Stockholm is a city spread across 14 islands and all that ocean and cityscape makes for some of the most incredible views you can imagine.
Stockholm’s cityscape is dominated by church spires rather than towering skyscrapers, making a super picturesque skyline that’s a dream for photographers. Whether you’re using your camera or phone, you’re in for a treat at any of these views of Stockholm Sweden.
With each season in Stockholm, these views become different. You might get trees of autumn colours, snowy rooftops and pavements, and perhaps sparkling waters on a sunny day. You’ll find amazing views in Stockholm from various places – atop buildings, from scenic lookouts, during a leisurely walk, or even unexpectedly around a corner, in a church square, or while boating from island to island.
These insider tips from our favourite places to get a nice view in Stockholm will guide you to the best spots for an unforgettable visual experience of Stockholm.
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Map of the best views of Stockholm
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Where to find the best views of Stockholm City
Katarinahissen
Katarinahissen, or the Katarina Lift, is a famous viewpoint in Stockholm. Although it was originally opened in 1883 to connect the higher and lower parts of Södermalm, the lift itself isn’t operational now but its viewing deck is still accessible.
From here you’ll get a stunning view of Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town, known for its beautiful architecture and colourful buildings. You’ll also see Slussen where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea and the island of Södermalm as well.
Getting to this Stockholm viewpoint is easy. Just take the tunnelbana to Slussen, and look for the door marked “Gondolen”. From there, you’ll take a lift and then climb a flight of stairs to reach the outdoor terrace. Be sure to check out the Slussen viewpoint too.
The Katarinahissen viewing platform is open year round, but it’s particularly enjoyable in the summer when there’s an open-air bar. It’s a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy a drink after work. If you’re visiting Katarinahissen in winter, be prepared for chilly winds.
Fjällgatan
Fjällgatan or the Balcony of Stockholm, is another great Stockholm viewpoint.
This view is on Stigberget between Erstagatan and Renstiernas streets at Katarinavägen and stands at 27.8 meters above the city offering a pretty unique vantage point.
From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view over Stockholm of Saltsjön, Gamla Stan, Norrmalm, Skeppsholmen, and Djurgården.
It’s not only a great place for soaking up the views of the city, but also for enjoying the beauty of the old houses some dating back to the 1700s, and popping into the cafes to indulge in Fika. Or, save your appetite for the Fjällgatan Kaffestuga café right by the viewpoint.
Fjällgatan is just a short walk from Slussen’s metro station along Katarinavägen and is beautiful throughout the year.
Skeppsholmen Viewpoint
Skeppsholmen is one of the smaller islands of Stockholm. It has some great views of the Royal Palace and the harbour.
The highest point on the island is well worth walking up to as it’s a great spot to watch boats glide in and out of the harbour. There’s a leafy area outside the Östasiatiska Museet (Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities) which is one of the best spots for photos.
Walking over the Skeppsholmen bridge, and the pedestrian path around the island, offers more great views including of Gröna Lund Amusement Park.
After you’re done enjoying the beautiful views it’s also worth visiting the Moderna Museet which has works by Pablo Picasso.
Monteliusvägen
Monteliusvägen is a scenic pathway that offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city. This 500-meter-long walking path in the Södermalm neighbourhood is one of the best places in the city to visit while enjoying the sights.
To get here make your way to the Mariatorget subway station on the red line. Then it’s just a short walk up Blecktornsgränd to the entrance of Monteliusvägen.
Along Monteliusvägen, you’ll find plenty of terraces and park benches, where you can pause to take in the views or for a leisurely picnic.
There are also lots of historic houses and once you get to Monteliusvägen you’ll get amazing views of Riddarfjärden, the Old Town (Gamla Stan), and more.
It’s a particularly stunning viewpoint at sunset when the city lights twinkle against the evening sky. Stay to get the best view of Stockholm at night.
Västerbron
Västerbron (the “west bridge”) connects Långholmen and Kungsholmen islands and is also a great spot for a pretty view over Stockholm. While it’s not as high as some other Stockholm viewpoints in the city it’s definitely worth visiting.
It’s also a great place for doing some people-watching as people make their way from one side of the bridge to the other.
It’s one of the best views in Stockholm, especially on a sunny day.
Skansen
Skansen is an open-air museum that opened in 1891 and gives you an insight into the history of the city. This area is also close to some of the best hiking areas in Stockholm.
The museum showcases life in Sweden before the industrial era, with historical buildings and real-life dwellings. You’ll even find people dressed in period costumes, ready to share stories about the past. As well as different events throughout the year to attend.
Though this isn’t an elevated viewpoint, Skansen is one of the best in Stockholm for panoramic views. Depending on where you are in the park, the views change.
Near Lill-Skansen, you can gaze upon Östermalm and Gärdet. Alternatively, standing next to the Solliden Stag gives you a view over Saltsjön and towards Södermalm. This beautiful place in Stockholm is well worth a visit.
It goes to show you don’t need to climb a building to appreciate Stockholm’s beauty!
Katarinavägen
Katarinavägen is a hidden gem for breathtaking views in Stockholm. Stretching for over 600 meters, this street offers panoramic views across the water. You’re also near Södra Teatern which is worth checking out too.
Start from the Slussen tunnelbana station and head east along Katarinavägen and in a few minutes, you’ll see why it’s a favorite spot for both local photographers and visitors to Stockholm.
