore the historic resting place of Swedish monarchs, a testament to the nation’s royal heritage.
- Oscarskyrkan: Admire the spires of this church, adding another dimension to Stockholm’s skyline.
4. Pay a visit to the Royal Palace
At first glance, the Royal Palace doesn’t look like anything more than a large, stately building in the middle of the city. The Royal Guards around the perimeter are the only evidence that anything special takes place inside. There’s a changing of the guard ceremony daily, but we didn’t have a chance to see it.
Upon entering, the splendor of the palace is revealed in the 600-plus rooms of the residence which include the Royal Apartments, the Treasury, and Royal Armoury. The palace tour is divided into multiple parts and visitors have to exit and enter different buildings to see the entire palace complex.
Our children enjoyed exploring the Royal Apartments and learning about the history of Sweden. Their favorite section was the Royal Armoury where they were able to admire the weapons and suits of armor, as well as engage in some hands-on activities (more on this below).
The exhibit signs are in Swedish and English and guided tours are offered throughout the day. I highly recommend feeding children before visiting because it takes a while to see the entire palace and they don’t allow outside food.
During the summer months, there’s an outdoor café here, but I don’t believe it is open during the winter. Expect the entire visit to last 2 to 3 hours at a minimum.
5. Play dress up at the Royal Armoury
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Stockholm with kids, plan a visit to the Royal Armoury, located in the basement of the Royal Palace.
I’ve already mentioned that this historic site was a favorite with our kids, thanks to the shining suits of armor, majestic crowns, and swords that look like they were used in epic battles! You’ll walk through exhibits showcasing 500 years of history, including iconic royal costumes and carriages that feel like something from a fairy tale.
It’s a great way to get even younger kids interested in Sweden’s local history. There’s also a fun children’s section with a play area and educational hands-on exhibits. The staff at the armory is quite knowledgeable, friendly, and ready to answer any questions the kids may have.
If your family isn’t up for a full tour of the Royal Palace, this smaller museum is a great alternative. Plus, unlike the palace, the Royal Armoury offers free entry for everyone 18 years and younger.
6. Wander through Gamla Stan
One of the main attractions, located in the heart of Stockholm, is Gamla Stan. The charming old town dates back to the 13th century and draws you in with its winding cobblestone streets, colorful historical buildings, window shopping, and numerous restaurants.
Gamla Stan is where you’ll find the main sites of the Royal Palace, the Stockholm Cathedral, and the Nobel Museum. I recommend taking a tour of the area with a local guide to learn more about its history.
We didn’t take a tour, but in hindsight, I wish we did! I think we missed a lot of fascinating information about the city by not taking one. (This looks like a good Old Town Tour of Stockholm that we would take next time).
Gamla Stan is pedestrian-friendly, so our kids were free to explore as they pleased, eagerly hunting from one square to the next for a fun shop or an afternoon treat! Also, this is one of the best places to come in December, when the old town is transformed into the oldest and most popular Stockholm Christmas market.
Just a tip: Gamla Stan will be extremely crowded once the cruise ships arrive in the morning and throughout the middle of the day. If you want to enjoy the true beauty of the Gamla Stan, it is best to go first thing in the morning or late in the day when the day trippers have departed.
7. Go on a guided tour of the City Hall
The building, dating back to the early 20th century is one of the best examples of Scandinavian eclecticism and is the venue of Nobel Prize banquets. Head here to pay tribute to Sweden’s outsized contribution to the world of science and architectural achievement.
8. Spend the day at Skansen
Skansen is an open-air museum conveniently located on Djurgården Island, in the heart of Stockholm. To reach the island you can take a ferry, tram, or taxi. We happened to take a ferry from near our hotel, the Hilton Stockholm Slussen, and from there it was just a short walk.
I don’t know if I have ever experienced anything quite like Skansen. It was pretty incredible! Our kids had a great time and said it was without a doubt their favorite experience in Stockholm!
