When we plan a trip to Stockholm, the Royal Palace is a top destination that no traveler should miss. This iconic palace isn’t just the official residence of Sweden’s monarch — it’s also packed with history, art, and culture, all in the heart of the city’s old town.
To make our visit smooth and enjoyable, here’s a detailed guide with all the practical info: ticket prices, opening hours, transport options, best times to visit, and insider tips.
Getting There: Easy Access to the Palace
The Royal Palace is located in Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s historic old town, at Kungliga Slottet, S-111 30. We can reach it easily:
- By Metro: Take the Tunnelbana to Gamla Stan station ($4.30 (40 SEK) single ride), then it’s a 5-minute walk.
- By Bus: Several bus lines stop close by; check local schedules. $4.30 (40 SEK) single ride.
- By Foot: If staying nearby, strolling through Gamla Stan is a charming experience in itself.
- By Ferry: Some ferry routes stop near the old town, offering a scenic arrival. Ticket price: $10–$17 (90–160 SEK), depending on route.
Opening Hours: When Can We Visit?
The palace is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Hours can vary during holidays or special events, so it’s smart to check the official website ahead of time. During the winter months, some exhibitions or sections might close earlier.
Ticket Prices: What Does It Cost?
Here’s the breakdown of entry fees as of 2025:
- General ticket: Around $17 (160 SEK)
- Youth (7–17 years) & seniors (65+): About $9 (85 SEK)
- Children under 7: Free
- Family tickets: Sometimes available, check online for current offers.
Buying tickets online is highly recommended, especially in summer when crowds peak. It saves time waiting in line and guarantees entry for popular exhibitions.
Must-See Attractions Inside the Palace
The palace isn’t just about royal apartments. We should definitely explore:
- The Royal Apartments: Stunning rooms still used for official functions.
- The Hall of State (Rikssalen): Where grand ceremonies take place, featuring magnificent Baroque interiors.
- The Royal Chapel: Beautifully decorated, open to visitors when not in use.
- Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities: A rich collection of classical art.
- The Treasury (Skattkammaren): Home to the Swedish crown jewels and regalia.
- The Royal Historical Collection (Livrustkammaren): Displays royal costumes and tools from past centuries.
- Museum Tre Kronor: An underground museum presenting the remains of the medieval Tre Kronor castle.
Best Time to Visit: Avoiding Crowds and Enjoying the Palace
- Early Morning or Late Afternoon: Visiting right when the palace opens or about an hour before closing helps avoid crowds.
- Weekdays: Tuesdays to Thursdays tend to be less busy.
- Avoid National Holidays and Weekends: These days are popular for both tourists and locals.
- Spring and Fall: These shoulder seasons have fewer tourists and milder weather for walking around the gardens and old town.
Tips for a Comfortable Visit
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The palace is large with many rooms and some staircases.
- Photography: Allowed without flash; take your time to capture details.
- Guided Tours: Available in several languages; a great way to learn rich stories behind the artifacts and rooms.
- Changing of the Guard: Happens daily at 12:15 PM outside the palace entrance and is a must-see spectacle.
- Food and Drinks: There are cafes nearby in Gamla Stan, but inside the palace food is not allowed.
- Accessibility: The palace offers ramps and elevators for visitors with limited mobility, but some older areas may be challenging.
Nearby Attractions and How to Combine Visits
After exploring the palace, we can easily visit:
- Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan): Right next door, with impressive medieval architecture. Adults: $8 (75 SEK); Students/Seniors: $6 (55 SEK); Children (7–18): $4 (35 SEK); Under 7: Free. Guided Tour (optional): $5 (45 SEK) per person.
- Nobel Museum: Also in Gamla Stan, showcasing the history of Nobel Prize winners. Entry Fee: Adults: $14 (130 SEK); Students/Seniors: $10 (95 SEK); Children (under 18): Free. Audio Guide: $3 (30 SEK).
- Old Town Streets: Perfect for wandering, shopping, and enjoying Swedish cafes.
Making the Most of Our Royal Experience
Visiting the Royal Palace in Stockholm is much more than just seeing an impressive building—it means stepping into a world rich with history and royal heritage. Using this practical guide, we can explore the palace thoroughly, skip the crowds, and uncover its many hidden treasures. From the dazzling crown jewels to the elegant state rooms, every corner offers something unforgettable that will make our trip to Stockholm truly special.
What part of the palace are you most excited to see? Feel free to share your favorite spots or travel plans with us, Lykkers! We look forward to hearing all about your royal adventure.
