Stockholm’s best under-the-radar museums

The world-famous writer and creator of Pippi Longstocking lived here for more than 60 years, from 1941–2002. The home, with four rooms and a kitchen, looks exactly as it did when Lindgren was still alive. Even her bed, where she used to write in the mornings, is still intact. Pay special attention to the furniture: never one to waste money, a virtue people from Småland are famous for, Lindgren was known to study furniture in Stockholm’s stores and then have similar pieces made by skilled carpenters in her native Småland. Visiting the museum requires booking ahead, which you can do on the website. 

Where to find it: Dalagatan 46 / Where to read more: astridlindgrenshem.se

For a deep dive into Swedish drinking culture, look no further than Spritmuseum. Since opening in 1967, this interactive museum has been a vibrant meeting place, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience, taste, and learn about Swedish history and contemporary art. Located in two 18th-century naval buildings on Djurgården, Spritmuseum explores not just alcoholic spirits, but also the "spirits" of Sweden’s culture, creativity, and contrasts. The museum also boasts a great restaurant, as well as a bar offering a wide selection of Swedish craft beverages.

Where to find it: Djurgårdsvägen 38 / Where to read more: spritmuseum.se

Formed like a huge flat iron with large windows covering both sides, this spectacular building offers contemporary art exhibitions and panoramic views over the Barnhusviken bay and neighbouring rail yard. The gallery covers both Swedish and international art. Exhibitions range from ambitious thematic group shows to solo shows where art works are often made specifically for the exhibition. The glass and steel structure was designed by Johan Celsing Arkitektkontor in 2006. 

Where to find it: Torsgatan 19 / Where to read more: bonnierskonsthall.se

Located in a secluded spot on Bellevue Hill, Carl Eldh’s studio museum is something of a secret even to many locals. The small house is filled to the brim with hundreds of statuettes, busts and sketches by the late sculptor, whose works can be seen all over Stockholm. Among other things, he sculpted the statue of writer August Stringberg in Tegnérlunden. The house itself, featuring a dark brown wooden façade and huge windows to the north to allow light into the studio, is also worth seeing. It was designed in 1919 by Ragnar Östberg, the architect who also drew Stockholm’s beloved City Hall. 

Where to find it: Lögebodavägen 10 / Where to read more: eldhsatelje.se

You don’t have to be a kid to appreciate this museum, boasting a rare collection of toys from the 17th century to this day, all presented in a scenic exhibition built by set designers, artists and prop makers. Everything from dolls and comic books to toy cars, board games, miniature figures and much more is showcased in a unique underground location, a 2,500 square-meter former torpedo workshop on the museum island of Skeppsholmen. The toys come from the von Schinkel family collection. All in all, there are over 40,000 items. 

Where to find it: Svensksundsvägen 5 / Where to read more: toymuseum.se

This private palace was built in the 1898 and used to belong to the affluent couple Walther and Wilhelmina von Hallwyl. It was donated to the Swedish state in 1920 and left untouched, as a kind of time capsule from that era. Wilhelmina was an avid collector, and thanks to the interior and her collections of art and personal items – including everything from Chinese crockery to Italian cupboards in gold and a slice of the couple’s wedding cake – the house offers a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of the upper class in this era. 

Where to find it: Hamngatan 4 / Where to read more: hallwylskamuseet.se

Read about more attractions in Stockholm on visitstockholm.com.