Skansen is the oldest museum in Sweden and the first open-air museum in the world (founded in 1891). It consists of historic homes and farmsteads brought from all over Sweden to this one location on top of a hill overlooking Stockholm.
The buildings and their surroundings stay true to their origins and provide examples of what life was like throughout Sweden at different times during the country’s history.
What is there to do at Skansen?
What’s so fascinating about Skansen is that it’s a living museum! People walk around in costumes and interact with visitors answering questions (most, if not all of them, speak English) and demonstrating traditional skills.
Skansen’s designed with kids in mind, making it a great place for everyone to learn about Swedish culture, history, and way of life. In one area is a village with a pottery shop, a bakery, and an engraver. There are several houses you can go inside of and gardens you can explore. It’s fun to see the chickens and roosters roaming freely, too.
Another area has a zoo that houses Nordic animals such as wolverines, reindeer, and elk. There is also a children’s petting zoo and indoor aquarium at Skansen.
Besides that, Skansen is just a fun place to spend the whole day! You’ll find several restaurants throughout the property. And there are often singing and dancing performances.
Throughout the year, the open-air museum is bustling with festivals, from Midsummer celebrations to a Christmas market. I don’t even think we saw everything, and we spent hours there! If you’re limited on time and you’re looking for things to do with kids in Stockholm, definitely make Skansen a priority.
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9. Explore the Museum of Technology
Stockholm’s Museum of Technology offers a captivating exploration of Sweden’s technological heritage for everyone from young kids to adults. All of the exhibits are interactive, and everyone is encouraged to touch, experiment, and immerse themselves in the world of technology.
The museum boasts a diverse collection of historic machinery, vehicles, and inventions. From vintage cars to industrial innovations, each exhibit walks you through a story of progress and ingenuity.
Be prepared for the Museum of Technology to be geared more towards children. However, the exhibits are still interesting enough to be fun for the whole family. You can also find out about interactive workshops, demonstrations, and special events designed for all ages.
10. Visit the ABBA Museum
One of the best places to visit in Sweden with kids is the world-renowned ABBA museum. ABBA is one of the most famous cultural icons of Sweden, so have your kids check out some of their choice hits, such as The Winner Takes it All and Gimme!Gimme!Gimme!.
Note that the treasures of the 80s are brought to the public in an interactive setting, making it one of the coolest places to go to in Stockholm with kids.
Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. We recommend this fast track ticket.
11. Go to a Football Match
Another great thing to do in Sweden with kids is heading to a Stockholm-based football match. Clubs like DIF or AIK, are represented by both women’s and men’s teams.
Note that some of the most exciting matches are when two teams from the same town (or nearby towns) meet up for a game. Things can get quite loud and crazy, but that’s part of the fun!
12. Visit the Vasa Museum
Another one of the best attractions in Stockholm for kids is the Vasa Museum.
The Vasa ship is a warship that sank in Stockholm’s harbor in 1628 on her maiden voyage. In 1961, the ship was lifted out of the water and restoration began. This eventually led to the opening of the Vasa Museum in 1990.
The Vasa is located on Djurgården island near Skansen. I recommend going as soon as it opens (before the cruise ships arrive) or late in the afternoon (after the cruise ships leave) because it gets very busy.
The main attraction in the museum is the Vasa itself, but the interactive exhibits they’ve created to go along with the ship are fascinating in their own right.
There’s a short film that provides an introduction, a “Face to Face” exhibit where they recreated the faces of the passengers on the ship, artifacts to explore, and an area where visitors can experience what life was like on board the ship.
Our entire family enjoyed this museum because the place was very hands-on. We learned a lot about the Vasa and the maritime history of Sweden.
13. Take a stroll in the Arninge Ulna Riparian Forest Park
This picturesque park is lush with greenery in summer, capturing the city’s summertime magic. It’s perfect for a walk, offering plenty of space to explore with kids. Discover nature in this expansive forested area.
14. Toy Museum (Leksaksmuseet)
Located in the Södermalm district, the Stockholm Toy Museum boasts a vast collection of toys from different eras. From dolls to trains, it’s a nostalgic trip for adults and a fun exploration for kids.
