Stortorget - Beach Atmosphere - Wallpaper/Background - Abstract image made with long shutter speed
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Stortorget

4.6
·491k reviews·, Sweden

Stockholm's oldest square, Stortorget, captivates with its iconic colorful buildings and rich history, serving as the heart of Gamla Stan.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Stortorget - Beach Atmosphere - Wallpaper/Background - Abstract image made with long shutter speed

Stortorget

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Stockholm's oldest square, Stortorget, captivates with its iconic colorful buildings and rich history, serving as the heart of Gamla Stan.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The most beautiful square in Stockholm, a must-see for its history and charm!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Colors

The vibrant buildings are a photographer's dream! Visit early for fewer people.

💧 Drink from the Pump

Yes, the water from the Stortorget pump is safe to drink! A local tradition.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Nobel Prize Museum

The Nobel Prize Museum

Stortorget Square

Explore the history of Nobel laureates and groundbreaking discoveries. A must-see for intellectual curiosity.

Colorful Buildings

Colorful Buildings

Stortorget Square

Admire the iconic, brightly colored facades that define this historic square. Perfect for a postcard-worthy shot.

Gamla Stan Charm

Gamla Stan Charm

Surrounding Stortorget

Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Stockholm's Old Town, just steps from the square.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Atmosphere

Stortorget is Stockholm's oldest square, a vibrant hub perfect for soaking in history. Arrive early to beat crowds and capture that iconic photo. Don't miss the Nobel Prize Museum here!

Navigating Gamla Stan

Stortorget is nestled in Gamla Stan (Old Town). Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets. Many shops and cafes are here, but some Redditors warn of tourist traps, so be discerning.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Evening
Why
Magical ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you visited #stockholm 🇸🇪? #sverige #svenska #stockholmtravel #sweden #scandinavia #amsterdamlocal #culturaldifference #skansen #östermalm #södermalm #gamlastan #europe #touristrap
@whereiswanda
61.8K likes • 866.3K views

📸 Capture the Colors

The vibrant buildings are a photographer's dream! Visit early for fewer people. TikTok

💧 Drink from the Pump

Yes, the water from the Stortorget pump is safe to drink! A local tradition. Reddit

🇸🇪Must visit spots in Stockholm, Sweden⬇️🇸🇪 • • 1. Stockholm Parliament 2. Kungliga Slottet (Royal Palace + Changing of Guards) 3. Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan) 4. Stortoget Square 5. Prästgatan 6. German Church (Tyska Kyrkan) 7. Mosebacketerrassen 8. Katharina Elevator 9. Katarina Kyrka 10. Mäster Mikaels Gata 11. Fjällgatan 12. Sofia Kyrka 13. SOFO (South of Folkungagatan) 14. Hornsgatan 1...
@tworoamtheworld
37K likes • 417.3K views
Dr. Maynard är här! Tal vid 14:00 på Stortorget!!!
healthworkers4palestinesweden
492 likes • 6.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond

Don't just see Stortorget; wander the charming alleys of Gamla Stan. TikTok

💡 Avoid Tourist Traps

Be mindful of overpriced souvenirs and restaurants in the immediate vicinity. TikTok

@nickmaynard.surgeon holding a speech at @palestinadagen_ in Malmö #stortorget in the presence of and through the arrangement by @palmed.sweden @amnestymalmo_palestine @healthworkers4palestinesweden @palestinagruppenmalmo ❤️
anaazucenaluz
697 likes • 6.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Colors

The vibrant buildings are a photographer's dream! Visit early for fewer people. TikTok

💧 Drink from the Pump

Yes, the water from the Stortorget pump is safe to drink! A local tradition. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond

Don't just see Stortorget; wander the charming alleys of Gamla Stan. TikTok

💡 Avoid Tourist Traps

Be mindful of overpriced souvenirs and restaurants in the immediate vicinity. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Stortorget is universally loved for its picturesque beauty and historical significance, offering a quintessential Stockholm experience. Visitors rave about the iconic colorful buildings and the vibrant atmosphere of Gamla Stan. Some find the immediate vicinity can be a bit touristy with higher prices, but the charm of the square and its surroundings generally outweigh these concerns.

What People Like

Iconic colorful buildings
Historic atmosphere
Central Gamla Stan location

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Tourist-oriented pricing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Stortorget is easily accessible via public transport. Take the T-bana (subway) to Gamla Stan station, and you'll be just a short walk away. Many visitors also arrive by ferry or cruise ship, with Stortorget being a central point in the Old Town. TikTok+1

Absolutely! Stortorget is centrally located within Gamla Stan, making it a convenient starting or ending point for exploring the Royal Palace, Stockholm Cathedral, and other historic sites on foot. TikTok

The most efficient way is to take the Arlanda Express train to Stockholm Central Station, then transfer to the T-bana (Green or Red line) to Gamla Stan station. Taxis are also available but more expensive. TikTok

Driving directly to Stortorget is not recommended as Gamla Stan has restricted traffic. It's best to park in a nearby garage and walk, or utilize public transport. TikTok

Yes, bike rental stations are available throughout Stockholm, and you can cycle to the vicinity of Stortorget. However, cycling within the narrow streets of Gamla Stan might be challenging during peak times. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Stortorget itself is a public square and is free to enter and explore. You only need tickets for attractions located within or around the square, such as the Nobel Prize Museum. TikTok

Stortorget is always open as it's an outdoor public space. However, the surrounding shops and the Nobel Prize Museum have their own operating hours, which vary. TikTok

Yes, there is an admission fee for the Nobel Prize Museum. It's advisable to check their official website for current ticket prices and to book in advance, especially during peak season. TikTok

