Strike up the band because we’re about to take you on a mind-bending family trip to Stockholm, Sweden! This city has it all: incredible sights, fascinating history, and tons of fun for the kids. We’re talking about a place where even the train stations are art museums. Who knew? And let me tell you, they’re some of the cleanest subway stations I’ve ever seen.
We’ve been to Stockholm multiple times, but the second trip we brought the youngsters. The secret to keeping kids enthralled here? An ancient shipwreck, a super cool kids’ museum, and a really tasty tradition. Get ready for a Nobel Prize-worthy itinerary as we take the crown jewel of Scandinavia by storm.
The Vasa Museum: A Maritime Marvel
First up, the Vasa Museum, home to a ship that sank 395 years ago. Think Titanic but older. This massive Viking ship, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628, has been remarkably restored. The kids were in awe of the grandeur and craftsmanship of this warship.
Inside the museum, you’ll learn all about its ill-fated voyage, construction, crew, and the events that led to its sinking. Plus, you can see how it was recovered from Stockholm’s harbor. There’s a gift shop for some memorable souvenirs. If you’re a history buff, this museum is a must-see. Even if you’re not a big museum person, this is really cool. You won’t see anything else like this.
The Royal Music Parade: A Majestic Tradition
Next, the midday Royal Music Parade. This parade of royal musicians marches to the Royal Palace, entertaining everyone along the way. It’s a time-honored tradition showcasing the grandeur of the royal court and the musical heritage of Sweden.
Following the procession, you find yourself in the heart of old Stockholm, just outside the Royal Palace, a 600-room marvel. Although it was under construction during our visit, it’s a must-see for families.
Gamla Stan: A Historical Gem
No trip to Stockholm is complete without stopping at Gamla Stan. This is the iconic area with red, yellow, and orange buildings you’ve seen all over social media. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s worth it.
The cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and charming boutiques create an enchanting experience. It’s also home to the Nobel Museum, where you can learn about the prestigious Nobel Prize. The district dates back to the 13th century and is a time capsule of ancient Sweden.
For the best experience, visit in the afternoon and partake in a little thing called fika.
Fika: A Sweet Swedish Tradition
Fika means “take a break” or “have a coffee,” and it’s a centuries-old Swedish tradition. It involves taking a break in the afternoon, surrounding yourself with good company, and indulging in a Swedish treat.
We tried the famous fika roll, which is like a cinnamon roll. It’s light, fresh, and the perfect way to pep up your afternoon. The kids loved it!
Stockholm Paradox Museum: A Mind-Bending Experience
There are only so many old museums and ancient neighborhoods that can keep a kid entertained. Enter the Paradox Museum. Located in the heart of Stockholm, this museum is a playground for the mind. It’s full of optical illusions and interactive exhibits that will captivate your kids.
Every exhibit sparks creativity and challenges perceptions. The infinity room, where it looks like there are a million of you, was a hit. Tickets are reasonably priced, and it’s a must-visit for families.
Stockholm’s Subway Art: An Underground Adventure
Believe it or not, Stockholm’s subway system is a funky art exhibit. Opened in 1950, the subway stations feature public art, turning your travels around town into an art adventure.
It’s a cheap activity (kids under 12 are free), and the cool underground environment is a nice break from the summer heat. Over 90 subway stations have murals, sculptures, and mosaics. It’s been called the world’s longest art gallery, and it’s a favorite for kids.
The Floating Museums: A Seafaring Legacy
On the Stockholm waterfront, a series of old ships provide a glimpse into the city’s seafaring past. One standout is the Sankt Erik, an icebreaker launched in 1915. It navigated icy waters and played a crucial role in Sweden’s maritime heritage.
These floating museums are free and kid-friendly. They offer an intimate glimpse into the lives of sailors and the challenges of Arctic exploration. It’s a fascinating and cost-effective activity.
Stockholm Central Station: A Historic Landmark
Stockholm’s central train station is another must-visit. Built in 1871, it has towering arches, an intricate facade, and modern conveniences. It’s a busy hub with about a quarter of a million people passing through daily, but it’s efficient and great for picture-taking.
Swedish Meatballs
Swedish meatballs are not just for trips to IKEA. Now, don’t get us wrong, there’s a ton of delicious cuisine throughout Stockholm, but you have to try these. One of our favorite spots was Skroten. Food is great, plus it provides great outdoor seating on a long sunny day.
Walking through Stockholm
Now we’re big on walking through a new city to get a lay of the land and to get the full vibe of the city. Stockholm is a very walkable city. It is not too tough to navigate either. This allows you to see a lot of the city without needing transportation. Whether you want to see the Nobel Prize Museum or just enjoy the rides at Grona Lund, it’s not tough to do.
Planning Ahead: The Essentials
Traveling with kids isn’t always easy, but with a little planning, it can be an amazing adventure. For our first-ever family European vacation, we chose Stockholm, and it did not disappoint. Here’s how we planned it:
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: We found a centrally located hotel with cool activities for kids.
- Sweets: Because, let’s face it, you can always bribe and reenergize children with sweets.
- Engaging Activities: Alongside the historical sites, we included kid-oriented attractions to keep them interested.
Downtown Camper Hotel: A Kid-Friendly Haven
Your hotel choice can make or break a family trip. We stayed at the centrally located Downtown Camper Hotel. It was perfect: creative design, cool rooms, amazing breakfast, and a fun kids’ net zone above the lobby.
The kids loved it so much they asked to go back to the hotel to play during sightseeing breaks. We didn’t receive any freebies for mentioning this hotel; it’s just that good.
Other Favorite Stockholm Hotels
Clarion Collection Hotel Tapto Located in Östermalm, this hotel provides easy access to fashionable restaurants, parks, and museums. It offers comfortable rooms, a cozy atmosphere, and complimentary evening meals.
Mornington Hotel Stockholm Also in Östermalm, this hotel is known for its stylish decor and welcoming environment. It includes a well-equipped fitness center and a popular breakfast buffet, making it a great choice for travelers who value convenience and comfort.
Hotel Rival Situated in Södermalm, this boutique hotel is owned by ABBA’s Benny Andersson. It features chic, stylish rooms and an excellent breakfast. The hotel is near many restaurants and the metro, making it ideal for exploring Stockholm
Hotel Reisen Located in Gamla Stan and right on the water, so it’s very close to a lot of the main attractions. This hotel is like walking back in time, as the building’s foundation dates back to 1617 and has a colorful history.
ABBA The Muesum Hotel Yes, you are reading that correctly. The ABBA Museum has the Backstage Hotel located inside. So if you feel like a Dancing Queen, then Mamma Mia you’ll want to stay here.
Final Thoughts on Stockholm
Stockholm is a city of paradoxes: local musical pride runs from ABBA to Avicii, shopping ranges from IKEA to high-end boutiques, and both history buffs and kids can stay entertained. It’s not the cheapest city in Europe, but you can mix in freebie stops to keep costs down.
No matter where you visit, Stockholm will leave a lasting impression. It’s the crown jewel of Northern Europe and a must-visit for any family on a European vacation. Bottom line: it’s one of the most amazing cities in Scandinavia, and a fantastic place to visit with family and young children. Make your way to Stockholm—you won’t regret it!
