Port of call: Number Two: Stockholm, Sweden.

You can`t go anywhere in Stockholm without crossing water. It is situated on fourteen islands which are all part of the vast archipelago on the Baltic Sea. I headed for the old town of Gamla Stan, the medieval centre of the city, earthy red- and yellow-coloured buildings, a 13th Century Cathedral, a Royal Palace and numerous cafes and restaurants.

I strolled around the narrow amber-hued cobbled streets, stopping occasionally to enter one of the many handicraft shops or hunt for souvenirs in the labyrinth of buildings and narrow alleyways. After sauntering around having done a little window shopping, I stopped for `fika`, which is a Swedish excuse to stop for a strong coffee and eat something sweet, whilst enjoying a chat, with friends or family. I decided to snack on a huge cinnamon bun, at a suitable sidewalk café so that I could do a little people watching, whilst I rested my weary feet.

Stockholm`s majestic capital is an elegant metropolis, where the freshwater of Lake Mälaren flows into the Baltic Sea. Connected by over fifty bridges, and too many ferries to count, the “ Venice of the North” combines a grand royal history with world beating modern design, fashion and culinary expertise.

One thing you will notice in the city, is how clean and tidy the city is. Scandinavians do not throw down their rubbish on the streets; they bin their litter or take it home. They are proud of their cities and the natural environment and strive to keep it that way, in all that they do.

Stockholm’s history dates back over 700 years. Founded in the 13th century, it grew from a small Viking settlement into Sweden’s capital and largest city.  

Suitably refreshed I visited the Cathedral and watched the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace. I am told the Palace is one of the largest palaces in the world with over six hundred rooms and several interesting museums including the Royal Armory. 

The Nobel Museum is also an interesting diversion, but I was anxious to check out the Vasa warship at Djurgarden. The Vasa is the oldest preserved ship in the world. The ship sank on its maiden voyage after sailing about 1,300 m (1,400 yards) into her maiden voyage in 1628 drowning most of those on board in front of the king (Gustav II Adolf) and many hundreds of onlookers gathered to celebrate the launch. It was salvaged in 1961 and took over thirty years to restore her to the excellent condition you can see today. It really is a magnificent sight the cutaway floors revealing the inner workings of the ship from keel to decks.

For many people, think of Sweden and they think of the music of ABBA. It is now over thirty years since Agnetha, Björn, Benny and Anni-Frid split up, but there is now an The ABBA Museu for those fans of the band. I could not resist visiting the exhibition, having watched the film Mama Mia on many occasions with my wife, for a blast of nostalgic pop history. The Museum presents the band’s stage clothes, concert footage, interviews, photographs and waxwork models of the famous four as well as the music. ‘Dancing Queen and `Waterloo` provided the soundtrack to my visit. I challenge anyone not to come out singing their favourite ABBA song! My wife & I loved the silent disco, it was great fun, if not a little embarrassing!

The Moderna Museet (Museum of Modern Art) is also well worth a visit, more so if the weather is good as a lot of the more interesting sculptures and installations are on the outside in the Sculpture Park. The recently refurbished Museum has an impressive collection of works by Picasso, Dali and Kndinsky. I loved walking around the interesting collection of modern sculptures.

If you have children or teenagers with you and they need to let off a little steam visit, you must take in a visit to Grona Lund, the high energy theme park. It is located on the seaward side of Djurgården and although relatively small compared to other amusement parks, the 15-acre amusement park has over 30 attractions and is also a popular venue for pop music concerts during the summer, so check out the posters. The child in me was amused to see chocolate bars called Plopp. I know, it is very childish!

The Royal Palace is one of Europe’s largest and most dynamic palaces, I was told there are over four hundred rooms. The Royal Palace is the Swedish King’s official residence and is the setting for most of the monarchy’s official receptions. The palace is the workplace of The King and Queen and includes the Royal Court. The Royal Palace is a combination of royal residence, workplace and cultural-historical monument, and is open all year round to visitors.

There is so much to see and do in Stockholm, my only issue was that our stay ashore was so short!  I can`t wait to go back and see more of this wonderful city.

Cruising the Baltic Sea

Celebrating 60 years of Princess Cruises – 1965 – 2026: Making the most of your Baltic Sea Cruise. If you like this review, please comment, share and follow my page and website. Thank you. Next port of call: Tallin, Estonia.