Start your tour at Gamla Stan’s Stortorget, Stockholm’s historic heart, a charming square surrounded by colourful 17th-century buildings and the Nobel Prize Museum. Admire the ornate façades and the bustling atmosphere. From here, stroll north along Västerlånggatan, a lively cobbled street in the Old Town, lined with quaint shops and cafés, capturing Stockholm’s medieval charm.
After about 10 minutes, stop at Pelikan (Blekingegatan 40, a short detour via metro to Södermalm, or opt for Café Schweizeriet at Västerlånggatan 9 for a closer option), a historic restaurant since 1904 with vaulted ceilings, perfect for a quick lunch of Swedish meatballs with lingonberries or gravlax, reasonably priced for its fame, no reservations needed for the café section, but arrive early to avoid crowds. The classic ambience evokes a Nordic bistro.
Continue north to Riddarholmen, a small island with the Riddarholm Church, a 13th-century Gothic gem where Swedish monarchs are buried. Pop in for a quick look at its cast-iron spire and serene interior (small fee). Wander east across the bridge to Kungsträdgården, a lively park with fountains and statues, and explore the nearby Drottninggatan, a bustling pedestrian street with shops.
Head south towards the Royal Palace in Gamla Stan, a baroque masterpiece. Watch the changing of the guard (daily at 12:15 PM, adjust timing if needed) or peek into the Royal Armoury (free entry) for a quick 20-minute look at regal artefacts. From here, stroll along Skeppsbron, the waterfront promenade with views of the Baltic Sea and grand merchant houses.
Loop west to Mälartorget, a quaint square in Gamla Stan, and stop at Chokladkoppen (Stortorget 18), a cosy café known for its rich hot chocolate or coffee paired with a kanelbulle (cinnamon bun), no bookings needed, but arrive promptly to snag a table. The intimate setting, with views of Stortorget.
Continue south across the Slussen bridge to Södermalm, Stockholm’s trendy district. Wander along Götgatan, a vibrant street with boutiques and street art, to Medborgarplatsen, a lively square. Pop into the City Museum (Ryssgården) for a quick 20-minute glimpse of Stockholm’s history (small fee) or simply enjoy the bohemian vibe.
End your tour at Fotografiska (Stadsgårdshamnen 22), a waterfront museum of contemporary photography with stunning views of the archipelago. A brief visit (entry fee) fits the schedule, or admire its modern exterior. For a final treat, visit Urban Deli (Nytorget 4), a stylish eatery for a coffee or a slice of prinsesstårta (layered cream cake), soaking up Södermalm’s hip atmosphere. Alternatively, relax at Café String (Nytorgsgatan 38), watching Stockholm’s eclectic street life unfold.This 3-4 km route captures Stockholm’s medieval roots, Nordic cuisine, and modern flair, perfect for a four-hour stroll. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled Gamla Stan streets and bring a warm jacket for Stockholm’s often chilly, breezy weather, especially near the water
