15 Best Things to do in Stockholm Alone as a Solo Traveller

Stockholm is one of Europe’s capital cities that flies under a lot of tourist radars.

I mean, if you ask someone where they’ve been on holiday, they might say Rome or Paris or Madrid. Right? But rarely Stockholm.

And that’s exactly what makes this city so magical to explore!

So if you’re wondering what the best things to do in Stockholm alone are, especially as a solo female traveller, you’re in exactly the right place!

This guide is packed with all of the honest, actually useful info I wish I’d had when I first touched down in Sweden’s stunning capital.

Because let’s be honest here, figuring out what’s actually worth your time when you’re travelling solo (and don’t want to feel awkward or miss any of the good stuff), can be more than a little overwhelming!

I’ve explored Stockholm solo myself, several times. In fact, it’s my favourite city in all of Europe (and I hope that by the end of this post you’ll understand why!) I’ve wandered the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan, sailed the spectacular archipelago, and found a lot of hidden gems along the way.

So here it is: everything I loved most (and a few hidden gems I nearly skipped), from royal palaces and leafy islands to cobbled streets and one of a kind viewpoints.

Let’s get into the 15 best things to do alone in Stockholm!

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Is Stockholm Worth Visiting Alone?

As I said, Stockholm almost always doesn’t top tourists’ European bucket lists.

But I think it absolutely should.

So if you’re wondering whether Stockholm is worth visiting alone, my short answer is a huge yes!

This charming capital city is clean, safe, stylish and surprisingly relaxed (probably due to the fact that its surrounded by water, thanks to its stunning archipelago).

But Stockholm is also one of those rare cities where you can walk alone at night without looking over your shoulder every five seconds. Where people will leave you alone in your own little solo travel bubble, but will also happily help if you need it. And yes, almost everyone speaks English here. So you don’t have to worry about a language barrier either!

But in my opinion, what makes Stockholm really great for solo female travellers is its vibe.

It’s got an unrushed, introvert-friendly (which is probably why I like it so much!) energy that’s perfect for walks by the water, long breaks for fika (coffee and cake!), and exploring all of the beautiful architecture the city has to offer.

So whether you’re visiting in spring when the parks come alive with blossom, or in summer when the whole city comes alive, or even in winter when the days are short and everyone is embracing hygge, there are more than enough reasons you need to visit Stockholm!

Stockholm is such a beautiful, underrated city!
Stockholm is such a beautiful, underrated city!

15 Best Things to Do Alone in Stockholm as a Solo Traveller

1. Explore Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s old town and, as cliché as it may sound, it really does feel like stepping into the pages of a storybook. (Especially if you visit early in the morning, before the tourists are out and about).

Stockholm’s Gamla Stan is one of the oldest and best-preserved medieval centres in the world, with cobblestone streets to wander, colourful buildings to admire, and tiny side streets to explore.

And, in my experience as a solo female traveller, exploring Gamla Stan alone is the very best way to take it all in, at your own pace, with no one rushing you because they’re bored or hungry!

But maybe I’m just biased!

You’ll also find the Stockholm Cathedral, Stortorget’s historic square (more on these later!), loads of independent shops to browse, and cosy cafes for fika tucked down side streets.

Katie’s Top Tip: Go as early as you can (ideally before 10am). It’s so much more relaxed, the light is better for photos, and you’ll have the streets (almost!) to yourself.

Wandering the colourful streets of Gamla Stan in the early morning!
Wandering the colourful streets of Gamla Stan in the early morning!

2. Admire the Royal Palace

Just a few steps from the heart of Gamla Stan, the Royal Palace (or Kungliga Slottet), is one of the most iconic and must see attractions in Stockholm.

And once again (I may be biased!) but I truly believe that exploring it solo is perfect.

Again, because you can actually take your time and go full history nerd (if that’s your vibe, of course!) without worrying if your partner is bored.