15. The Viking Museum
If you’re interested in finding something to do that’s Viking-related, The Viking Museum is a small but interesting visit. It’s located in Djurgården, near Vasa and the other museums there.
While the museum itself isn’t very big or flashy, it’s a nice overview of Viking culture and history as it relates to Sweden and the surrounding Nordic countries. You could easily get through the whole thing in 90 minutes.
The Viking Museum is spread over 2 levels, with walk-through exhibits and dioramas on the main floor. This museum is probably best for older kids, as most exhibits feature a lot of reading, and there aren’t a lot of interactive exhibits.
It’s fascinating to see the Viking artifacts and learn about Norse mythology. Plus, on the lower level, there’s a video on the Vikings, as well as a story-telling amusement park-style ride at the end!
A big part of the museum that makes it a must-visit is the friendly staff. They dress in period attire and are available on the floor to share information and answer questions. Plus, guided tours (in English) are offered for free with admission.
While you’re at The Viking Museum, you can also enjoy a great Nordic-themed restaurant and gift shop.
16. Junibacken
I would be amiss if I didn’t mention Junibacken! Also located in Stockholm’s Djurgården, this is a children’s museum dedicated to the lovely children’s books by Astrid Lindgren.
The author was best known worldwide for her character Pippi Longstocking, so if you’re a fan of her children’s books and have introduced your kids, you’ll like this museum. Just keep in mind that everything here is very much geared towards younger kids, probably between 1 and 7 years old.
A main attraction at Junibacken is the Story Train, which highlights characters from Lindgren’s most popular children’s books, like Pippi Longstocking and Emil.
Families also love the book-themed houses that the kids can play in, as well as the indoor and outdoor play spaces. There are interactive exhibits that double as photo-ops, and a Pippi Longstocking show (all in Swedish).
When your crew gets hungry, there’s also a kid-friendly restaurant. The gift shop at Junibacken offers you a chance to pick up some unique gifts and books.
If you’re a fan of Lindgren’s writing, you’ll enjoy a visit to Junibacken. But it’s very much a children’s museum where you’ll stand around and watch your kids play!
Plus, it gets very busy here, especially on school holidays. Consider going as soon as they open for a bit of relief, or plan this stop for a weekday.
17. Ostermalms Saluhall
Introduce your kids to Swedish delicacies at this food market. From smoked salmon to cloudberry jam, it’s a culinary adventure.
18. Boat Tours
Take advantage of Stockholm’s archipelago setting with a boat tour. Several companies offer child-friendly narrated tours, providing insight into the city’s history and geography.
Try this 2.5 hour City Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise which is great for younger kids.
You can also combine a ticket to see Stockholm by hop on hop off bus and by boat.
Other fun things to do in Stockholm with kids:
- Ghost Walk at night
- Stockholm Food Tour (with older kids and teens)
- Paradox Museum
- Vrak Museum of Wrecks
Where to Stay in Stockholm with Kids
Budget Hotel: Best Western Kom Hotel Stockholm
The centrally located Best Western is perfect for families traveling Europe on a budget. It is walking distance to Drottninggatan and Hotorget Square and has easy access to transportation, shopping, and restaurants.
Families can stay in a family room or a bunk room that sleeps 4, and there are connecting rooms. Amenities include a free breakfast, laundry facilities, and a gym.
Mid-Range Hotel: Hotel Rival
At Hotel Rival, you are about a 15-minute walk from Gamla Stan, and have easy access to public transportation at Mariatorget T-Bana and Slussen T-Bana. There are plenty of shops and restaurants in the area.
A deluxe double room or deluxe double with a balcony will sleep 3 people. Families needing a rollaway will need to pay an extra fee (you will need to confirm with the hotel). Connecting rooms are available. Amenities include a restaurant and café, a free buffet breakfast, bicycle rentals, and a laundry.
Worth a Splurge: Lydmar Hotel
The Lydmar Hotel is a 5-star luxury hotel a short walk from Stockholm’s Royal Palace. Families love the hotel’s breakfast selection and its accessibility to restaurants, shopping, and Old Town.