Stortorget often hosts seasonal markets, especially around Christmas, and sometimes features street performers. Keep an eye on local event listings for any special happenings during your visit. TikTok

Absolutely! Photography is encouraged at Stortorget. The colorful buildings and historic atmosphere make it a very photogenic spot. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Stortorget is Stockholm's oldest public square, renowned for its iconic, brightly colored 17th-century buildings and its historical significance, including being the site of the Stockholm Bloodbath. It's also home to the Nobel Prize Museum. TikTok

You can admire the architecture, visit the Nobel Prize Museum, enjoy a coffee at a cafe, and soak in the historic atmosphere. It's a great starting point for exploring Gamla Stan. TikTok

Stortorget can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season and around midday. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can offer a more relaxed experience. TikTok+1

Public restrooms are available in the vicinity of Stortorget, often within cafes or near tourist information points. It's advisable to ask locally for the nearest facilities. TikTok

While the square itself is relatively flat, the surrounding cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan can be challenging for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues. The Nobel Prize Museum is generally accessible. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are numerous cafes and restaurants surrounding Stortorget, offering traditional Swedish cuisine and international options. Be aware that some can be tourist-oriented and pricier. TikTok+1

You can find classic Swedish dishes like meatballs, herring, and salmon. Many places also offer pastries and coffee, perfect for a fika break. TikTok

While many restaurants directly on the square are more upscale, exploring the smaller side streets of Gamla Stan can reveal more affordable cafes and eateries. Street food options might also be available depending on the season. TikTok+1

Yes, 'fika' (a coffee and pastry break) is a Swedish institution! Many charming cafes around Stortorget offer delicious pastries like cinnamon buns and cardamom buns. TikTok

Yes, tap water in Stockholm is of excellent quality and safe to drink. You can refill your water bottle freely. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire square is a photo opportunity! Focus on the colorful facades, the Nobel Prize Museum, and the narrow alleys leading off the square for classic Gamla Stan shots. TikTok

Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the square's beauty. Evenings can be magical with the lights, but can also be busier. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near historical sites in Stockholm. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

Any camera, from a smartphone to a DSLR, can capture great shots. A wide-angle lens is useful for fitting the colorful buildings into the frame. TikTok

Photography rules can vary inside museums. Typically, non-flash photography is allowed for personal use, but it's best to check the museum's specific guidelines upon entry. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Stortorget offers a visually stimulating experience for children with its brightly colored buildings. The Nobel Prize Museum, while educational, might be more engaging for older children interested in science and history. TikTok

Exploring the narrow streets of Gamla Stan can feel like an adventure for kids. Consider a 'fika' break with kid-friendly pastries. Be mindful of the cobblestones, which can be tricky for strollers, and the crowds, which can make it challenging to keep a close eye on little ones. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Stortorget itself is free to visit, making it an excellent budget-friendly attraction. The Nobel Prize Museum has an entrance fee, so prioritize if your budget is tight. TikTok

To save money on food, avoid the restaurants directly on the square. Instead, explore the side streets of Gamla Stan for more affordable cafes and bakeries. Bringing a reusable water bottle to refill from the Stortorget pump is also a great money-saver. TikTokReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Stortorget is a photographer's paradise with its iconic colorful facades. Visit early in the morning for the best light and to avoid crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots. TikTok

Experiment with different angles, focusing on the architectural details and the vibrant hues. The surrounding alleys of Gamla Stan also offer fantastic photographic opportunities, especially with their charming textures and narrow perspectives. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Stortorget, meaning 'The Great Square,' is the oldest square in Stockholm and the heart of Gamla Stan. Its picturesque, colorful buildings, dating back to the 17th century, are a major draw. However, the square also holds a darker history, most notably the Stockholm Bloodbath in 1520, where Swedish nobles were executed by the Danish King Christian II. This event is a stark reminder of the square's historical significance beyond its charming facade. TikTok

The Nobel Prize Museum, located on Stortorget, adds a layer of modern intellectual history to the ancient square. It celebrates the achievements of Nobel laureates and the spirit of innovation that Alfred Nobel's will inspired. Visiting the museum provides a fascinating contrast between the square's medieval past and its contemporary role in recognizing global achievements. TikTok

Many visitors find the juxtaposition of historical events and present-day charm captivating. The square is a living testament to Stockholm's evolution, from its medieval origins to its status as a modern, vibrant capital. TikTok

Experiencing Gamla Stan's Charm

Stortorget is the perfect gateway to exploring Gamla Stan, Stockholm's beautifully preserved medieval old town. The square itself is surrounded by narrow, winding cobblestone streets that invite exploration. Wandering through these alleys, you'll discover hidden courtyards, unique boutiques, and cozy cafes. TikTok

Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestones can be uneven. Many visitors recommend simply getting lost in the labyrinthine streets to find the most charming spots. Look out for the smallest alley, Mårten Trotzigs gränd, which is only 90 cm wide at its narrowest point. TikTok

While the main attractions on Stortorget are essential, the true magic of Gamla Stan lies in its less-trodden paths. Allow ample time to simply stroll, observe the architecture, and soak in the unique atmosphere that has captivated visitors for centuries. TikTok+1

The Stortorget Water Pump Tradition

A unique and often surprising aspect of Stortorget is its water pump. Contrary to what some might assume, the water from this pump is indeed safe to drink. Local lore and many visitors confirm that it's a long-standing tradition to drink from it, with guides often assuring its potability. Reddit

This tradition adds a quirky, authentic touch to the visitor experience. It’s a small detail that connects you to the local culture and history of the square. So, if you're feeling thirsty and adventurous, don't hesitate to take a sip! Reddit

It's a simple yet memorable experience that many travelers share, highlighting the practical and enduring aspects of life in this historic part of Stockholm. Reddit

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