Oh and this isn’t just a stuffy, disused museum, by the way. It’s a fully working royal residence, with 11 floors housing over 600 rooms. Only a small fraction of these are open to the public, including the royal apartments and three museums to explore:

  • The Treasury (to see the royal regalia)
  • The Tre Kronor Museum (to learn about the palace’s fascinating medieval history)
  • Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities

Audio guides are also available, in a variety of different languages, if you want context without having to join a group guided tour.

Personally, I loved being able to explore at my own pace without having to keep up with a group, so the audio guide was perfect for me. You can access it via a simple app and the information is truly fascinating, not overbearing like in some museums I’ve been to.

But if a guided tour is more your thing, you can join one of the knowledgeable, passionate local guides daily between June to August, or every day except Tuesday and Thursday the rest of the year. All guided tours are in English.

Katie’s Top Tip: Time your visit for just before 12:15pm (or 1:15pm on Sundays), to catch the Changing of the Guard in the courtyard. Just make sure you arrive 15-20 minutes early to get the best standing spot. Oh and if you’re visiting in winter, check online, because changing of the guard doesn’t happen every day.

The Royal Palace of Stockholm
The Royal Palace of Stockholm

3. Get Out on the Water and Explore the Archipelago

In my opinion, the absolute best thing to do alone in Stockholm is to get out on the water.

Stockholm city is made up of 14 islands and surrounded by thousands more in the wider archipelago, so you’re never going to be too far from a boat that’ll take you away from the hustle and bustle of city life and out into nature.

And you’ve got a few great options for how to do it too, depending on what you’re looking for from a trip, your budget and your schedule.

Taking a boat trip out to the archipelago is one of the best things to do in Stockholm alone!
Taking a boat trip out to the archipelago is one of the best things to do in Stockholm alone!

Tourist Boats

Tourist boats like Stromma are the most popular and fuss-free option to get out on the water and explore the archipelago.

They leave from central Stockholm (typically from Strandvägen or The Royal Palace), and have the added bonus of a live guide or recorded commentary, sharing stories, talking about Stockholm’s rich history, and pointing out key sights along the way.

There are a few different options, depending on what you want to see and how long you want your trip to be:

I would recommend you take the Archipelago Highlights Boat Tour to Vaxholm, as you get to see the very best of Stockholm’s archipelago, plus Vaxholm is truly stunning and well worth visiting.

If you also want the opportunity to get off at Vaxholm to explore (which I would highly recommend!), you can also buy a ticket that allows you to get off.

This way you’ll still get the benefit of the live commentary both ways, but you also have plenty of free time to wander this charming island and see a different side to Stockholm!

One thing to note though is that the one way tickets are still for the Archipelago Highlights Boat Tour to Vaxholm, so the amount of time you can spend on Vaxholm is limited to the schedule of this boat.

Admiring the natural beauty of the Stockholm archipelago!
Admiring the natural beauty of the Stockholm archipelago!

Local Ferries

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous (or just want to make your budget stretch), the local ferries are a great alternative.

They run regular routes to and from Vaxholm (which takes about an hour), and cover pretty much the same route as the tourist boats, just without the commentary.

The big difference here is the cost and flexibility.

Stockholm’s ferries cost significantly less than the Stromma tourist boats (perfect for budget-conscious travellers!), and they also give you more flexibility with your timing.

There are regular sailings throughout the day and into the evening, and you can jump on any one and buy a ticket, without being constrained by the tourist boat schedule.

Plus, if you want to explore more than just Vaxholm, the ferry allows you to hop on and off at other islands too.

Yet more stunning scenery in Stockholm's archipelago!
Yet more stunning scenery in Stockholm’s archipelago!

Kayaks

If you’re up for a more active (and unique!) way to explore the archipelago, you can also book a guided kayak tour of the archipelago. This tour is beginner-friendly and runs from May to September, with everything provided, including dry bags and gear.

Katie’s Top Tip: I took both options on my first trip. On my first day, I took the tourist boat, then hopped off for a few hours to explore Vaxholm, before grabbing the tourist boat back. But as soon as I left I knew I wanted more time to explore Vaxholm, that the boat schedule wouldn’t give me.

