Tag: Activities for Families in Stockholm

    • Sala Silvergruva – A Family Adventure 60 Meter Underground

      Exploring Sala Silvergruva – A Fascinating Family Adventure Beneath Sweden

      Just 1.5 hours from Stockholm lies one of Sweden’s most fascinating historical attractions – the legendary Sala Silvergruva. Hidden beneath the forests of Västmanland, this historic silver mine offers a unique glimpse into Sweden’s past and an unforgettable underground experience for both adults and curious kids.

      We had been thinking of visiting this specific mine for a while and when the kids had a day off from school we took our shot! During our visit, we joined one of the guided underground tours and descended nearly 60 meters below the surface wearing helmets before entering the old mine tunnels. Cold, dark and incredibly atmospheric – it truly felt like stepping into another world.

      Preparations & Descending

      Before entering the mine, everyone was equipped with helmets and gathered for a guided tour led by an incredibly knowledgeable guide who shared stories about the mine’s history, the miners’ lives and the dramatic events connected to Sala Silvergruva over the centuries. We also got to hold a piece of Galenite – the stone that silver is extracted from.

      After that we started our walk down the many steps down into the Sala Silvermine. At several places the guide stopped us and told us interesting stories about the mine and the workers.

      The underground environment is quiet, mysterious and surprisingly beautiful in places – with dark tunnels, old wooden structures and shimmering wet rock surfaces creating an almost cinematic atmosphere. At some point the guide started singing out in the open void for us to hear how the echoes travelled through the tunnels.

      A Mine That Helped Build Sweden

      One thing we didn’t expect was the amount of Swedish history that we would learn during our visit! Sala Silvergruva dates back to the 15th century and was once one of Sweden’s most important silver mines. During its peak in the 16th and 17th centuries, the mine played a significant role in strengthening the Swedish kingdom and financing the Crown.

      Silver from Sala helped fund wars, trade and royal ambitions during the era when Sweden was growing into a European power. Kings such as Gustav Vasa showed strong interest in the mine, understanding how valuable its silver production was for the country.

      Our phenomenal guide told us both funny and tragic stories about the days of the mine, the kings that visited and the people (and horses!) working in the mine many hundred of years ago. Walking through the tunnels today gave us a powerful perspective on just how hard life must have been for the miners who worked there. The narrow passages, darkness and cold underground climate make it difficult to imagine the physical labor that once took place deep below the earth. At one point – when we where at the lowest possible point for our guided tour – the guide told us to turn of all lights/flash-lights. The darkness was unimageable! Then he lit a lighter and the tinies flame lit up our tunnel. That was the light the mine workers was using to get around and work in the mines with. So hard to understand for us modern people with electricity.

      Our Thoughts

      For families with children interested in history, adventure or unique experiences, this is such a memorable day trip from Stockholm! We highly recommend it to everyone!

      Good to Know Before Visiting

      You book your guided tour in advance on Sala Silvergruvas webpage and there are guided tours in English as well. Above ground, there is also a cozy visitor area with a café & souvenir shop, interactive exhibitions and historical buildings around the mine. There is also and indoor-picknick area if you bring your own food or fika. It makes the visit feel like a full destination rather than just a guided tour underground.

      📍 Address

      Sala Silvergruva
      Gruvvägen 2
      733 36 Sala, Sweden

      🚗 Distance from Stockholm

      Approximately 1.5 hours by car from Stockholm.

      🎟️ Approximate Prices

      Guided underground tours are usually:

      Adults: around 200–300 SEK

      Children: discounted prices available

      Prices may vary depending on the season and type of tour.

      👷 Important

      The mine is cold underground year-round, so bring warm clothing and comfortable shoes. The temperature is approx. 5 degrees Celsius.

      The tour is for kids aged 5 an up! Not a stroller friendly activity.

      ***

      Is Sala Silvergruva Worth Visiting?

      Absolutely! Check out our video on Instagram from our visit!

      Sala Silvergruva is one of those places that combines Swedish history, adventure and storytelling in a way that feels both educational and genuinely exciting. It is atmospheric, memorable and unlike almost anything else we’ve experienced in Sweden.

      For us, it became much more than just a guided tour – it was a reminder of how history can truly come alive when you experience it together as a family. Learning through travelling!

      📸 Visited and photographed by Seashell Travels Family
      Slow family travel, hidden gems & meaningful destinations in Sweden and beyond.

    • Stockholm’s Oldest and Most Magical Christmas Market

      Julmarknad Gamla Stan Christmas Market Old Town Stockholm what do in Stockholm during December (1)

      Experience the magic of Sweden’s oldest Christmas market as Stortorget in Gamla Stan (Old Town) transforms into a glowing winter fairytale filled with tradition, lights, and true Nordic holiday charm.

      Stepping into the Stortorget Christmas Market in Old Town feels like walking straight into a Scandinavian winter fairytale. ✨🎄 This is not only Sweden’s oldest Christmas market – it’s one of the oldest in all of Europe. Historical records show that winter markets were held here as early as the 1300s, and the modern version has been running since 1915.

      Today, it remains one of the most beloved holiday traditions in Stockholm, drawing both locals and visitors to the city’s most historic square.