Families will feel most comfortable in a Medium or Large King Room, Suite, or Signature Suite. There are two bars, a restaurant, a gym, a sauna, and a steam room. Babysitting services are available.
Where to Eat in Stockholm with Kids
Sweden is one of the best places to sample Scandinavian cuisine. Sample a delicious shrimp sandwich, Rakmacka, or try the Christmas buns, a yummy festive treat. Kottbullar, Swedish for meatballs, is a diet staple for all Swedish families.
Other specialties include Falukorv, Falu Sausage, or the more exotic pickled herring.
Restaurants we recommend in Stockholm for families are:
Kajsas Fisk
Kajsas Fisk is a one-of-its-kind restaurant with a friendly atmosphere and some of the best seafood in town.
Kids will love the generous portions and parents will love the impeccable service.
Restaurant Gastabud
This Swedish food eatery is one of the best places to visit in Stockholm cities. It is known for its unique “just eat it and kick-back” charm, large portions, traditional cooking and authentically Scandinavian interior.
Masala Masala
Try out fabulous Indian food at Masala Masala. The restaurant is very family-friendly and it’s a nice change of pace from Scandinavian cuisine.
Best Day Trips from Stockholm
If you are planning to spend more than a few days in Stockholm, take time to explore some of the numerous islands nearby. The best way to spend a day out of town is to follow the local custom and go picnicking.
Tyresta National Park
Tyresta National Park has an abundance of natural beauty and kids will love looking for local wildlife like weasels, beavers, and roe deer. There are 55 kilometers of walking trails so all ages can enjoy a hike.
To visit Tyresta National Park by public transport you can take buses 807 and 809 departing from Gullmarsplan, a place in Johanneshov, Stockholm, and bus 834 from Haninge, a municipality in Stockholm County, commuter train station.
Drottningholm Palace
Travel to the countryside royal residence of Drottningholm Palace, a tribute to Sweden’s former imperial grandeur. Built on the island of Lovon, it served as the original summer residence for the Swedish court.
In addition to its being the functional private residence of the Swedish royalty, it is a tourist site you must visit in Stockholm with kids.
To reach the palace, take the line 515 bus from Odenplan T-bana, on the green line of Stockholm Metro, to Solna station. Then make transit by taking line 176 bus from Solna station to Drottningholm.
How to Travel to Stockholm
Traveling to Stockholm is not only fun but also easy. It is one of the most well-connected cities in Europe.
Getting to Stockholm by plane
Stockholm Arlanda Airport is the primary international gateway to Stockholm located 40km from the city centre.
From the UK: Flight durations vary but typically take around 2 to 2.5 hours.
Flying from the US: Direct flights from major East Coast cities like New York take approximately 8 hours. From the West Coast, for example, Los Angeles, it can be around 11 hours.
Transport: Choose between express trains (Arlanda Express), commuter trains, buses, or taxis to reach the city center. The Arlanda Express is the fastest option, taking around 20 minutes.
Tip: Check if your hotel provides a shuttle service. Remember to have some Swedish Krona for smaller expenses, though many places accept card payments.
Alternative Airports: Stockholm also has smaller airports like Bromma (BMA), mainly for domestic flights, and Skavsta (NYO) and Västerås (VST), typically serving low-cost European carriers. Check out this private transfer from Alanda Airport to Stockholm.
Ferries to Stockholm
Stockholm, beautifully nestled on the Baltic Sea, is not just a destination for plane travelers. The city offers scenic ferry routes that connect it to several Baltic cities, making the sea journey itself a memorable part of your Swedish adventure.
Ferries regularly sail between Stockholm and cities like Helsinki in Finland, Tallinn in Estonia, and Riga in Latvia. These journeys typically range from 12-16 hours, turning the trip into a mini cruise experience.
Upon Docking in Stockholm: Once you arrive, the city welcomes you with its efficient public transport system.
