Things to Do in Stockholm in October – Top Autumn Activities

Visiting Stockholm in October? You’re in for a treat. The Swedish capital transforms into a cozy, colorful city filled with crisp air, golden leaves, and exciting seasonal events. Whether you're into scenic boat tours, family-friendly outings, Viking experiences, or simply want to enjoy the fall colors - Stockholm has something for everyone.

Here's your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Stockholm in October – from brunch cruises and nature walks to spooky Viking festivals and local culture. Don’t miss the interactive map at the end of the post!

Brunch Cruise in the Archipelago – A Fall Favorite

Start your weekend with one of Stockholm’s most popular autumn activities – a brunch cruise through the archipelago. Every Saturday and Sunday in October, the elegant ship S/S Stockholm sets sail from Strandvägen. Onboard, you’ll enjoy a generous buffet filled with seasonal dishes, vegetarian options, Swedish classics, and irresistible desserts.

As the boat glides through colorful islands and calm waters, you’ll experience fall in Sweden at its finest.

Departure: Nybrokajen, berth area 16
Time: Saturdays & Sundays at 12:00 (3 hour cruise)

Álfablót – Viking Halloween on Birka Island

Looking for a truly unique Halloween experience? Head to Birka - The viking city during the last weekend of October and take part in Álfablót – a magical Viking festival inspired by Norse mythology.

Meet ancient gods and mystical creatures, have your future read by runes, enjoy traditional crafts and food, and explore the historical Viking settlement with expert guides. It’s a family-friendly event with a mythical twist!

When: October 26–27
Departure: Klara Mälarstrand, berth 3

Read more & book your Birka Viking experience!

Tip: Birka is open on weekends throughout October – perfect for a relaxing boat trip and a peaceful day exploring Viking history in autumn colors.

Evening Dinner Cruise – Cozy Nights on the Water

As the sun sets earlier in October, a dinner cruise becomes one of the most atmospheric ways to experience Stockholm’s archipelago. Step aboard S/S Stockholm for an elegant evening with delicious food and scenic archipelago views. The à la carte menu is crafted by Swedish chef duo Daniel Tingström and Hjalmar Litzén, focusing on seasonal, local ingredients with plenty of vegetarian options. A perfect choice for couples or friends looking for something special.

When: Thursdays–Fridays until Nov 16 at 18:00
Departure: Nybrokajen, berth area 16 a

Shrimp Feast Cruise – Seafood with a View

Love shrimps? Don’t miss the Shrimp Cruise – a local favorite! Cruise through the archipelago, enjoy unlimited eco-labeled shrimp, and take in the fall foliage from the open deck with a drink in hand.

The boat makes a short stop at Vaxholm Fortress, where you can stretch your legs and admire the fortress walls covered in deep red Virginia creeper – a stunning autumn photo spot.

Have you got a sweet tooth? The dessert menu is something you shouldn’t miss.

When: Fridays and Saturdays throughout October at 19:30
Departure: Nybrokajen, berth are 10

Autumn at Skansen – History, Animals & Family Fun

Skansen open-air museum and zoo is a must-visit year-round – and October brings a charming, cozy atmosphere to the park. Discover Swedish traditions, visit the farm animals, explore historic buildings, and let the kids run wild in one of Skansen’s playgrounds.

Don’t miss:

• The apple garden with over 17 varieties of Swedish apples
• Swedish food and coffee at Stora Gungan restaurant
• Cozy souvenirs and autumn goodies in the Skansen shop
  
  

Opening hours: Weekdays 10–15 / Weekends 10–16

Tip: Take the Hop On-Hop Off bus straight to the entrance – easy and scenic! Convenient transport combined with sightseeing around Stockholm city. Strollers can be taken onboard the bus, subject to space availability.

Mushroom Picking – A True Swedish Fall Tradition

Foraging for mushrooms is a beloved autumn activity in Sweden – and it's surprisingly easy to join in. Just grab a basket, pack a picnic, and head into the woods!

You’ll find popular varieties like chanterelles, porcini (Karl-Johan), black trumpets and more. Just make sure you only pick mushrooms you can identify, and bring a guidebook if you’re unsure.

Tips:

• Use a basket or paper bag (never plastic)
• Clean your mushrooms in the forest
• Allemansrätten (Swedish Right of Public Access) lets you roam freely in nature

Want to explore the archipelago while foraging?

Take the Cinderellabåtarna out to scenic islands like Grinda, Vaxholm or Sandhamn - full of mushrooms! 

Ulriksdal Palace Garden – Stroll, Harvest & Enjoy

Looking for a peaceful autumn getaway in Stockholm? Head to Ulriksdal Palace Garden in Solna. Here you’ll find a beautiful outdoor garden, a greenhouse filled with plants, and a charming café serving seasonal dishes and homemade pastries.

Best of all is that you can harvest your own flowers and vegetables in the garden’s "pick-your-own" section, open until the first frost.

Opening hours in October:
Garden shop: Weekdays 10–18 / Weekends 10–17
Café: Weekdays 10–16.30 / Weekends 11–16.30

Map – Your Guide to October in Stockholm

Need help planning your autumn adventures? Use our interactive map to find all these activities and more. From sightseeing cruises and nature escapes to museums and family attractions.