Although it is the capital of Sweden, Stockholm is a relaxed city. It is built on 14 islands in Lake Mälaren, which marks the beginning of an archipelago of 24,000 islands, skerries and islets, going all the way to the Baltic Sea. Both historic and modest, the city boasts a warm atmosphere and some excellent attractions.
The most important historical attraction in Stockholm is Kungliga Slottet, the world's largest royal castle still in use. It features more than 600 rooms, dating mostly from the late 17th century. Also of interest, the Hall of State and the Apartments of the Royal Orders of Chivalry are open to the public. Alternatively, the Museum Tre Kronor houses remains of the original 13th century castle; while the Stadshuset (town hall) is another important building in the city.
Another amazing attraction is Skansen, which is an open-air museum comprising of more than 150 dwellings on some 30 hectares of parkland. These structures originally stood all over the country, from Lapland to Skåne, and most are from the 18th and 19th centuries. Here, you'll see windmills and a manor house, and even a complete town quarter. Folk dancing and open-air concerts are also featured.
It's also pleasant to stroll around the old town and among the parks and small islands. Haga Park is particularly popular, with its museums, neo-classic Paviljong, butterfly house, and lovely cycling and walking trails.
The greater Stockholm area contains more than 10,000 islands, and there are some lovely places to visit by ferry. Vaxholm is the chief gateway to the archipelago and is popular with tourists; it boasts a lovely castle and ancient buildings. From there, it's 1 hour, 30 minutes by ferry to Sandhamn (Sandön), popular among wealthy sailors. Alternatively, Sigtuna is possibly Sweden's oldest surviving town and has several well-preserved runic inscriptions, as well as some notable museums.
When travelling by road from the south of Stockholm, the E4 joins with the national expressway, E3, coming in from the west, and leads right into the heart of the city. Parking in Stockholm is extremely difficult and you should try to book a hotel with a parking garage. Trains arrive at Stockholm's Centralstationen (Central Station) from various destinations throughout Europe.
It's easy to reach the city by ferry as well; large ships, including those of the Silja Line and the Viking Line, arrive near the junction of Södermalm and Gamla Stan. Ferries arrive from Gotland to Nynäshamn, south of Stockholm. Stockholm Arlanda Airport is 45kms north of the city on the E4 highway.
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