The Best of Stockholm

This guided drive and walk focuses on visits to iconic landmarks and museums that together paint a vivid picture of Sweden’s incomparable capital. The triple-crowned tower of the Stadshuset, Stockholm’s city hall, may be the city’s most iconic symbol. Outside, it’s all about power – inside it’s all about splendor, as you’ll see as you tour its Golden Hall, covered in magnificent mosaics, and Blue Hall, which is not blue but is where the Nobel Prize Banquet is held each year. The island of Djurgården is a sprawling park where Stockholm plays and goes to museums. Here you’ll visit the fascinating Vasa Museum, where the world’s oldest complete ship is the centerpiece. The great Vasa battleship sank to the bottom of Stockholm harbor on its maiden voyage in 1628 and remained there until 1961, when it was salvaged – in some 14,000 pieces – and meticulously reassembled in this museum. Touring the narrow, cobbled streets of Gamla Stan, the city’s immensely colorful Old Town, is best done on foot – you’ll leave the coach behind and walk to the 18th-century Italian-baroque Royal Palace. This cozy 608-room residence took over 60 years to complete, which will be understandable once you have a look around inside.

• Wear layered, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.