So, on my last day (with little time left before my flight was due to leave, in fact!), I spontaneously hopped on a ferry, just to spend another hour on that beautiful island. Yes, really! And yes, I did make my flight (although it was close!) And yes, my family were despairing of me as I texted them live updates from my return ferry, just a couple of hours before my flight was due to leave!

Looking back at the city centre from the water!
Looking back at the city centre from the water!

4. Enjoy the Iconic Views from Mariaberget

If you’re looking for that postcard-perfect view of Stockholm that’s all over Pinterest, Mariaberget is where you’ll find it.

This tiny, unassuming (and underrated!) viewing platform is on the island of Södermalm, perched high on Monteliusvägen.

Fair warning: the route up to Mariaberget is steep, through a residential neighbourhood and down an alleyway between houses (I told you it was unassuming!), but it is also well worth the detour from central Gamla Stan and the effort it takes to get there.

This magical spot gives you panoramic views over the archipelago, the iconic City Hall and Gamla Stan’s spires in the distance.

Plus it’s free, peaceful and (even though you have to walk through a quiet, residential area), feels very safe to visit as a solo female traveller!

But what I love most about Mariaberget is that, despite the fact that the view is iconic, it’s not overrun with tourists.

In fact, it’s a bit of a hidden gem hiding in plain site on people’s Pinterest boards!

When I was up there for the first time, I was surrounded by locals rather than tourists: walking their dogs or just sitting silently on one of the benches overlooking the view.

It’s especially beautiful in autumn (late September especially), when the golden light hits the rooftops below in just the right way!

Katie’s Top Tip: Bring a takeaway coffee and be prepared to stay a while. Seriously, I sat and watched the view for over an hour! The light, the quiet and the view make this one of the most best things to do alone in Stockholm.

You absolutely cannot miss Mariaberget viewing platform!
You absolutely cannot miss Mariaberget viewing platform!

5. Take a Scenic Walk Along Strandvägen

Strandvägen is Stockholm’s iconic boulevard, running along the water in the upscale Östermalm district.

In my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful and walkable stretches in Stockholm

The buildings are grand, the hotels and shops scream luxury, it’s always bustling with both tourists and locals, the views are wide open, and there is always a boat leaving or pulling in that you can watch.

All of that and so much more makes Strandvägen a must-do, and one of the best things to do in Stockholm alone!

Plus, Strandvägen is beautiful all year round, too. So whether you’re visiting Stockholm in spring when the flowers are blossoming and the city is waking up, in summer when the whole city is alive and vibrant, or in winter when the city is covered in frost or snow, Strandvägen is always beautiful and perfect for a walk.

Katie’s Top Tip: Start your walk mid-morning for the perfect mix of vibrant but not over crowded, and end it by crossing the bridge over to Djurgården, to visit the museums or visit the peaceful park.

Beautiful Strandvagen is the perfect spot for a walk!
Beautiful Strandvagen is the perfect spot for a walk!

6. Admire the Unique Architecture of Stockholm City Hall

Even if you’re not normally into government buildings or striking architecture, you shouldn’t miss a visit to Stockholm’s City Hall (or Stadshuset).

It is a genuine architectural gem and one of the top tourist attractions in Stockholm.

It’s one of those places that looks important right from its very architecture, with striking red brick towers, golden spires and gorgeous lake reflections that make it feel more like a castle than a hub for administration in the middle of a capital city!

Oh, and it’s where the Nobel Prize banquet is held every year in its Blue Hall, so you know it’s got serious credentials!

You can explore the gardens for free (highly recommend!), or join a guided tour inside to see the stunning Blue Hall and the Golden Hall (yep, the architecture in those rooms is just as dramatic as those names sound!)

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re up for it, climb the tower for panoramic views over the city and water. It’s around 300 steps (plus a lift part of the way), and only available during certain months, so check availability ahead of time if that’s something you want to do.

The imposing Stockholm city hall!
The imposing Stockholm city hall!

7. Visit the UNESCO-listed Drottningholm Palace

Ready for a truly fairytale escape from the hustle and bustle of the city?

