The best museums to visit in Stockholm right now
Stockholm, known for its charming medieval architecture, also boasts a thriving art scene. The city's assortment of art museums presents a cultural landscape that is rich and varied, featuring both grand institutions and smaller, niche museums. Whether your interests lean towards royal history, photography, or contemporary art, our guide will help you explore the essential art venues during your visit to the city.
When planning your trip to Stockholm, be sure to consider the city's art week, design week, and art fairs. These events provide an opportunity to delve into the burgeoning creative scene, with numerous exhibitions and launches happening throughout. It's the perfect way to engage with Stockholm's lively artistic culture and connect with its dynamic creative community.
View of Stockholm. Photo by Henrik Trygg.
Stockholm Art Week
Stockholm Art Week highlights the city's art scene by bringing together Nordic art fairs, museums, and institutions. Through special programmes, events, and pop-up exhibitions, it aims to promote the visual arts and showcase Sweden as an important art destination. Stockholm Art Week typically takes place annually in May.
This year, the art week will take place from 14 – 19 May 2024.
Website: stockholmartweek.se. Instagram: @stockholmartweek.
Market Art Fair
Market Art Fair, founded in 2006 by galleries from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden, has become the leading contemporary art fair in the Nordic region. Typically taking place in May and coinciding with Stockholm Art Week, the fair has a strong focus on Nordic artists.
This year, the Market Art Fair is scheduled to take place from 17-19 May 2024. With 47 galleries participating, the event will showcase the works of over 100 artists at Liljevalchs and Spritmuseum.
Website: marketartfair.com. Instagram: @marketartfair.
Stockholm Design Week
Stockholm Design Week is an annual week-long celebration highlighting the best of Scandinavian design. The event showcases exhibitions, installations, and product launches throughout the city, offering a comprehensive look at the latest trends and innovations in design.
The next Stockholm Design Week will take place in 3-9 February 2025.
Website: stockholmdesignweek.com. Instagram: @stockholmdesignweek.
Museums in Stockholm
Färgfabriken
Pictures from Jonatan Pihlgren's scholarship exhibition at Färgfabriken 2023. License: Media Use By: Johan Österholm.
#FLODown: Färgfabriken, housed in a repurposed industrial building near Liljeholmen in Stockholm since 1995, is a dynamic centre for contemporary cultural expression, focusing on art, architecture, and urban planning. Its name, 'Färgfabriken' or 'the colour factory,' nods to its past life as a paint factory. The gallery hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing a range of artistic styles and themes. In addition to exhibitions, Färgfabriken also offers seminars, discussions, workshops, concerts, and dance performances, providing visitors with a vibrant cultural experience. It's definitely worth a visit to soak in the creative atmosphere.
Website: fargfabriken.se. Instagram: @fargfabriken_.
Where to eat?
Färgfabriken’s Kafé is the perfect spot for a satisfying lunch, whether you're fueling up before or after exploring the exhibitions on-site. It has a laid-back atmosphere and delicious offerings, including homemade cookies, sandwiches, and pastries.
Instagram: @fargfabrikenskafe.
Liljevalchs
Liljevalchs. Photo by Mattias Lindbäck
#FLODown: The Liljevalchs Art Gallery, located in central Stockholm, was founded in 1916 through the estate of Carl Fredrik Liljevalch, an industrialist. Renowned for its diverse exhibitions, Liljevalchs showcases contemporary art and design, hosting a minimum of three major exhibitions annually. Past displays have highlighted celebrated artists including Lars Lerin, Hilma af Klint, and Ernst Billgren, alongside dedicated showcases for figures such as Lena Cronqvist, Anna Sjödahl, Märta Måås-Fjetterström, and the iconic Nordic brand IKEA. A standout event in its calendar is the Spring Salon, an open-call exhibition that generates excitement and acclaim on par with London's prestigious Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition.
Liljevalchs Gallery is located on Djurgården Island, accessible by ferry—a journey we highly recommend, especially on a sunny day when the view is simply breathtaking. In addition to the gallery, the island boasts other attractions like the Skansen Open-Air Museum, The National Museum of Science and Technology, and the ABBA Museum. If you're pressed for time, prioritise a visit to the Nordic Museum and Thiel Gallery, along with the scenic Rosendals Garden Café.
