About this English self-guided 55m walking tour in Stockholm
Welcome to the beautiful capital of Sweden. I hope you're ready to explore Stockholm's dynamic blend of history and modernity! We'll kick things off at Gustav Adolfs Torg Square to set the stage for our journey in the Norrmalm City district. Before heading into the famous Gamla Stan district marveling at numerous political sites and wonders, we'll be drawn to the beautiful houses of parliament and the prime minister's house, where the government of Sweden takes center stage. Our adventure will also lead us to the Soldermalm district where we will discover some fascinating facts of Sweden's history and Stockholm's timelessness. We of course will stop by many notable places before heading back up to finish our tour at the Royal Place for that final touch of monarchy magic. I hope you enjoy the tour!
Starting with Gustav Adolfs Torg Square, named after King Gustav II Adolph, an important monarch during the 17th century, stands as a historical hub in Stockholm. This square holds the statue of Gustav II Adolph on horseback and it really is a striking centerpiece, reminding visitors of Sweden's regal past. Due to its location in the Norrmalm district, the city’s main business and shopping area, today it continues to be a vibrant venue for events and markets. With its open-air cafes and scenic views, the square captures the essence of modern Swedish life.
Gustav Adolfs Torg Square also holds hidden gems beneath its cobblestones. The square conceals remnants of the city's medieval defense walls and a well-preserved cellar from the 16th century. This convergence of the old and new, coupled with its iconic statue, showcases Stockholm's rich layers of history. A stroll here is a journey through time, where exciting market days contrast with the ghosts of long-gone knights guarding the city walls.
Gustav Adolfs Torg is surrounded by many different buildings ranging in age. Therefore, the architecture ranges in style and design as well. If you stand at the center of the square, next to the statue of Gustav II Adolph, as you turn your head in any direction you will see buildings representing many off these elements. Neo-Baroque style, with grand facades and a domed roof, Gothic style showing off pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and spires and pinnacles, Renaissance with symmetry and human forms, and even Modern styles with minimalist design, tons of glasswork, and clean lines.
The square's cultural tapestry captures the essence of Stockholm's evolution, making it a must-visit for those eager to experience the city's heart.
The Royal Swedish Opera House, also known as Kungliga, is a neo-baroque masterpiece that embodies Stockholm's cultural splendor.
It has been Sweden’s national theater for opera and ballet since January 18, 1773, the first performance of the opera house. From then, King Gustav III wanted a fully Swedish ensemble inside a Swedish opera, so he commissioned a new building to be built.This was completed in 1782 but almost after two years to the day, King Gustav III was shot at a masked ball held at his very own opera.
This opera house was in use for about 100 years, but a decision was made to take it down in 1892. Finally, close to 7 years later in 1898, the opera house was completed and opened to the public.
Throughout the years new design additions have been made as well as multiple name changes, 12 to be exact. In 1997 the official name of Kungliga Teatern, The Royal Theater, was given, and became the opera house we know today.
Beyond its fascinating history and captivating performances, the opera house's waterfront location surely adds to its beauty. Its grand auditorium, adorned with amazing craftsmanship, offers impeccable acoustics.
Backstage, the opera house thrives with workshops, rehearsals, and guided tours, immersing visitors in the world of Opera production.
Here’s a fun fact for you! Another piece that makes this opera house so unique is that it stands where a fortress once guarded Stockholm's shores. Its journey from fortification to an artistic and architectural work symbolizes the city's transformation. The waterfront view adds charm, allowing visitors to arrive by boat or admire its reflection on the water.
The opera house transcends its role as a performance venue; it's a living testament to art's power to transcend time.
Tour itinerary stops | Additional places you'll see on this self-guided tour
Place 1Gustav Adolfs Torg Square
Place 2Royal Swedish Opera House
Place 3Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Place 4Swedish Prime Minister Residence
Place 5Riksbron Bridge
Place 6Riksdagshuset
Place 7Bonde Palace / Riddarhuset
Place 8Riddarholmen Church
Place 9Kakbrinken Runestone
Place 10Tyska Stallplan
Place 11Mårten Trotzigs Gränd
Place 12Tyska Kyrkan
Place 13Stortorget
Place 14Nobel Prize Museum
Place 15Storkyrkan
Place 16The Royal Palace
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Download the app (Android or iOS), purchase the tour (either here on the website, or from within the app).
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How does the tour work?
UCPlaces acts as your personal tour guide, providing self-guided audio tours fully navigated within our app using GPS-based navigation. You won't need to switch between external navigation apps.
Whenever you approach a point of interest (POI) on the tour, our app will automatically play the relevant audio story at the right time and place.
If you start the tour before reaching the first POI, the app will navigate you to the starting point and then begin the tour.
How is this more convenient than a traditional tour?
UCPlaces offers an innovative and flexible way to explore exciting destinations on your terms.
Here are some key advantages over traditional tours:
No need to commit upfront or purchase in advance; buy a tour only when you're ready to go.
Walk at your own pace.
No waiting for groups; go on your schedule.
Take the tour in your preferred language.
Start, stop and continue the tour whenever you want.
Returning to the same destination? Take the tour again, and again, and again... And bring a friend!
Enjoy preferred prices.
What's included?
A self-guided audio tour taken via the UCPlaces app [Android / iOS (iPhone) / Apple CarPlay].
Tour route map and in-app GPS navigation (via the UCPlaces app).
Audio stories for places visited during the tour.
Apple CarPlay connection (for iOS users); for a seamless driving tour experience.
What's NOT included?
Earphones (highly recommended).
Smartphone.
Any kind of transportation (including tickets and passes).
