Stockholm, with its picturesque waterways, medieval alleyways, and colorful buildings, is a city that demands walking. Its compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, revealing hidden corners and stories behind every stone. Whether it’s wandering through the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, cruising along shimmering canals, or uncovering secret legends, Stockholm offers a wealth of walking experiences. We love tours that blend history, local flavor, and a bit of fun, like the Stockholm: Ghost Walk and Historical Tour, which combines eerie tales with amusing storytelling, all within the city’s oldest quarters.
For those who prefer a deep dive into Stockholm’s most iconic sights, the city’s tours are thoughtfully crafted, with options ranging from small group adventures to private custom walks. The city’s manageable size and the lively atmosphere of its streets make every tour feel like an exploration with a friend, not just a guide. Ready to lace up your shoes? Keep reading for a detailed rundown of the top walking tours in Stockholm.
1. Stockholm: Ghost Walk and Historical Tour
At number one, the Stockholm: Ghost Walk and Historical Tour earns its place with a 4.7/5 rating from over 2,200 reviews. This tour is a lively mix of spooky stories, myths, and gruesome tales from Stockholm’s past, set in the city’s oldest streets. Over 1.5 hours, your guide takes you through narrow alleyways and hidden courtyards in the medieval part of town, blending history with a splash of mystery and humor. It’s perfect if you enjoy stories that are slightly spooky but also entertaining.
Guests rave about the guide’s storytelling talent, with comments like “Kaleb made it extraordinary with his theatrical presentation,” and “Chris was very entertaining and funny.” The tour is more humorous than truly frightening, making it suitable for families and kids. The highlight? Exploring Stockholm’s medieval streets and discovering where the city’s legends still linger. For a fun, lighthearted look at Stockholm’s dark past, this tour hits the spot.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those interested in medieval stories, a touch of mystery, and a lively guide who knows how to entertain.
2. Stockholm: Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide
With a 4.7/5 from nearly 840 reviews, this Old Town Walking Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Gamla Stan. Over two hours, a knowledgeable guide leads you through the charming streets, sharing stories about Swedish culture and history. The tour includes stops at iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, Stockholm Cathedral, and the Nobel Museum, along with hidden corners and picturesque squares like Mårten Trotzigs Gränd.
Guests appreciate the punctuality, the mix of facts and anecdotes, and the personal attention. The guide’s tips on local eateries and lesser-known sites add extra value. Because it’s a comprehensive walk through Stockholm’s historic heart, it’s ideal for first-timers who want to get a feel for the city’s soul without rushing.
Bottom Line: A solid, engaging overview of Stockholm’s Old Town, perfect for history lovers and those wanting a well-paced, authentic experience.
3. Stockholm: Old Town Guided Walking Tour (English / Deutsch)
This 2-hour tour, rated 4.8/5 by 338 reviews, is praised for covering all the highlights and hidden gems of Gamla Stan. Guides are fluent in both English and German, making it accessible for diverse travelers. You’ll see famous sights like St. George & the Dragon, Nobel Museum, and Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, while also discovering lesser-known treasures. The itinerary is well-structured, with stops at the Royal Palace, Stockholm Cathedral, and Riddarholmen, giving a thorough look at the history and architecture of the medieval city.
Guests love the detailed explanations, the small group setting, and the opportunity to ask questions freely. The tour’s emphasis on both popular and hidden spots makes it suitable for those who want an immersive experience without missing out on key landmarks.
Bottom Line: Excellent for bilingual travelers and history enthusiasts keen to explore every corner of Gamla Stan.
4. Stockholm: Old Town Private Walking Tour
Offering a personalized experience, the Old Town Private Walking Tour is rated 4.7/5 from hundreds of reviews. This two-hour private tour is tailored to your interests, focusing on legends, landmarks, and personal stories. Your guide takes you through the cobbled streets, passing sites like Riddarholmskyrkan, regal palaces, and the narrowest alley in Stockholm, Mårten Trotzigs Gränd.
Guests praise the flexibility and depth of knowledge, with many saying that the personalized approach made the history come alive for them. It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, in-depth experience or a family wanting to customize the visit. The tour covers key landmarks but adapts the pace to your curiosity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a private, flexible exploration of Stockholm’s Old Town, especially families or couples seeking tailored insights.
5. Stockholm: Old Town Historical Walking Tour
Rated 4.9/5 by 352 reviews, this Old Town Historical Tour is perfect for travelers interested in the city’s medieval roots. Over two hours, an official city guide shares stories of Stockholm’s past, revealing secrets and lesser-known tales. Starting at Mynttorget, you’ll walk through cobblestone streets, discovering hidden corners and iconic sites.
Guests note the “leisurely pace” and “excellent coverage” of Stockholm’s history, making it a favorite for history buffs wanting a relaxed, in-depth introduction. The combination of small group size and guided storytelling ensures you don’t miss the details.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended tour for history lovers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed overview.
6. Stockholm: Swedish Food Guided Walking Tour
For those interested in local flavors, this 4-hour Swedish Food Tour is a delicious way to explore Stockholm. Guests visit markets, sample seafood, meats, and cheeses, and learn about Swedish food traditions. The tour winds through both historic and modern neighborhoods, giving a taste of the city’s culinary scene.