Website: liljevalchs.se. Instagram: @liljevalchs.
Where to eat?
Rosendals Garden Café
Whilst on Djurgården Island, don't miss a visit to Rosendals Trädgårdskafé. It's truly one of Stockholm's hidden gems, boasting a charming Garden Café with a tranquil atmosphere. The peaceful surroundings are perfect for a leisurely lunch, reminiscent of the ambiance at Petersham Nurseries in Richmond. Their menu features delicious meals crafted from fresh garden produce. And during the summer, it's the perfect spot for alfresco dining in their picturesque orchard.
Website: rosendalstradgard.se. Instagram: @rosendalstradgard.
Fotografiska
Fotografiska. Photo by Julia Donka.
#FLODown: Fotografiska is recognised as one of Europe's premier photography museum, offering a remarkable collection . Unlike many museums where photography exhibits are often overshadowed, Fotografiska ofteb delivers on h its extensive and diverse displays. From renowned artists like Annie Leibowitz and David LaChappelle to emerging talents, the museum's rotating exhibitions ensure there's always something new to discover. Particularly noteworthy is the Autumn Salon, an annual exhibition showcasing the work of Swedish photographers, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists. The museum's extended opening hours, until 1 am on weekends, allow for flexible visits, accommodating even the busiest schedules!
Website: fotografiska.com. Instagram: @fotografiska.stockholm.
Where to eat?
At Fotografiska, in addition to their extensive photography collection, you can enjoy a meal with stunning views of Stockholm. The restaurant offers mostly plant-based dishes, with sustainable meat or fish options available for dinner. They focus on using seasonal ingredients and eco-friendly practices, which led to them receiving the Guide Michelin sustainability certificate in 2020.
Instagram: @fotografiska.food.
The Restaurant at Fotografiska. Photo by Julia Donka.
Hermans
Located about a 20-minute walk from Fotografiska, Hermans is a locally beloved and highly recommended buffet-style restaurant. Specialising in vegetarian dishes and entirely plant-based vegan options, it not only offers great food but also has incredible views of Stockholm.
Website: hermans.se. Instagram: @hermans_givepeasachance.
Moderna Museet
Rashid Johnson, "Home", 2023 Photo: Mattias Lindbäck/Moderna Museet © Rashid Johnson.
#FLODown: The Moderna Museet in Stockholm, designed by architect Rafael Moneo and opened in 1998, features a vast collection of modern and contemporary art spanning from the early 20th century to the present, including approximately 130,000 pieces such as paintings, sculptures, installations, and photography by renowned artists like Picasso, Dalí, and Hilma af Klint. The museum also hosts regular temporary exhibitions showcasing emerging and established contemporary artists such as Nan Goldin and Laurie Anderson. Additionally, nearby is The Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, offering collections from China, Korea, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia, providing insights into over 5,000 years of Chinese history.
Website: modernamuseet.se. Instagram: @ModernaMuseet.
Where to eat?
While on Skeppsholmen island, we suggest exploring its natural beauty and surroundings. For a leisurely dining experience by the sea, we recommend trying Swedish cuisine at Restaurant Hjerta.
Ett Hem kök
Furthermore, Ett Hem's restaurant is conveniently situated just an 11-minute drive or a 30-40 minute journey by train or walking from the Moderna Museet. Nestled within one of Stockholm's most remarkable hotels, it offers a relaxed ambiance for enjoying daily homemade Swedish dishes. For a more substantial dining experience, we highly recommend reserving a spot at the chef's kitchen table for dinner and indulging in the chef's tasting menu. Accompanied by their carefully curated selection of wines, it will be the perfect culmination to your day of art exploration.
Website: etthem.se. Instagram: @etthemfood.
Nationalmuseum
Nationalmuseum. Photo by Anna Danielsson/Nationalmuseum.
