Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan is the historic area of Stockholm and where the city was founded in 1252. One of the best preserved medieval old towns in all of Europe, today it features cobblestone streets, narrow alleys and Renaissance architecture.

In the center of Gamla Stan, you’ll find Stortorget, the district’s main square surrounded by old merchant’s buildings, as well as the point at which the oldest street in Stockholm begins. The old town is also home to Kungliga Slottet, Sweden’s baroque Royal Palace built in the 18th century. With over 600 rooms, it is one of the largest palaces in the world. Visitors can tour the reception rooms, as well as several interesting museums housed within the palace walls.

Nearby are the Stockholm Cathedral, the Great Church and the Nobel Museum, as well as the German Church, which reflects the centuries-old influence of the German merchants who once populated Gamla Stan. For some of Stockholm’s most magnificent buildings, head to Riddarhustorget, a square featuring the Bonde Palace and the Riddarhuset, known as the most beautiful house in the city.

Several bridges connect the main island of Stadsholmen with the smaller islands of Riddarholmen and Helgeandsholmen. The large Parliament Building dominates Helgeandsholmen, while Riddarholdmen is home to the Riddarholmen Church, the burial church for Swedish monarchs for centuries, as well as several palaces and Birger Jarl’s Tower, a remnant of the defensive wall that once stood around the city.

Practical Info

Visitors can reach Gamla Stan by taking the Tunnelbana (subway) to the Gamla Stan station, which is located on the east side of the district. From there, it is easy to explore on foot.