Stockholm is a fascinating city, spanning an archipelago of 14 islands. From Stockholm Central Station you’re just a 10-minute drive from Gamla Stan – the historic centre and one of the best-preserved Medieval cities in Europe. This is also where a number of prime attractions lie, including Stockholm Cathedral, the Nobel Museum and the Royal Palace.

Art lovers are spoilt for choice with a variety of galleries to peruse. Moderna Museet, settled on Skeppsholmen island, boasts one of the most important collections of modern art in Europe, including works by Picasso, Dali and Matisse. There’s also a children’s workshop and restaurant. Fotografiska, with its diverse schedule of photography exhibitions, is also worth checking out. And you can’t leave Stockholm without visiting the Vasa Museum, home to a giant warship that sunk in the city’s harbour in the 1600s, salvaged decades later.

Stockholm also offers a number of outdoor attractions, perfect for exploring on a sunny day. The Bergius Botanic Garden at lake Brunnsviken boasts an expansive collection of shrubs, plants and flowers from around the world, including an array of particularly exotic varieties housed in the Victoria House and Edvard Anderson Conservatory.

Tantolunden is also a great choice for a day out. Settled on Södermalm island, this large park is ideal for families with numerous facilities including picnic areas, a beach volleyball court and open-air theatre.

When the sun sets, Stockholm comes to life with an array of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. The areas widely considered the best for eating out are Norrmalm, Vasastaden and Kungsholmen.

From the comfort of your Avis hire car, Stockholm and more Swedish treasures that lie beyond are yours to discover.

Frequent renters get upgraded – and additional days for free – by signing up for Avis Preferred loyalty benefits. Simply choose a date and time and we’ll prepare your quality hire car.
 

Central Sweden is made up of five regions, each offering its own distinct culture and charm. From historic cities such as Stockholm to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and pretty canals, it’s not surprising that millions of visitors flock to the region each year.

Uppsala

Just under an hour’s drive from Stockholm Central Station, via the E4, is the university city of Uppsala. There are plenty of cultural and historic treasures to explore here, including the cathedral which dates back to 1435. There’s also the 16th-century Uppsala Castle – home to the Uppsala Art Museum, while the nearby botanical gardens are a must for nature lovers. There’s also a good selection of shops, restaurants and bars.

Drottningholm Palace

Drive just 20 minutes from Stockholm Central Station (via Drottningholmsvägen/Route 275 and Route 261) and you’ll arrive at the first Swedish attraction to feature on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites: Drottningholm Palace. This stunning building – with its park, Baroque garden and Chinese pavilion – is a must-see and open for most of the year.

Trosa

The pretty town of Trosa, just a 55-minute drive from Stockholm Central Station (via the E4), is also worth exploring. Take a stroll along its charming narrow alleyways and picturesque harbours. There are numerous little shops for those in search of a souvenir, while top attractions include Nynäs Castle and Tullgarn Palace.

Hiring an Avis car makes exploring all that Stockholm and central Sweden have to offer effortless.