A cold winter day in Stockholm can be just as magical as a warm summer one. The air feels crisp, snow (when it falls) softens the city, and the water is always close—so the views are never far away. Winter is also a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds.
Below you’ll find our best tips for things to do in Stockholm in winter—from archipelago boat tours to ice skating right in the city center. At the end of the post, you’ll find a map with all the tips to help you plan your winter day.
Many people think boat season starts in spring, but several tours run in winter too. It’s one of the easiest ways to see a lot in a short time and you get that special winter atmosphere when the archipelago is calm and quiet.
If you’re in Stockholm, a boat trip is a must. On the Stockholm Winter Boat Tour with guide, M/S Angantyr departs from Strömkajen (central Stockholm), heads out past the Fjäderholmarna islands, and returns to the city. On very cold days, you might even feel the boat pushing through ice—weather depending.
Tip: Dress in warm layers, buy a hot drink onboard, and sit outside for a moment if the weather allows. There are warm seat pads and blankets on deck, and plenty of seats indoors as well.
Want to combine winter scenery with something seriously tasty? Then the brunch cruise is a great choice. You’ll enjoy a 3-hour boat trip onboard the classic archipelago vessel S/S Stockholm, while tucking into a generous brunch buffet in a warm, comfortable setting.
This is a favorite with both locals and first-time visitors, and it works just as well on a sunny day as it does in proper winter weather. The boat departs at 12:00 from Strandvägen on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the winter.
If you want to see more of the archipelago, the Stockholm Archipelago Tour comes in two versions, depending on whether you just want a guided experience or a tour that also includes a meal.
Perfect if you want context for what you’re seeing. The onboard guide adds stories and details that make the scenery come alive—especially appreciated by first-time visitors.
If you want the full experience, choose the lunch option. You get archipelago views and a proper break onboard - plus it makes planning your day easier since you don’t need to hunt for restaurants in the city. When you book, you choose between vegetarian, meat, or fish.
Vaxholm is often called the "capital of the archipelago", and a boat trip here is a simple way to get that real archipelago feeling even in winter. You can stay onboard and enjoy the ride - or turn it into a day trip with a walk and lunch or a coffee once you arrive.
If you do that, book a one-way ticket, hop off in Vaxholm, and return to Stockholm by SL bus (or other travel options).
If you want a classic Stockholm winter activity, ice skating is always a safe bet. Kungsträdgården is the most central option—and when the rink is open you can often rent skates on site and even get help with sharpening.
If you just want to get outside for a while, a winter walk is an easy break from the city pace. Great areas for a winter stroll include Djurgården, Vasaparken, Rålambshovsparken, Hagaparken, and Humlegården.
Stockholm has around 60 bridges, and a bridge walk is one of the easiest ways to get beautiful views of both the water and the city. One nice spot is Folke Bernadotte Bridge on Djurgården, crossing the Djurgårdsbrunn Canal between Rosendal and Museiparken.
For viewpoints, Södermalm is hard to beat. Local favorites include Monteliusvägen, Fjällgatan, and Skinnarviksberget.
If you like skiing, Hammarbybacken is surprisingly central. When conditions allow, you’ll find five slopes, a kids’ area, and a Snow Park. The tow lifts take you to the top, where you’ll get a wide view over Stockholm.
Nearby there’s a wind shelter with a grill spot and a simple café/restaurant for a break. You can get there easily by car, tram, bus or even by boat.
Address: Hammarbybacken, 120 66 Stockholm
Winter often lasts into March in Stockholm. Here are some ideas for what to do in January, February, and March.
January is for you if you want the most “real” winter feeling. It’s often cold, clear, and calmer in the city.
What to do in January:
See more tips in our article "Stockholm in January - things to do".
In February the days get longer, but winter is still here. A great month if you want to combine several activities in one day.
What to do in February:
March is often a nice mix of winter and early spring. You can still get winter vibes, but with more daylight and easier walking weather.
What to do in March:
When spring starts to show up in late March, many people head back out on the water. That’s when some of Stockholm’s most loved sightseeing tours return.
This is a guided 50-minute sightseeing tour through the Djurgårdsbrunn Canal and around Djurgården in the Royal National City Park. You’ll see both classic Stockholm views and sights near the Vasa Museum and Waldemarsudde from the water. There’s Wi‑Fi onboard, plus snacks and drinks for purchase.
If you want one tour that covers a lot, this is it. The trip takes about 2 hours 15 minutes, passes under 12 bridges, and includes a lock passage between the Baltic Sea (Saltsjön) and Lake Mälaren - a fun experience if you’ve never done it before. Along the way you’ll see many of Stockholm’s best-known areas from the water, from the city center and Old Town to Södermalm and Kungsholmen, and beyond. Buy your tickets here!
If you’re in Stockholm already in December and want to go all-in on the holiday atmosphere, check out our post Things to do in Stockholm in December for Christmasy activities and winter coziness.
Visiting Stockholm in winter is a unique experience. On the map below you’ll find all the tips in one place, so you can easily plan your winter day.
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