Drottningholm Palace Theatre Stockholm
Step into history at the Drottningholm Palace Theatre, a remarkably preserved 18th-century opera house with original stage mechanics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for gardens
Drottningholm Palace Theatre Stockholm
Best Time
Pleasant weather for gardens
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into history at the Drottningholm Palace Theatre, a remarkably preserved 18th-century opera house with original stage mechanics.
"An absolute gem of a theatre, packed with history and lore."
Book Guided Tours
Essential for understanding the theatre's history and unique features.
Scenic Boat Trip
A beautiful way to arrive, especially in summer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Court Theatre
Drottningholm Palace
Step back in time in one of the world's best-preserved 18th-century theatres, still using original stage machinery.
Baroque Gardens
Drottningholm Palace
Wander through stunning, meticulously maintained baroque gardens, a highlight for many visitors.
Chinese Pavilion
Drottningholm Palace
Explore the charming and unique Chinese Pavilion, a delightful surprise within the palace grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Theatre
Getting to Drottningholm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours
Essential for understanding the theatre's history and unique features.
Scenic Boat Trip
A beautiful way to arrive, especially in summer. +1
Check Theatre Access
Access can be brief due to active performances.
Explore the Gardens
Many find the gardens as impressive as the palace itself.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours
Essential for understanding the theatre's history and unique features.
Scenic Boat Trip
A beautiful way to arrive, especially in summer. +1
Check Theatre Access
Access can be brief due to active performances.
Explore the Gardens
Many find the gardens as impressive as the palace itself.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking in the gardens and palace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Drottningholm Palace Theatre as a historical gem, particularly for its remarkably preserved 18th-century stage machinery and authentic atmosphere. The beautiful baroque gardens and the scenic boat trip are also frequently highlighted as major positives. However, some reviewers express disappointment with current tour limitations, including restricted access to the stage and backstage areas, and limited photo opportunities, noting that some information from older guidebooks may no longer be accurate.
"Loved the tour and the history of the theatre. All made of wood and till day they use the old systems !"
Priya Aggarwal
"Warning: Everything Rick Steves says about this theatre is no longer true. 1. They no longer demonstrate the sound making devices or moving sets.
2. You cannot go on the stage, in the pit or backstage at all.
3. It's an active theater, so you can only enter the actual theater for a minute or two. You can't take pictures if there are workers present, which there will be. The guide can't even speak in the theater.
4. Our guide was good but couldn't answer any of the 6 questions I asked.
5. You cannot peek into any of the box seats.
The only good thing about our tour is that we got to see some rooms they normally don't show, so you won't see some of the stuff in these pictures. The only reason I got the backstage pic is because I snuck it.
Save your money."
Rick Schwartz
"What an absolute gem of a theater. This building is packed with history and lore. Legend has it that it sat most abandoned for 100 years and when it was opened again that there was still sheet music on the stands in the pit.
The tour guide was a great story teller. The theater is beautiful with many original features and stage props.
This was the highlight of the castle visit."
Scott Abene
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have a few options! The most common is public transport: take the subway (T-bana) to Brommaplan station, then a short bus ride (lines 176, 177, or 178) to Drottningholm. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, a scenic boat trip from Stockholm (e.g., from City Hall) offers beautiful views of Lake Mälaren and takes about an hour. +1
Yes, many visitors find the boat trip a wonderful experience, offering lovely views and a more relaxed journey compared to public transport. It's particularly recommended during summer. +1
By public transport (subway and bus), the journey from central Stockholm to Drottningholm Palace Theatre typically takes around 30-40 minutes.
Yes, driving is possible, and there is parking available. However, public transport and the boat trip are often preferred by tourists for convenience and the scenic experience.
Absolutely! Public transport is a very convenient way to reach the theatre. The subway and bus combination is efficient and well-used by visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the theatre typically requires a ticket, often around 200 SEK. Combination tickets are available that include access to the Palace, the Chinese Pavilion, and the Court Theatre, offering good value if you plan to see all three.
It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season or if you wish to join a guided tour. This ensures your entry and can save you time waiting in line.
Opening hours vary seasonally and can be affected by performances. It's crucial to check the official Drottningholm Palace website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Some reviews mention closing times around 5:30 PM.
While you can see parts of the palace and grounds, a guided tour is generally required to enter and experience the historic theatre itself. Tours provide essential context and access.
Yes, combination tickets are often available, allowing you to visit the Palace, the Chinese Pavilion, and the Court Theatre on the same day, usually with a boat trip option.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the incredibly well-preserved 18th-century theatre, with its original stage machinery and unique acoustics. You can also explore the palace, the charming Chinese Pavilion, and the extensive baroque gardens.
Photography inside the theatre can be restricted, especially if workers are present or during performances. Some visitors have reported being able to take photos in certain areas, but it's best to follow the guide's instructions.
To see the theatre, palace, and gardens, allocate at least 3-4 hours. If you're taking the boat trip, factor in the travel time as well. Some visitors feel 2-3 hours is enough if focusing on the theatre and gardens.
Absolutely! The baroque gardens are frequently highlighted as a major draw, with many visitors finding them as impressive as the palace itself. They are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Yes, children can enjoy the boat ride to the palace and the unique historical theatre. The expansive gardens also offer space to explore. It's a good experience for families interested in history and unique sights.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the palace and theatre, the Chinese Pavilion, and the expansive baroque gardens offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The theatre's unique interior is also a sought-after shot, though photography rules apply. +1
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around royal residences and heritage sites to protect privacy and the structures. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
Yes, photography inside the theatre can be restricted, especially when workers are present or during performances. Always follow the guide's instructions to avoid issues.
A versatile camera that handles both bright outdoor light for the gardens and lower light conditions inside the theatre would be ideal. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities can also capture great shots.
Definitely! The boat trip offers fantastic views of the Stockholm archipelago and the approach to Drottningholm, making for beautiful scenic photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
The chance to see how performances were staged and experienced centuries ago is a profound historical immersion. Beyond the theatre, the palace itself, as the permanent residence of the Swedish royal family, provides a living connection to Sweden's royal past. 🎭 Art & Culture Aficionados
The chance to witness original stage machinery and understand the acoustics and design of the era is invaluable. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Drottningholm Court Theatre
Visitors are often amazed by the ingenuity of the wooden mechanisms that powered the sets and lighting. Performances are still held here, offering a unique opportunity to experience opera and theatre as it was centuries ago. However, it's important to manage expectations regarding access. Due to its status as an active theatre, visitors might only get a brief viewing of the auditorium during tours, and backstage access or extensive photography might be restricted.
Exploring the Royal Residence and Gardens
The baroque gardens surrounding the palace are a significant attraction, offering a serene and beautiful landscape for visitors to explore. Many visitors rave about the gardens, finding them exceptionally well-maintained and a highlight of their visit.
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