Visiting Stockholm During Northern Lights Holidays

The natural phenomenon that entices so many people to embark on Northern Lights holidays in the first place is an experience that is truly unforgettable. However, while enjoying the natural beauty of Sweden's remote locations to see the Aurora Borealis, it is well worth the planning to spend a few days in Stockholm as well. Stockholm is an exciting and bustling city with numerous attractions, museums and restaurants to keep you well entertained.

Home of the Aurora Borealis

Many Northern Lights holidays are based in remote Swedish Lapland, for the obvious reasons of more unobstructed viewing opportunities. Far away from the city lights, the magnificent Aurora Borealis takes over the night sky, stunning visitors with the dancing spectacle. Popular destinations for sightings include Abisko and the Lulea Archipelago. Both areas are renowned for their natural beauty and visitors have the opportunity to stay in the famed Tree Hotel or Ice Hotel during their holiday there.

Faster-Paced Excitement

However, after the tranquillity of viewing the Northern Lights, holidays in Sweden can become a little faster paced by heading into the country’s capital city, Stockholm. Stockholm can be reached either by a short flight or by a few days' road-trip. Once in the city the options are endless. Many visitors begin their exploration of the city's sights with a boat or bus tour. These tours are helpful to get the lay of the land in the city streets as well as narrowing down the places you wish to visit for a more in-depth experience.

Must-See Museums

On the top of most visitors' lists is Stockholm’s Vasa Museum. The Vasa Museum is home to an amazing 400-year-old ship found in the harbour, which has been painstakingly restored to its former glory. Over 95% of the 17th century ship is made up of original material, and its intricate carvings and sculptures make it awe-inspiring piece of art in itself. The museum offers various exhibitions situated around the ship for visitors to learn about life on-board and there is also a shop and a restaurant.

More Modern Appeal

For lovers of contemporary works of art, Stockholm’s Fotografiska Museum, which opened in 2010, is considered one of the world's best collections of modern photographic art. The museum holds four major exhibitions annually, in conjunction with approximately 20 smaller ones. The souvenir and bookshop are worth a visit, as is the museum’s rooftop bar, which offers some wonderful views of the city.

Stockholm offers many other sights and scenes of interest including The Nobel Museum, and a tour based on the best-selling Millennium Trilogy novels, by Steig Larsson, whose stories were based in Stockholm and the surrounding area. Travellers to Sweden on Northern lights holidays should definitely take the opportunity to explore the country’s fascinating capital city as well.