Gamla Stan

Overview

Gamla Stan (Old Town) is Stockholm's medieval island core—narrow cobblestone lanes, saffron-coloured buildings, and Stortorget square. The Royal Palace, cathedral, Nobel Prize Museum, and a maze of craft shops and restaurants pack its compact streets.

Highlights

• Stortorget: The main square with colourful 17th-century facades.
• Mårten Trotzigs Gränd: Stockholm's narrowest alley, just 90 cm wide.
• Storkyrkan: The 13th-century cathedral with St. George and the Dragon.

History

Founded in the 13th century, Gamla Stan was all there was of Stockholm until the 17th century. The 1520 'Stockholm Bloodbath' (Danish King Christian II executed Swedish nobles in Stortorget) was a pivotal moment.

Visitor Tips

• Morning walks: The narrow streets are magical before 10:00.
• Fika: Grab a kanelbulle (cinnamon roll) at Grillska Huset on Stortorget.
• Duration: 1–2 hours.