Highlights
- Take a ghost walk through Stockholm's winding alleys
- See a live performance at the Royal Swedish Opera
- Discover ancient Viking sites and runes
- Sample the best of Swedish cuisine
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Stockholm, Explore & Ghost Walk | Stockholm |
| Day 2 | Guided Tour of Stockholm | Stockholm |
| Day 3 | Viking History Day Tour, Sigtuna & Uppsala | Stockholm |
| Day 4 | Nordic Food Walk & Royal Swedish Opera | Stockholm |
| Day 5 | Depart Stockholm |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Stockholm, Explore & Ghost Walk
Welcome to Stockholm! Known for its cutting-edge modern technology and design, Sweden is also a country of rich history and heritage, and you'll find this exemplified in Stockholm. Known alternately as the "Venice of the North" for its idyllic site on a 14-island archipelago and as a European rival to Silicon Valley for its tech start-ups, this city of contrasts will provide you with history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty wherever you turn. Take the Arlanda Express for an efficient trip from the airport and get settled in your hotel before heading out to explore.
Easily reached on foot or by public transport, breathe in the distinct atmosphere of each district. Stroll through creative Södermalm and elegant Östermalm―between them, you'll find Gamla Stan (Old Town) and the bustling downtown area, Norrmalm. For a fun introduction to the more colorful (read: gruesome) aspects of the city's past, take a 90-minute tour through Old Town. Your guide will lead you through the district's winding streets and alleys, recounting the notorious tales of murder and mayhem that have taken place there.
Day 2: Guided Tour of Stockholm
If you want to see the city's top attractions in just one day, a guided tour is the way to do it. Limited to a maximum of seven people, an all-inclusive tour will pick you up from your doorstep and return you at the end of the day replete with the city's finest sights and cuisine. Your first stop is the Kungliga Slottet (Royal Palace of Stockholm)—marvel at the stunning architecture and the Swedish crown jewels while you learn the history and role of the royal family. Next, head to the Vasa Museum, which houses an incredible 17th-century warship of the same name. Take a break for lunch in the best seats of a top-quality restaurant.
Afterward, you'll continue through Old Town, where you'll also see the Stockholm Cathedral and the Nobel Museum, dedicated to the recipients of the Nobel Prize. Your final stop is a visit to Skansen, the world's oldest open-air museum. Learn about traditional life and culture from all around the country as you walk through historic houses, gardens, and farmsteads. Popular with locals and tourists alike, this extraordinary museum is also home to an aquarium and zoo. If you time it right, you'll catch one of the seasonal festivals or concerts. Afterward, your driver will drop you back at your hotel for the evening.
Day 3: Viking History Day Tour, Sigtuna & Uppsala
Head out of town today for a guided tour through Viking history, including some of Sweden's most historic towns and ruins. Your guide will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to all the best spots to learn about the Vikings. See where they held their parliament, and learn about the critical decisions made there. Explore Jarlabanke's Bridge, built by an important Viking leader, and learn all about the Old Norse language, runes, and burial customs. Be prepared for some surprises as you hear about Estrid, the Viking woman who traveled to Jerusalem, among other interesting tales.
Along the way, you'll visit Sigtuna, Sweden's oldest town, founded in 980 CE. Home to the most runestones on the planet, you'll also find castles, churches, and an abundance of other ruins. The street plan has barely changed in 1,000 years! You'll also spend time in Uppsala, another of Sweden's oldest settlements. Here you can find ancient burial mounds, castles, and cathedrals―or spend time in its modern center: Uppsala is now one of Sweden's four major cities. Afterward, your guide will drop you back at your accommodation.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Nordic Food Walk & Royal Swedish Opera
The focus changes to current Swedish culture today as you embark on a Nordic Food Walk. Beginning in Östermalm, the stomping ground of the rich and famous, you'll learn about local ways of preparing cheese, game meat, and "The Gold of the North," Sweden's most celebrated beer. Visit the Market Hall next for high-end food sampling.
Lunch will take place in the heart of the city with a traditional meal of meatballs and potatoes. This might sound simple, but be prepared to learn about the different types of potatoes and the jams that are served with them―you'll come away with a new appreciation for an old favorite. After lunch, stretch your legs in the beautiful King's Garden, and finish up in the Old Town with a feast of traditional candy and sweets.
With your tour finished, it's time to head to the Royal Swedish Opera, the city's center of culture and art since its opening in 1782. Attend a play, ballet, or opera, and you'll experience the magic of live performance. There's also plenty of time to explore the Opera House itself, which is one of the world's oldest and most prestigious. A superior example of neoclassical architecture, marvel at the stunning marble staircase and chandeliers, as well as the intricate frescoes. Afterward, the evening is yours to enjoy a delicious dinner and explore Stockholm's nightlife.
Day 5: Depart Stockholm
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