Welcome to the enchanting world of Stockholm through the lens of a local photographer! Having called Stockholm my home for as long as I can remember, I've had the privilege of capturing this magnificent city in all its glory. In this post, I'm excited to share with you my absolute favorite photo spots, carefully curated to help you make the most of your limited time in this vibrant capital.
Traveling to a new city for photography can be an exhilarating adventure, but it's even more fulfilling when you have the inside scoop from someone who knows the place like the back of their hand. That's why I've put together this guide – to save you precious time and effort as you explore Stockholm through your camera's lens.
In this blog post, I'll be focusing on locations within easy reach of Stockholm City. That way, you can snap these picture-perfect moments without the hassle of navigating a complex web of subways, trains, and buses. Whether you're an early riser seeking the best morning light or a night owl with a passion for capturing the city's illuminated beauty, I've got you covered with spots available 24/7 throughout the year.
But that's not all! I'll also be sharing some indoor gems that promise incredible shots, provided you're mindful of their opening hours. So, whether you're a professional photographer or just a traveler with a smartphone camera, I hope this guide helps you create unforgettable memories and breathtaking images of Stockholm.
#1 Skinnarviksberget on Södermalm
Welcome to one of Stockholm's most captivating photo locations – Skinnarviksberget, the city's highest natural vantage point. From this elevated perch, you'll be treated to a mesmerizing view that includes Västerbron and the serene waters of Riddarfjärden on your left, Norr Mälarstrand directly ahead, and the historic Riddarholmen to your right.
Riddarholmen
Panoramic view of Norr Mälarstrand
Stockholm City hall
Best Time
During summer it can get crowded here when many people wants to enjoy the sunset so early morning is best if you want to avoid people. Usually it's not a problem getting a good spot even during sunset to set up a tripod.
How to find the location
Nearest subway station is Zinkensdamm and it takes about 10 minutes to walk from the subway station. If you go with Pendeltåg you should go to Södra Station and then it's about 15 minutes walk, unless you want to take the bus, but that takes also about 10-15 min.
#2 Stadsbiblioteket
The City Library (Stadsbiblioteket in Swedish) is Swedens largest public library. It was designed by the architect Gunnar Asplund and was completed 1928. Photographing its inner rotunda is almost a must for a photographer.
Best Time
If you want to select a time where there are not so many visitors in the library, a week day morning just when they open probably works best. You might need to wait for a while to get a good shot without any people in your frame. You can also do a long exposure or take many shots and blend them together in Photoshop. A really wide angle lens give the best effect. The photo above was take with a Fujinon 10-24 at 10mm. You can also do a panorama.
Can I use a tripod
Yes, probably, there are not rules that prevents the use of tripods. There might be security guards in the area and if you visit when there are many visitors you might not be allowed to setup your tripod since it might block people from moving around. If you show respect, keep quiet and don't disturb others, you will probably be allowed to use a tripod.
How to find the location
The closest underground station is Odenplan or Rådmansgatan (Green line). From both of these it's a 5 minutes walk. The closest commuter train station is Stockholm Odenplan and from there it's about 10 minutes walk to the location.
#4 Katarina Kyrka (Church of Catherine)
This church built in 1695 and its surroundings moves you back in time with the small alleys, wonderful houses with wooden walls and cobblestone streets.
Church of Catherine from the end of Mikael Mästers Gata shot a Sunday morning during sunrise.
Best Time
The best time is during sunrise when sun light falls on the side of Church of Catherine that faces Mikael Mästers Gata (Master Michael's Street). Early morning has also the highest probability to get a shot without people.
Can I use a tripod
Yes
How to find the location
The closest underground station is Slussen. From here it takes about 10 minutes to walk to the location. With the commuter train you get off at Stockholms Södra and then there is a 15-20 minutes walk.
#5 Brunkebergstunneln
The Brunkebergstunneln, nestled in the vibrant heart of Stockholm, finished 1886 is a passage created for connecting the districts of Norrmalm and Östermalm for pedestrians and horse-drawn carriages. Now it's a popular Instagram spot that is easy to access.
Best Time
The tunnel is oped 6-22 every day all year round. The best time is to avoid peak hours to get a chance getting no people in the shot if that is something you want.
Can I use a tripod
Using a tripod is typically allowed in the Brunkebergstunneln, but it's essential to be considerate of other visitors. The tunnel can get busy during peak hours, so setting up your tripod in a way that doesn't obstruct the path is advisable.
How to find the location
One end is located at the adress Tunnelgatan 1. The closest underground station is Hötorget. From here it takes about 5 minutes to walk to the location. With the commuter train you get off at Stockholms City and then there is a 15 minutes walk to Tunnelgatan 1.
The other end is located at David Bagares Gata 4. The closest underground station is Östermalmstorg and from there it's a 5-10 minute walk to the tunnel entrance.
#6 Stockholm city Hall from Riddarholmen
From Riddarholmen (The Knights' Islet) you get a great view over Stockholm City hall over Riddarfjärden (The Knight Firth).
Best Time
Any time of the year works here. The best time of day is in my opinion during sunrise when the sun hits the front of the City Hall, but sunset may work as well during some times during the year depending on where the sun is.
Can I use a tripod
Using a tripod is not a problem.
How to find the location.
The nearest subway station is Gamla Stan (Old town). From the station it's about 10 minutes walk to the location.
#7 Mariaberget
From the walk way on Monteliusvägen you get a panoramic view over Riddarfjärden, the Stockholm City Hall, Riddarholmen and Norr Mälarstrand. This location is just a 10-15 minutes walk from Skinnarviksberget.
Best Time
Same as for Skinnarviksberget, that is, any time of the year works.
Can I use a tripod
Using a tripod is not a problem. Some parts of the walkway are pretty narrow and there setting up a tripod may hinder others if there are many people around. There are viewpoints with more place but they can become crowded with many photographers with tripods so it's best to be here good time before sunset.
How to find the location.
The nearest subway station is Mariatorget. From the station it's about 10 minutes walk to the location. It's also possible to walk 15 minutes from Gamla Stans (Old town's) subway station but then it's mostly uphill. From Stockholm South Pendelstågstation (commuter train) station it's also about 15 minutes walk to this location.
#8 Stockholm Subway
The Stockholm Subway lines is said to be the longest art museum in the world. Many subway stations are really beautiful photo locations. Here I show photos from T-Centralen and Solna Station.
Best Time
Any time the subway station is open. If you don't want people in your frame the best time is to avoid rush hour. However, even during rush hour it can work. The picture of the Subway Station in T-Centralen's blue line was shot during evening rush hour on a Monday. Bring a wide angel lens if you want to get larger parts into the frame since on some stations it can be close to the back wall.
Can I use a tripod
If you wish to photograph and film in SL's environments for personal use, you do not need to seek permission, as long as you do not disrupt or interfere with the daily operations. Using a tripod is usually not a problem if you do not hindering other travelers.
How to find the location.
To find the T-Centralen's Blue Line escalators just go to T-centralen and then walk to the Blue Line and then you will find the locations.
Solna Station
Take the Blue line from T-centralen towards Akalla. Takes about 10 minutes. You find the escalator as soon as you get of the subway.
#9 Old Town