Erika Jonsson is a Melbourne writer and mother of two boys. She has visited Sweden numerous times, including three times with kids. She shares her favourite places to take them with Bubs On The Move.
Stockholm is one of the world’s most family-friendly cities, even if it isn’t the most budget-friendly. If you’re clever it doesn’t have to cost the earth, and there are lots of free attractions (or go for a Stockholm Card if you think you can pack in the value). Summer or winter, there’s so much to see and do in this amazing city.
Junibacken (http://www.junibacken.se/en/).
This loving tribute to Pippi Longstocking’s author Astrid Lindgren and other children’s writers features a Story Train ride, Pippi’s cottage, daily theatre performances, numerous play areas and magnificent waterfront views. Kids will happily spend hours here and you can grab any of the books you encounter at the terrific gift shop – in English or many other languages. Look for the bananas in the tree out the front and you’ll know you’re in the right place.
Vasamuseet (http://www.vasamuseet.se/en).
The Vasa was a huge war ship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was raised from the harbour depths 333 years later. It is Stockholm’s most popular attraction for good reason – kids and adults alike will be amazed by this incredible vessel and its story. There are exhibits aimed at children but the ship is what this is all about. Book tickets in advance to skip the queues in summer (it’s much quieter in winter).
Gamla Stan.
Stockholm’s Old Town is a labyrinth of tiny, colourful buildings, cobbled streets and public squares. There are touristy areas but walk one block back and you’ll feel like a local. Stop for “fika” (something sweet with coffee or tea in the afternoon) and visit Stortorget, the oldest of the squares.
Skansen (http://www.skansen.se/en/kategori/english).
This open-air attraction is part living museum, part zoo. There are Scandinavian animals such as moose and bears, as well as old-style buildings and traditional craftspeople. Skansen is one of Stockholm’s proudest treasures and locals love it just as much as tourists.
Naturhistoriska Museet (http://www.nrm.se/en/16.html).
There is so much to see, learn, and touch at Stockholm’s natural history museum. There are rotating exhibitions along with the impressive permanent collection, and the admission is very reasonable for a high-quality experience.
Museum of Medieval Stockholm (http://medeltidsmuseet.stockholm.se/in-english/).
Housed under historic buildings that reflect the subject matter, the Museum of Medieval Stockholm is a local favourite as entry is free. This small but entertaining museum packs an educational punch too, with kids absorbing the history without too much thought. Perfect.
Top tips for visiting Stockholm with kids:
- Eating out with kids is easy as there are almost always high chairs and kids menus, but for extra value look for lunch buffets and check if there’s a discount for children.
- Public transport is easy to use and children under seven don’t need tickets. You can buy tickets for 24, 48 or 72 hours if you wish, or for longer stays buy a card and top up as needed. Buses, trams and public ferries use the same ticketing but you’ll need your ticket before you board in most cases.
- Airbnb is a great option when looking for accommodation – it’s great to have a kitchen, plus you can live like a local and probably find a place that comes with toys!
- Public wifi is very popular.
- Swedes speak English like natives but if you say “tack” for thank you it’s always appreciated. “Hej” (pronounced “hey”) means hello.
Subscribe to Bubs on the Move's newsletter to keep updated on great places to visit with kids, travel tips and giveaways.
Your information will NEVER be shared or sold to a 3rd party.
I loved Pippi Longstocking when I was a kid. I bet I’d love Junibacken at least as much as my kids.