Drottningholm Palace

Overview

Drottningholm Palace is the private residence of the Swedish royal family, a 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage palace on Lovö island. Its Baroque garden, Chinese Pavilion, and 1766 Court Theatre are remarkably well-preserved.

Highlights

• Court Theatre: An original 18th-century theatre with functioning hand-operated stage machinery—one of the world's best-preserved Baroque theatres.
• Chinese Pavilion: An 18th-century Rococo-chinoiserie pleasure palace in the grounds.
• Baroque gardens: Formal French parterre gardens with bronze sculptures.

History

Built in 1662 by Nicodemus Tessin the Elder for Queen Hedvig Eleonora. Inspired by Versailles, it has been the royal family's primary residence since 1981.

Visitor Tips

• Boat: The most scenic approach is by steamboat from City Hall (1 hour).
• Theatre performances: Summer opera and theatre in the 1766 theatre—book at dtm.se.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.