We meet at Södermalmstorg, Stockholm. When you arrive, look for the glass buildings forthe meeting point. Your guide will be waiting near the entrance to the downward escalators. The @adding:tours team will send you an email message before the tour starts with detailed information on where to go and how to get there. The message will also include the telephone number to our offices should you have any problems finding the meeting point, your guide, or need assistance, we will be happy to help you!
We start your tour at Slussen (literally: the lock). Slussen is an important part of the early and current development of Stockholm. We feel its importance has been underestimated. Your guide will give you a historical overview and significant developments of the area, point out notable structures and inform about the current state of play with project Slussen (2016-2025). All while you are making your way at a leisurely pace towards the Stockholm Old Town.
Järntorget is a square steeped in history and significance. Its name, which translates to "Iron Square," reflects its past connections to the iron processing industry. Järntorget has been a central location for various activities, from iron trade to banking and cultural landmarks. Your guide will give you a historical overview, point out notable buildings and inform you about cultural landmarks; you will be introduced to and learn about a particularly important poet.
Mårten Trotzigs Gränd is a hidden gem in the heart of Stockholm, offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and charm. From its origins as a narrow alleyway purchased by a German merchant in the 16th century to its revival and preservation in the 20th century, the alley tells a story of resilience and heritage. As you walk through its narrow passage and climb its 36 steps, you are transported to a bygone era, where the spirit of Mårten Trotzig and the essence of old Stockholm come alive. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveller, Mårten Trotzigs Gränd promises an unforgettable journey through time.
S:ta Gertrud's Parish, one of the oldest German-speaking parishes outside Germany, has a rich and storied history that dates to the 16th century. In 1571, King Johan III of Sweden granted the Germans the right to form their own congregation. This significant event marked the beginning of the German Church's long-standing presence in Stockholm. By 1607, the Germans were given exclusive rights to an original church cottage, which had previously been shared with the Finnish-speaking parish. This arrangement allowed them to establish a dedicated place of worship.
Rune Stone U 53 is more than just an ancient artifact; it is a bridge connecting modern-day Stockholm with its Viking roots. The stone's historical significance, combined with the meticulous preservation efforts, ensures that it remains a cherished part of Sweden's cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a curious traveller, a visit to this remarkable runestone offers a profound connection to the past and an appreciation for the rich tapestry of stories that have shaped Stockholm over the centuries.
The Nobel Prize Museum, located in the historic Stock Exchange Building. The museum was inaugurated in 2001, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the Nobel Prize. Stortorget is Stockholm's oldest square and serves as the central point around which the city originally grew. Stortorget was the site of the infamous Stockholm Bloodbath, which took place from November 7 to 9, 1520. Architectural highlights include the Stock Exchange Building, Runestone House, Schantzska House, Seyfridtzska House, Scharenbergsska House, and the Grillska House. Located at Stortorget 7, Stortorgs Källaren is a restaurant with an intriguing story involving a cannonball. Stortorgsbrunnen, a famous photograph of the Swedish pop group ABBA was taken at this fountain in 1976, cementing its place in modern cultural history.
Saint George and the Dragon is a celebrated medieval sculpture that resides in the Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan). This remarkable piece of art represents the legend of Saint George and the dragon, symbolizing courage and triumph. The original wooden sculpture of Saint George and the Dragon was placed in Stockholm Cathedral in 1489. Art historians widely believe that Sten Sture the Elder commissioned this sculpture to commemorate his victory over the Union King Christian I at the Battle of Brunkeberg in 1471. This significant historical event is symbolically represented through the sculpture, highlighting the struggle between Sweden and Denmark. Saint George and the Dragon remains a powerful symbol of courage and triumph. Whether in its original wooden form or its impressive bronze and granite replica, this sculpture continues to inspire and remind us of the enduring spirit of heroism and the monumental victories that shape our history.