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling during off-peak seasons, it’s wise to check the ferry schedules ahead of time as services might be reduced.
Getting to Stockholm By Train
Traveling to Stockholm by train offers a unique perspective of Europe’s diverse landscapes.
Stockholm is well connected with many European cities via train routes. For instance, there are direct train services from cities like Copenhagen in Denmark, Oslo in Norway, and even as far as Berlin in Germany.
If you’re traveling within Sweden, the country’s extensive rail network makes getting to Stockholm straightforward. Major cities like Gothenburg, Malmö, and Uppsala have frequent services to Stockholm.
All trains, whether regional, national, or international, will bring you into Stockholm Central Station. From here, you can easily connect to local buses, trams, and the metro system to get around the city.
Booking Tips: It’s usually cheaper to book tickets in advance. Also, consider rail passes like Interrail (for Europeans) or Eurail (for non-Europeans) if you plan multiple train journeys across Europe.
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Getting Around Stockholm
Navigating Stockholm with kids is not only easy but also an adventure in itself! The city boasts a well-connected and efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and the iconic subway. Plus, if you’re using a stroller, many stations are accessible.
Public Transport:
Operated by SL (Stockholms Lokaltrafik), Stockholm’s public transport system is comprehensive and efficient, encompassing. SL uses an integrated ticket system. This means a ticket is valid across buses, trams, metro, and even some ferries. They can be purchased at SL centers, some retail outlets, and via the SL app.
- Metro (Tunnelbana): Marked by the iconic blue “T” sign, the metro covers seven lines and is the quickest way to move around.
- Buses: Covering areas the metro might miss, they’re great for shorter distances and local routes.
- Trams: Primarily in Djurgården and parts of Södermalm, they’re scenic and efficient.
- Commuter Trains (Pendeltåg): Connect outer suburbs and other cities.
- Ferries: Especially for the archipelago and some city routes.
- Walking: Stockholm’s city center is quite compact, making many attractions walkable. Stroll around to discover hidden gems.
- Biking: The city is bike-friendly with numerous dedicated paths. Consider renting a bike or using the city’s bike-sharing program.
- Taxis: Reliable and available throughout the city. However, they’re pricier than other options. Ensure the taxi has a yellow license plate, indicating it’s registered.
- Driving: Not recommended for inner-city travel due to traffic, limited parking, and congestion charges. But if you’re exploring outside Stockholm, it’s convenient.
- Boat Tours: A popular way to see Stockholm from the water, given its archipelago setting.
Tip: Consider getting an SL travel card or a Stockholm Pass, which offers unlimited travel and entry to numerous attractions.
To get around the best attractions and see the main sights, why not try the hop-on-hop-off bus tour with the option of a boat tour too?
Stockholm isn’t just historical buildings and history museums (though many are kid-worthy!). Many of Stockholm’s top attractions are designed with families in mind. You’ll find interactive museums like Junibacken and amusement parks like Gröna Lund that are made to engage even the littlest travelers.
Best Things to do in Stockholm with Kids
There are so many amazing attractions to choose from in the Swedish capital that you’ll have your work cut out for you deciding just what to do first! My top tip is to stick to central Stockholm, where you have a variety of things to do close to one another.
Within the city center, you have a diverse range of historical landmarks, museums, and parks to choose from. Want to venture out a bit? No problem, just use the city’s family-friendly public transportation options to get around.
Stockholm is a child-friendly city with a rich history and vibrant culture that presents it in a way that will engage kids. They’ll have so much fun they won’t even realize they’re learning!
Joy, it is gorgeous! The city sparkles, and the people there are wonderful. We can’t wait to return!
Christy, we can’t wait to go back. We were surprised by how much there was to see and do. Truly a gorgeous city!
Oh, that looks like an amazing place! Great info here, too! Thanks for taking the time to come over and link up with us at the #HomeMattersParty – we hope to see you again next week! Feel free to bring a friend 🙂
Amanda, the history there is just fascinating and the architecture is so unique. It’s really a special place to visit. Hopefully you’ll get there soon.