#FLODown: Established in 1866, the Nationalmuseum is home to Sweden’s largest collection of art and design, comprising over 700,000 objects. Its chronologically arranged exhibits, spanning from the 16th century to the contemporary era, present a journey through centuries of artistic development. Designed by Friedrich August Stüler, the museum's architecture is reminiscent of Renaissance buildings, providing a magnificent setting for its extensive collection. From the grandeur of floor-to-ceiling murals in the entrance hall to meticulously curated temporary exhibitions, the Nationalmuseum offers an enlightening exploration of Sweden's artistic heritage.
Website: nationalmuseum.se. Instagram: @nationalmuseumswe.
Where to eat?
Operakällarens Matsal
Operakällaren. Matsal. Photo by Samuel Unéus.
Operakällarens Matsal, a short 6-minute walk from the Nationalmuseum, is celebrated for its refined dining experience. With exceptional service and superb haute cuisine, it has earned a prestigious Michelin star.
Instagram: @operakallaren_ok
Nordiska Museet
The Nordic Museum in summertime. Photo by Karolina Kristensson.
#FLODown: Established in 1872 by Artur Hazelius, the Nordiska Museet showcases Nordic heritage. Its collection, totalling around 1.5 million objects and 6 million images, ranges from folk culture to treasures of notable individuals. Located on Djurgården island, its grand late 19th-century facade provides a fitting backdrop to discover Nordic traditions.
Website: nordiskamuseet.se. Instagram: @nordiskamuseet.
Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum
Sven-Harrys (Konstmuseum), Stockholm. Anders Bengtsson.
#FLODown: Sven-Harry’s konstmuseum, opened in 2011 in Stockholm, is a showcase of Sven-Harry's diverse art collection. The vast collection of Nordic art, includes works by Carl Fredrik Hill and Ernst Josephson, displayed in a replica of Sven-Harry's former home, Ekholmsnäs.
Website: sven-harrys.se. Instagram: @svenharryskonstmuseum.
Where to eat?
Bistro Guld
Bistro Guld is a trendy restaurant offering French-inspired dishes in a chic setting with unbeatable views of Vasa Park.
Instagram: @bistroguld.
Carl Eldhs Ateljémuseum
Carl Eldhs Ateljémuseum.
#FLODown: Carl Eldh, a prominent sculptor of the early 20th century, left a legacy of public works scattered throughout Stockholm. His former atelier, now a small museum, showcases many of his notable creations. Situated near Lake Brunnsviken, the museum offers a serene space dedicated to Eldh's artistry. On display are portrait sculptures of playwrights and historical figures. Additionally, the museum features miniature models, carved pieces, and work-in-progress drawings from Eldh's career.
Note: Check opening times before visiting, as the museum typically closes from November to March and reopens in mid-April.
Website: eldhsatelje.se. Instagram: @carleldhsateljemuseum.
Where to eat?
Vinverket
A short walk from the museum, there is a great wine bar serving Mediterranean-style small and medium dishes. They offer orange wine, Bourgogne, and yummy charcuterie and cheese boards. Perfect for a relaxed hangout after exploring the museum!
Website: vinverket.se. Instagram: @vinverket.
Millesgården
Millesgården. The lower terrace, winter. Photo: Millesgården.
#FLODown: Millesgården, once the home of sculptor Carl Milles and his wife Olga, is now a museum dedicated to their life's work. Visitors can explore their former residence, view their collection of antiques, and stroll through a sculpture garden featuring iconic works. Additionally, an art gallery hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Located on Lidingö Island with a great view of the Stockholm archipelago, Millesgården is a peaceful spot to enjoy. The sculpture garden, with its water features and iconic sculptures, is particularly calming. Its elegant design and serene surroundings provide an ideal setting to appreciate the artist's legacy and the beauty of the landscape.
Website: millesgarden.se. Instagram: @millesgarden.
Where to eat?
Millesgården Lanthandel
Millesgården Lanthandel, the onsite restaurant at the museum's Sculpture Park, offers lunches, dinners, home baked cakes, and beverages including wine and beer. In summer, the terrace offers a perfect setting with sculptures in full view.
Instagram: @millesgardenlanthandel.
