Description
Stockholm’s Royal Palace (Kungliga slottet) is located in Gamla Stan, the city’s old town, perched near the waterfront and within walking distance of the Swedish Parliament. Designed in the grand Baroque style by architect Nicodemus Tessin the Younger, it was completed around 1754 after a fire destroyed the original Tre Kronor Castle in 1697. The current palace is one of Europe’s largest royal residences, with over 600 rooms spread across eleven floors, serving both as the King’s official workplace and as a vibrant museum open to the public.
Tourists can explore a wide range of historically rich rooms and exhibitions. Highlights include the Royal Apartments, the Hall of State with Queen Kristina’s silver throne, the Tre Kronor Museum detailing the site’s medieval past, the Treasury with Sweden’s regalia, and Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities, which features a classical sculpture collection. Visitors should also try to catch the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony outside the palace, which includes a military parade and live music—a popular and free experience especially in summer.
The Royal Palace is open year-round, typically from 10:00 to 17:00. Admission costs around 200–220 SEK for adults, with discounts available for students and children aged 7–17; children under 6 enter free. While most areas can be visited without a guide, 45-minute guided tours are available in various languages. Strollers are not permitted inside, but a designated area is provided; large bags must be stored in lockers. Photography is allowed for personal use (no flash or tripods), and food, drinks, and smoking are prohibited. For those visiting multiple royal sites, a membership card is available that offers access to several properties throughout the year.
Location
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Stockholm, Sweden