Discover the Best Winter Activities in Stockholm

Last Updated on February 24, 2025 by Amitylux

Winter in Stockholm is not for the faint-hearted. The sun makes only a brief appearance, temperatures dip below freezing, and yet—this city thrives in the cold. Snow-covered streets. Frozen waterways. Cafés glowing with candlelight. It’s a season of contrast: dark skies, bright lights, icy air, and warm, spiced drinks.

This isn’t just another winter destination. It’s an experience. Ice skating in the middle of the city. Sipping glögg at a Christmas market. Watching the sun set over a frozen lake at just 2:30 PM. And let’s not forget the Swedish obsession with fika, because what better way to survive winter than with endless coffee and pastries?

But what should you actually do here in winter? That’s where we come in. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a culture lover, or someone who just wants to stay cozy indoors, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Stockholm when the temperature drops. Let’s dive in.

Ice Skating

During the cold Swedish winter, Stockholm transforms into an ice skater’s paradise.

The most popular spot for ice skating in the city is at Kungsträdgården. Here, a large outdoor ice rink is usually set up during the winter months. Alternatively, you can enjoy skating at other scenic locations like Vasaparken.

Ice Skating at Kungsträdgården

Ice skating in Stockholm is a must, and there’s no better place than Kungsträdgården, the city’s most famous outdoor rink. Surrounded by historic buildings and twinkling lights, this rink is open from November to March and is a favorite for both locals and tourists.

Why go?

• Skate under festive lights in the heart of the city.

• No skates? No problem! Rentals are available on-site.

• Warm up afterward with hot chocolate or glögg (Swedish mulled wine) at a nearby café.

📍 Location: Kungsträdgården Park

Entry: Free (skate rental available for a fee)

Skiing and Snowboarding

While Stockholm doesn’t have mountains, nearby ski slopes offer exhilarating opportunities for downhill skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Among these, there is Hammarbybacken which is a popular ski resort located within Stockholm. Additionally, within a short drive from Stockholm, you can find other fantastic ski resorts like Flottsbro and Tyresta By.

Visit the Vasa Museum

Want to escape the cold while still experiencing something incredible? The Vasa Museum houses a real 17th-century warship, perfectly preserved after spending 333 years at the bottom of the sea.

Why visit?

• See the world’s only fully intact 17th-century ship, raised from the seabed in 1961.

• Learn about Swedish naval history through interactive exhibits.

• The museum is indoors and heated—perfect for a cold winter day!

📍 Location: Djurgården

Entry: Paid admission (check official site for prices)

Winter Walks

Embrace the cozy charm of Stockholm by joining one of our walking tours through its enchanting neighborhoods and parks. 

Discover the winter beauty of Djurgården, adorned with scenic pathways and captivating waterfront vistas.

In addition, you can wander through the historic streets of Gamla Stan, where snow-dusted cobblestone streets and ancient buildings create a timeless atmosphere of wonder and delight.

Christmas Markets

Visit one of Stockholm’s charming Christmas markets and immerse yourself in the festive spirit.

Don’t miss the market at Gamla Stan where you can find traditional Swedish crafts, food, and warming mulled wine. Additionally, check out other holiday markets like the one at Skansen. This one offers entertainment and activities to make your visit even more memorable.

If you’re visiting Stockholm in late November or December, the Christmas markets are a must-see. The smell of roasted almonds and spiced wine fills the air, and wooden stalls sell handmade gifts, decorations, and Swedish treats.

Best Christmas Markets

• Stortorget Christmas Market (Gamla Stan) – The oldest Christmas market in Sweden, dating back to 1837.

• Skansen Christmas Market – Set inside Stockholm’s open-air museum, offering traditional Swedish holiday crafts.

• Drottningholm Palace Christmas Market – Located outside the city, this market feels like a royal winter wonderland.

📍 Locations: Various across Stockholm

🎟️ Entry: Free (Skansen has an entry fee)

Explore Gamla Stan (Old Town) in the Snow

Winter adds a fairytale touch to Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town. The narrow alleys, medieval architecture, and charming cafés make it one of the best places to explore in winter.

What to do?

• Wander through Stortorget Square, home to one of Stockholm’s best Christmas markets.

• Visit the Royal Palace and watch the changing of the guard ceremony.

• Stop by Café Schweizer for a traditional Swedish saffron bun and coffee.

📍 Location: Gamla Stan, Central Stockholm

Entry: Free to explore (Palace and museums may have entry fees)

Experience a Traditional Swedish Fika

Winter in Stockholm is all about hygge, and nothing embodies that more than fika—Sweden’s beloved coffee break. It’s more than just coffee; it’s a moment to slow down and enjoy something sweet.

Where to fika?

• Vete-Katten – One of Stockholm’s oldest cafés, famous for its princess cake.

• Tössebageriet – Best known for semla, a cream-filled cardamom bun.

