The districts of Stockholm: Discover gorgeous Djurgården

The park grounds of Royal Djurgården

The largest part of the island is taken up by the park, that is often referred to as the lungs of Stockholm. The entire island was acquired by King Karl Knutsson in the 15^th century, when it was called Walmund’s Island. At the end of the 16^th century King Johan III turned it into a hunting park, for which he purchased both reindeer and deer.

Today, the park includes a Memorial Park, which includes several monuments honouring both Swedes and people from around the world. Also within the grounds is a Sculpture Park, that is continuing to add new pieces to its collection. One of the best ways to explore the park is with the Royal Walks App, which offers several walks through the park and includes guides to some of the must visit sights, including historical landmarks in the park.

Not to miss attractions on Djurgården

The biggest attraction on the island is Gröna Lund. Not only does this amusement park offer lots of rollercoasters, thrill rides and competitive games, it also has live concerts to enjoy! The park is not open every day from late spring to September and opens again for the Halloween season and Christmas.

For the little ones Djurgården offers Junibacken, where children find themselves in their favourite story book worlds. Here children are free to play and explore, and make a mess if they want to. All the exhibitions and installations at Junibacken are created to give kids the chance to discover the magic that can be found between the pages of a book.

Top rated museums on Djurgården

The island is home to numerous excellent museums, offering unique insights into history, art, and culture. Among the excellent history museums is Skansen Open-air Museum, where Swedish rural life from before the industrial age comes to life before your eyes. Other not to miss history museums on Djurgården include the Vasa Museum, Nordiska Museet and the Viking Museum.

Beautiful art is on display at Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde, the formal royal residence includes an art gallery and a gardens with extraordinary sculptures. For more contemporary art, the Liljevalchs Konsthall is the place to go. And true Swedish culture is on display at ABBA The Museum, and the Spritmuseum which explores the history of alcohol and its impact on Swedish culture.