Drottningholm Palace is a dream destination to explore (whether you’re a Royals lover or not!) and, even better, it’s surprisingly easy to reach from central Stockholm, making it a perfect half or even full day trip!

Drottningholm is a grand, 17th-century palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and (if all of that isn’t enough of a reason to visit!), it still serves as the Swedish royal family’s private residence to this day!

Drottningholm Palace's spectacular formal gardens
Drottningholm Palace’s spectacular formal gardens

But even still, large parts of the palace (both inside and outside), are open to the public, and the combination of art, history, glamour and vast grounds and gardens makes it one of the best things to do in Stockholm for solo travellers.

Inside the palace itself, you’ll find elegant rooms, sculptures, artwork and portraits, as well as learn more about the history of the palace and the royals. And like with the Royal Palace in central Stockholm, you can explore with a knowledgeable tour guide or at your own pace with an audio guide.

But outside is where Drottningholm palace truly shines, in my opinion.

The gardens are vast, with more formal areas but also equally beautiful natural parkland.

Whenever I’ve visited, the gardens have been quiet, too, especially if you get away from the main path and find a peaceful bench to sit on!

And the best part is that the gardens are free! So you can wander through the formal terraces, forested paths and even come across a Chinese pavilion tucked away in the greenery – without spending a penny of your budget!

The only thing you need to pay for is entrance to the palace and Chinese pavilion (if you wish), and transport to get there.

Exploring the quieter, English-style grounds!
Exploring the quieter, English-style grounds!

And speaking of transport, you can either:

  1. Take a boat ride with Stromma (this is a gorgeous option in summer and shoulder season), which leaves from outside Stockholm city hall.
  2. Take the metro (or t-bana) to Brommaplan before changing to the bus to Drottningholm.
  3. Take your own car (or a rental car), and park at Drottningholm or Drottningholm Palace Theatre.

Katie’s Top Tip: Take the boat if you’re visiting Stockholm in summer or shoulder season. It’s the best way to arrive at the palace in style and there’s no better view than the final approach, where you can see it looming ever closer across the water!

The view of Drottningholm from the boat!
The view of Drottningholm Palace from the boat!

8. Step Inside Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan)

Tucked just behind the Royal Palace in Gamla Stan is Storkyrkan, Stockholm’s Cathedral (and also Stockholm’s oldest church).

And yep, while it might look modest from the outside, it’s surprisingly dramatic once you step inside.

This stunning Gothic and Baroque style cathedral dates back to the 13th century and inside the vibe is giving medieval. It’s filled with plenty to admire, from high ceilings supported by brick pillars, to important artworks, and the famous sculpture of Saint George and the dragon.

It doesn’t take long to explore the inside of Stockholm’s Storkyran and take a few photos from the outside, but it’s absolutely worth a visit and a spot on your Stockholm itinerary – especially if you’re already out exploring Gamla Stan.

And because it’s right in the heart of the city, it’s super easy to build into your walking itinerary without going out of your way!

Katie’s Top Tip: The cathedral is open every day between 9:30am to 5pm. At the moment the price for adults is 120kr.

Stockholm's pale pink cathedral!
Stockholm’s pale pink cathedral!

9. Join a Walking Tour

One of my favourite ways to ease into a new city as a solo female traveller is to join a walking tour.

I’ve found time and time again that when I start my trip with a walking tour, it takes the pressure off having to figure everything out or navigate alone on day one.

Plus, as a bonus, it gives you access to local context and insights that Google Maps or even most travel blogs just can’t provide.

In Stockholm, the walking tours I’ve experienced have been incredibly well-run and the local guides have been super informative and genuinely interesting to listen to.

And whether you’re into discovering hidden spots, channelling your inner foodie, finding out more about that famous metro art, or learning about Stockholm’s dark past (yes, there’s a ghost tour if you’re into that!), there’s a tour to match your vibe.

