Attractions and Places To See around Ekerö - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ekerö include a diverse range of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features within this archipelago in eastern Lake Mälaren near Stockholm. The municipality is notable for being home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ekerö offers picturesque lake views, an alternation of small forest areas and agricultural land, and eleven nature reserves preserving local flora and fauna.
Best attractions and places to see around Ekerö
- The most popular attractions is Gamla Stan (Stockholm's Old Town), a historical site that is the original cell of Stockholm. It features cobbled streets and buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries, including St. Nikolai kyrka and the Stockholm Palace.
- Another must-see spot is Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace Stockholm, a historical site. Visitors can witness the daily changing of the royal guard, often with a military parade on horseback and music.
- Visitors also love Swedish Parliament House (Riksdagshuset), the seat of the Swedish Parliament. This man-made monument occupies about half of the island of Helgeandsholmen.
- Ekerö is known for historical sites, natural features, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore ancient castles, serene nature reserves, and unique cultural experiences.
- The attractions around Ekerö are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 880 upvotes and over 888 photos shared across 34 highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Gamla Stan (Stockholm's Old Town)
Highlight • Historical Site
But this misfortune did not bring Stockholm from its way to the trading metropolis. The most impressive buildings in the historic city center include the Royal Palace, the Reichstag building and the two churches of Storkyrkan and Tyska Kyrkan. The picturesque and at the same time magnificent old town of Stockholm is not only popular with the inhabitants of Sweden's capital - every day countless tourists are passed through this beautiful quarter; Buses spew out their human cargo, which rush with drawn cameras on the sights of Gamla Stan. Those who want to avoid these crowds, however, have to relocate their old town stroll early in the morning, as long as the tourists still sit in the hotel at breakfast. If you can not do this, you can try to avoid the side streets. In the Prästgatan it is quite possible to discover a quiet spot where one can contemplate the unique medieval mood of the Gamla Stan.
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Gamla Stan (Stockholm Old Town)
Highlight • Settlement
Important buildings
In Gamla Stan there are important buildings such as the Royal Palace, the German Church and the Storkyrkan, where Crown Princess Victoria and Daniel Westling were married on June 19, 2010.
However, many tourists associate the old town in Stockholm with the narrow streets, the many old gabled houses painted in earth tones and the small squares with their cafés, restaurants, galleries and craft shops.
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Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace Stockholm
Highlight • Historical Site
In the Te Kronor Museum you can trace the history of the castle's creation, while the treasury contains fascinating jewels and the imperial insignia of the key, orb and scepter. There are also various crowns, swords and a huge silver baptismal font to admire. The armory impresses with military exhibits, but also bizarre items, such as the stuffed horse of King Gustav II Adolf or the face mask of Gustav III. present themselves to the curious viewer. Also interesting are the royal representative rooms with the castle church, which provide a clear picture of the life of the royal family. The daily changing of the royal guard on the palace square is always a welcome spectacle. At 12.15 p.m. sharp (an hour later on Sundays and public holidays), the military parade often takes place here on horseback and with music. However, in Stockholm this popular tourist attraction is limited to the warm summer months, as - unlike in mild London - it gets freezing cold here in the winter.
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Swedish Parliament House (Riksdagshuset)
Highlight • Monument
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Strömbron Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
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Tips from the Community
Today I was lucky enough to be able to take part in a guided tour of the Swedish Parliament. You should know that only guided groups are allowed in. The tours are free and very informative. Prior registration is not necessary. Dates are announced on the notice board.
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Walking through the streets of Gamla stan in Stockholm is like a journey into the past.
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About half of the island of Helgeandsholmen is occupied by Riksdaghuset, where the Swedish parliament sits. The parliament building was built between 1897 and 1905. It ultimately turned out to be almost twice as expensive as calculated by architect Aron Johansson in 1888.
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Riksdagshuset, the Riksdag building in Stockholm is the seat of the Swedish Parliament. The building is located on the island of Helgeandsholmen and was built between 1897 and 1905.
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The Strömbron is a 140 m long bridge in the centre of Stockholm, which connects the two districts of Norrmalm and Gamla stan. The bridge leads from the Royal Palace on the island of Stadsholmen to the southern end of the Kungsträdgården park.
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The huge royal palace is very impressive. The changing of the guard was an absolute highlight for us. The whole procedure took us almost an hour and was accompanied by music from the brass band. (10.5.24)
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Gamla stan (Swedish; actually gamla staden, "the old town") is the old town of the Swedish capital Stockholm, located on the island of Stadsholmen. It is located in the Södermalm district. In Gamla stan you can find the castle built by Nicodemus Tessin the Younger as well as the two churches Storkyrkan (St. Nicholas Church) and Tyska kyrkan (German Church). In the Storkyrkan you can find the outstanding medieval equestrian sculpture of St. George fighting the dragon by Bernt Notke, which can also be found in bronze in the old town. As a tourist you really have to come here.
