The Royal Palace travel guide

Stockholm Palace, also known as the Royal Palace, is an emblem of Swedish royalty and a testament to the country's rich history.

The palace's origins trace back to the 13th century when a fortress, Tre Kronor, was built on the site. This stronghold was turned into a castle in the 16th century, becoming the royal residence of Swedish monarchs. Tragically, a devastating fire in 1697 destroyed most of the original castle, sparing only the northern wing.

The current palace, a stunning example of Roman Baroque architecture, was constructed in the early 18th century. Architect Nicodemus Tessin the Younger designed the palace, incorporating elements of French and Italian styles.

Today, Stockholm Palace is the official residence of the Swedish monarch. It also houses several museums, including the Royal Armoury, the Treasury, and Gustav III's Museum of Antiquities, each offering a glimpse into Swedish royal history. Despite its regal functions, parts of the palace are open to the public, making it a must-visit destination in Stockholm.

Stockholm Palace, being one of the largest palace complexes in Europe, is a stunning blend of baroque and rococo architectural styles. One of its unique features is that it is still the official residence of the King of Sweden, which is rare for such historic structures. Despite this, most of its 600 rooms, including the Royal Apartments, the Hall of State and the Treasury, housing the Swedish crown jewels, are open to the public. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is another attraction that sets this palace apart. It's a vibrant spectacle that adds to the historic ambiance of the palace. The palace also houses three museums, each displaying a different aspect of Sweden's history and royal heritage. The Gustav III's Museum of Antiquities showcases a remarkable collection of classical sculptures, while the Tre Kronor Museum is dedicated to the medieval history of the palace. The Royal Armoury, on the other hand, is the oldest museum in Sweden with royal costumes and armors on display.

Located in the dynamic Stockholm Municipality, the popular The Royal Palace 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, Kungsträdgården, ABBA The Museum, Nordiska museet, and Museum of Technology.

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 Royal Palace is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Stockholm, Sweden. If you're flying in, Stockholm Arlanda Airport is approximately 23.1 miles (37.2 km) away from Stockholm. From there, you can easily reach The Royal Palace by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Stockholm, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach The Royal Palace, which is located 0.1 miles (0.2 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to The Royal Palace, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Kungliga slottet, 107 70 Stockholm, Sweden, Sweden.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at The Royal Palace!

The best time to explore Stockholm Palace is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September. During this period, Stockholm experiences longer daylight hours and milder weather, making it perfect for outdoor exploration. The Palace offers unique activities such as the daily changing of the guard ceremony, which is a crowd favorite. Special events, such as National Day in June, see the palace grounds bustling with festivities. However, if you prefer lesser crowd levels and a quieter atmosphere, visiting during the shoulder seasons of late April and early October can be a wise choice. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to check the Palace's official website for any temporary closures or special events to plan your visit effectively. Remember, every time is a good time when you're in Stockholm, but these are the optimal periods to fully enjoy the royal grandeur of Stockholm Palace.

With a rental car, discovering the popular The Royal Palace 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 The Royal Palace 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 The Royal Palace 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 The Royal Palace below.

Aside from The Royal Palace, 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, Kungsträdgården, and ABBA The Museum.

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 Kungsträdgården. 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 25,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is Jussi Björlings allé, 111 47 Stockholm, Sweden.

ABBA The Museum is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Stockholm. This museum and top attraction in Stockholm has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Djurgårdsvägen 68, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden.

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