Tour the Swedish palaces and royal sites – a journey through history

Spend an unforgettable day at Drottningholm Palace 

Drottningholm Palace makes for an ideal day trip. This peaceful dream destination is located on Lovön island, some 10 kilometres west of Stockholm and within easy reach of the city by boat, car or public transport. 

As the main home of the King and Queen of Sweden, the rooms in the southern wing of the palace are private, but the rest – including the magnificent grounds – are open to the public all year round. There are several historically significant features to explore. 

Of particular cultural note is the Drottningholm Palace Theatre – the best-preserved 18th century theatre in Europe. It is the only theatre in the world that still uses the original stage machinery. Witness the historic machinery in action during the summer months, when performances are put on, along with guided tours. 

Drottningholm Palace’s Chinese Pavilion – a “real fairy tale palace” 

Nestling at the far end of the Drottningholm Palace Park – which justifies a visit in its own right – is the Chinese Pavilion. This ornate summer palace was offered as a birthday gift to Queen Lovisa Ulrika from King Adolf Fredrik in July 1753. The King managed to keep the construction of his very special birthday present a secret, taking the Queen by surprise. Setting eyes on it for the first time, she described it as a “real fairy-tale palace – the most beautiful building imaginable.” The fact that it was Chinese in style would have impressed the Queen – all things oriental were very much in vogue at the time. 

When stepping inside this unique building, you’ll find Chinese-inspired Swedish Rococo furniture as well as antique Chinese objects and decorative elements – including original Chinese silk and paper wall coverings.

Three to see (in a day) – The Royal Palace, Riddarholmen’s Church and The Royal Stables 

The Royal Palace of Stockholm is mighty both in terms of size and experience. For those eager to boost their regal exposure, a visit to this multi-museum monument can be combined with nearby royal attractions, including Riddarholmen’s Church and The Royal Stables.

Riddarholmen’s Church is Stockholm's only preserved medieval abbey, and it’s the final resting place of the Swedish monarchs. With the exception of Queen Christina, all succeeding rulers of Sweden – from Gustav II Adolf (d. 1632) to Gustaf V (d. 1950) – are buried here, alongside a few kings from the Middle Ages, including Magnus Ladulås and Karl Knutson Bonde (d. 1470). The church is open during the summer and autumn seasons, with an annual programme of concerts. 

Bear in mind that many of the Swedish palaces have on-site churches and chapels, so keep an eye out for these, whichever castle you’ve decided to visit. 

Another important part of royal life in Stockholm is The Royal Stables. These are located centrally on Väpnargatan 1 in the upmarket district of Östermalm, in the northern part of town. These historic stables date back to medieval times when King Gustav Vasa reigned. Horse and carriage are still used for state visits and on major occasions such as the opening of Parliament. Visitors are welcome all year round for guided tours.

Explore Stockholm’s green, urban oasis Royal Djurgården and its resident Rosendal Palace

Known as Stockholm’s “green lung,” Royal Djurgården is the world’s first national urban park. Ever since King Karl Knutsson acquired this extensive stretch of land in the 15th century, Djurgården has been administered by the monarchy.

Forming a 10-kilometre arc around the city, the varied terrain encompasses meadows, marshes, lakes and hills dotted with centuries-old oak trees. Creatures of all kinds thrive here, and you’re likely to come across deer, foxes, hares and rare bird species. For non-wildlife enthusiasts, Djurgården is home to major national attractions such as The Nordic Museum, Gröna Lund funfair and Skansen open-air museum.

Last but not least – you’ll also find Rosendal Palace in this lush wonderland. Designed by Swedish architect Fredrik Blom, the palace was completed in 1827 for Karl XIV Johan, and designed in Swedish Empire style, also known as Karl Johan style. Visitors are invited to explore this idyllic stately home, which was mainly used as a summer retreat, during the warmer months when guided tours are given.

Gustav III’s Pavilion – a fine example of Neo-Classicism

Gustav III’s Pavilion is hailed as a Swedish art history gem. Located within the beautiful Haga Park in Solna, a little north of Stockholm’s city centre, it’s considered one of the finest examples of European Neo-Classicism of the late 18th century. 

Created by architect Olof Tempelman – with detailed input from King Gustav III himself – the pavilion features interiors by Louis Masreliez, one of the era’s most influential interior designers.

Sadly, Gustav III only got to enjoy his cherished retreat for a few years. Setting off from the pavilion for a masquerade ball held at the Royal Swedish Opera, he was assassinated in March 1792.

The pavilion is open for guided tours in summer. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the idyllic Haga Park, which forms part of one of the world’s first Royal National City Parks. Designed in English landscape style, this lush haven houses a lake and a number of compelling buildings, such as the Chinese Pavilion, the Haga Echo Temple and the Turkish Kiosk. You’ll get here easily from Stockholm city centre by public transport or bicycle.