To your left, you’ll be treated to views of the Baltic Sea and several central islands of the city. Look east, and you’ll spot the charming Old Town and there are also views of Gröna Lund amusement park.
For those who love exploring, a walk all the way to Fjällgatan offers even more variations of these stunning views.
The best part? Katarinavägen isn’t a typical tourist spot since it’s a regular street, making it an ideal location for a peaceful, scenic walk, no matter the time of year.
Skinnarviksberget
If you’re in Södermalm be sure to add Skinnarviksberget to your itinerary. It’s not just a popular viewpoint in Stockholm but also a favourite local hangout. You should ask to come here if you take a customised walking tour in Stockholm.
Just take the tunnelbana to Zinkensdamm and walk for about five minutes to get there and you’ll find yourself at the city’s highest natural point, offering stunning views. It’s also the perfect spot for a picnic or just to soak in the sights.
From here, you can see Riddarfjärden, Norr Mälarstrand, the Old Town, Stockholm City Hall, and numerous churches.
Whether you end up visiting this spot during New Year’s Eve fireworks or in the spring, Skinnarviksberget offers a unique perspective of the city throughout the year.
Skyview from the Avicii Arena
Skyview is a popular attraction in Stockholm that gives you a new way to see the city.
Essentially it’s an elevator ride that takes you to the top of the Avicii Arena, previously known as Globen. What’s cool about the arena (besides the events that take place here) is that it’s the world’s largest-scale model of the Solar System, representing the sun.
You get such a cool view from here including on the journey up in the gondolas.
The ride costs between 130-170 SEK, and it’s free for children up to 4 years old. The gondolas to Stockholm view from the top leave every 10 minutes, and the entire tour takes about 30 minutes.
Vanadislunden
Vanadislunden is on the northern edge of Stockholm’s inner city and here you’ll find a picturesque park on a hill.
This quiet spot offers a fantastic view over Östermalm, Vasastan, and the northern municipalities surrounding Stockholm.
It’s a perfect place to enjoy a panoramic cityscape while surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
Bellevue Park
Bellevue Park in the Vasastan district of Stockholm is a beautiful green area where you’ll get some great views of Lake Brunnsviken.
Designed by Fredrik Magnus Piper, the royal landscape architect in the late 18th century, this park features beautiful English gardens.
Today, it’s part of the Urban National Park (Kungliga nationalstadsparken) and is one of our favourite places for a walk in the city.
Stockholm City Hall
Stockholm City Hall is a fantastic spot for soaking in the views of Stockholm’s skyline.
For around 50 SEK, you can access this iconic building, located on the eastern tip of Kungsholmen island.
The highlight? Climbing the 365 steps to the tower’s top, standing at 106 meters high, you’re rewarded with a 360° panoramic view of the city, the neighboring islands, and the entire archipelago.
The City Hall is more than just a viewpoint as it’s also a beautiful building full of Swedish history and culture. Inside, you’ll find grand conference rooms, offices, and ceremonial halls, including the venue for the Nobel Prize banquet.
The Stockholm Tower View is open from May to September and tickets are limited so it’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and ensure you get a chance to climb to the top.
Hammarbybacken
Hammarbybacken is outside of the city center but is Stockholm’s largest hill (albeit manmade).
In winter, this ski slope is one of the best places for skiing in Stockholm itself. Then, in summer, it’s great for mountain biking lovers.
The top of Hammarbybacken offers you stunning views over the southern part of Stockholm while enjoying some fun adventures.
Observatorielunden Park
Observatorielunden Park on a hill in Vasastan is where you’ll find an astronomical research institute as well as one of the best views of Stockholm.
As you wander through the park, you’ll discover numerous great viewpoints of the city and besides that, it’s just a lovely place for a walk in the city.
Evert Taubes Terrace
Evert Taubes Terrace so called after beloved Swedish troubadour Evert Taube, is a picturesque spot on the western side of Riddarholmen. It’s a great place to visit on a warm summer evening, especially as the sun begins to set.
From here, you’re at the same level as Lake Mälaren, so you get great views across the water. You can also see the Stockholm City Hall, Münchenbryggeriet, and the coastline of Södermalm.
The terrace is open most of the year, but the best time for a visit is definitely during summer.
Views of Stockholm from the Water
Discover Stockholm from a new perspective by taking a shuttle boat ride between Gamla Stan and Djurgården.
Departing every 20 minutes, this boat gives you a fresh take on the city. Things always look different from the water, and as you leave Gamla Stan, you’re treated to panoramic views of the Old Town and Södermalm.
Between Skeppsholmen and Djurgården, you’ll get to admire Strandvägen’s architecture and the maritime landscapes. The route is dotted with ships moored along the quayside, adding a touch of nautical history to the scenic trip.
Alternatively, explore Stockholm by water from a kayak for a unique view too!
Enjoying the Beauty of Stockholm
Stockholm is full of fantastic views, from quiet places like Evert Taube Terrace to exciting boat rides between the islands. It’s perfect for taking photos or just enjoying the sights.
Whether you love taking pictures, exploring new places, or just seeing pretty things, Stockholm has something for you. The city is a mix of water, buildings, and nature, making it really special.
So, remember to bring your camera, wear comfy shoes, and get ready to see all the beautiful things in Stockholm!
Hannah is the owner and main writer of Outdoor Sweden. Having travelled the world and documented it on ThatAdventurer.co.uk, including 6 years living in Canada, Hannah and her husband have decided to make Sweden their home for the outdoors activities Sweden offers.