For anyone who’s ever travelled with their family, the challenge of creating an itinerary that caters to every member, particularly with little ones in the mix, is all too familiar. Each time you sit down to map out your trip, you are faced with the same questions: Will the kids be entertained? Are there activities for all ages? How do we squeeze in some relaxation time? And then, of course, there’s the never-ending conundrum: Where on earth can we eat that won’t cause a meltdown? Luckily, for those thinking of visiting the Swedish capital, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s an incredibly family-friendly city with a wide selection of attractions and activities for children of all ages. To lighten your load, we’ve concocted the ultimate itinerary for those thinking of visiting Stockholm with kids, ensuring a memorable and stress-free experience for everyone!
So, first things first, you’re going to need to nail down a place to stay, and lucky for you, this fabulous city doesn’t disappoint in this department – you’re spoiled for choice. However, for this fun-filled itinerary, we suggest opting for the legendary Hotel Hasselbacken on Djurgården Island. Boasting snug rooms, modern amenities, and a prime location near some of the city’s most iconic attractions, it’s the perfect base for a weekend in Stockholm with kids.
Day 1
Once you’ve settled in and acquainted yourself with your surroundings, it’s time to put on your walking shoes and hit the streets of Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s charming old town. To get there from Hotel Hasselbacken, simply head towards the western coast of the island and board a ferry from the Allmänna gränd ferry terminal near Gröna Lund, disembarking at Slussen. From there, Gamla Stan is just a short, picturesque walk away.
Barely half a mile across, this bustling neighbourhood is the historic heart of Stockholm and one of the best-preserved medieval city centres in Europe, characterised by a labyrinth of cobblestone lanes and vibrant 17th- and 18th-century buildings. Among them, you’ll find many interesting boutiques, restaurants, antique shops, and, of course, The Royal Palace for any history lovers in the family.
After spending a couple of hours in Gamla Stan, your next stop should be Skansen on Djurgården Island. Established in 1891, Skansen is the world’s first open-air museum and a must-visit for those visiting Stockholm with kids. Here you can explore a collection of 150 farms and houses, each representing different periods in Swedish history. The museum’s staff, dressed in period costumes, demonstrate traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, and glassblowing, providing an immersive experience for visitors.
In addition to its historical exhibits, Skansen is home to a zoo that houses a variety of native Scandinavian animals, including brown bears, wolves, lynxes, and moose. There is also a dedicated children’s petting zoo known as Lill-Skansen, where kids can interact with friendly domestic animals like goats and chicks.
Day 2
Start your day bright and early with a superb buffet breakfast at the hotel, then take a short three-minute stroll to Gröna Lund on Djurgården’s waterfront. Established in 1883, it’s one of the oldest amusement parks in the world and offers a wide array of attractions, including roller coasters, fairground games, and performances, catering to visitors of all ages.
After working up an appetite at Gröna Lund, take a leisurely fika at one of Djurgården’s charming cafes. Indulge in traditional Swedish pastries and coffee while soaking in the serene surroundings of this picturesque island. It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge and savour the moment with your family.
No trip to Stockholm is complete without a visit to ABBA the Museum, a tribute to one of the world’s most iconic pop groups. Immerse yourself in the music and magic of ABBA as you explore interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the band’s legendary career. It’s a fun and nostalgic experience that will have the whole family dancing and singing along.
Day 3
As your weekend in Stockholm draws to a close, there’s no better way to make the most of your final day than with a thrilling adventure through the city’s scenic archipelago. After breakfast, kickstart your morning by boarding a ferry operated by companies Cinderella or Waxholmsbolaget. With a myriad of routes to choose from, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the furthest reaches of this breathtaking landscape with the entire crew.
Back on land, dive into the maritime marvels of the Vasa Museum. Step aboard the perfectly preserved 17th-century warship and travel back in time to an era of seafaring legends and high-seas adventures. Then, it’s off to Junibacken for a literary journey through Sweden’s beloved children’s stories. From Pippi Longstocking to Emil of Lönneberga, let your imagination run wild as you explore interactive exhibits inspired by timeless tales that have captured the hearts of generations. This place is a must-visit for those travelling to Stockholm with kids.
To conclude your weekend in style, indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Cirkus Restaurant. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant history of Stockholm’s most iconic arena, this creative and playful bistro offers a fusion of flavours from around the world. From American classics to Asian and French-inspired dishes, the menu at Cirkus Restaurant promises a tantalising array of options to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.