Walking through the historic Gamla Stan
Walking through the historic Gamla Stan

Here are the Stockholm walking tours I would recommend:

  • 2 hour old town walking tour with a local: Learn about the fascinating history of Stockholm and see the highlights of Gamla Stan and Riddarholmen – perfect for getting your bearings in a new city!)
  • 4 hour Swedish food walking tour: Explore the very best markets and eateries with your guide, including enough tastings for a full meal! You’ll walk from Östermalmshallen market to Gamla Stan, sampling cheeses, meats, seafood, sweets and cinnamon rolls along the way!
  • 1.5 hour guided metro art tour: Visit the highlights of the world’s longest art gallery – aka Stockholm’s metro! – with a local guide who knows the very best must-see art installations you can’t miss.
  • 2 hour Stockholm ghost tour at night: A walking tour with a spooky twist! Your guide will share Nordic folklore and Stockholm’s dark history on this atmospheric, night-time walking tour through Gamla Stan. A truly unique thing to do in Stockholm!
  • A private walking tour (2-8 hours): If you want a personalised experience, tailored to what you want to see in Stockholm, a private tour gives you full control over your itinerary and one on one time with your guide to ask questions!

Katie’s Top Tip: If it’s your first time in Stockholm, I’d recommend starting with this Gamla Stan walking tour, led by local guides who really know their stuff. It’s a great way to spot hidden details you’d miss on your own and ask any questions you might have about the city, culture, or even just where is best to enjoy fika! Plus, it’s a low-pressure way to chat with other travellers, if that’s your vibe.

A walking tour of Stockholm at night is very atmospheric!
A walking tour of Stockholm at night is very atmospheric!

10. Take a Day Trip to Vaxholm

We mentioned this earlier when we talked about getting out and exploring the archipelago, but I love Vaxholm so much I wanted to give it its own mention!

If you need a breather from the city buzz, hop on a ferry (or the tourist boat), to Vaxholm, which is a charming little town often called the “Gateway to the Archipelago.”

It may be just an hour from central Stockholm by boat, but it feels like stepping into a more traditional, slower version of Swedish life than you’ll ever find in the city itself.

And there’s plenty to explore, from colourful wooden waterfront houses, little boutique shops to browse, cafés with cinnamon buns the size of your face (not kidding on that one!), tiny boats bobbing in the water, and plenty of spots to sit and relax, including wooden piers, a harbour, a tiny beach and a park.

The quaint island of Vaxholm, with its colourful harbour!
The quaint island of Vaxholm, with its colourful harbour!

For solo female travellers especially, Vaxholm is perfect because it’s compact, easy to get to (and easy to navigate!), and full of stunning corners perfect for exploring at your own pace.

You can walk along the shore, visit the historic fortress (take the little boat across!), and enjoy fika with a view.

Katie’s Top Tip: As I said earlier, you can technically get two one-way tickets for the Stromma tourist boat and use the few hours between sailings to explore on your own. But for more control over your schedule (aka longer to explore beautiful Vaxholm!) I would recommend you get the ferry across. It’s cheaper too!

Vaxholm's fortress is also fun to visit during your day trip!
Vaxholm’s fortress is also fun to visit during your day trip!

11. Visit the ABBA Museum

Okay, hear me out – even if ABBA isn’t your thing (and I definitely wouldn’t call myself a superfan), this museum is still one of the most unexpectedly fun experiences in Stockholm.

Located on Djurgården, the ABBA Museum is part music history, part interactive play, and part nostalgia!

You can sing in a studio booth, try on virtual costumes, dance in front of a camera (yes, you’ll be super cringe and love it!), and even see behind-the-scenes footage of the band’s rise to global fame.

It’s fun, light-hearted and 100% amazing for solo female travellers because, let’s be honest, it’s so much easier to let loose when no one we know is watching!

Bonus: it’s right next to other major Stockholm tourist attractions like the Vasa Museum and Skansen, so you can spend a full day exploring Djurgården.

Katie’s Top Tip: Book your ticket online in advance to skip the queue, especially in summer. This one’s popular!

12. Marvel at Stortorget, Stockholm’s Most Photogenic Square

You know that colourful square you always see on every single Stockholm postcard?