The Iron Boy's enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with people on an intimate level. It serves as a reminder that even the smallest of gestures can hold great significance. As visitors continue to leave coins, pat its head, and knit winter garments, the Iron Boy remains a cherished symbol of Stockholm's cultural heritage. In conclusion, the Iron Boy stands as a testament to the power of art to transcend size and touch the hearts of many. Whether you encounter it by chance or seek it out deliberately, this tiny sculpture is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The story of the Finish Church is a fascinating chapter in the tapestry of religious and cultural history. From a royal tennis court to a cherished place of worship, its journey reflects the community's ability to adapt and thrive. While it may not match the grandeur of the German Church, its significance is no less profound. In the end, both communities received something invaluable—a place to call their own, where faith and fellowship flourish.
A Historical and Architectural Overview The Royal Palace of Stockholm has a rich history dating back to the latter half of the 13th century. Originally, it was part of the medieval castle complex known as "Tre Kronor" (Three Crowns). Inside the palace, royal residential apartments, reception, and banquet halls are located. Significant interior features include the Hall of State, the Royal Chapel, and Gustav III's Museum of Antiquities. The Royal Palace of Stockholm stands as a testament to Sweden's rich history and architectural grandeur, offering a glimpse into the nation's regal past through its well-preserved halls and chambers. Your guide will introduce you to and tell you about the significance of various statues such as Karl XIV Johan, Gustav III, Olaus Petri (Master Olof) and Kristina Gyllenstjerna (Nilsdotter). In 1981, the current Royal Family moved to Drottningholm Palace, which has since served as their private residence.
In the 1200s, the Grey Friars Monastery was constructed on the island, marking the beginning of Riddarholmen's transformation into a significant historical site. Following the devastating Tre Kronor castle fire in 1697, state agencies and courts gradually took over the island. This transition marked a new chapter in Riddarholmen's history, as it became a hub for legal and administrative functions. Riddarholmen, with its rich tapestry of historical and cultural landmarks, is a living museum that encapsulates the essence of Swedish heritage. From the Grey Friars Monastery to the Riddarholm Church and the Evert Taube (the poet) statue, each element of this district tells a story of a bygone era while continuing to serve contemporary purposes. Whether you are drawn to its medieval architecture, its role in Sweden's legal history, or its connection to the monarchy, Riddarholmen offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it an indispensable part of Stockholm's identity.
The House of Nobility's Palace, built between 1641 and 1674, is a magnificent structure owned and managed by Sweden's knighthood and nobility. The House of Nobility remains a symbol of Sweden's noble heritage and continues to be a cherished landmark. Its history, architecture, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for those interested in the rich tapestry of Swedish history.
Bondeska Palace stands as a testament to the rich judicial heritage of Sweden. As the home of the Supreme Court, it embodies the principles of justice, authority, and historical continuity. The palace, with its architectural splendour and historical significance, continues to inspire and uphold the highest standards of the Swedish judiciary.
The Parliament Building, known as Riksdagshuset, serves as the seat of the Swedish Parliament, the Riksdag. The complex was constructed between 1895 and 1904. Originally, it included a building for Sveriges Riksbank in the western part. In 1971, the bicameral Riksdag was replaced by a unicameral system, leading to significant changes. The former bank section was transformed to accommodate the new Plenary. The renovation and extension also made the old part of the Riksbank available to the Riksdag. Prime Minister's Official Residence Since 1995, the official residence of the Prime Minister has been the Sergerska Palatset. Riksdagshuset is also known for the statue titled "The Homeless Fox," which adds a unique artistic touch to its premises. Greta Tunberg is a notable figure associated with the building. The Parliament Building at Riksgatan 1 stands as a significant landmark of Swedish political history and governance, reflecting both its rich past and contemporary political landscape.
Rosenbad, an iconic building located in the heart of Stockholm, serves as the seat of the Swedish government. It stands as a beacon of Swedish democracy, governance, and architectural excellence. It is a place where history is made, policies are crafted, and the future of the nation is shaped. In summary, Rosenbad is not just a seat of government; it is a symbol of the nation's enduring commitment to democratic principles, justice, and the rule of law. Its halls echo with the footsteps of leaders, policymakers, and public servants dedicated to the welfare of Sweden and its people. As Rosenbad continues to serve as the nerve centre of the Swedish government, it remains a vital part of the country's political and cultural heritage.
Stockholm City Hall’s unique blend of Italian Renaissance and Nordic Gothic influences, combined with the National Romantic style, makes it an iconic landmark in Stockholm. Visitors are drawn to its famous halls, such as the Blue Hall and Golden Hall, which host prestigious events like the Nobel Banquet. As we explore Stockholm City Hall, you'll find yourself immersed in a journey through time, witnessing the evolution of architectural styles, the influence of various cultural movements, and the stories of the people who shaped the city and the country. It is a place where history comes alive, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and significance of Sweden's architectural and cultural legacy. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveller, Stockholm City Hall promises a memorable and enriching experience.
At the end of a journey, the conclusion can often be as significant as the start. Our Classic Stockholm Small Group Walking Tour | 3 Hours exemplifies this philosophy, as we culminate our enlightening exploration at the iconic Stockholm City Hall. While our formal walking tour concludes, our commitment to your satisfaction and well-being does not. Whether you require guidance to find your next destination, directions to your hotel, or simply need assistance getting your bearings, our dedicated guides are always prepared to go the extra mile for you. Your safety and convenience remain our highest priorities. We understand that navigating a new city can sometimes be overwhelming, even after an immersive tour. Therefore, we assure you that our support extends beyond the official end of the tour. Do not hesitate to reach out to your guide for any help or support you might need, whether it’s finding a nearby restaurant, understanding public transport routes, or any other assistance.
We had such a great tour with Rachel! This was our first time in Stockholm and we wanted to get an introduction to the city before venturing off on our own. Rachel made sure we understood the history, the geography, and current culture. She’s also very amusing and personable. A perfect intro.
Our small-group tour ended up being just the two of us and Kenneth, and we honestly hit the jackpot. He knows an absurd amount about Stockholm, has stories you won’t find in any guidebook, and delivers it all with impeccable comedic timing. Three hours flew by, and we probably learned more than we could remember if we tried! Hearing from someone who’s watched the city change over decades made it all the more special. His food recommendations were also spot on. We’ve taken plenty of tours, but Kenneth genuinely stands out. Equal parts fascinating, hilarious, and effortlessly engaging. If all history lessons had been like this, school would’ve been a lot more fun. We’ll be recommending him to everyone we know visiting Stockholm!
My fiancée and I were the only 2 people on our particular tour and Kenneth was a spectacular tour guide. His attention to detail made the invisible details about Stockholm become alive. He also shared some personal stories that weaved perfectly into the historical context of what we were learning about. We spent our time learning and laughing together, and the 3-hour tour felt like it flew by. Thank you again and I hope we cross paths again someday.
Kenneth is a great researcher of his city and its history past and present! He is always enthusiastic and ready to tell you the next story but is also open to questions! He,by far, gave us one of the very best tours we have ever experience! You should ask for him specifically as he will definitely impress you with his knowledge! Plus he’s a great one to spend 3 plus hours with to enjoy his beautiful city and all it has to offer. He even sent us follow-up info after the tour with restaurant suggestions and other sights to see!
Kenneth was super informative and interesting. I didn’t take the tour until I had been in Stockholm over a week. I can’t believe how much I had been strolling past with no idea of the history or the present day information I was missing
Amazing tour with Kenneth. I have been in Stockholm for over a week and he pointed out things I’ve been walking past without realizing. Not your typical “here’s the highlights” but in depth historical and modern day information. And presented in a “walking with a knowledgeable friend” sort of way. This is an absolute must do tour and I will insist all my friends do this tour when visiting
Great tour experience in Stockhilm. we had a fun filled day with our tour guide Rachel. Highly recommended,
Kenneth was an amazing story teller all throughout the 3 hours! Super engaging and loved all the tiny details he shared about all the buildings!
Kenneth was extremely knowledgable and sweet. Tons of information and also entertaining anecdotes from his personal experience e.g. meetings with the Royal Family. For levit was a little bit too long, since I've 2 new knees- but so to be able to sit down once or teice during the 3 hours would have come in handy. Afterwards Kenneth send me a sms with great suggestions of things to see and good, traditional Swedish restaurants. Thank you so much, Kenneth. Best regards from Iceland! Lea and family.
Rachel was a wonderful tour guide. Very insightful, good pace, and insider stories. She gave us recommendation for a restaurant which was delicious. Also a gelato, tea shop. We loved it and went back a second day. She was crème da la crème.
Excellent tour, primarily of Gamla Stan, by Rachel! Very informative and detailed, and nicely paced.
Kenneth was absolutely excellent! He made the tour very interesting by sharing a local perspective, providing historical context and humor. If we could give 6 starts, we would. Thank you for the fabulous tour. We learned so much from you.
Kenneth was an exceptional guide. So knowledgeable about old town , current events, etc. the 3 hr tour perfect timing & all inclusive.
We had a wonderful experience with Rachel. She was knowledgeable and friendly and told stories to make the information accessible. Even though we booked a small group walking tour we happened to be the only people there so we actually ended up with a private tour which was a nice surprise. She kept us away from the crowds, even though they were taking over all of old town. I give this tour an A+.
This was an excellent introduction to the city. A great mix of history and current events. We could not have enjoyed our guide any more than we did. He was cordial, informative and entertaining.
Rachel met us with cheer and grace as we set off across some of Stockholm’s most historic areas. She was deeply knowledgeable about Swedish history, royalty, government, and culture, kindly answering our many questions She adeptly steered us around the crowded areas so that we didn’t miss a thing but felt like we had a front row seat to the many sites. We enjoyed an excellent tour, spurring our interest in further reading and learning.
Thorough and personable tour of central Stockholm
This was an excellent walking tour. Rachel was very informative and went at a very comfortable pace. She gave us many other ideas and tips for our time in Stockholm. She was very pleasant to talk with and just a really nice person.
Kenneth was very informative. He got inside the Metro and saved us from going into the wrong track. Very kind and genuine gesture.
Excellent tour. My guide, Kenneth, was very personable and knowedgeable. I was the only traveller in the group and I felt very welcome. Kenneth had many great stories and knew a lot about the history of Gamla Stan. He also provided great advice on places to go afterwards.
It was a wonderful start to our stay in Stockholm! Kenneth was an exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable guide. He showed us around central Stockholm with great expertise and took the time to answer every question we had. The tour was also very suitable for children, and he was absolutely lovely with our youngest. A big thumbs up for Kenneth! 👍
Kenneth was very personable and entertaining. Lovely stories with historical interest. Would do it again.
I had the best time on my tour. The guide Kenneth was truly amazing and very knowledgeable on everything. He taught me so much about the city and answered all of my questions. Would highly recommend.
The provider, Adding:tours providers detailed and extensive tour of the sites and history of Stockholm. This was a very interesting and enjoyable tour. FYI, this walking tour covers several miles over mixed terrain and with some hills so not recommended for anyone with mobility issues.
Kenneth was excellent. He is a knowledgeable and entertaining guide who provided a full 3 hours of fascinating facts and anecdotes. We also appreciated his follow up message with recommendations.
A perfect walking tour to learn about history , culture , politics , food . Our guide Ian was very knowledgeable, polite and accommodating! 3h only felt like 30min ; tour was very engaging and informative. Thank you Viator yet for another wonderful private tour !
We really enjoyed our walking tour guided by Kenneth. He took us to places we would never would have gone ourselves as we would have worried about getting lost in all the narrow walkways. The tour was educational but also Kenneth had lots of stories so it was also very entertaining. Would recommend
Had a wonderful walking tour with Rachel around Stockholm. We lucked out that it was just my wife and I, so we got to ask a lot of questions and get some fascinating insights. Rachel had an interesting perspective given that she was English but had lived there a long time. There are a few places I would have preferred to have a couple extra moments in, but overall we got a great introduction to the city and its history (I even got to impress some of my local Swedish friends with trivia they never knew!).
The tour was very informative, interesting and we felt welcomed to Sweden and Stockholm. We highly recommend Kenneth as a very knowledgeable and bringing to life the Swedish history.
Kenneth gave us a walking tour of Gamla Stan that lasted over 3 hours. We loved every minute of it. Kenneth has a rich knowledge of the region's history and was able to offer it with humor and charm. A walking tour with Kenneth is a wonderful way to gain a deeper appreciation of the old town of Stockholm and we highly recommend it.
I booked this via an online travel platform. Even though the tour usually requires two people, Kenneth was so dedicated that he still ran a fantastic 3-hour "private" tour just for me! I trust Kenneth is one of the most experienced guides in Stockholm. Instead of generic history, he brought the city to life with deep context, unique insights, and great storytelling. He knows Stockholm inside out and goes far beyond textbook facts. Highly recommended!
