Stockholm City Hall (Stockholms stadshus) is one of the most iconic buildings in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. Completed in 1923 by architect Ragnar Östberg, this impressive building is located by the waterfront and is notable for its magnificent brick façade and its 106-meter-high tower. Built in the National Romantic style, the City Hall has become one of Stockholm’s most visited landmarks due to both its architectural beauty and historical significance.
The building has also gained worldwide fame for hosting the annual Nobel Banquet and offers a fascinating atmosphere with its rich interior decoration, the mosaics in the Golden Hall, and the impressive Blue Hall. Stockholm City Hall is not only an administrative center but also a powerful representative of the city’s cultural heritage, promising visitors both a historical journey and a unique visual experience.
Why is Stockholm City Hall famous?
Stockholm City Hall is world-famous for hosting the prestigious Nobel Banquet held every year on December 10. This special gala dinner, organized after the Nobel Prize awards ceremony, takes place in the Blue Hall of the City Hall and is honored by the presence of the Swedish Royal Family, Nobel laureate scientists, writers, and distinguished guests recognized worldwide. This event has increased the building’s international recognition and turned it into a cultural symbol.
In addition, Stockholm City Hall is highly renowned for its architectural aesthetics. As one of the most impressive examples of the National Romantic style, the building was constructed using 8 million red bricks and, with its 106-meter-high tower, has become an indispensable part of Stockholm’s skyline. The interior Golden Hall, decorated with more than 18 million pieces of golden mosaic, offers visitors an atmosphere reminiscent of a fairy tale world. Thanks to both its historical function and its enchanting architecture, Stockholm City Hall is a structure admired not only in Sweden but all around the world.
Is it necessary to buy a ticket to visit the City Hall?
Yes, you need to buy a ticket to visit Stockholm City Hall (Stockholms stadshus). The building can only be visited through guided tours, and it is mandatory to purchase a ticket for these tours. Tickets can be obtained online one week before the visit day or from the City Hall Shop starting at 8:30 AM on the day of the visit.
As of 2025, the guided tour ticket prices are as follows:
- Adult: 150 SEK
- Student/Seniors over 65: 130 SEK
- Ages 7–18: 60 SEK
- Ages 0–6: Free
Additionally, if you wish to visit the 106-meter-high City Hall Tower, which is open during the summer months (May–September), you will need to purchase a separate ticket for it. Tower tickets can also be bought online or from the City Hall Shop on the day of the visit.
The schedules and languages of the guided tours may vary depending on the season, so it is recommended to check the official website for the latest information.
For more information and to purchase tickets, you can visit the official website of Stockholm City Hall.
In which languages are the guided tours offered?
Stockholm City Hall (Stockholms stadshus) can only be visited through guided tours. These tours are generally offered in English and Swedish. Especially during the summer months (May–September), when the number of visitors increases, the frequency of English tours also rises and they are usually organized every half hour.
Additionally, during the summer season, tours may also be offered in other languages such as Spanish. However, it is important to check in advance whether these tours are available and their schedules. Especially during peak periods, the times and languages of the guided tours may vary. Therefore, it is recommended to visit the official website of Stockholm City Hall before your visit to obtain the most up-to-date information.
What are the architectural features of Stockholm City Hall?
Stockholm City Hall (Stockholms stadshus) was designed by architect Ragnar Östberg and completed in 1923. The building is one of the most impressive examples of the National Romanticism movement in Sweden. Approximately 8 million red bricks were used in its construction, and the building stands out for both its solidity and impressive grandeur. Its 106-meter-high tower is one of the most recognizable parts of the city’s skyline and is topped with a golden crown symbolizing Sweden’s three crowns.
The interior design is just as impressive as the exterior façade. One of the most famous halls, the Blue Hall (Blå Hallen), is where the Nobel Banquet is held. Initially, it was planned to cover the walls with blue mosaics, but the natural appearance of the bricks was so admired that the blue covering was not applied. The Golden Hall (Gyllene Salen), decorated with approximately 18 million mosaic pieces, depicts scenes from Swedish history against a golden background. Throughout the building, details referencing Viking and medieval Swedish architecture are frequently seen. This architectural structure, both grand and emphasizing national identity, is one of Stockholm’s most impressive monuments.
Which important halls are located in the City Hall?
1. Blue Hall (Blå Hallen)
This is the iconic main hall where the Nobel Banquet is held every year. Despite being called the “Blue Hall,” the interior is not blue. Architect Ragnar Östberg initially planned to cover the hall with blue mosaics but decided to preserve the natural and warm appearance of the red bricks. With its grand staircases and high ceiling, it offers an impressive atmosphere.
2. Golden Hall (Gyllene Salen)
Covered with approximately 18 million pieces of glass and gold mosaic, this hall is almost a mesmerizing work of art. The mosaics depict scenes from Swedish history and mythological figures. The most striking feature of the hall is the giant mosaic portraying the Queen of Lake Mälaren. After the Nobel banquet, guests dance here.
3. Council Chamber (Rådsalen)
Hosting the meetings of the Stockholm City Council, this hall has a more serious and functional atmosphere. Its ceiling is designed in the form of an inverted Viking ship, reflecting references to Scandinavian culture.
4. Prince’s Gallery (Prinsens Galleri)
This long corridor stands out with its impressive frescoes on the walls. The paintings glorify Sweden’s nature and rural life and were designed by Prince Eugen.
Is it possible to climb the tower?
Yes, it is possible to climb the 106-meter-high tower of Stockholm City Hall (Stockholms stadshus). However, this visit can only be made during the summer months, between May 1 and August 24. Access to the tower is organized in specific time slots and with limited capacity; 27 people are allowed in each time slot.