• Café Pascal – A local favorite for its specialty coffee and cinnamon buns.

📍 Locations: Various across Stockholm

Entry: Free (but fika costs around 50-100 SEK per pastry and coffee)

Outdoor Dining

Experience the essence of  “friluftsliv”, Sweden’s open-air living philosophy. Dine outdoors at one of Stockholm’s cozy restaurants and cafes with heated patios or outdoor seating areas.

Don’t miss out Rosendals Garden Café and Flickorna Helin. Indeed,  here you can enjoy a hot cup of coffee or a delicious meal while enjoying the winter landscape. 

Take a Winter Boat Tour Through the Stockholm Archipelago

Stockholm is built on 14 islands, and the best way to appreciate the city’s unique geography is from the water. In winter, fjords, islands, and harbors are covered in ice, creating a stunning Arctic landscape.

Why take a winter boat tour?

• See Stockholm from a different perspective—snow-covered islands and frozen waters.

• Enjoy warm blankets, heated cabins, and hot drinks while cruising.

• Spot wildlife like seals and sea eagles, often seen in the archipelago.

📍 Departure: Strömkajen or Nybrokajen

🎟️ Entry: Paid tours (check companies like Strömma)

Try Swedish Winter Comfort Food

Swedish food hits differently in winter. From hearty stews to warm, spiced drinks, there’s no better time to indulge in traditional Swedish comfort food.

What to eat?

• Janssons Frestelse – A creamy potato, onion, and anchovy casserole.

• Gravlax – Cured salmon served with mustard sauce.

• Glögg & Pepparkakor – Swedish mulled wine and gingerbread cookies.

📍 Where to eat?

• Pelikan – A classic spot for Swedish husmanskost (home-style food).

• Tradition – Authentic Swedish dishes in a cozy setting.

• Operakällaren – A Michelin-starred restaurant for fine dining.

Winter Kayaking

Get ready for an unforgettable winter escape in Stockholm with winter kayaking!

This is a super fun way to discover the city’s beautiful waterways against a backdrop of snow.

Don’t worry if you’re new to kayaking the friendly guides of Stockholm Adventures, Långholmen Kajak, or Eden Kajak & SUP ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone. So, grab your paddle and get ready to create lasting memories on the tranquil winter waters of Stockholm! 

Go Cross-Country Skiing in Hellasgården

You don’t have to leave Stockholm to experience winter sports. Just 20 minutes from the city center, Hellasgårdenoffers ski trails, frozen lakes, and sauna experiences.

What can you do?

• Rent cross-country skis and explore forest trails.

• Try ice swimming in the frozen lake (if you dare).

• Warm up in a traditional Swedish sauna with lake views.

📍 Location: Hellasgården, Nacka Nature Reserve

🎟️ Entry: Free (ski rentals and sauna have fees)

Chase the Northern Lights Near Stockholm

While Stockholm itself isn’t the best place to see the Northern Lights, you can catch a glimpse on clear nights if conditions are right. The best way? Head just outside the city for darker skies.

Best places near Stockholm for Northern Lights:

• Lake Angarnsjöängen (30 min from city center) – Minimal light pollution.

• Tyresta National Park (1 hour from Stockholm) – A scenic, dark-sky location.

• Organized Northern Lights tours – Some companies offer guided trips outside Stockholm.

📍 Location: Various spots outside Stockholm

🎟️ Entry: Free (guided tours available for a fee)

Winter Swimming

Dive into a refreshing winter adventure in Stockholm with winter swimming. 

Despite the chilly temperatures, brave locals and visitors alike gather at designated spots along the city’s waterfronts, such as Långholmsbadet and Smedsuddsbadet. In addition, winter swimming offers not only physical benefits but also mental and emotional revitalization. So, pack your swimsuit and join the adventure into Stockholm’s icy waters!

Visit Skansen Open-Air Museum in Winter

Skansen is the world’s first open-air museum, and in winter, it transforms into a living Christmas village. Think reindeer, festive decorations, and traditional Swedish holiday traditions.

Why visit?

• Meet reindeer and Nordic animals in the wildlife park.

• Learn about Swedish Christmas traditions from costumed guides.

• Try homemade Swedish holiday food at the on-site bakery.

📍 Location: Djurgården

🎟️ Entry: Paid admission

Conclusion

Winter in Stockholm is not just about enduring the cold—it’s about embracing it. Ice skating under twinkling lights. Hiking through snow-dusted forests. Watching the world disappear into the early evening darkness while wrapped in a blanket, sipping something warm.

You could spend the season indoors, moving between cozy cafés and world-class museums. Or you could strap on a pair of skis and go full Nordic mode. Either way, Stockholm delivers.

The question isn’t whether Stockholm is worth visiting in winter—it’s how many of these experiences can you fit into your trip? Dress warm, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready for a winter you won’t forget.

Join us on an unforgettable tour and discover why this city truly shines in the frosty embrace of the season.

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