Established in the 13th century, this ancient centre is still an exciting place to visit to this day. Steeped in culture, the area remains one of the most popular sites for visitors to the Swedish capital.

But why do so many 21st century tourists revel in its ancient streets?

Stockholm – Gamla Stan (Old Town), Sweden by Carles Tomas Marta­

The sights

It might be obvious but it’s true. The quarter’s glorious architecture and cobbled streets makes visitors feel like they are treading through history itself.

Organised walking tours are a relatively cheap and fun way to learn about the notable events that have occurred there. And, with the city’s dubious honour of having Sweden’s narrowest alleyway, it means you won’t get lost in the area’s meandering maze of streets.

There are photo opportunities a plenty in the Old Town, with the Brantingtorget Square and Riddarholmen Church, the oldest building in Stockholm, musts to be snapped at.

The Nobel Museum is another draw for tourists. Opened in 2001, it celebrates the history of the Nobel Prize and popularises its ideals. A rotating series of exhibitions means that there is likely to be something that’ll interest everybody in your group.

Stockholm Palace, the equivalent of Britain’s Buckingham Palace, also dominates the Old Town and is a great place to gain a flavour of the area’s culture. Devised by Tessin and Harleman in the 17th century, it is one of the finest and most interesting examples of European palatial design.

Royal Palace, Stockholm, Sweden by Nick Sieger

Food

Things are a bit more modern here than hog roasts and flagons of ale. The Gamla stan now contains some of Stockholm’s finest and most chic dining establishments.

The Frantzen/Lindeberg restaurant gives diners the chance to try something a little bit different. Recommended for those who like to push their culinary boundaries, the food can even come served with an accompaniment of pollen or a music box on the side of the plate.

Djuret, or “The Animal”, gives meat lovers an innovative chance to feel good about themselves, with only one kind of animal served depending on the season, which helps aid sustainability. With meat grinders used as lamps, what’s not to like?

Great hotels

The rejuvenation work carried out in the 20th century means it’s highly unlikely you’ll find yourself in a bad Stockholm hotel. The Old Town offers both budget hostels and more luxurious accommodation, all of which come with the traditional Swedish friendliness and cleanliness.

Despite being located in the historic part of the city, the hotels all tend to come with all the expected modern innovations to help make your stay as enjoyable as possible.

What are you most looking forward to seeing in Stockholm’s Old Town?

Catherine Halsey writes for a digital marketing agency on a range of subjects. This article links back to http://www.radissonblu.com/royalvikinghotel-stockholm

The post The Charm of Stockholm’s Old Town | Sweden appeared first on Best of European Union.

Sunset at Stockholm, Sweden by Olof Senestam

Djurgarden Island

Considered as the top attraction center, the Djurgarden Island is smack in the middle of Stockholm and well appreciated for its events, parks, greenery and many sights and sounds. This island alone handles 10 million visitors every year. A popular 2 hour walking tour takes tourists on a myriad of interesting features of the island.

Grona Lund

Probably a top pick for the entire family, the Grona Lund is an amusement park in Stockholm that is always an excellent spot for tourists. The Tivoli in this amusement park offers a Viking Ship ride the Scandinavian way.

Stockholm Nightlife

Compared to the nightlife of any major metropolitan city in Europe the one in Sweden and in particular Stockholm stands on top. Plenty of bars, discos and all night café offer a lot of drinking and partying for party lovers.

Vasa Museum

A 17^th century Swedish vessel, Vasa was christened and sent on its maiden voyage never to return again. This warship was salvaged after its discovery some time back with its remains brought back intact to the Vasa Museum. Today, this is the only museum exhibiting an intact war ship of the 17^th century. Chosen as one of the 7 Swedish wonders, the museum provides a glimpse into the six different levels of the ship.

Change of guards in the Royal Castle, Stockholm, Sweden by Clemens v. Vogelsang

Guard Changing Of Stockholm

One of the free excitements to witness in Stockholm is the Change of Royal Guards. A 40 minute long event shows over 30,000 guards changing in front of the King’s Royal residence.

Artwork Shopping

Considered as the shopping capital in the North of Europe, Stockholm provides many streets lined with designer shops and bargain points. IKEA, a major Swedish furniture brand is just one of the few shops set up in the city. You can find anything and everything related to Swedish design and styling in its streets from famous and not so famous artists, craftsmen and designers.

Kungstradgarden Ice Skating

For those who visit Stockholm in winter, the Kungstradgarden is a must-visit site. This park offers free ice skating in a city that adores this sport. A major reason why travel guidebooks and websites advise visiting Sweden in winter is because of the many winter activities you can engage in.

The ABBA Museum

This museum is the only ABBA museum in the world and it will receive well over half a million visitors each year. The museum provides a 4000 sq. meter tour of interesting items belonging to ABBA and displayed on three different levels. Stated to open real soon, keep your calendar empty to take this never seen before spectacle in full glory.

Guided Tours of the City

The best way to take in all the splendors spread across 14 islands is to go on a guided tour of the Swedish capital. There are plenty of guides and tour companies around to choose from but it is best to book in advance.

Autor Bio: This article was produced by Catalita G. (the girl standing behind the travel blog Channel Voyager).  On that blog you can read more information about trips and learn how to book a hotel in Stockholm (it is interesting to know that the term in Swedish is boka hotell Stockholm).

The post Stockholm’s Most Popular Attractions | Sweden appeared first on Best of European Union.