Sigtuna Old Town
Sweden's oldest town, a picturesque medieval gem by Lake Mälaren, rich in Viking history and charming architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Sigtuna Old Town
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sweden's oldest town, a picturesque medieval gem by Lake Mälaren, rich in Viking history and charming architecture.
"Sigtuna is a picture-postcard Sweden, enthralling to just sit, sip a cup of coffee and get soaked in the unique Swedish culture."
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring Sigtuna Old Town!
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
Some attractions, like the Town Hall, may be closed on Mondays. Always check in advance!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stora Gatan (Main Street)
Town Center
Sweden's oldest pedestrian street, lined with charming shops and cafes. A perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and window shopping.

Sigtuna Runestones
Scattered throughout town
Discover ancient Viking inscriptions on runestones, a testament to Sigtuna's rich historical significance.

Sigtuna Town Hall (Rådhuset)
Town Square
A picturesque 18th-century wooden town hall, one of the smallest in the country, offering historical insights.

Sigtuna Museum
Town Center
Explore the town's fascinating history, from its Viking origins to its medieval past, with engaging exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Pace of Sweden's First Town
Discover Runestones and Rich History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring Sigtuna Old Town!
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
Some attractions, like the Town Hall, may be closed on Mondays. Always check in advance!
📸 Capture the Charm
Sigtuna is incredibly picturesque. Bring your camera to capture the historic buildings and waterfront views.
☕ Enjoy a Fika Break
Experience a traditional Swedish 'fika' with coffee and pastries at one of the cozy cafes.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring Sigtuna Old Town!
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
Some attractions, like the Town Hall, may be closed on Mondays. Always check in advance!
📸 Capture the Charm
Sigtuna is incredibly picturesque. Bring your camera to capture the historic buildings and waterfront views.
☕ Enjoy a Fika Break
Experience a traditional Swedish 'fika' with coffee and pastries at one of the cozy cafes.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Street
Wander off Stora Gatan to discover hidden alleys and charming residential areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sigtuna Old Town for its picturesque charm, rich Viking history, and tranquil atmosphere. Many highlight the well-preserved architecture and the opportunity to step back in time. Some note that certain attractions might have limited hours or be closed on specific days, and parking can be challenging during peak times.
"Acclaimed as the birthplace of Sweden, Sigtuna is a quaint town north of Sweden, around 30 minutes from University Town Uppsala and 15 mins from Arlanda airport. Embellished with nordic town landscape, it offers a wide gamut of places to visit such as Sigtuna Radhus, ST Olaf’s church ruins, Sigtuna Museum etc. Apart from visiting these places, Sigtuna has the vibes of a picture postcard Sweden, enthralling to just sit, sip a cup of coffee and get soaked in the unique Swedish culture, those mesmerising cobbled lanes and ducks paddling in the crystal clear river water."
Arnab Pal
"When we visited the square was in renovation so I didn’t even noticed it😂 Of course I missed the entrance. I have a photo from the back, taken when I was wondering the streets😂"
Andreea Daniela Dinulescu
"It’s free. It smells of old wood (mmmmm!) and has plenty of historical information to read, both in Swedish & English. Expand your mind, smell old stuff."
Barbara ELSE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sigtuna Old Town is easily accessible from Stockholm. You can take a bus (e.g., bus 595) from Märsta station, which is reachable by commuter train from Stockholm Central Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. Some visitors also opt for a taxi or a pre-booked transfer for convenience.
Yes, Sigtuna Old Town is very close to Arlanda Airport (ARN), about a 15-minute drive. This makes it a convenient stop for travelers arriving or departing from Stockholm.
Driving to Sigtuna Old Town is possible, and there are parking areas available. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak season, and the town center is best explored on foot.
Sigtuna Old Town is a compact and walkable area. Public transport is primarily for reaching Sigtuna from other cities. Once there, walking is the best way to explore.
For a day trip from Stockholm, taking the commuter train to Märsta and then a bus to Sigtuna is a popular and efficient option. It allows you to experience the charm without the hassle of driving and parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sigtuna Old Town itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. You can wander freely through its streets and admire the historic buildings.
Yes, there is typically a small admission fee for the Sigtuna Museum. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing and opening hours.
Guided tours are often available, especially during the summer months. These tours can provide deeper insights into the town's history and significance. Inquire at the local tourist information center or check online.
While the town is always accessible, specific attractions like the Sigtuna Museum and Town Hall have their own operating hours. The Town Hall, for instance, is often closed on Mondays.
