Staying at Hellasgården in Nacka gives you the perfect combination of nature and proximity to the city centre. You can start the day with a dip in the lake, and a visit to the sauna of course, or a walk in the woods and still have the whole of Stockholm's range of sights, culture and entertainment just a short journey away. You get both the tranquillity of nature and easy access to most of what makes Stockholm exciting to discover.
When you visit Stockholm for the first time, there are certain experiences you won't want to miss. From the historic alleys of Gamla stans to world-class museums and boat trips that take you out into the archipelago, you'll always find something to suit. Meanwhile, you can easily return to Hellasgården to unwind after a day filled with impressions.
Take your bike on the boat...
Whether you want to explore the different areas of the city, try local restaurants, take part in events or just enjoy a coffee in a cosy café, you can strike a balance between city and nature. Starting from Hellasgården makes it easy to choose from Stockholm's many sides - from culture and shopping to archipelago adventures and family-friendly activities. You can easily get between all these sights and activities by public transport, car and - we suggest - bike!
From Hellasgården, you can experience much of the best of Stockholm in a single cycle ride: first on the pedestrian and cycle path in the western part of the internationally renowned and in many respects unique green wedge (Nackareservatet) from where you reach Hammarby sjöstad. Here you can choose to cycle via the London Viaduct and along the quays towards Slussen, or take the shuttle boat (free!) over to Södermalm and from there cycle on to Slussen, and a new boat trip if you wish, to Djurgården with Skansen and Gröna Lund. We have made the trip ourselves and highly recommend it!
Must-sees in Stockholm for first-time visitors
When you visit Stockholm for the first time, you'll be greeted by a city that combines history, culture and unique environments. From medieval alleyways to royal buildings and modern viewpoints, you'll get a clear picture of the city's development.
Old Town - the heart of Stockholm
A visit to Stockholm often starts in the Old Town, the oldest part of the city. Here, you'll wander cobbled streets that wind between colourful 17th- and 18th-century houses. The area is compact and easy to explore on foot.
A good starting point is Stortorget, the square where Stockholm's bloodbath occurred in 1520. Today it is a quiet place with cafés and small shops, just a stone's throw from Slussen, which you can reach by bus 401 from Hellasgården, or by bike.
You can also visit the Great Church, the cathedral where royal weddings are held.
The Old Town is full of small alleys, like Mårten Trotzig's alley - the narrowest in Stockholm, just 90cm wide. Here you get a sense of the city's history in a very concrete way.
The Royal Palace and the Palace Church
From the Old Town, it's just a few minutes' walk to the Royal Palace, one of Europe's largest castles. It is still an active workplace for the king, but many parts are open to visitors.
You can enter the Castle Church, one of the most impressive halls of the castle. The church is used for royal ceremonies and has a rich Baroque-style interior.
Don't miss the changing of the guard, which takes place daily during the summer. It's a popular experience and gives a sense of the military tradition surrounding the monarchy. For those who want to see more, there are also the castle's museums, including the Treasury with the Crown Jewels.
Djurgården and its attractions
From Hellasgården you can easily get to Djurgården, an island full of attractions, by bus or bike and ferry. Here you will find both culture and nature in the same place.
The most famous museums are the Vasa Museum, where you can see the unique 17th century ship, and Skansen, the world's oldest open-air museum with animals and historical environments. For music lovers, ABBA The Museum is an obvious stop.
Djurgården is also a green oasis. You can walk along the waterfront, rent a bike or stop at Rosendals Trädgård for coffee. The combination of museums, parks and views makes it one of the most diverse places in Stockholm.
Stockholm City Hall and views
Another landmark is Stockholm City Hall, built in the early 20th century. The building is known for its red brick walls and 106 metre high tower.
It hosts the annual Nobel Banquet in the Blue Hall, and you can book guided tours to see the magnificent halls. The City Hall is also a symbol of the city's modern history and political life.
If you want one of the best views of Stockholm, go up the tower. From there you can see Old Town, Lake Mälaren and all the way out to Djurgården. It's a great way to end a day filled with the city's most famous sites.
Museums and other cultural experiences
Stockholm offers a wide range of museums and cultural experiences where you can immerse yourself in everything from maritime history and Nordic traditions to modern art, photography and popular music. Whether you want to explore historic ships, meet Nordic animals or sing along to classic pop songs, there is something for both children and adults.