The Hallwylska Museet
The Hallwylska Museet
#FLODown:The Hallwylska museet, originally the von Hallwyls' private palace from the late 1800s, is now a public museum offering insight into Sweden's Gilded Age. It showcases the opulent lifestyle of the von Hallwyl family through lavish rooms filled with art and decorative items collected during their travels. Countess Wilhelmina von Hallwyl's passion for cultural preservation led to the museum's founding in 1938. Today, it provides a unique glimpse into the material culture of Sweden's elite in the early 20th century, reminiscent of the elegance of the Wallace Collection in London.
Website: hallwylskamuseet.se. Instagram: @hallwylskamuseet.
Where to eat?
Restaurang Oxenstiernan
Restaurang Oxenstiernan, located about a 16-minute walk from Hallwylska museet in a 17th-century mansion, offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on quality, sustainability, and local ingredients. Chef Elvira Lindqvist's ever-changing menu celebrates Swedish culinary traditions, while owner Sebastian Schildt's commitment to sustainability permeates every aspect of the establishment, earning them a green Michelin star in 2022. The restaurant's stylish design, featuring contributions from renowned Swedish designers, complements its surroundings, making it an ideal location to unwind after a museum visit. During the summer months, they offer al fresco dining on the charming outdoor terrace.
Website: restaurangoxenstiernan.com. Instagram: @restaurangoxenstiernan.
Waldemarsudde
Waldemarsudde,Biblioteket i Sällskapsvåningen. © Yanan Li.
#FLODown: Prins Eugens Waldemarsudde, situated on the picturesque Djurgården island, is a art museum housed in the former residence of Prince Eugen of Sweden and Norway. This picturesque location attracts visitors for its beautiful reception rooms displaying early 20th-century Nordic art, including pieces from Prince Eugen's personal collection. Alongside temporary exhibitions, the museum boasts a flower and sculpture garden, and its waterfront location provides a serene atmosphere, providing a sense of escape from the city. The mansion itself, meticulously designed by architect Ferdinand Boberg, serves as a testament to Prince Eugen's passion for fine art.
Website: waldemarsudde.se. Instagram:@prinseugenswaldemarsudde.
Thielska Galleriet
Thiel Gallery, art museum in Stockholm, Sweden. April 2015.
#FLODown: Thielska Galleriet houses an impressive collection of Scandinavian masterpieces, including works by renowned artists like Carl Larsson and Edvard Munch. Originally the residence of banker Ernest Thiel, the gallery's elegant architecture by Ferdinand Boberg provides an ideal setting to showcase its treasures. Notable features include the ‘Munch room,’ which displays Munch's iconic works, and the opportunity to view Nietzsche's death mask. The gallery's picturesque surroundings and its collection of Vigeland sculptures make it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts seeking both cultural enrichment and natural beauty.
Website: thielskagalleriet.se. Instagram: @thielskagalleriet.
Where to eat?
Visit the gallery's cosy café, led by Chef Monika Ahlberg, widely known throughout Stockholm as the 'queen of cakes'. Monika is renowned for her beautiful cookery books and her achievements at Rosendals Garden. The café offers seasonal soups with freshly baked bread, delicious home-baked pastries, and light lunch options. During the summer months, it's the perfect place to indulge in a treat amidst the museum's beautiful sculpture garden.
Website: thielskagalleriet.se.
Drottningholm Palace
Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
#FLODown: Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site on Lovö Island, Sweden, is a 17th-century royal residence designed by Nicodemus Tessin the Elder. Inspired by Versailles, its Baroque rooms and impressive gardens offer a glimpse into Swedish royalty and cultural history. Half serving as a royal residence and the other half as a museum, it's a must-see for those enamoured with monarchies and those with a keen interest in European architecture.
Website: kungligaslotten.se. Instagram: @kungligaslotten.
Click here for art galleries to visit in Stockholm.
Where to stay in Stockholm?
Exploring Stockholm, Sweden's dynamic capital, promises a blend of history, architecture, and vibrant culture.When planning a trip to the city, choosing the perfect accommodation can significantly enhance your experience. Whether you're drawn to historic landmarks or trendy boutique hotels, the city offers accommodations as varied as its attractions.
Click here to discover our pick of hotels, each with their own distinct character that will ensure an unforgettable stay in Stockholm.
