7 Free Museums in Stockholm (Updated 2023)
Exploring Stockholm on a budget? Check out the city’s free museums and enjoy its history and culture!
Stockholm, with its diverse collection of 50 museums, is a haven for art and culture enthusiasts, especially those on a budget. And the best part? Many are free! From the world’s most visited museum in Scandinavia, Vasa Museum, to smaller galleries and artist studios, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
You can visit free museums in Stockholm most of the week. There are free museums for children, free museums for families, and free galleries to explore! If you’re looking for free things to do with the kids or the family during your stay in Stockholm, this list will help you out.
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7 Museums with Free Admission in Stockholm
While many museums once offered free entry, starting in 2023, several have introduced admission fees. This change means that visitors might need to allocate a budget for some cultural spots that were previously accessible at no cost. However, there are still a number of museums that maintain free admission, providing a mix of options for those exploring the city.
Stockholm is not only safe to visit, but it’s also packed with free things to do! Beyond the free museums, don’t miss the world’s longest art gallery found right in its subway. Check out our guide to Stockholm’s Subway Art.
1. Accelerator
A contemporary space showcasing innovations and groundbreaking ideas, the Accelerator Museum offers a deep dive into the world of modern art and technology. With interactive displays and immersive exhibits, visitors can explore the fast-paced evolution of creativity and invention.
The Accelerator is one of the remaining free museums in Stockholm. Don’t miss out – visit while it’s still free!
Best For: Technology enthusiasts, art lovers, and those curious about modern innovation.
Location: Frescativägen 26A, Stockholm University, T – Universitetet.
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2. ArkDes (The Swedish Centre for Architecture and Design)
ArkDes, nestled within the lush confines of Stockholm’s Djurgården, is a temple for design and architectural enthusiasts. It offers an insightful journey into Swedish design, from historical architectural marvels to contemporary innovations. With a range of interactive exhibitions, ArkDes provides a platform for dialogue and debate about architecture, design, and sustainable urban development
ArkDes was one of my first stops and is among the few remaining free museums in Stockholm. Nearby, you’ll also find the Moderna Museet and the Östasiatiska Museet.
Best For: Architecture buffs, design enthusiasts, and anyone keen on understanding the evolution of Swedish design.
Location: Exercisplan 4, 114 18 Stockholm, Sweden.
Last chance to experience ArkDes in its current form! It’s closing for a renovation and will only reopen on June 14, 2024. Hurry and visit before it’s too late – you have until August 27th!
3. Medeltidmuseet (Medieval Museum)
Step back in time to Medeltidmuseet, where Stockholm’s medieval history comes to life. Nestled underground, this unique museum offers a captivating look at the city’s origins, complete with reconstructed historical scenes, authentic artifacts, and the remnants of the ancient city wall.
The Medieval Museum is one of the remaining free museums in Stockholm. Don’t miss out – visit while it’s still free!
Best For: History enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to delve deep into Stockholm’s past.
Location: Strömparterren 3, 111 30 Stockholm, Sweden.
4. Moderna Museet (Museum of Modern Art)
Moderna Museet is one of the leading museums in Europe for modern and contemporary art. It offers a dazzling array of works from the 20th century to the present. Located on the scenic island of Skeppsholmen, the museum features masterpieces from renowned artists across the globe. Immerse yourself in groundbreaking exhibitions, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit for free every Friday from 18:00 to 20:00.
The Museum of Modern Art is one of the remaining free museums in Stockholm. Don’t miss out – visit while it’s still free! You can also visit ArkDes since it’s nearby.
Moderna Museet also opened in Malmö in 2009.
Best For: Art enthusiasts, contemporary art lovers, and those looking to witness iconic works in a spectacular setting.
Location: Exercisplan 4, 111 49 Stockholm, Sweden.
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5. Möbeldesignmuseum (The Museum of Furniture Studies)
Möbeldesignmuseum celebrates the art and evolution of furniture design, tracing its journey across eras and styles. This specialized museum houses a diverse collection of pieces, from classic to contemporary, highlighting the ingenuity and craftsmanship behind everyday items. Venture into the world of design and discover the stories behind the chairs, tables, and other furnishings that shape our living spaces.
