The Royal Palace, or Kungliga Slottet, stands on the edge of Gamla Stan and serves as the King of Sweden’s official residence and workplace. Its Baroque rooms and royal collections make it a substantial stop for anyone interested in Swedish history. Inside, you can visit the Royal Apartments, the Hall of State with Queen Kristina’s silver throne, and the Treasury, which holds the royal regalia. The palace also has museums covering its medieval predecessor and royal antiquities. Outside, the Changing of the Guard takes place at 12:15 PM.
A palace with royal and public roles
Kungliga Slottet is the official residence and workplace of the King of Sweden. Royal receptions and official duties take place here, while parts of the palace are open to visitors. The complex stands in Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town, and has more than 600 rooms spread over 11 floors.
The present palace was built after Tre Kronor Castle was destroyed by fire in 1697. Designed by court architect Nicodemus Tessin the Younger, the new building took 57 years to complete and was finished in 1754. The north wing of the earlier castle survived the fire and was incorporated into the new palace.
Rooms and collections to look for
Public areas include the Royal Apartments, reception rooms, the Hall of State, the Chapel and the Treasury. The Hall of State is home to Queen Kristina’s silver throne. In the Treasury, the royal regalia include crowns, a sceptre and an orb, as well as King Gustav Vasa’s sword of state.
The palace’s collections extend beyond the state rooms. The Three Crowns Museum covers the medieval history of the palace and its predecessor. Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities displays royal antiquities, and the Royal Armoury presents objects connected with the monarchy’s history. The palace also has halls associated with state ceremonies, including the Hall of State and the Halls of the Orders of Chivalry.
Architecture and interiors reflect the palace’s Baroque design, with Rococo details in some rooms. The Karl XI Gallery is a notable interior, inspired by the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. Look for the art, furnishings and decorative details as you move between the rooms; the visit is as much about the interiors as the objects on display.
Planning your visit
A guided tour can help you navigate the palace’s history and rooms. Tours are available in several languages, including English and Swedish, and some last about 45 minutes. Check the palace’s official website for current visitor and tour information before your visit, as access to rooms can vary.
The Changing of the Guard takes place outside the palace at 12:15 PM. Arrive ahead of the ceremony if you want a clear view, as the courtyard can draw a crowd. The palace is in Gamla Stan, so you can combine the visit with a walk through the Old Town. Riddarholmen Church, the burial place of Swedish monarchs, is about a 10-minute walk away.
Perguntas frequentes
What can you see inside the Royal Palace?
Public areas include the Royal Apartments, the Hall of State, the Chapel and the Treasury. The palace also has museums covering its medieval history, royal antiquities and armoury collections.
When is the Changing of the Guard?
The ceremony takes place at 12:15 PM outside the palace. Arrive early for a better viewing spot.
How long does a visit to the Royal Palace take?
Allow around 2 to 3 hours to explore several rooms and collections. A guided tour may take about 45 minutes.
Is the Royal Palace the Swedish royal family’s private home?
It is the King’s official residence and workplace, and royal events take place there. The Queen’s residence is at Drottningholm.
