Stockholm in Style: A 5-Day Budget Adventure

Experience the beauty of Stockholm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Stockholm, Sweden on a limited budget is entirely possible with careful planning. While accommodation and dining might be slightly higher than in other European cities, there are plenty of affordable options, including budget hostels and street food vendors. Free activities like exploring Gamla Stan, the old town district, and visiting public parks and museums make for a budget-friendly trip.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Stockholm!

  • Check into the Hotel Tegnerlunden, a cozy and budget-friendly base for your five-day stay in the heart of Stockholm
  • Stroll through the leafy Tegnerlunden park to the Rörstrandsgatan district, home to quirky shops and cafes
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at the popular Vete-Katten bakery, where traditional Swedish pastries are served with a dose of old-world charm
  • Visit City Hall, a striking structure on the waterside that houses the offices of the mayor and hosts the Nobel banquet each year
  • Take a scenic canal boat tour to see Stockholm's stunning architecture from the water
Day 2

Royal indulgence

  • Enjoy a traditional Swedish breakfast buffet at the hotel or, for something different, try the hip cafe Pom & Flora
  • Visit the Royal Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe with over 600 rooms don't miss the sensational Royal Armoury
  • Browse for souvenirs and artisanal goods at the historic Östermalmshallen indoor market
  • Relax in Djurgården, an idyllic island featuring the world-class Vasa Museum and the enchanting Skansen open-air museum
  • Savor classic Swedish meatballs and other hearty fare at Meatballs for the People, a cosy restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere
Day 3

Cultural icons

  • Check out the stunning contemporary art at the world-famous Moderna Museet, or the innovative exhibitions at Fotografiska
  • Explore the historic district of Gamla Stan, Stockholm's charming old town with cobbled streets, imposing churches and colorful buildings
  • Take a trip to the ABBA Museum, a lively and interactive venue showcasing the enduring legacy of Sweden's most famous pop group
  • Stop for coffee and cake at Chokladkoppen, a quaint cafe in the heart of Gamla Stan with views across the picturesque square Stortorget
  • Wind down with a drink at the atmospheric Barrels Burgundy, a cosy wine bar offering an extensive selection of vintages from around the world
Day 4

Island adventures

  • Catch a ferry to the lush island of Fjäderholmarna, famous for its stunning natural beauty and artisan workshops
  • Visit the National Museum, a grand institution featuring an impressive collection of art and design, from medieval times to contemporary works
  • Explore the trendy Södermalm district, a hotspot for food, fashion and art with plenty of independent boutiques and cafes
  • Try some tasty Scandinavian fare at Oaxen Slip, a chic waterfront restaurant offering a varied menu of seafood and local flavors
  • Take a stroll through the lovely Kungsträdgården park, with its pretty fountains, gardens and cafes.
Day 5

Goodbye Stockholm

  • Sleep in, relax and enjoy breakfast at the hotel
  • Get a panoramic overview of Stockholm with the SkyView Gondola, taking you up the Globe building for fantastic city views
  • Shop for quirky souvenirs and artisanal goods in the hipster-friendly district of SoFo
  • Savour some one last Swedish treat with lunch at Snickarbacken 7, a charming cafe serving delicious food with a creative edge
  • Say farewell to this beautiful capital city of Sweden, knowing that you haven't even scratched the surface of all it has to offer!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Stockholm, Sweden by plane is to fly into Stockholm Arlanda Airport, which is the largest airport in Sweden and is located about 40 km north of Stockholm city center. There are direct flights available from major European cities and other international destinations.

Car

If you prefer to drive to Stockholm, the best way is to take the E4 highway from southern Sweden, which leads directly to Stockholm city center. The drive takes around 5-6 hours depending on traffic conditions and offers a scenic route through the Swedish countryside.

Train

There are several train stations in Stockholm, but the best way to get to the city by train is to take the SJ high-speed train from Copenhagen, which takes around 5 hours and arrives at Stockholm Central Station. The train ride offers beautiful views of the Swedish countryside.

Boat

There are several ferry services that operate between neighboring countries and Stockholm, but the best way to get there by boat is to take the Tallink Silja Line ferry from Helsinki, Finland. The ferry arrives at the Stockholm Värtahamnen port, which is located about 4 km northeast of Stockholm city center and offers beautiful views of the archipelago.

Bus

The easiest and most affordable way to get to Stockholm by bus is to take the Flixbus from major European cities such as Berlin or Warsaw, which arrives at Stockholm Cityterminalen bus station located in the heart of the city. The bus ride offers comfortable seats and free Wi-Fi.

More travel plans

Scandinavian Romance: 4 Days in Stockholm

A trip to Stockholm, Sweden offers a perfect romantic getaway in the heart of Scandinavia. Begin by exploring the Old Town (Gamla Stan) with its narrow cobblestone alleys, quaint cafés, and colorful buildings. Then, take a romantic boat trip through the archipelago and experience the stunning natural beauty of the Stockholm archipelago.

Explore Stockholm: The Ultimate 5-Day Travel Plan

As a tourist in Stockholm, you can explore the city's historical landmarks like the Royal Palace and Gamla Stan (Old Town) filled with medieval architecture. The city is filled with museums like ABBA Museum, Vasa Museum, and Moderna Museet that will take you through a journey of Swedish art, music, and culture. You can also experience the city's cuisine by indulging in traditional Swedish meatballs, pickled herring, and delicious pastries like kanelbullar.

Budget Bonanza: 2-Day Stockholm Adventure

Stockholm, Sweden is an enchanting destination with a rich history and vibrant culture. Even if you are traveling on a budget, there are many ways to enjoy the city without overspending. You can explore the city's many parks, museums, and galleries, or take a boat tour to get a unique perspective of the city's stunning waterways.

Stockholm: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Stockholm, the capital city of Sweden, offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a blend of history, culture, and nature. Explore the enchanting Old Town (Gamla Stan) and its narrow cobblestone streets, adorned with colorful buildings, quaint shops, and charming cafes. Visit Djurgarden, a large green island that is home to several family-friendly attractions, including the famous Vasa Museum and the delightful Grona Lund amusement park.