The Museum of Furniture Studies is one of the remaining free museums in Stockholm. Don’t miss out – visit while it’s still free!
Best For: Design enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone intrigued by the evolution of everyday objects.
Location: Magasin 6, Frihamnsgatan 50, 115 56 Stockholm, Sweden.
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6. Nationalmuseum (Swedish National Museum)
Swedish National Museum stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Swedish art and design. Located in the heart of Stockholm, it houses an impressive collection ranging from paintings and sculptures to decorative arts.
While there’s now a fee for certain areas, visitors can still enjoy free admission to the entrance floor. This includes the restaurant, shop, studios, The Sculpture Courtyard, and the South Courtyard. Plus, young visitors under 20 can access the entire museum without any charges.
The Swedish National Museum is one of the remaining free museums in Stockholm. Don’t miss out – visit while it’s still free!
Best For: Art enthusiasts, history lovers, and families seeking a cultural experience.
Location: Södra Blasieholmshamnen 2, 103 24 Stockholm, Sweden.
7. Stadsmuseet (Stockholm City Museum)
Stadsmuseet is the key to unlocking the vibrant history and cultural fabric of Stockholm. Situated in a historic building, the museum offers a captivating journey through the city’s past, from its medieval origins to its contemporary developments. Through detailed exhibits, photography, and artifacts, visitors can delve into the tales of Stockholm’s streets, its people, and the events that shaped this Nordic metropolis.
The Stockholm City Museum is one of the remaining free museums in Stockholm. Don’t miss out – visit while it’s still free!
Best For: Urban history enthusiasts, families, and travelers eager to understand Stockholm’s past and present.
Location: Ryssgården, Slussen, 104 65 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Best Time to Visit the Free Museums in Stockholm to Avoid the Crowds
While renowned destinations like the Vasa Museum draw significant attention, there’s a myriad of lesser-known museums that also deserve your exploration. These often-overlooked gems provide a serene and unhurried experience, allowing you to delve into Stockholm’s heritage without elbowing through throngs of tourists.
For a more intimate, crowd-free museum experience, consider planning your visits on weekdays. Weekends typically see a surge in local and international visitors, making weekdays, especially mornings, an optimal time for quiet exploration. So, if the bustling atmosphere of popular spots isn’t your cup of tea, the free museums in Stockholm offer a perfect blend of culture, history, and tranquility.
FAQs About Free Museums in Stockholm
What are the free museums in Stockholm City?
In Stockholm City, several museums provide free access to art, history, and culture. Among these are the Accelerator, ArkDes, Medeltidmuseet (Medieval Museum), Stadsmuseet (Stockholm City Museum), Möbeldesignmuseum, and Moderna Museet on specific days and times. These institutions offer a range of experiences without any entry fee.
Is the National Museum in Stockholm free?
No, the National Museum in Stockholm is not entirely free. While there is an entrance fee for adults, which is 150 kr for regular admission and 100 kr if visiting in the last 90 minutes before closing, entry is free for everyone under 20 years of age. Moreover, everyone can visit the entrance level with a restaurant, shop, studio, exhibition for children, and lecture hall for free.
What to do in Stockholm when it’s raining?
There are plenty of activities to do indoors in Stockholm. Visit one of the many museums like The Vasa Museum or any of the free museums in Stockholm for a unique and educational experience.
How many museums are in Stockholm, Sweden?
Stockholm, Sweden has a diverse collection of 50 museums, ranging from art and history to technology and design. These museums offer a rich exploration of Swedish culture, history, and innovations.
Final Thoughts: Free Museums in Stockholm
Exploring Stockholm without breaking the bank is entirely possible, especially with its selection of free museums waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just curious about the city’s heritage, there’s something for everyone.
While the entrance is complimentary, many of these museums further enrich the experience with guided tours and special events. Some might have a nominal fee for these extras, but the primary exhibits remain accessible to all. So, as you plan your Stockholm adventure, ponder upon this: which of these free museums will top your itinerary?