Vasa Museum and Maritime History
On Djurgården you will find the Vasa Museum, one of Sweden's most visited museums. It houses the unique 17th-century ship Vasa, which was salvaged in 1961 after lying on the seabed for over 300 years. Almost all of the original ship is preserved, making it an unusual experience.
Exhibitions show how the ship was built, why it sank on its maiden voyage in 1628, and how it was rescued. The museum also offers films, models and interactive stations that bring history to life.
For those who want to delve deeper, the nearby Museum Tre Kronor and Livrustkammaren in Gamla Stan, where you can see armour, royal carriages and artefacts from Sweden's time of great power. Together they provide a clear picture of the country's maritime and royal history.
Skansen - open air museum and zoo
Skansen is both an open-air museum and a zoo, also located on Djurgården. Here you can walk among historic buildings from all over Sweden and get a feel for how people lived in the past. You'll encounter everything from crofts and manor houses to churches and craft centres.
For families with children, the animals are a highlight. There are Nordic species such as moose, bear, wolf and lynx, but also a child-friendly mini zoo. Skansen also hosts traditional festivals such as Midsummer and Christmas markets, making the visit extra atmospheric.
The area is also home to the Baltic Sea Science Centre, which focuses on the Baltic Sea environment and marine life. If you want to continue the cultural trail, you can combine it with a visit to the Nordic Museum, which is right next door and displays everything from folk costumes to Sami culture.
Fotografiska and photographic art
At Stadsgårdskajen you will find Fotografiska, one of the world's most famous museums of contemporary photography. It showcases both international and Swedish photographers in major and temporary exhibitions. The exhibitions change frequently, so you can always discover something new.
The museum also offers lectures, workshops and guided tours for those who want to immerse themselves in the art of photography. The building, an old customs station, provides a special atmosphere that enhances the experience.
After your visit, take a seat in the museum's popular restaurant and café. It serves food with a sustainability focus and offers one of the city's best views of Stockholm's inlet. If you like art in a broader sense, you can also visit Moderna Museet, Prins Eugens Waldemarsudde or Nationalmuseum, all within easy reach.
ABBA The Museum and Music Experiences
If you're a fan of music and popular culture, ABBA The Museum is an obvious stop. Opened in 2013, it is the only museum in the world entirely dedicated to ABBA. Here you'll see original clothes, gold discs and personal items that tell the band's story.
The most appreciated part is the interactive elements. You can get up on stage and sing along with holograms of the band members or record your own version of an ABBA song. This makes the visit fun even for those who are not inveterate fans.
The museum is located on Djurgården, close to both Skansen and the Vasa Museum, making it easy to combine several visits on the same day. Also nearby is Junibacken, which focuses on Astrid Lindgren's fairytale world, and the Stockholm Toy Museum, perfect if you're travelling with children. For even more music and cultural experiences, you can also check out Liljevalchs Konsthall, which often has large, temporary exhibitions.
Discover the different areas of the city
As you move through Stockholm, you will encounter areas with very different characters. Some places offer water and city views, others culture, shopping or quiet walks.
Södermalm - trendy and with viewpoints
Södermalm is just a few minutes away from Slussen and offers a mix of cafés, vintage shops and bars. The area has a relaxed feel and is popular with both locals and visitors.
To experience Södermalm at its best, take a walk along Monteliusvägen. Here you'll get views of Riddarfjärden and the City Hall. Another classic spot is Fjällgatan, where you look out towards Djurgården and the entrance to the city.
For a more localised feel, head to Skinnarviksberget. It's one of the highest natural points in the city and perfect for a picnic overlooking the Old Town.
From Slussen, you can easily start your tour and then continue up towards the small streets around Mariatorget or Nytorget, where you will find small restaurants and shops.
Östermalm and Strandvägen
Östermalm is one of Stockholm's most elegant neighbourhoods. Here you'll find wide boulevards, exclusive shops and classic restaurants. If you like food, Östermalm's market hall is an obvious stop with its delicacies and fresh produce.
A walk along Strandvägen is a must. The wide quay is lined with grand buildings from the late 19th century and gives a sense of the city's more prestigious side. It's also where many boats depart for the archipelago.
If you want to combine culture and shopping, you can move between Stureplan and Strandvägen. Along the way you will find galleries and small boutiques.
In the evening, you can finish off with a dinner at one of the quayside restaurants, where the view of Nybroviken makes the experience extra pleasant.
Skeppsholmen and Kastellholmen
Skeppsholmen is located in the centre of Stockholm, but still feels secluded and peaceful. The island is known for its museums, including Moderna Museet and ArkDes, both of which are worth a visit.
The walk across the bridge from Blasieholmen gives you a nice view of the water and the Old Town. As you continue around the island, you'll be greeted by old military buildings and green paths suitable for a short break.
A small bridge leads on to Kastellholmen. Here stands the red castle from the 19th century, and the place provides a good view back towards Skeppsholmen and Djurgården.
If you want a quiet moment in the middle of the city, this is a good option. It's also a place where you can easily combine culture with a walk in nature.
Kungsträdgården and Brunkebergstorg
The King's Garden is one of Stockholm's most central parks and often serves as a meeting place. In spring, the cherry trees bloom, while summer brings outdoor cafés and concerts. In winter you can go ice skating there.
From Kungsträdgården, it's just a short walk to Brunkebergstorg. The square has changed a lot in recent years and is now surrounded by modern hotels, restaurants and rooftop bars.
If you want to see the city from above, take the lift up to one of the rooftop bars by the square. Here you'll get a view of Stockholm's city centre that differs from the classic waterfront views.
Combine a visit to Kungsträdgården with a walk along Hamngatan or further towards Sergels torg, where the city's pulse is felt most clearly.
Stockholm archipelago and nature experiences
From Hellasgården in Nacka you are close to both the city's green areas and the archipelago's islands. You can choose to go to the city centre and from there take a ferry out among the islets and islands, or walk in historic parks or kayak in calm waters in the middle of the city.
Excursion to the archipelago
The Stockholm archipelago consists of over 30,000 islands, from Fjäderholmarna, which you can reach in 20 minutes from Nybroviken, to more remote islands such as Möja or Utö. You can travel on the Waxholmsbolaget ferries, many of which are part of the SL ticket system.
For a short trip, Fjäderholmarna is a good choice. Here you will find small restaurants, crafts and walking trails. For more peace and quiet, head to Nåttarö or Grinda, where you can swim, hike and stay overnight.
A practical overview:
| Ö | Travel time from city centre | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| The feather pillars | about 20 min | Quick day trip |
| Vaxholm | about 1 hour | Small town feel, cafés |
| Utö | 2-3 hours | Cycling, swimming, overnight stays |
Planning your trip in advance makes a big difference, especially if you want to combine several islands in one day.
Royal National City Park
The Royal National City Park stretches from Djurgården to Ulriksdal and is the world's first national city park. Here, nature, culture and history meet in the same place, making the area unique.
You can walk along forest trails, visit museums, or stop at the Rosendal Garden for a coffee. The park is also home to the Baltic Sea Science Centre at Skansen, where you can learn more about Baltic Sea wildlife and environmental issues.
Djurgården is easy to reach from Nacka by bus or bike or boat. If you want an active day, you can combine a walk with a visit to one of the many exhibitions in the area.
Långholmen kayaking and water activities
At Långholmen you can rent a kayak and paddle along the shores of Lake Mälaren. It's an easily accessible option if you want to get close to the water without travelling far.
A short paddle around Reimersholme or towards Tantolunden offers great views of the city. If you want a longer trip, you can continue towards Kungsholmen or Söder Mälarstrand.
In addition to kayaking, there are also SUP boards and swimming spots on the island. Långholmen also has large green areas where you can end the day with a picnic or a walk among the old prison buildings that are now used as hotels and cafés.
Shopping and coffee in Stockholm
When you enter the city centre from Hellasgården in Nacka, you are greeted by a wide range of both shopping and cosy coffee shops. You can easily combine a day of strolling along famous streets, visiting modern malls and ending with a classic coffee in one of the city's many cafés.
Classic shopping streets
Stockholm has several well-known streets where you will find both international chains and Swedish brands. Drottninggatan is the busiest and stretches from Observatorielunden down towards Gamla Stan. Here you will find stores such as H&M, Åhléns and Clas Ohlson, but also smaller concept stores.
For more exclusive shopping, head to Biblioteksgatan and the area around Stureplan. There you'll find Acne Studios, Filippa K and international brands like Gucci. Kungsgatan also offers a wide selection, with both sports chains and fashion stores.
One tip is to start on Hamngatan, where you'll find the classic NK (Nordiska Kompaniet) department store. Here you get a more traditional department store experience with everything from fashion to interior design and delicacies.
Shopping centres and department stores
If you prefer to have everything in one place, there are several large shopping centres. The Hamngatan mall is centrally located and offers a mix of fashion, technology and restaurants. It's easy to reach on foot if you're already walking in the city centre.