Absolutely! The runestones are scattered throughout the town and are freely accessible for viewing and exploration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key historical sites include the Sigtuna Runestones, the ruins of St. Olaf's Church and St. Per's Church, the historic Town Hall, and the Sigtuna Museum.
Stora Gatan, the main street, offers a delightful array of independent boutiques, craft shops, souvenir stores, and local artisan products.
Sigtuna is incredibly photogenic! The charming cobblestone streets, colorful wooden houses, waterfront views, and ancient ruins provide endless photo opportunities.
Families can enjoy exploring the runestones, visiting the museum, having a picnic by the lake, and simply wandering the picturesque streets. The town's compact size makes it easy for kids to navigate.
While the cobblestone streets can be challenging, much of the main area is relatively flat. The Sigtuna Museum is generally accessible. It's advisable to check specific accessibility for individual attractions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Sigtuna offers a variety of dining options, from cozy cafes serving traditional Swedish pastries (fika) to restaurants with local and international cuisine. Tant Bruns Kaffestuga is a popular spot.
Look for Swedish meatballs, gravlax (cured salmon), and of course, 'semla' (a sweet cardamom bun) if you visit during the right season. Enjoying a 'fika' with coffee and a pastry is a must.
Many cafes and restaurants in Sigtuna are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to ask the staff about their current menu.
Yes, there are lovely spots along the waterfront or in designated park areas where you can enjoy a picnic. It's a great way to experience the scenery.
Dining prices can vary. Cafes for fika are generally affordable, while sit-down restaurants might be mid-range. Expect prices to be comparable to other tourist destinations near Stockholm.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire town is a photographer's dream! Focus on Stora Gatan, the waterfront, the church ruins, and the runestones. The charming wooden houses and cobblestone streets are particularly photogenic.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light. Midday can be bright, but the historic buildings still look great. Autumn colors also provide stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's essential to check with the local authorities or tourist information regarding drone policies in residential and historical areas to avoid any issues.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing street scenes and wider views. A prime lens can be useful for low-light conditions or detailed shots of architecture.
The narrow cobblestone streets can be challenging to photograph without people. Patience and timing are key to capturing empty street shots. Also, watch out for the uneven ground!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during warmer months when outdoor activities are more enjoyable. The charming shops also offer unique souvenirs that kids might enjoy. The overall relaxed atmosphere ensures a stress-free outing for the whole family.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Engage in the local 'fika' culture by visiting a cafe and observing daily life, or strike up conversations with locals if the opportunity arises. The Sigtuna Museum offers a deep dive into the history, providing ample material for contemplation. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in history and tranquility.
📸 Photographers
Aim for the golden hours around sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Autumn, with its vibrant foliage, provides a particularly beautiful backdrop. Don't forget to explore the smaller alleys for unique perspectives and capture the charm of everyday life in this ancient town.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Viking History
Beyond the runestones, the ruins of medieval churches, such as St. Olaf's and St. Per's, dot the landscape, hinting at Sigtuna's former importance as a religious and administrative center. The Sigtuna Museum provides a comprehensive overview of the town's archaeological finds and historical narrative, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts.
Exploring Sigtuna is like stepping back in time. The blend of natural beauty along Lake Mälaren and the tangible remnants of its Viking and medieval eras create a unique and immersive historical experience.
The Charm of Sigtuna's Architecture and Streets
The town's layout itself is a delight to explore. Its cobblestone streets wind through the historic center, leading to hidden courtyards and scenic viewpoints. The Sigtuna Town Hall (Rådhuset), a beautiful 18th-century wooden structure, stands as a focal point in the town square and is noted as one of the smallest in Sweden.
Beyond the main thoroughfares, venturing into the smaller alleys reveals even more of Sigtuna's architectural charm. The overall atmosphere is one of tranquility and timeless beauty, enhanced by its location by the serene waters of Lake Mälaren.
Experiencing 'Fika' and Local Flavors
Beyond fika, the town's restaurants and cafes serve a range of Swedish and international dishes. Visitors can savor local specialties, and many establishments are increasingly catering to diverse dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Enjoying a meal or a coffee by the lake or on a sun-drenched terrace is a quintessential Sigtuna experience. It's a chance to relax, soak in the atmosphere, and truly appreciate the local culture and flavors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit