Riddarholmen Church travel guide

Riddarholmen Church, known as Riddarholmskyrkan, is one of Stockholm's oldest and most historically significant buildings, dating back to the late 13th century. Originally a monastery for the Greyfriars, a Franciscan order, construction began around 1270 and was completed in 1300. The church was transformed into a royal burial ground following the Reformation in the 16th century, with Swedish monarchs and notable nobility laid to rest within its walls.

In 1807, the church ceased to function as a parish church and was designated solely as a royal mausoleum. Its magnificent medieval architecture, characterized by a striking brick facade and a cast-iron spire added in the 19th century, stands as a testament to its enduring legacy.

Visitors can explore the tombs and sarcophagi of Sweden's kings and queens, including the great warrior king Gustavus Adolphus and Charles XII. The church's rich historical significance and architectural splendor make it a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike. Today, Riddarholmen Church remains a symbol of Sweden's royal heritage and a prominent feature of Stockholm's skyline.

Riddarholmen Church, a striking landmark in Stockholm, boasts several unique features that set it apart. Notably, it is the final resting place of Swedish royalty, with numerous kings, queens, and other members of the royal family interred within its walls. The church's gothic architecture, characterized by its stunning brick facade and intricate spire, is a rare example of this style in the predominantly baroque and neoclassical cityscape of Stockholm.

Inside, visitors can marvel at the medieval interior, which includes beautifully preserved 17th-century tombs and memorials. The wrought-iron spire, which was added in the 1830s, is especially distinctive and offers a striking contrast to the original gothic design. Additionally, the church is home to an impressive collection of coats of arms belonging to the knights of the Royal Order of the Seraphim, displayed prominently along the interior walls.

These elements, combined with its rich history and architectural grandeur, make Riddarholmen Church an exceptional and memorable site for visitors.

Riddarholmen Church, with its distinctive openwork spire, is the final resting place of most Swedish monarchs and a symbol of Sweden's royal heritage. One fascinating aspect is its use as a mausoleum since the 16th century, making it one of the few places where you can see the tombs of various dynasties, including the House of Vasa and the House of Bernadotte. Another intriguing fact is the church's unique combination of architectural styles, blending Gothic and Baroque elements. The church’s famous cast iron spire, added in the 19th century, was designed by architect Fredrik Wilhelm Scholander. Additionally, the church houses the oldest known medieval knight's helmet in Sweden, which belonged to Magnus Ladulås, a 13th-century king. Interestingly, the church clock has been running continuously since it was installed in 1835, a testament to the craftsmanship of that era.

Located in the dynamic Stockholm Municipality, the popular Riddarholmen Church is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Stockholm or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Sweden.

Stockholm is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Stockholm offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Stockholm and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Vasa Museum, The Royal Palace, Kungsträdgården, ABBA The Museum, and Nordiska museet.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Stockholm has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Stockholm, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Sweden!

The best time to explore Riddarholmen Church is during the late spring to early autumn months, specifically from May to September. During this period, Stockholm enjoys milder weather, longer daylight hours, and a generally pleasant climate, making it ideal for sightseeing. Summer months, particularly June and July, offer the warmest temperatures and the unique experience of the Midnight Sun, where daylight extends late into the evening, providing more time to appreciate the church's historic beauty.

Visiting in May or September can also be advantageous as these months typically see fewer tourists, resulting in less crowded conditions, allowing for a more serene and intimate exploration of the church. Additionally, special events like Stockholm Cultural Night in April or the Stockholm Marathon in June can enhance your visit with vibrant local festivities.

Weekdays, especially mornings, are generally quieter compared to weekends, providing a more tranquil environment for those who prefer a less hurried tour. Plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time at this iconic church.

Riddarholmen Church is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Stockholm, Sweden. If you're flying in, Stockholm Arlanda Airport is approximately 23.2 miles (37.3 km) away from Stockholm. From there, you can easily reach Riddarholmen Church by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Stockholm, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Riddarholmen Church, which is located 0.2 miles (0.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Riddarholmen Church, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Birger Jarls Torg 2, 112 28 Stockholm, Sweden, Sweden.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Riddarholmen Church!

To truly enjoy your visit to Riddarholmen Church, joining a tour that features this popular church building in Stockholm is highly recommended. As one of Sweden's most iconic attractions, Riddarholmen Church draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Riddarholmen Church starting at just 32.46 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Riddarholmen Church and Sweden's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Stockholm Arlanda Airport and the city of Stockholm, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Sweden cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Stockholm and beyond.

Conveniently explore Riddarholmen Church and plenty more captivating attractions in Stockholm by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Riddarholmen Church and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Stockholm has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Riddarholmen Church below.

Aside from Riddarholmen Church, Stockholm is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Stockholm, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Vasa Museum, The Royal Palace, and Kungsträdgården.

Vasa Museum is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Stockholm, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 54,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Vasa Museum is Galärvarvsvägen 14, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden.

Another appreciated attraction in Stockholm is The Royal Palace. Like Vasa Museum, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 39,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Kungliga slottet, 107 70 Stockholm, Sweden.

Kungsträdgården is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Stockholm. This park and top attraction in Stockholm has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Jussi Björlings allé, 111 47 Stockholm, Sweden.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Stockholm below.