Guests highlight the engaging guide, Cotton, and the quality of tastings, which are well-paced and informative. It’s perfect for food lovers who enjoy immersive experiences and want to understand local culture through cuisine. Note that the tour’s longer duration suits those with a flexible schedule.
Bottom Line: A savory adventure ideal for foodies eager to experience Stockholm’s gastronomic traditions firsthand.
7. Stockholm: Old Town Walking Tour
This 2-hour tour with a 4.4/5 rating visits the core sights of Gamla Stan, including the Royal Castle, Stockholm Cathedral, and Iron Boy. The guide, Sara, is praised for her friendly demeanor and storytelling. The route covers key landmarks and offers insights into medieval Stockholm’s history.
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace, the inclusion of photo stops, and the opportunity to ask questions. It’s great for travelers wanting a quick but informative overview of the city’s historic center.
Bottom Line: Efficient and friendly, suitable for those on a tight schedule but still eager to see the main sights.
8. Stockholm: Private Walking Tour with a Local
This flexible, fully customizable Private Tour allows you to choose your start time and focus areas. Led by a passionate local, the tour explores hidden corners, local stories, and offbeat sites, making it ideal for travelers seeking authenticity.
Rated 4.5/5 from over 290 reviews, guests enjoy the personal approach and insider tips. It’s perfect for travelers with specific interests or those who want a more relaxed, in-depth experience beyond the typical routes.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a personalized, truly local experience of Stockholm’s less touristy spots.
9. Classic Stockholm Small Group Walking Tour | 3 Hours
With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 60 reviews, this Small Group Tour emphasizes intimate storytelling and local insights. In just three hours, you’ll visit the Royal Palace, Stortorget, and other key sites, while your guide shares fascinating anecdotes about Stockholm’s evolution.
Guests praise the personalized attention and the stories that bring history to life. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a detailed, yet relaxed introduction to the city without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Bottom Line: A superb choice for travelers seeking a detailed yet manageable exploration with a small, friendly group.
10. Walking Tour of Stockholm’s Old Town, Gamla Stan
This 2-hour tour, rated 4.5/5, focuses on Gamla Stan’s most iconic sights. Starting at Järnpojke (“Iron Boy”), the tour weaves through Riddarholmen and Prästgatan, showcasing medieval architecture and stories about the city’s founding. Guides are known for their engaging narration and ability to highlight details that often escape the casual observer.
Perfect for those wanting a focused yet scenic walk through Stockholm’s historic heart, this tour balances cultural tales with visual delights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers eager for a concise, scenic stroll with plenty of historical color.
11. Stockholm- A Beauty On The Water: Old Town Walking Tour and Boat Trip Combined
This 3-hour tour with a 5.0/5 rating offers a blend of land and water exploration. Starting in Old Town with a walk through cobblestone streets and monuments like the Royal Palace, you then glide along Djurgårdsbrunn Canal, enjoying Stockholm from a different perspective. It’s a scenic combo perfect for those who want variety and a sense of the city’s layout from both land and water.
Reviewers love the balance of walking and cruising, although some mention the boat trip could benefit from outdoor viewing. Still, it provides a comprehensive view of Stockholm’s historic and modern sides.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a scenic, all-encompassing overview of Stockholm with a touch of adventure.
12. 3-Hour Private Walking Tour in Stockholm
Rated 5.0/5, this private tour offers a tailored experience for up to 10 people, focusing on the city’s most scenic and historic spots. Your guide takes you through Stortorget, the Royal Palace, and the narrowest alley, Marten Trotzigs Gränd, with plenty of personalized stories. The private setting allows for a more relaxed pace and in-depth conversations about Stockholm’s secrets.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and the guide’s ability to adapt the tour to interests. It’s best for travelers wanting exclusivity and a custom approach.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups or couples seeking a bespoke, intimate introduction to Stockholm.
13. Stockholm Syndrome: 3-Hour Private Walking Tour
This 3-hour private walk, rated 4.8/5, covers main sights and secret spots, from Norrmalmstorg—the place where Stockholm syndrome was coined—to the Royal Dramatic Theatre. It’s a well-rounded overview with a focus on both iconic landmarks and hidden corners.
Guests like the knowledgeable guide and the combination of popular and lesser-known sites. It’s suitable for travelers who want an efficient, personalized overview of Stockholm’s highlights with some surprises along the way.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a mix of famous sights and secret stories in a private setting.
How to Choose the Perfect Walking Tour in Stockholm
When deciding on the right walk, consider your budget, time available, and personal interests. For a comprehensive introduction to Stockholm’s history and landmarks, the Classic Stockholm Small Group Walking Tour offers great value for its intimate setting. If you’re after a more personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour or Old Town Private Tour let you tailor your route.
Those interested in local culture and flavors should check out the Swedish Food Guided Walking Tour, which combines delicious tastings with sightseeing. For a fun twist, the Ghost and Historical Tour is perfect if you like stories that are a little spooky with a humorous edge.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, as many tours fill up quickly. Think about your preferred pace, whether you want a quick overview or a deep dive, and pick a tour that matches your curiosity level.
Stockholm’s compact size and walkable neighborhoods make it a perfect city for exploring on foot. Whether you prefer a deep historical dive, a private tailored experience, or a tasty culinary adventure, the options above cover all tastes. Two standout choices are the Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide for its engaging storytelling or the A Beauty On The Water Tour for a scenic, varied perspective. Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable walks.