Friday Morning: A Stroll Through Stockholm’s Enchanting Old Town

After a restful night at the Radisson Blu Waterfront, we woke up to the gentle light of a Stockholm morning and decided to take it slow. The city has a way of inviting you to relax and savor its moments, and we were happy to oblige. After indulging in the hotel’s incredible breakfast spread—with its fresh pastries, artisanal bread, and classic Swedish treats like gravlax and lingonberry preserves—we set out on foot to explore Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town.

The walk from the hotel to Gamla Stan was a pleasure in itself. Passing the striking architecture of City Hall, we crossed over to one of the most picturesque areas of the city. The charm of Gamla Stan lies in its labyrinth of cobblestone streets, where every turn reveals colorful 17th-century buildings, quaint little shops, and cozy cafes.

Diving into Gamla Stan’s Cozy Streets

We wandered without a plan, letting the historic streets guide us. Tiny boutiques caught our attention, offering everything from handmade ceramics to traditional Swedish souvenirs. Every corner seemed to have its own story, with charming signs and window displays hinting at the treasures inside.

One of the highlights was stumbling upon a snug café tucked between two narrow alleyways. We couldn’t resist stepping in for a cup of coffee and a kanelbulle (Swedish cinnamon roll), which was just the right mix of spice and sweetness. Sitting by the window, we watched as life unfolded outside—locals strolling by, the hum of conversations, and the occasional tour group marveling at the quaint surroundings.

Rainy Walk to Fotografiska Museum

As the drizzle turned into a steady shower, we were thankful we had pre-booked tickets to the Fotografiska Museum, one of Stockholm's most iconic cultural landmarks. Undeterred by the weather, we embraced the moment and decided to walk to the museum, letting the rain add a touch of drama to our journey.

Stockholm in the rain has its own kind of magic. The cobblestones glistened, and the city took on a softer, dreamlike quality. We strolled along the waterfront, passing boats gently swaying in the harbor and catching glimpses of Stockholm's skyline through the mist. Umbrellas bobbed around us as locals went about their day, seemingly unbothered by the weather.

A Legendary Experience at Fotografiska

Arriving at the Fotografiska Museum, we felt instantly at ease. The warm, welcoming interior was a stark but pleasant contrast to the chilly rain outside. Known for its world-class photography exhibitions, Fotografiska didn’t disappoint.

We spent hours immersed in powerful images that spanned genres, from stunning landscapes to thought-provoking portraits. Each exhibit told its own unique story, sparking conversations and leaving us inspired. The museum's modern design and inviting atmosphere made it easy to lose track of time as we moved from one gallery to the next.

A Coffee Break with a View

Before leaving, we headed to Fotografiska’s top-floor café, which boasts some of the best views in Stockholm. The rain had let up slightly, and through the large windows, we could see the city spread out before us, wrapped in a misty glow. We sipped on rich Swedish coffee and shared a slice of berry tart, savoring the moment and the stunning panorama of Stockholm’s waterfront.

After a morning of rainy-day adventures at Fotografiska Museum, we stepped outside to a delightful surprise—the rain had stopped, and the sun was beginning to peek through the clouds. The air was crisp and fresh, with puddles on the cobblestone streets reflecting the now-brightening sky. It was the perfect moment to return to Gamla Stan and experience Stockholm’s Old Town in a new light.

The sunshine gave us the energy to dive back into the charms of the Old Town. We browsed more of its unique boutiques, picking up handmade trinkets and sampling traditional Swedish candies from a quaint sweet shop. For lunch, we found an inviting spot at a small outdoor bistro tucked away in a quiet square. The menu featured classic Swedish fare, and we couldn’t resist ordering plates of buttery toast Skagen and creamy chanterelle soup, paired with sparkling elderflower soda.

Sitting in the sunshine, we savored every bite while watching the world go by. Families strolled hand-in-hand, couples shared ice creams, and locals walked their dogs along the cobblestones. It was one of those moments where time seemed to slow, and you could just soak in the simple beauty of the surroundings.

As the afternoon wore on, the light grew softer, and the streets took on a golden hue. We found ourselves at Stortorget, the Old Town’s central square, with its iconic colorful row of buildings. Bathed in sunlight, it felt like the heart of Stockholm was glowing. The fountain at the square’s center sparkled, and we joined other visitors in taking in the picture-perfect scene.

After a few more relaxed wanderings, including a visit to a hidden bookshop that felt straight out of a storybook, we reluctantly began heading back to the Radisson Blu Waterfront, where the comfort of our hotel awaited. But as we left Gamla Stan behind, we knew this afternoon would be one of our fondest memories of the trip.

From rain-soaked cobblestones to sunlit streets, Gamla Stan showed us its full range of beauty, proving that Stockholm’s Old Town is a place to be savored in any weather.

Our final morning in Stockholm greeted us with clear skies and brilliant sunshine, the kind that makes every corner of the city look postcard-perfect. Determined to make the most of our last few hours, we began the day with a visit to one of Stockholm’s most iconic landmarks—the City Hall.

City Hall: Stunning Views and Scandinavian Grandeur

The Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset) is more than just a municipal building; it’s a masterpiece of Swedish National Romantic architecture. As we approached, the sun illuminated its striking red-brick façade, and the reflections of its soaring tower shimmered in the adjacent Lake Mälaren.

Inside, we explored its grand halls, marveling at the intricate mosaics of the Golden Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquet takes place. Stepping out into the courtyard and along the water’s edge, the views were simply stunning. Across the lake, the city unfolded like a painting, with spires and rooftops glistening in the sunshine.

A Scenic Walk to Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde

From City Hall, we embarked on a scenic walking route to Prince Eugen's Waldemarsudde, a picturesque journey that truly showcased the breadth of Stockholm’s culture and natural beauty. Along the way, it felt as though we encountered the very soul of the city.

The route took us through Djurgården, Stockholm's lush and historic royal park. It wasn’t long before we passed some of the city’s most beloved landmarks, starting with the Viking Museum, a nod to Sweden’s ancient Norse heritage. Next, we walked by the lively and colorful ABBA The Museum, where we could hear echoes of "Dancing Queen" spilling out as cheerful visitors streamed in and out.

Further along, we paused to admire the whimsical architecture of the Skansen Open-Air Museum, where traditional Swedish homes and farmsteads were set against the natural greenery of the park. It was like traveling back in time to rural Sweden.

Prince Eugen's Waldemarsudde: An Artistic Retreat

At the end of our walk, we reached the enchanting Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde, perched on a hill overlooking the water. Once the home of Prince Eugen, an artist and member of the Swedish royal family, the estate is now a museum featuring his artwork and other Swedish masterpieces.

The gardens surrounding the estate were in full bloom, vibrant with flowers that seemed to celebrate the sunshine. From here, the views of the archipelago were breathtaking, with boats gliding across the shimmering waters. Inside the museum, we explored both Prince Eugen’s private quarters and the art galleries, feeling immersed in the artistic and historical legacy of this serene place.

Stockholm is the perfect weekend getaway, offering a blend of history, culture, and stunning views. Start your trip with a luxurious stay at the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel, centrally located with beautiful lake views. Explore Gamla Stan, Stockholm's charming Old Town, then visit the Fotografiska Museum for inspiring art. After the rain clears, return to Gamla Stan to enjoy the sunshine, cozy streets, and Swedish cuisine. On your final day, tour the iconic Stockholm City Hall and take a scenic walk through Djurgården, passing landmarks like the Viking Museum and ABBA Museum, ending at Prince Eugen's Waldemarsudde. A perfect mix of culture and beauty awaits in this Scandinavian gem!