For a bigger experience, take the metro or shuttle to the Mall of Scandinavia in Solna. With over 200 shops, a cinema and many restaurants, it is an all-day activity. Here you'll find the Apple Store, Nike and exclusive brands like Hugo Boss.
Another option is Täby Centrum, which often ranks highly among Sweden's shopping centres. It combines international chains with Swedish brands, and the environment is bright and modern. If you want to avoid the most central crowds, Täby can be a good choice.
Cafés and coffee culture
After a shopping trip, it's nice to sit down for a coffee. Stockholm has a strong coffee shop culture where coffee and cinnamon buns are a natural combination. In the city centre you'll find classic patisseries such as Vete-Katten on Kungsgatan in the city centre and Götgatan on Södermalm, known for their pastries and historic setting.
For a more modern feel, try cafés such as Kaffeverket or Johan & Nyström, where the focus is on speciality coffee and artisan pastries. These places often attract a younger crowd and offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
For a more cosy break near the shopping streets, you can also stop at small cafés around Gamla Stan, where you get a more historic setting with cobbled streets and charming premises. Ending the day with a coffee is almost as important as the shopping itself.
Entertainment, events and nightlife
When you want to combine sightseeing with entertainment, Stockholm has plenty of options. You can choose from classic amusement parks, cultural experiences on the city's stages and evenings overlooking the city's rooftop bars.
Gröna Lund and funfair
From Hellasgården you can easily get to Djurgården where Gröna Lund is located. Here, carousels, roller coasters and games await both children and adults. During the summer, concerts are also organised with both Swedish and international artists.
Tickets are available in different packages, so you can customise your visit according to how long you want to stay. One tip is to arrive early in the day to avoid the longest queues.
Gröna Lund is also close to other attractions on Djurgården, making it easy to combine the funfair with a visit to Skansen or the Vasa Museum, for example.
Theatre and musicals
Stockholm has a rich theatre scene for those looking for a more cultural evening. At Dramaten, classic and contemporary plays are performed in one of the city's most impressive buildings. For musicals and more light-hearted shows, the Oscar Theatre is a popular choice.
Tickets are best booked in advance, especially for premieres and popular productions. Many theatres are centrally located, making it easy to combine with dinner at a nearby restaurant.
For a more modern experience, check out the programme at Kulturhuset Stadsteatern, which often offers theatre, dance and concerts. There's something for everyone, whether you're looking for classical or contemporary.
Rooftop bars and nightlife
When evening comes, discover Stockholm's rooftop bars and nightlife. Many people choose to start the evening with a drink on a rooftop terrace overlooking the water and the city skyline. Places like TAK at Brunkebergstorg and Himlen in Södermalm are known for their views.
For a more lively evening, there are clubs and bars around Stureplan. Here you'll find both exclusive nightclubs and more relaxed options. For a quieter start, you can also visit Sturebadet, where you can relax in a spa environment before heading out.
Stockholm also offers many smaller bars and jazz clubs, perfect if you prefer music and an intimate atmosphere to dance floors. This way, you can choose whether your evening will be quiet or full of energy.
Stockholm with family and children
When travelling with children in Stockholm, you'll find several places where play, culture and history meet in a way that suits the whole family. You can experience fairy-tale worlds, zoos and museums with activities adapted to different ages.
Junibacken and fairytale worlds
From Hellasgården you can easily get to Djurgården where Junibacken is located. Here you will meet Astrid Lindgren's characters in environments that children can enter and explore themselves. Sagoresan is a popular attraction where you ride through scenes from different stories.
For younger children, there are play areas built like small houses and streets. Here they can play freely while you, as an adult, can enjoy a nostalgic trip through classic children's books.
Junibacken also has a stage with theatre performances that vary throughout the year. The restaurant is child-friendly and overlooks the water, making it easy to take a break before continuing your exploration.
Skansen and Lill-Skansen
Skansen is one of Stockholm's most famous attractions and is perfect for families with children. Here you will meet Nordic animals such as moose, bears and seals, but also houses from different eras that show how people lived in the past.
For children, Lill-Skansen is the highlight. Here they can get close to smaller animals such as rabbits, goats and guinea pigs. There are also play areas and activities to make the visit more interactive.
During the summer, there are often child-friendly events and workshops where children can try their hand at crafts. In winter, the Christmas market is a popular experience with both lights and music.
