6 things to do in Stockholm when it rains

Grey skies over Stockholm? A rainy day is the perfect chance to explore the city's indoor activities – from museums and tropical surroundings to shopping and spas. Here are six ideas for a rainy day or weekend in Stockholm.

The exterior of Vasamuseet Stockholm with its iconic ship masts rising from the roof under a cloudy sky.

1. Explore Stockholm’s museums

A museum visit is a great choice when it rains in Stockholm. There is plenty to choose from, whether you are visiting with children, friends or your partner. See the well-preserved 17th-century ship at the Vasa Museum, explore photography exhibitions at Fotografiska, sing along at ABBA The Museum or discover wildlife and nature at the Swedish Museum of Natural History.

Museums in Stockholm

Want to explore more museums in Stockholm? Discover 10 places to visit, covering everything from Nordic cultural history to technology and science.

A vibrant green butterfly resting on a wooden post with lush green leaves in the background.

2. Step into the tropics at Fjärilshuset

In Hagaparken, a short journey from central Stockholm, tropical temperatures await at Fjärilshuset Haga Ocean. Walk among butterflies flying freely through the green rainforest and take a closer look at sharks and colourful fish beneath the surface. A great day out for all ages when the skies are grey.


Photo: Mikaela Stone

A city street with historic buildings, cars, and a cyclist on a sunny day.

3. Go shopping indoors

At the historic Nordiska Kompaniet (NK) department store in central Stockholm, you can explore several floors of fashion, beauty and homeware in beautiful surroundings. Just a short walk away, Gallerian offers a wide choice of shops and places to eat.


For shopping and entertainment under one roof, head to Westfield Mall of Scandinavia in Solna. The commuter train from Stockholm City takes less than ten minutes to Solna station, followed by a short walk. Here you will find hundreds of shops and restaurants, plus fun activities such as bowling and mini golf.

Men playing shuffleboard together in a bar with atmospheric lighting.

4. Shuffleboard and arcade games at Tolv Stockholm

Get your friends or family together for some fun at Tolv Stockholm at 3Arena. Challenge them to bowling, shuffleboard and arcade games, or sing karaoke together. There is plenty to eat and drink when you need to refuel or take a break from the activities. If it turns into a late night, stay at Quality Hotel™ Globe nearby.

Quality Hotel™ Globe

Enjoy a relaxing stay just a short walk from Tolv Stockholm. The metro takes you to central Stockholm in ten minutes.

Modern cinema lobby with stairs leading down to Restaurang Drama and a hallway towards Salong 1 och 2 under neon lights

5. Go to the cinema

What better way to spend a rainy day than at the cinema? Combine shopping at Westfield Mall of Scandinavia with a movie at Filmstaden Scandinavia. Watch it on the impressive IMAX screen or settle into a VIP seat with food and drinks served directly to you. Afterwards, enjoy a good night’s sleep at nearby Comfort Hotel™ Solna or Quality Hotel™ Strawberry Arena.

A person relaxing in a steaming outdoor hot spring pool under a wooden roof structure.

6. Relax at a spa

Let the rain give you a reason to unwind in warm pools and saunas. In the city centre, enjoy a heated rooftop pool at Selma City Spa at Clarion Hotel® Sign, or take a peaceful break at Elements Spa at Clarion Hotel® Stockholm.


For a taste of Japanese relaxation, head to Yasuragi in Saltsjö-Boo, just outside central Stockholm. If you fancy a trip to Södertälje, visit Paloma Pool Club & Spa at The Dock, a 2000-square-metre spa with pools, treatments and relaxing surroundings.

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