1. Watch history in action
Stockholm’s cobbled medieval heart, Gamla Stan, is a lovely place to stroll, with its yellow-ochre houses, antique shops and cellar bars. At its centre is the 18th-century Kungliga Slottet (Royal Palace), where you can watch the changing of the guard (12.15pm daily and 13:15 on Sundays and public holidays) in the courtyard – all for free.
2. Take the plunge
Few major cities boast as much clean, swimmable water as Stockholm. A top spot for a dip is the family-friendly beach at Smedsuddsbadet on Kungsholmen island; Rålambshovsparken, the nearby park, attracts a younger crowd. Just pitch up – no fee necessary.
3. Stroll through Djurgården
4. Discover art in the Metro
Venture underground to explore 110 kilometres of sculptures, paintings and mosaics in Stockholm’s subway system. Wander through the world’s longest art exhibition, with works from over 150 artists, to learn more about Swedish culture and the most influential art movements from the 1950s to present day.
5. Lounge on Långholmen
Green and pleasant ‘Long Island’ was home to Sweden’s largest prison until 1975; the building is now a budget hotel. Swim off one of the isle’s sandy beaches or just top up your tan.
6. Explore free museums
7. Get festive for free
Stockholm’s KulturFestival brings over 600 events to the city every August, from world music to stand-up comedy to dance. The best bit? 99% of events are free.
8. Come over cultured
The Kulturhuset is a ‘cultural living room’ with six floors of galleries, libraries and theatre spaces. Events are ticketed, but you can browse art and graphic novels, play chess and admire the fifth-floor views for free.
9. Seek Södermalm views
The once-working-class district of ‘Söder’ now brims with creative energy. Stroll the lofty Monteliusvägen cliff path (ideally at dawn or dusk) for spellbinding (free) views back over the city.
10. Go camping
Fancy escaping the city for a while? Hit the 30,000 islands of the Stockholm archipelago for a lifetime of hikes, coves and campsites – the Right of Public Access means that you can wild camp, and spend your days walking and island hopping. OK, so a five-day unlimited-travel ferry pass for will cost you 420kr (£34) (plus a 20 SEK card charge £2), but we reckon it’s well worth every Krona.
Main image: Scenic summer panorama of the Old Town, Stockholm (Shutterstock)