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The Riksdagshuset is the Swedish parliament building in Stockholm, which houses the assembly of the Riksdag (Sweden's Parliament) and is known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Ekerö?
Ekerö is rich in history, featuring two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can visit Drottningholm Palace, the private residence of the Swedish royal family, known for its 17th-century architecture and extensive gardens. Another significant site is Birka - The Viking City on Björkö island, an important Viking Age trading center with a museum and reconstructed Viking village. Additionally, Hovgården on Adelsö island is a UNESCO site with numerous archaeological remains from the Viking Age and Middle Ages. Don't miss the medieval churches like Adelsö Kyrka and Munsö Kyrka.
Are there any natural attractions or outdoor spaces to enjoy in Ekerö?
Yes, Ekerö offers beautiful natural features. You can visit Blå Lagunen (The Blue Lagoon) on Munsön island, an artificial bathing lake with clear, turquoise water. The municipality is an archipelago in Lake Mälaren, providing picturesque lake views and opportunities for outdoor bathing and rod fishing. Ekerö also boasts eleven nature reserves, such as Lovö Naturreservat and Adelsö-Sättra Naturreservat, which are perfect for hiking and enjoying the local flora and fauna. Uppsalaåsen, a gravel moraine, also offers beautiful natural areas.
What cultural experiences are available beyond historical landmarks?
Beyond the major historical sites, Ekerö offers unique cultural experiences. The Chinese Pavilion, located within the Drottningholm Palace grounds, showcases fascinating Chinese-style architecture. You can also visit the historic Drottningholm Palace Theatre, which stages international classics. For a taste of local heritage, explore Äppelfabriken (The Apple Factory) on Färingsö, where you can see historical apple orchards, have your own apples pressed into must, or buy homemade goods from their farm shop and café.
What activities are suitable for families with children in Ekerö?
Ekerö provides several family-friendly options. Children will enjoy exploring the extensive gardens at Drottningholm Palace. The Viking village and museum at Birka - The Viking City offer an engaging way to learn about history. Blå Lagunen (The Blue Lagoon) is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing. Many of the nature reserves also offer easy walking paths suitable for families.
Are there opportunities for hiking or cycling around Ekerö's attractions?
Absolutely. Ekerö's diverse landscape of small forest areas, agricultural land, and nature reserves makes it ideal for outdoor activities. You can find numerous trails for hiking and cycling. For gravel biking, explore routes like the 'Loop from Ekerö around Färingsö island' or the 'Lovön loop from Brommaplan' as detailed in the Gravel biking around Ekerö guide. For general cycling, consider the 'Drottningholm Palace – View of Drottningholm Palace loop' from the Cycling around Ekerö guide. Mountain biking enthusiasts can check out trails like the 'Lovö Trail' in the MTB Trails around Ekerö guide.
Where can I find good viewpoints in Ekerö?
For scenic views, Ekebyhov hill near Ekebyhovs Slott offers great panoramic vistas of Lake Mälaren and Stockholm. The archipelago setting of Ekerö itself, with its numerous islands, provides picturesque lake views from many points along the shorelines and within its nature reserves.
What is the significance of Drottningholm Palace?
Drottningholm Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the private residence of the Swedish royal family. Often called the 'Versailles of the North,' it is considered the best-preserved royal palace in Sweden. Visitors can explore its 17th-century palace halls, extensive Baroque and English gardens, and the historic Drottningholm Palace Theatre.
Can I visit a Viking site in Ekerö?
Yes, Ekerö is home to Birka - The Viking City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Björkö island. It was a crucial Viking Age trading center and is considered Sweden's first city. You can explore a museum, a reconstructed Viking village, and learn about Viking life.
Are there any unique local food or farm experiences in Ekerö?
For a unique local experience, visit Äppelfabriken (The Apple Factory) on Färingsö. This site features apple orchards that have existed for over 375 years. You can bring your own apples to be made into must, or purchase homemade jams, chutneys, and baked goods from their farm shop and café. Rosenhill is another farm with a restaurant and shop offering fresh vegetables.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Ekerö's trails and in its nature reserves?
Ekerö's terrain is predominantly flat with small hills. You'll find an alternation of small forest areas and agricultural land. The nature reserves, such as Lovö Naturreservat and Adelsö-Sättra Naturreservat, feature diverse landscapes from old, untouched spruce forests with soft moss-covered ground to pastures with impressive oak trees. Uppsalaåsen, a gravel moraine, also contributes to the varied natural areas.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ekerö?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich historical significance of sites like Drottningholm Palace and Birka - The Viking City, often highlighting the well-preserved nature and the immersive experience. The natural beauty of Lake Mälaren and the tranquility of the nature reserves are also highly valued, offering a peaceful escape and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Most popular attractions around Ekerö
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