      Julmarknad Gamla Stan Christmas Market Old Town Stockholm what do in Stockholm during December (1)

      A Christmas Market Filled with Tradition and Nordic Charm

      Every December, Stortorget transforms into a glowing holiday postcard:
      red wooden stalls, the smell of gingerbread and warm glögg drifting through the air, and twinkling lights reflecting off the cobblestone streets. It’s an atmosphere that blends history, culture, and Christmas magic in the most beautiful way.

      Here you’ll find:
      • ✨ Handmade Swedish crafts
      • 🍫 Traditional sweets like polkagrisar, marzipan, chocolate & gingerbread
      • 🕯️ Candles, ceramics, Christmas ornaments and artisan goods
      • 🥨 Classic Swedish holiday treats
      • ☕ Glögg (mulled wine)

      It’s the perfect place to pick up thoughtful gifts or simply enjoy that authentic Nordic holiday feeling.

      Julmarknad Gamla Stan Christmas Market Old Town Stockholm what do in Stockholm during December (1)

      Opening Hours (2024 Season)

      🕚 Daily: 11:00–18:00
      🕖 Fridays & Saturdays: open until 19:00

      The market typically runs from late November until December 23.

      (Update dates once the 2025 schedule is released.)

      Location

      📍 Stortorget, Gamla Stan, Stockholm
      Right in the heart of Stockholm’s Old Town – just steps from Gamla Stan metro station.

      Julmarknad Gamla Stan Christmas Market Old Town Stockholm what do in Stockholm during December (1)

      Our Best Tips for Visiting

      ✨ 1. Visit at dusk for the full magic
      When the sky turns deep blue and the lights glow against the historic buildings, the whole square feels like a real-life Christmas postcard.

      ❄️ 2. For fewer crowds: go early or later in the evening
      Midday can be busy, especially on weekends.

      ☕ 3. Warm glögg is a must
      It’s the coziest way to warm up – for both kids and grown ups!

      📷 4. Explore the narrow side streets
      The small alleys around the square (like Prästgatan and Kindstugatan) are perfect if you want extra atmospheric photos away from the crowds.

      🎁 5. Make it a full evening in Gamla Stan
      After the market, wander through the beautifully lit old town, visit the boutiques, or enjoy a cozy dinner nearby.

      A Family-Friendly Christmas Outing

      We visited the market with our kids, and they loved it just as much as we did. Between the lights, the treats, and the festive feeling, it’s truly a place that brings out the magic of Christmas for all ages. It’s one of those timeless winter traditions that you’ll want to come back to year after year.

      If you want to experience Stockholm at its most charming, historical, and festive, this is the place to be. The combination of history, food, crafts, and atmosphere makes it a must-see during the winter season and one of the most iconic Christmas markets in Scandinavia.

    • 3 family activities to do on a rainy day in Stockholm


      3 Fun Family Activities to Do on a Rainy Day in Stockholm
      – A Family-Friendly Stockholm Guide –

      Even when the skies turn grey, there’s no need to stay cooped up inside. Stockholm has plenty of family-friendly spots that are perfect for curious little explorers and parents alike. Here are three of our favorite places to visit when it’s raining – fun, educational, and full of adventure!

      1. The Police Museum (Polismuseet)

      If your kids are fascinated by police cars, detectives, or the idea of solving mysteries, this museum will be a hit. The Police Museum offers a hands-on experience where children can dress up as police officers, sit in a real patrol car, and try fun interactive exhibits. Our kids loved sitting in the patrol car and on the police MC, as well as checking fingerprints and trying to solve a case.

      There’s also plenty for adults – from historical exhibitions about Swedish law enforcement to thought-provoking displays about justice and safety in society. It’s both educational and fun, making it a great stop for families with kids of all ages.

      Connected to Police Museum you also find National Museum of Science and Technology which is also a great visit for families!

      📍 Address: Museivägen 7, Djurgården, Stockholm
      🌐 Website: polismuseet.se

      2. Butterfly House Haga (Fjärilshuset Haga Ocean)

      Step into a tropical paradise just minutes from the city center! Inside Fjärilshuset, you’ll find lush greenery, colorful butterflies fluttering around, and even exotic fish and reptiles. The warm, humid air is a lovely escape from chilly weather, and kids will love spotting the butterflies up close. The connected Haga Ocean features fascinating aquariums, including sharks and coral reef species – making it a great mix of nature and adventure in one place. as it’s humid inside, don’t bring to much clothing. Also, strollers are not allowed in, so either come without one or lock the stroller outside the building.

      📍 Address: Haga Trädgård, Hagaparken, Solna
      🌐 Website: fjärilshuset.se

       

      3. The Swedish Museum of Natural History (Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet)

      Perfect for curious minds and future scientists! The Natural History Museum is one of Stockholm’s most beloved family spots, and also our favorite,  filled with fascinating exhibits about animals, space, and the planet. We love the Dinosaur exhibit with fossils!

      Don’t miss Cosmonova, Sweden’s largest IMAX dome theater, where you can watch breathtaking nature documentaries on the big curved screen – a highlight for both kids and adults.
      It’s educational, inspiring, and a great way to spend a full day indoors.

      📍 Address: Frescativägen 40, Stockholm
      🌐 Website: nrm.se

       

      Final Thoughts

      Rainy days don’t have to stop your Stockholm adventures – they can make them even more magical. Each of these places offers something special for families looking to connect, explore, and learn together. All of these venues are reachable by public transport. Check out SL’s homepage for more info. Buy tickets in advance for these venues through their webpages.