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The Port of Stockholm

Welcome to Stockholm

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a city spread across 14 islands connected by bridges and surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Baltic Sea. Known for its stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and historic old town (Gamla Stan), Stockholm offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. As one of the most picturesque cities in Scandinavia, Stockholm invites cruise passengers to explore its grand palaces, world-class museums, and tranquil waterways. With 6-10 hours to explore, visitors can enjoy a mix of history, shopping, dining, and sightseeing in this vibrant city.

Stockholm, the capital city of Sweden, stands on 14 islands on the Lake Mälaren, making up a beautiful archipelago, which borders the Baltic Sea on the East. Stockholm is the seat of the Swedish royal family. The family resides in the Stockholm Palace.
The population of the city is ±2 million. The city has two airports, Stockholm - Arlanda International Airport and Bromma Airport.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships docking in Stockholm arrive at several ports, depending on the size of the ship. Most large cruise ships dock at the Frihamnen or Värtahamnen terminals, located about 3-5 kilometers (2-3 miles) from the city center. Smaller ships may dock at Stadsgården, closer to Gamla Stan. From the port, visitors can easily reach Stockholm’s attractions by public transportation, taxi, or shuttle services. Stockholm is a busy cruise port during the summer months, welcoming thousands of visitors who come to experience its beauty and culture.

The port of Stockholm has four cruise ship terminals - Stadsgarden, Frihamnen, Vartahamnen, Skeppsbron. When docked in Frihamnen or Vartahamnen, you can take the bus N76 to the Central Station. Buy the ticket right before the ride, as it’s valid only for an hour. If docked in Stadsgarten, located in Södermalm, you will have easy walking access to the old city, which is visible directly from the cruise ship.

Smaller cruise ships dock in Skeppsbron, which is very close to the old city.
Another cruise ship terminal, Nynäshamn, is aimed at hosting giant cruise ships that don’t fit through the narrow canal.

Transportation Options

Stockholm’s well-connected transportation system makes it easy to explore the city. Here are some options:

  • Public Transport: Stockholm’s metro (Tunnelbana), buses, and trams are efficient and affordable. A single ticket costs around 45 SEK, and 24-hour passes are available for unlimited travel.
  • Walking: Stockholm’s city center is compact and walkable, especially around Gamla Stan, making it easy to explore on foot.
  • Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminals, with rides to the city center costing around 150-200 SEK. It’s recommended to use reputable companies like Taxi Stockholm.
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Buses: These buses provide an easy way to explore Stockholm’s key attractions. Tickets start at around 350 SEK for a day pass.
  • Ferries: Stockholm’s archipelago ferries and local boats offer scenic routes around the islands. Ferries to key locations like Djurgården are part of the public transport network.

Nearby Towns and Cities

While Stockholm offers plenty to see, there are nearby destinations worth exploring:

  • Sigtuna: 50 km (31 miles) away, about 45 minutes by car. Sweden’s oldest town, known for its medieval streets, historic buildings, and rune stones.
  • Drottningholm: 15 km (9 miles) away, about 20 minutes by car. A UNESCO-listed royal residence with beautiful gardens and the Drottningholm Palace Theatre.
  • Vaxholm: 30 km (18.6 miles) away, about 1 hour by ferry. A picturesque island in the Stockholm archipelago, known for its fortress and charming harbor.

Local Foods

Stockholm offers a diverse culinary scene, with both traditional Swedish fare and international influences. Be sure to try these local dishes:

  • Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar): Served with lingonberry sauce, creamy mashed potatoes, and pickled cucumbers, this is a must-try dish in Sweden.
  • Gravlax: Cured salmon served with mustard-dill sauce, a classic Swedish delicacy.
  • Smörgåsbord: A traditional Swedish buffet featuring a variety of cold and hot dishes, including herring, cold cuts, and cheeses.
  • Cinnamon Bun (Kanelbullar): Enjoy this sweet pastry, typically served during fika, Sweden’s beloved coffee break tradition.
  • Toast Skagen: A delicious shrimp toast appetizer, served with mayonnaise, dill, and lemon on top of toasted bread.

Top 5 Attractions

Stockholm is full of beautiful landmarks and interesting museums. Here are the top five must-see attractions:

  • Gamla Stan (Old Town): One of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe, Gamla Stan is home to the Royal Palace, Stortorget Square, and narrow, winding streets. Free to explore.
  • Vasa Museum: A maritime museum showcasing the well-preserved 17th-century warship Vasa. Entry is around 190 SEK per person.
  • Skansen Open-Air Museum: The world’s oldest open-air museum, featuring traditional Swedish buildings, live animals, and folk culture displays. Entry is around 220 SEK per person.
  • The Royal Palace: One of the largest palaces in Europe, offering guided tours of its grand halls, museums, and the daily changing of the guard. Entry is around 180 SEK per person.
  • ABBA Museum: A must-visit for music fans, this interactive museum is dedicated to the iconic Swedish band. Entry is around 250 SEK per person.

Interesting Facts

Stockholm has a rich history and vibrant culture. Here are a few interesting facts about this beautiful city:

  • Stockholm is often called the "Venice of the North" due to its location on 14 islands and its extensive network of waterways.
  • The Stockholm metro system is often referred to as "the world’s longest art gallery" because nearly every station features unique artworks.
  • The Vasa warship sank just 20 minutes into its maiden voyage in 1628 and was salvaged 333 years later, now on display at the Vasa Museum.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Stockholm is located on Sweden’s eastern coastline, where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. The city’s stunning location across islands and peninsulas gives it a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The Stockholm archipelago, made up of over 30,000 islands, offers visitors endless opportunities for scenic boat trips, outdoor activities, and exploring quaint villages. The city’s northern latitude means long summer days with nearly 18 hours of daylight, while the winters are cold, offering cozy atmospheres and festive Christmas markets.

Local Customs and Culture

Stockholmers value equality, sustainability, and a balanced lifestyle, with nature playing a central role in daily life. One of the most cherished Swedish traditions is "fika," a coffee break with pastries, where socializing and slowing down are key. Tipping is not obligatory, as service charges are often included, but rounding up or leaving 10% is appreciated for excellent service. Stockholm is also known for its dedication to eco-friendly living, with an emphasis on recycling, public transportation, and green spaces.

Family-Friendly Activities

Stockholm is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities for children of all ages:

  • Children up to 6 years old: Visit Junibacken, an interactive children’s museum based on Swedish literature, including Astrid Lindgren’s beloved Pippi Longstocking stories.
  • Children 7-12 years old: Explore the Skansen Open-Air Museum, where kids can see traditional Swedish farm animals, enjoy playgrounds, and participate in crafts.
  • Teenagers 13-18 years old: Discover the Vasa Museum, where teens can marvel at the massive 17th-century shipwreck and learn about Sweden’s maritime history.

Google Maps

Stockholm

*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app.*