Well, that’s Stortorget. And you can’t miss it!

Nestled right in the heart of Gamla Stan, this cobbled square is the oldest in the city and while, yes, it may be small, it is definitely worth a dedicated visit on your Stockholm itinerary.

The iconic red, green and mustard-yellow facades of the medieval buildings are incredibly beautiful, and the atmosphere changes so much with the seasons and the time of day: Fairy lights and mulled wine in winter. Outdoor dining in summer. Quiet and relaxed early in the morning. Lively and vibrant during the day and into the evening.

In fact, it varies so much I would recommend you visit Stortorget at least three times during your Stockholm itinerary (yes, three times!):

  1. Early in the morning (for uninterrupted photos)
  2. During the early afternoon (to grab a coffee and experience that lively buzz)
  3. In the evening (when the streets are lit up and super atmospheric)

Stortorget is one of those must see places in Stockholm that every solo traveller should visit, not just for the truly iconic photo ops (though there are plenty of those too!), but also to sit, perhaps enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes, and truly admire the beauty of this famous square.

This is also where the Nobel Museum is located, if you fancy a visit.

Plus, its where the Stockholm Bloodbath took place in 1520. (I don’t wanna bring the mood down or anything, but hey, its history.) And you can learn more about this dark period in Stockholm’s past from your guide if you take a local walking tour.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you can only commit to visiting Stortorget once, arrive early (like, before 10am early), if you want photos without crowds.

The famous, colourful buildings of Stortorget!
The famous, colourful buildings of Stortorget!

13. Admire the View from Skeppsholmsbron

Skeppsholmsbron is one of those landmarks that doesn’t always make the travel guides or lists of Stockholm must-sees in its own right, but it absolutely should.

This elegant iron bridge from the 1800s connects central Stockholm to the peaceful island of Skeppsholmen and has an iconic golden crown on the railings, perfectly framed with views of the Royal Palace and Gamla Stan behind it.

In my opinion, it’s one of the best things to do in Stockholm alone for photographers, or anyone who values a truly stunning view, really.

It’s an especially great stop if you’re looking for another classic Stockholm photo opportunity.

And most tourists will just hustle on by (or absently take a few shots), on their way to Skeppsholmen or the museums on Djurgården, rather than stopping to enjoy the view.

But I recommend you take your time here, strolling along slowly and taking in the view (as long as you’re being respectful and not blocking people’s path, of course!)

Katie’s Top Tip: Visit just before sunset when the light hits the golden crown and the rooftops of Stockholm glow under the golden hour light.

The view of Strandvagen from Skeppsholmsbron!
The view of Strandvagen from Skeppsholmsbron!

14. See the Historic Buildings of Mäster Mikaels Gata

This one is seriously underrated, I guess because it is a bit out of the way of other popular Stockholm tourist attractions. But it’s well worth a visit, especially if you’re already in the area to visit Mariaberget.

Tucked away in the east of the charming Södermalm district, Mäster Mikaels Gata is a quiet, residential, traditionally Swedish corner of Stockholm, that feels like stepping back in time to what the old city would have felt like.

This short, cobbled street is lined with traditional 18th-century wooden houses, painted in traditional reds, yellows, pinks and light greens. And in fact, these beautiful buildings are some of the very few remaining examples of this architectural style in the city.

The street is named after Mäster Mikael, a former city executioner (yes, really!) who lived here in the 1600s. He was an executioner from 1635 until his own execution on in 1650. He was sentenced for the death of Pawel Andersson and executed by his successor.

But don’t worry, today this street is all charm and not at all creepy!

It’s also very photogenic and offers a much quieter experience than the tourist hotspots in Gamla Stan. In my opinion, this is one of the best things to do in Stockholm alone if you’re looking for living history and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city centre!

Katie’s Top Tip: St Catherine’s Church is also nearby, and is well worth a visit too.

Mäster Mikaels Gata, with St Catherine's Church in the background
Mäster Mikaels Gata, with St Catherine’s Church in the background

15. Relax on Skeppsholmen Island

If you need a break from sightseeing, Skeppsholmen is where you should head.