🕒 Visiting Hours
May 1 – June 1: 10:00, 10:45, 11:30, 12:15, 13:45, 14:30, 15:15, and 16:00
June 2 – August 24: In addition to the above times, there is also a 16:45 session.
The visit duration is approximately 35 minutes, and climbing the tower requires ascending a staircase of 365 steps. The elevator only goes halfway up; therefore, stairs must be used to reach the upper sections.
🎟️ Ticket Information
Adult: 100 SEK
Children aged 0–11: Free when accompanied by an adult
Tickets can be purchased online one week before the visit day or from the City Hall Shop starting at 8:30 AM on the day of the visit.
📍 View and Experience
When you reach the top of the tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of Stockholm’s historic center Gamla Stan, Lake Mälaren, and the surrounding islands. Additionally, a small museum located in the tower exhibits sketches of sculptures and objects related to the City Hall.
When planning your visit, it is important to note that the tickets are limited and tend to sell out quickly, especially during the summer months. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase your tickets in advance.
For more information and to purchase tickets, you can visit the official website of Stockholm City Hall.
What rules should be followed during the visit?
There are some important rules and information you must follow when visiting Stockholm City Hall. These rules are established both for the safety of visitors and for the preservation of the historical structure of the building. Here are the main points you should pay attention to:
🎒 Bag and Cloakroom Rules
- Bag Size: You may only bring a bag measuring up to 30 x 21 cm.
- Larger Bags: Bags that fit into lockers must be left in the cloakroom inside the building.
- Large Suitcases: Large suitcases are not allowed inside the building; such items should be left at Stockholm Central Station or your hotel
- Bag Check: Your bags may be inspected by security officers at the entrance.
🍼 Strollers and Accessibility
- Strollers: You may bring a stroller during guided tours; however, bags larger than 30 x 21 cm should not be carried in the stroller baskets.
- Accessibility: The building has various accessibility arrangements. For detailed information, you can visit the official website.
🧃 Food and Beverages
- Restrictions: It is not allowed to bring food and beverages into the building during guided tours.
- Eating Areas: There is no designated area inside the building for consuming packed food.
- Alternative Options: You can consume your food outside in the City Hall Park.
📸 Photography and Videography
- Permissions: Photography is allowed in all halls during guided tours.
- Restrictions: The use of tripods, monopods, or large equipment is prohibited.
- Professional Shooting: Prior permission must be obtained for professional photography.
🐾 Animal Entry
- General Rule: Animals are not allowed inside the building except for guide dogs.
🧊 Important Notes for Winter Visits
- Footwear Equipment: During the winter months, entering the building with spiked shoes or ice cleats is not permitted.
- Alternative: If necessary, slippers can be provided for use during guided tours.
How to get to the City Hall?
Getting to Stockholm City Hall (Stockholms stadshus) is quite easy. The building is located in the city center, on Kungsholmen Island, at Hantverkargatan 1. Below, you can find information about different transportation options:
🚇 Metro (Tunnelbana)
- T-Centralen Station: This is Stockholm’s main metro station. After exiting, use the Vasagatan exit, walk toward Tegelbacken, and pass under the bridge to reach City Hall.
- Rådhuset Station: After exiting this station, use the Hantverkargatan/Stadshuset exit and walk along Hantverkargatan.
🚌 Bus
- Bus Line 3: This line stops directly at the “Stadshuset” stop in front of the City Hall. The stop is only a 2-minute walk from the building.
🚶♂️ On Foot
From Stockholm Central Station: The City Hall is about a 10-minute walk from Stockholm Central Station. Walk south along Vasagatan and continue toward Tegelbacken. Pass under the bridge to reach Hantverkargatan.
🚖 Taxi
If you plan to travel by taxi, simply tell the driver the address Hantverkargatan 1.
🅿️ Parking
There is no parking directly adjacent to City Hall. However, paid parking spaces are available along Norr Mälarstrand and Hantverkargatan.
What are the ticket prices?
The ticket prices valid as of 2025 for those wishing to visit Stockholm City Hall (Stockholms stadshus) are as follows:
🎟️ Guided Tour Ticket Prices
The City Hall can only be visited through guided tours. Tickets can be purchased online one week before the visit day or from the City Hall Shop starting at 8:30 AM on the day of the visit.
- Adult: 150 SEK
- Student / Seniors aged 65 and over: 130 SEK
- Youth aged 7–18: 60 SEK
- Children aged 0–6: Free
🏰 Tower Visit Ticket Prices
The 106-meter-high tower of the City Hall is only open for visits during the summer months (May 1 – August 24). A separate ticket is required to climb the tower.
- Adult: 100 SEK
- Children aged 0–11: Free when accompanied by an adult
Access to the tower is organized in specific time slots with limited capacity; 27 people are allowed per time slot. The visit duration is approximately 35 minutes, and it involves climbing a staircase of 365 steps.
What is the best time to visit?
The best period to visit Stockholm City Hall is late spring and the summer months; visits between May and September are especially recommended. During this period, the weather is milder and sunnier, and the 106-meter-high tower of the City Hall is also open for visits. Since it is possible to enjoy Stockholm’s unique panoramic view by climbing the tower during the summer season, planning your visit for these months provides a significant advantage.
However, since tourist density also increases during the summer months, the best option to avoid crowds is to go early in the morning. Especially in July and August, tours and tower tickets can sell out quickly, so it is advisable to purchase your tickets in advance. The last weeks of spring (May) and early summer (June) are considered ideal for visits due to being less crowded and having pleasant weather conditions.