Kenneth was thorough and entertaining. Hire him anytime!
Great experience, would highly recommend taking this tour on the front end of the stay in Stockholm. History of Gamla Stan helps in understanding the rest of the islands.
We were fully immersed in the history and current affairs of Old Stockholm. Kenneth had a wealth of knowledge and very personal perspective on the City, Old Stockholm, and the people, past and present, who live in and govern Stockholm. Truly a pleasure.
It is a bit long (3hrs) and it covers a small amount of the city. There is a lot of walking on different surfaces. But Ian, our guide, was an excellent, excellent guide. He gave a lot of information at each location. But there should a stop or two along the route for a coffee. One other point: we had a difficult time finding the initial meeting location.
I ended up being the only person on the tour. It was pretty cool to have someone show me the city all by myself. I enjoyed learning all about the history of Stockholm. If you're interested in royalty, history, architecture ... you would enjoy this.
Kenneth is an Excellent tour guide! He showed us Old Town Gamla Stan & it was just wonderful! He's knowledgeable, friendly & he followed up on questions we had after tour ended! Highly recommend!
Ian was great! He was thorough and knowledgeable and every question we asked as a follow up he had the answer to it and the pace we moved at was perfect, I highly recommend
Great all-around tour. Ian's knowledge was encyclopedic, and he was affable and easy to hang out with.
I had a wonderful experience on this walking tour of Stockholm and Rachel being my guide. She was incredibly knowledgeable about the city’s history, culture, local traditions, and she shared everything in a way that was engaging and easy to follow. What made the tour especially memorable was getting Rachel’s personal perspective on life in Stockholm. She didn’t just point out the major landmarks, she provided context, interesting stories, and recommendations that helped me better understand and appreciate the city. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting the city. Rachel is an excellent guide, and I couldn’t have been happier with the experience.
We always think it is great to get a walking tour of a city when you first get so that you can start to understand something about the place. We certainly got that with Rachael, she was great; incredibly knowledgeable about Stockholm, interesting stories and facts, happy to talk about anything Sweden and just nice to be with. We learnt a lot, had a good time and it gave us the basis to explore more deeply on our own. Simply excellent.
We had a great late afternoon with Rachael. She provided a great overview of the city and over about two hours managed to show us most of the highlights. Really appreciated that she talked freely and openly about her views on the city and Sweden, it gave us a local perspective. Always good to get a local person and understanding before spending time in a city. She was exceptional.
Our walking tour with Kenneth was fabulous. We signed up for the small group tour, but it turned out to be just my husband and I, so it was like a private tour and we really got to know each other. Kenneth was fascinating and knowledgeable, and quite funny as well.
Very informative tour of Stockholm. Rachel was an excellent guide!
Myself and my wife had a wonderful walking tour with Uan. The tour was sensibly paced and our guide, Ian, was fantastic. He was very knowledgeable and passionate about his City. We enjoyed his commentary and in-depth knowledge of Stockholm. All in all an amazing experience that I would certainly recommend to others
The walking tour with Kenneth was excellent. He met us on time and we got started right away. His deep care and knowledge about Stockholm was integrated into each aspect of the tour. He has taken it upon himself to continually educate himself about the city so he could infuse amusing anecdotes into each of the stops. There were many nuggets of information like ABBA trivia and historical architecture throughout the tour. He made sure we could see the things we wanted to see and with a small group tour like ours it was tailored to our interests. After the tour he made sure to follow up on answers to the questions he did not know as well is send us recommendations for dining out and other tourist recommendations. Definitely would book this tour again if I had to do it over again.
Ken was a great tour guide. He was very knowledgeable and took us on a great tour. He was very accommodating. Strongly recommend.
Tour director was excellent- Rachel. Rachel was friendly, Knowledgeable and an excellent storyteller. Excellent tour! Met all our expectations.
Rachel was excellent! Very knowledgeable and informative. Definitely a good way to learn about the history and culture.
The walking tour was a great way to start our trip in Stockholm. Rachel was great providing information in a manner that made the tour.
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