Child-friendly museums and activities
In addition to Djurgården, there are several other museums in Stockholm that are suitable for children. The Vasa Museum often fascinates even younger visitors with its huge ship, while Vikingaliv tells the story of everyday Viking life in an interactive way.
One tip is the Stockholm Toy Museum, located on Skeppsholmen. Here you'll find thousands of toys and comics from different eras, making it fun for both children and adults.
If you want to combine museums with play, you can visit one of the city's larger play parks, such as Tessinparken or Mulle Meck Park in Solna. These give the children a chance to run around before you return to Hellasgården for a quiet evening.
Historical sites and guided tour
You can easily get from Hellasgården into the centre of Stockholm to experience the city's history up close. You'll find everything from medieval alleyways and churches to museums that tell the story of the Viking Age and Gustav III's interest in the ancient world.
City walks and guided tours
A walking tour of Old Town gives you a clear sense of Stockholm's oldest neighbourhood. The narrow alleyways, cobbled streets and colourful facades bring the place to life in a way that's hard to capture on your own.
You can choose a guided tour with different themes, such as medieval Stockholm, ghost stories or royal tales. Many tours take around 1.5-2 hours and start at Stortorget, making it easy to plan your day.
If you want to explore at your own pace, you can use an audio guide. This is a good option if you prefer to stay longer at certain places, such as the Iron Square or the old merchant houses.
Tips: Book in advance during the high season as groups are often fully booked.
The Medieval Museum and the Viking Age
The Medieval Museum is located near the Royal Palace and shows how Stockholm grew from the 13th century onwards. Here you can see remains of the old city walls, finds from archaeological excavations and reconstructions of streets and workshops.
The museum is well organised and suitable for both short visits and longer explorations. You'll get a clear picture of everyday life in the Middle Ages, from crafts to trade.
If you want to immerse yourself in an even older era, you can also plan a visit to the Viking Museum on Djurgården. There, you'll get an interactive insight into the Vikings' travels, myths and lifestyle. The combination of both museums allows you to cover a long timeline of Swedish history.
Practicality: Both museums are centrally located and easily accessible by public transport from Slussen or T-Centralen.
Riddarholmskyrkan and Storkyrkan
Riddarholm Church is one of Stockholm's oldest churches and serves as a royal burial church. Several Swedish monarchs are buried here, and the church provides a direct link to the country's history. The building is known for its pointed cast-iron tower and Gothic architecture.
Storkyrkan, located next to the castle in Gamla Stan, is Stockholm's cathedral. Not far from there you will find the famous wooden sculpture St George and the dragon from the 15th century, as well as paintings and details reflecting the religious and political centre of the city.
If you are interested in art and antiquity, you can also visit the Gustav III Museum of Antiquities inside the castle. The museum displays the king's collection of Roman sculptures and adds another dimension to historical visits to the area.
Feel free to combine: A visit to the churches with a walk around Riddarholmen and the castle area makes the day both varied and easy to plan from Nacka.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best activities for adults in Stockholm?
Stockholm has many exciting activities for adults to explore. You can visit some of the many historical sites, such as Gamla Stan and Skansen, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the city. If you are interested in art, you can visit Fotografiska, which you can reach by bus 401 from Hellasgården - a bus journey that takes less than 15 minutes, or by bike. At Fotografiska you can see international photography and participate in workshops. For adventurous adults, there are many nature areas, such as Hellasgården, where you can enjoy hiking, cycling, and canoeing. From Hellasgården it is also possible to rent a cabin and explore the many activities in the neighbourhood of Nacka.
What are the fun things to do in Stockholm with children?
Stockholm offers a range of fun activities for the whole family. A popular destination for families with children is Junibacken, where you can experience fairy tales and stories from Astrid Lindgren's books. Another great option is Skansen, where you can see Swedish animals and learn more about our history and traditions. For nature lovers, a trip to Hellasgården itself is recommended, where you can participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, football golf, bangolf and canoeing together. In winter, there is also a ploughed ice rink on Källtorpssjön and ski tracks. Hellasgården rents out both skis and skates.
What are some cheap activities to do in Stockholm?
There are several inexpensive ways to enjoy Stockholm without emptying your wallet. You can explore the city's parks and green spaces, such as Djurgården or Hagaparken, where you can walk, picnic or just enjoy the beautiful nature. Museums such as the Moderna Museet offer free entry to their permanent collections. The Stockholm archipelago also offers many opportunities for cheap experiences. You can go on a boat trip and explore some of the many picturesque islands, or why not take a walk around Hellasgården and enjoy beautiful nature near Nacka?