Located in the heart of Stockholm, Sweden, the Royal Palace is one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in the country. The palace has been the official residence of the Swedish royal family since 1754 and is the largest palace in the Nordic countries. It is also one of the most visited attractions in Stockholm, with over 600,000 visitors each year. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a fun day out, there are plenty of things to do at the Royal Palace. Here are 10 of the best things to do when visiting the Royal Palace in Stockholm.
1. Take a Tour of the Palace: The best way to learn about the Royal Palace is to take a guided tour. The palace is open to the public from May to September, and tours are available in English, German, French, and Swedish. During the tour, you'll get to explore the grand halls, the royal apartments, and the treasury. You'll also get to learn about the history of the palace and its royal residents.
2. Visit the Royal Chapel: The Royal Chapel has been an integral part of the palace since the 17th century. It is one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Sweden and is home to some of the most beautiful frescoes and paintings in the world. The chapel is open to the public and visitors can take part in the Sunday service.
3. Watch the Changing of the Guard: Every day at noon, the Royal Guard performs the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The ceremony is accompanied by a military band and is a great way to experience the grandeur of the palace.
4. Explore the Armory: The Armory is one of the most interesting parts of the palace. It houses a collection of weapons, armor, and uniforms from the 17th century to the present day. The Armory is open to the public and visitors can explore the collection and learn about the history of the Swedish military.
5. Visit the Tre Kronor Museum: The Tre Kronor Museum is located in the palace and is dedicated to the history of the palace and the Swedish royal family. The museum is a great way to learn about the history of the palace and the people who have lived there.
6. Take a Boat Tour: One of the best ways to experience the palace is to take a boat tour of the surrounding area. You'll get to see the palace from a different perspective and learn about the history and culture of Stockholm.
7. Visit the Royal Stables: The Royal Stables is located in the palace and is home to the Swedish royal horses. Visitors can take a guided tour of the stables and learn about the history of the horses and the royal family.
8. Enjoy the Palace Gardens: The palace gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the palace. The gardens are filled with lush green lawns, beautiful flowers, and sculptures.
9. Attend a Concert: The palace is home to several concerts throughout the year, including classical music, jazz, and opera. The concerts are a great way to experience the beauty and grandeur of the palace.
10. Shop at the Palace Gift Shop: The palace gift shop is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and unique gifts. The shop sells a variety of items, including books, jewelry, and clothing.
Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a fun day out, the Royal Palace in Stockholm is a great place to visit. From guided tours to boat rides, there are plenty of activities to enjoy while visiting the palace. So, make sure to add the Royal Palace to your list of things to do in Stockholm.