This calm little island is very close to central Stockholm (connected by Skeppsholmsbron), but once you cross the bridge, everything slows down.

There are leafy walking paths to explore, small boats bobbing in the water, and some of the very best views of the city skyline across the harbour.

It’s a quiet escape that’s still easily walkable from Gamla Stan and Strandvägen, making Skeppsholmen Island one of the most underrated things to do in Stockholm alone!

You’ll find a few museums here too, if that’s more your thing. For example the Moderna Museet (ideal for modern art lovers), but honestly, the real magic of this island is just in relaxing on a bench or enjoying a relaxing stroll.

It’s especially lovely in the shoulder season (late spring or early autumn), where there are fewer crowds, but it’s also often still warm enough to sit for a while and relax.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re here in late afternoon, make sure you hang around for sunset. The views from the edge of the island looking back at Gamla Stan are absolutely gorgeous!

Leafy Skeppsholmen Island
Leafy Skeppsholmen Island

Stockholm FAQ

Best Time to Visit Stockholm

Stockholm is great all year round, but what you want from your trip will help you decide when to go.

For most solo travellers, I would say the best time to visit Stockholm is from late May to early September. This is when the city comes alive with festivals, long sunny days and it feels like everyone is outdoors enjoying the sunshine. It’s a great time for walking tours, outdoor dining and island-hopping around the archipelago!

But, winter in Stockholm also has its own charm, if you don’t mind cold weather and potentially snow. Think cosy cafés serving mulled wine, fairy lights, ice skating, hygge…

Spring and autumn are also lovely if you prefer fewer crowds and more affordable prices. Just be aware that some smaller attractions may have limited hours in the off-season.

Katie’s Top Tip: If this is your first time visiting Stockholm alone, aim for late spring or early autumn. The weather is decent, people are still out and about enjoying the outdoors, and you’ll be able to enjoy more of the best things to do in Stockholm alone without the queues!

How to Visit Stockholm Alone

Getting to Stockholm as a solo traveller is easy.

If you’re flying, chances are you’ll land at Stockholm’s international airport, Stockholm Arlanda. Then, from Arlanda, you can take the high-speed Arlanda Express train straight to the city centre in about 18 minutes, or the Flygbussarna airport bus if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option.

Trains, long distance buses and ferries also connect Stockholm to other parts of Sweden and Europe, so it’s easy to get to if you’re travelling overland too!

And once you’re in the city, getting around is straightforward too.

Stockholm is very walkable, especially in the central islands (Gamla Stan, Södermalm and Norrmalm), and the public transport system is safe, clean and super-efficient too!

The metro (Tunnelbana) is your best friend for getting around quickly (or taking a journey just to admire the artwork – you do you!), while the ferries are a fun and scenic way to reach islands like Djurgården or Vaxholm.

Where to Stay in Stockholm as a Solo Traveller

The best area to stay in Stockholm really depends on your vibe, but if you’re travelling solo, I’d recommend choosing somewhere central, walkable and well-connected:

  • Gamla Stan is picturesque and historic, but is very touristy (and expensive). This is where I stay in Stockholm.
  • Norrmalm is the main commercial hub and super convenient for transport, shops and cafes.
  • For a younger, artsier feel, try Södermalm, which has lots of local boutiques, bakeries and brunch spots.

Stockholm city centre is generally very safe, even at night, and you’ll find a good mix of solo-friendly accommodation across all budgets, from stylish hostels to charming boutique hotels.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my full guide to the very best things to do in Stockholm alone!

Whether you’re wandering through the pastel streets of Gamla Stan, watching boats sail by from a peaceful spot on Skeppsholmen island, or dancing through the ABBA museum, this city has so much to offer for every traveller!

Stockholm is safe, walkable, beautiful and offers so many experiences to try!

Have you already visited Stockholm solo, or are you planning your first visit? What are you most excited (or nervous!) about? Let me know in the comments!

P.S. Don’t forget to bookmark this post before you go so you can refer back to it on your trip!

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