What to do in autumn in Stockholm?

Stockholm in autumn is a magical city. The archipelago is home to several parks, gardens, and natural spaces, all of which are incredibly beautiful when they are adorned with shimmering colors. It's also a time to take care of yourself with rituals, such as the sauna tradition in Stockholm. The off-season is a quieter time, when you can discover Stockholm differently, take the time to admire Swedish architecture, or stroll through its museums... Let's go for an autumn visit to Stockholm!

Opening photo: Södermalm in autumn

Article photos © StockholmCity Guide, unless otherwise stated

1) Visit Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, during the tourist off-season

Stockholm has been the capital of Sweden since the Middle Ages. The ancient stones of Gamla Stan will tell you the long history of this medieval city. It's also a modern city, where Swedish architecture is at the forefront of innovation. Finally, it's a green city, where nature is very present. Once the tourist season is over, the city calms down and there are far fewer people on the streets. It's the perfect time for an unusual visit to the city.

2) Learn about museums

You've visited the city, but you're eager to learn more about the Swedish way of life. What better way to immerse yourself in Swedish culture than in a museum? In Stockholm, there are all kinds and on all subjects. You'll learn about Swedish history from the Middle Ages to the present day, Viking traditions, traditional arts and crafts, and more.

3) Admire Halloween decorations at tourist sites

All Saints' Day is a very important holiday in Sweden. This Christian holiday is called " Alla helgons dag ." It follows All Souls' Day, " Alla själars dag ," which concerns all religions. Traditionally, large white and red candles are placed on graves in cemeteries. But Halloween is also one of the most festive events of the year. Here is a selection of tourist sites decorated and animated for the occasion:

• Gröna Lund for fun and scares with the family.
• A spooky nighttime walk through Gamla Stan, accompanied by a guide.
• The Ethnographic Museum celebrates the Mexican “ Day of the Dead.”
• A flashlight tour of the Le Vrak Museum of Wrecks, after the official closing…

Photo credit © Nikola Johnny Mirkovic / Unsplash

4) Discover Swedish art, just around the corner!

The rain is coming. Don't panic! What if you took the opportunity to discover the art in Stockholm's metro stations? It's a rather bizarre idea, but art is omnipresent in Stockholm, even in the most unexpected places...

5) Stroll through the Swedish forests in the colors of autumn

Every neighborhood in Stockholm has its own garden. They're havens of nature, right in the heart of the city, and they're all beautiful. However, some are a must-see for an autumn outing:

• The Royal National Urban Park is a large natural space on the island of Djurgarden. It is densely wooded and simply sublime in the fall. Located close to the urban city of Stockholm, its atmosphere is nevertheless very exotic. It is crisscrossed by wide paths, ideal for a romantic stroll hand in hand! But it is also very pleasant for a family hike or a bike ride.
• Nobel Park is a wooded park on the waterfront. It has an intimate feel, with its small coves. You'll enjoy the beautiful view of the marina and the constant ballet of boats.
• In Solna, HagaParken is very bucolic, with charming ruins of an old castle. It is located on the shores of Lake Brunnsviken. You can walk around the lake under the park's tall trees.

6) Relax in a Swedish sauna

After the frenzy of summer, it's time to pamper yourself a little. To take care of yourself, the Swedish way, we invite you to try the sauna tradition. It's a ritual deeply rooted in the daily lives of Swedes, and you'll find many establishments in Stockholm.

7) Embark on a cruise on the Baltic Sea

A boat trip on the Baltic Sea is always a magical experience, but autumn is even better. There are fewer tourists and you don't have to book far in advance. So you can be more spontaneous and choose a nice day to hang out on deck. You'll have breathtaking views of the city's parks and forests, with the beautiful autumn colors.

8) Taste Swedish gastronomy

Traveling is all about discovering a new culture... And for that, there's nothing like tasting its gastronomy. It's an immersion into the daily life of the Swedes, a discovery of their customs, and a moment of sharing with the locals! Plus, with autumn and the return of cold days, we appreciate warm and colorful dishes.

9) Go on a shopping spree in SoFo or elsewhere…

Stockholm is a cosmopolitan city, where trends intermingle. It's a temple of fashion! Whether you're into clothes or more into design and decor, there's something to satisfy all your desires. Each neighborhood has its own " shopping atmosphere " and areas of interest. It's up to you to choose according to your current mood...

SOFO District - Photo credit © Lesley Williamson

10) Stay warm and read a good book

Unfortunately, Indian summer isn't always a thing. After the rain, the cold may arrive. If a somewhat gloomy day is on the horizon, we'll give you one last idea for enjoying Swedish culture from your couch! Literature is not lacking in Sweden, especially in the crime fiction category. You'll be surprised by the number of authors of detective novels, thrillers, and many more...

We hope this Top 10 list of things to do in Stockholm in autumn will inspire you to spend the beautiful off-season days in the Swedish capital. We wish you a wonderful autumn holiday in Stockholm!

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