Is Skeppsholmen worth visiting?

Absolutely. It offers some of the best waterfront views in Stockholm and a peaceful escape from the city center. It is a must-visit for history buffs, maritime enthusiasts, and anyone interested in modern art.

What is the best time to do this walking route?

Morning is ideal for capturing the light on the Royal Palace from the bridge. Sunset is also spectacular, as the harbor lights begin to twinkle and the red bricks of the Kastellet glow in the late light.

Can I visit the af Chapman ship?

Yes, you can walk onto the deck of the af Chapman. While it serves as a hostel, the deck area is often accessible for visitors to enjoy the view, and there is a cafe/bar on board during the summer months.

Is the Skeppsholmen walk accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, the majority of the route follows paved, flat paths. The only significant incline is the short path leading up to the Kastellet citadel, but the rest of the island is very accessible.

How do I get to the start of the walk?

The easiest way is to walk from Kungsträdgården or take Bus 65 to the Nationalmuseum stop. The walk begins at the foot of the bridge with the gold crowns.

Are there places to eat on Skeppsholmen?

Yes, there are several options including the restaurant at Moderna Museet, the Hotel Skeppsholmen restaurant, and seasonal cafes near the ship and the bridge.

What are the gold crowns on the bridge called?

They are simply known as the crowns of Skeppsholmsbron. They represent the Swedish monarchy and have become one of the most photographed icons in Stockholm.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step away from the bustling city streets and onto an island where time seems to have slowed down. Skeppsholmen, once the heart of the Swedish Royal Navy, offers a unique blend of military precision and artistic tranquility. This self-guided walk invites you to explore a landscape defined by yellow-plastered barracks, historic shipyards, and some of the most stunning waterfront views in the capital. As you cross the bridge decorated with gilded crowns, you leave the modern city behind to enter a maritime sanctuary that has protected Stockholm for centuries. On this neighborhood stroll, you will discover how a former naval base transformed into a world-class cultural hub. The route takes you past grand administrative buildings where admirals once planned naval maneuvers and leads you to quiet corners where modern art installations now stand among centuries-old fortifications. You will see the iconic full-rigged ship, the af Chapman, and learn about the life of the sailors who once called this island home. The journey culminates at the highest point of the neighboring islet, Kastellholmen, where a red-brick citadel keeps a watchful eye over the Baltic Sea entrance. This route is perfect for those who enjoy maritime heritage and photography. The contrast between the deep blue water, the historic architecture, and the surrounding greenery makes every step a photo opportunity. Whether you are interested in the strategic history of the Swedish Empire or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this walking tour Stockholm provides a comprehensive look at one of the city's most atmospheric districts. Explore independently and at your own pace, uncovering the hidden stories etched into the stone and timber of this historic naval outpost. It is one of the most rewarding ways to experience a walking tour Stockholm without the constraints of a group, allowing you to linger by the water or dive deeper into the island's many museums as you wish.

Highlights

Cross the iconic Skeppsholmsbron bridge with its golden crowns

Admire the Dutch Renaissance architecture of the Admiralty House

Explore the transformation of the Skeppsholmen Church into a modern hall

See the historic af Chapman ship moored alongside former naval barracks

Discover outdoor sculptures surrounding the world-renowned Moderna Museet

Climb to the Kastellet citadel for panoramic views of the Stockholm harbor

Tour Stops (6)

Skeppsholmsbron

Begin your journey at the Skeppsholmsbron, the bridge that connects the mainland to this historic naval island. Completed in 1861, it was the first forged iron bridge in Sweden. Look closely at the center of the bridge to find the famous gilded crowns that decorate its railings—these are a favorite spot for photographers, perfectly framing the Royal Palace in the distance. As you walk across, imagine the transition from the commercial center of Stockholm to what was once a restricted military zone. For nearly 300 years, this island was the primary base for the Swedish Baltic Fleet. The bridge serves as a symbolic gateway, taking you from the modern city into a preserved piece of Sweden's maritime history.

Eric Ericsonhallen

As you enter the island, the prominent circular building on your left is Eric Ericsonhallen, originally known as the Skeppsholmen Church. Built between 1824 and 1842, its neoclassical design was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. For over a century, it served the spiritual needs of the naval officers and sailors stationed here. However, as the military presence on the island diminished, the church was eventually deconsecrated. Today, it has been reborn as a premier venue for choral music and cultural events, named after the famous Swedish conductor Eric Ericson. Its transformation is a perfect example of how Skeppsholmen has evolved from a site of military discipline into a center for the arts.

The Admiralty House

Before you stands the Amiralitetshuset, or the Admiralty House. This striking building, with its Dutch Renaissance style and stepped gables, looks as though it belongs in a different century—and it does, in a way. While the current facade dates largely to the 19th century, portions of the building go back to the 1600s. This was the administrative nerve center for the Swedish Navy, where high-ranking officials managed the fleet that made Sweden a great power in Northern Europe. Notice the intricate details around the windows and the grand entrance; it was designed to project the authority and wealth of the Swedish Crown during the height of its maritime influence.

STF Stockholm Skeppsholmen Vandrarhem

The long, yellow building here was once the Hantverkskasernen, or the Craftsmen's Barracks, built in the mid-19th century to house the skilled workers who maintained the naval fleet. Today, it serves as one of the world's most unique hostels. Just outside, you will see the af Chapman, a majestic three-masted steel ship built in 1888. After sailing the world's oceans, it was purchased by the Navy to serve as a stationary training ship. It now functions as an extension of the hostel. This area captures the essence of Skeppsholmen: a place where historic naval infrastructure has been creatively repurposed for modern travelers, all while maintaining its nautical charm.

Moderna Museet

Continuing further onto the island, you reach the Moderna Museet, Sweden's national museum for modern and contemporary art. The building itself, designed by architect Rafael Moneo, is a masterpiece of modern design, but its location is deeply rooted in history. It sits on the site of the former naval exercise grounds and storage facilities. Take a moment to wander through the outdoor sculpture garden, which features vibrant works by artists like Niki de Saint Phalle and Jean Tinguely. The presence of such avant-garde art in a former military stronghold highlights the island's mid-20th-century transition into a cultural destination, where cannons were replaced by canvases and creativity.

Kastellet Stockholm

Your walk concludes at the Kastellet, the small citadel perched atop the rocky heights of Kastellholmen. The current red-brick tower was built in the 1840s after the original 17th-century fortification was destroyed in an accidental explosion. Every day, a Swedish military flag is raised here, signaling that the nation is at peace—a tradition that has continued for centuries. From this vantage point, you have an unparalleled view of the harbor, the island of Djurgården, and the passing Baltic ferries. It is a place of quiet reflection, marking the defensive edge of the city and the end of your exploration of Stockholm's naval heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

A complete walk around Skeppsholmen and the adjacent Kastellholmen typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. The total distance is approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometers, allowing plenty of time for photos at the bridge and the citadel.