Discover the Charm of Skansen: A Living History Experience
Experience the rich heritage and diverse wildlife of Sweden at Skansen, the world's first open-air museum and zoo.
A brief summary to Skansen
- Djurgårdsslätten 49-51, Stockholm, 115 21, SE
- +4684428200
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Nestled on the picturesque Djurgården Island in Stockholm, Skansen is the world's first open-air museum, translating Sweden's rich history into an immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Established in 1891, it features over 150 historic buildings relocated from various parts of Sweden, offering a glimpse into the country’s architectural evolution from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. The museum's pathways wind through charming gardens and lush greenery, creating a serene backdrop for exploring the past. One of the highlights of Skansen is its incredible zoo, home to native Nordic animals including moose, reindeer, and wolves. These animal enclosures are designed to mimic the natural habitats, providing a respectful and educational environment for wildlife enthusiasts. The zoo not only showcases the beauty of Sweden's fauna but also emphasizes conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these species. In addition to the historical and zoological experiences, Skansen hosts numerous cultural events and traditional crafts demonstrations throughout the year. Visitors can watch artisans at work, from glassblowing to wood carving, and participate in seasonal celebrations like Midsummer and Christmas. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the stunning views over the water, makes Skansen a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Stockholm.
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Don't miss the traditional craft demonstrations, especially on weekends.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful gardens.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Getting There
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Public Transport - Tram
If you're in central Stockholm, head to the nearest tram station, such as 'T-Centralen'. From there, take tram line 7 towards 'Djurgården'. The tram ride will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Get off at the 'Skansen' stop. Once you disembark, you will see signs directing you to Skansen, which is just a short walk from the tram stop.
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Public Transport - Bus
Another option is to catch a bus. From 'T-Centralen', walk to the nearby bus stop and take bus line 76 towards 'Djurgården'. The journey will take about 20 minutes. Get off at the 'Djurgårdsbron' stop. From there, you can walk approximately 10 minutes to reach Skansen, following the signs.
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Walking
If you are in the vicinity of Djurgården, you can enjoy a scenic walk to Skansen. Start from 'Djurgårdsbron' bridge and walk along the waterfront promenade. Just follow the path along the water, and you will see Skansen on your left. It's about a 20-minute walk from the bridge.
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Public Transport - Ferry
You can also take a ferry to get to Skansen. From 'Slussen', board the ferry towards 'Djurgården'. The ferry ride is about 10 minutes. Once you arrive at the Djurgården ferry terminal, it’s a 15-minute walk to Skansen. Simply follow the path that leads towards the park.
Landmarks nearby to Skansen
- Jenny Lind Statue
- Life Rings
- Ekotemplet / Lusthuset på Waldermarsudde
- Prins Eugens Waldemarsudde
- Vasa Museum
- Astrid Lindgren Statue
- Kastellholmen
- Royal Djurgården
- Swedish Centre for Architecture and Design
- Skeppsholmen
- Vision of Stockholm/ Archipelago Tours
- Swedish History Museum
- Ecosightseeing
- Oxenstiernska malmgården
- Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, Stockholm