Stockholm in winter is like a city of ice and snow immersed in a fairy tale. Snow covers the streets and alleys, the lakes condense into mirror-like ice, the whole city is shrouded in the soft Nordic winter sunshine, and the air is cool and quiet. From the old colorful buildings in the old town to the modern streets, the warmth of the festival and the romance of winter are everywhere.
As the capital of Northern Europe, Stockholm not only has amazing natural snow scenery, but also combines the dual charm of urban life and winter sports. You can ride freely on the city’s ski slopes, or taste mulled wine at the brightly lit Christmas market, or go to the ski resorts in the suburbs to challenge the slopes and ice and snow projects of different difficulties.
1. Overview of Winter Activities in Stockholm
Stockholm’s winter activities are rich and varied. Whether you are a skiing enthusiast or a tourist who likes to take a leisurely walk in the snow, you can find an activity that suits you. In winter, Stockholm’s snowy city landscape and winter sunshine complement each other, creating a romantic and mysterious atmosphere.
1.1 Snow skiing and snowboarding
There are many areas suitable for skiing in the city of Stockholm. Although the skiing venues in the city are not as wide as those in the suburbs, it provides a convenient and fast skiing experience, especially for skiing beginners and family tourists. In addition, there are many more professional ski resorts around Stockholm where you can enjoy real snow sports.
1.2 Ice Lake Skating
In winter, the lakes in Stockholm freeze, providing an unparalleled skating experience. Visitors can enjoy natural ice activities on many lakes in the city. Activities such as skating on the ice, ice football, and even ice skiing attract a large number of tourists and local residents.
1.3 Snow Hiking and Snowmobiling
For tourists who don’t like skiing, snow hiking is an excellent choice. In the forests and parks around Stockholm, tourists can experience snow hiking and enjoy the tranquil snow scenery. In addition, snowmobiling is also a popular winter activity, especially for tourists who seek excitement.
2. The most beautiful ski resorts in Stockholm
2.1 Hammarbybacken Ski Resort
Location and Transportation
Hammarbybacken is one of the most famous ski resorts in downtown Stockholm, located in the south of the city, about 15 minutes drive from the city center. The ski resort here is suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers, with moderate slopes, which is very suitable for family tourists and ski beginners.
Opening hours and recommended visit time
Hammarbybacken is usually open from December to March, and the opening hours are from 9:00 to 18:00 every day. It is recommended that tourists arrange at least 2-3 hours to enjoy skiing here. Beginners can sign up for skiing lessons, and professional skiers can experience more slopes.
Cost and booking platform
Adult day tickets are about 300-400 Swedish kronor, and student and children’s ticket prices are discounted. The rental cost of ski equipment is about 200 Swedish kronor. Skiing lessons and equipment rental can be booked through Booking.com and Skyscanner.
2.2 Ekebyhovslätten Ski Resort
Location and transportation
Ekebyhovslätten is located in the west of Stockholm, about 30 minutes drive from the city. This is a ski resort more suitable for beginners and families, with multiple slopes suitable for novices and children.
Opening hours and recommended visit time
Usually open from December to February, the opening hours are from 9:00 to 16:00 daily. It is an ideal choice for beginners and family tourists. It is recommended to play for about 2 hours to enjoy skiing and snow activities.
Cost and booking platform
Adult tickets are about 250 SEK, children and students are cheaper, and the cost of renting ski equipment is 200 SEK. Ski lessons and equipment rental can be booked through Expedia and Airbnb.
2.3 Tullinge Ski Resort
Location and transportation
Tullinge Ski Resort is about 30 kilometers from the center of Stockholm, located in the southern suburbs. This ski resort has a rich skiing experience and is suitable for all types of skiers, from beginners to experts.
Opening hours and recommended visit time
Tullinge’s ski season usually lasts from November to March, and the opening hours are from 9:00 to 17:00 daily. It is recommended that tourists stay for at least 3 hours, suitable for skiing, sledding and other activities.
Cost and booking platform
The ticket price is about 300 SEK for adults, and there are more favorable fares for children and students. The rental fee for ski equipment is 150-200 SEK. Equipment rental and course reservations can be made through Hotels.com and Agoda.
2.4 Flottsbro Ski Resort
Location and transportation
Flottsbro Ski Resort is located on the shores of the scenic Mälaren Lake. It is one of the most popular all-round skiing and outdoor leisure places in the Stockholm area. It is located on the outskirts of Huddinge, about 25 kilometers from the center of Stockholm, and the drive takes about 30 minutes. You can take the Pendeltåg (commuter train) to Flemingsberg Station, and then transfer to bus No. 706 directly to Flottsbro Station. The transportation is convenient and fast.
Opening hours and recommended visit time
Flottsbro’s ski season usually starts at the end of November and lasts until mid-March. The specific opening hours are from 9:00 to 16:00 every day. Night skiing is also very popular, and the night skiing time is usually from 17:00 to 21:00 every Monday to Friday.
It is recommended that tourists arrange at least half a day (about 4-5 hours) to ski, ride a sled, experience the snowboard park, and enjoy the full snow fun under the winter sun.
Cost and booking platform
The price of adult day tickets is about 350-400 Swedish kronor, and children and students tickets are about 250 Swedish kronor. The cost of ski equipment rental is about 200 Swedish kronor, including skis, ski boots and helmets. Night ski tickets are relatively more economical, and the price for adults is about 250 kronor.
Tourists can book ski courses and equipment rentals through GetYourGuide and Klook platforms. At the same time, these platforms also provide joint tickets and family packages, which are suitable for parents and groups.
3. Winter activities other than skiing
In addition to skiing, Stockholm also offers a variety of winter activities to meet the needs of different tourists.
3.1 Ice skating on ice lakes
Several lakes in downtown Stockholm freeze over in winter, providing free ice skating opportunities. The most famous of these is Kungsträdgården, which is located in the city center and surrounded by many cafes and restaurants, making it a great place for couples and families. Ice skating is one of the classic winter activities in Stockholm, and whether it is skating or just walking on the ice, it is a unique romantic experience.
3.2 Snow hiking
Stockholm’s natural attractions and forests are great choices for winter hiking. Especially on Djurgården Island and Tyresta National Park, visitors can take a leisurely walk in the thick snow and enjoy the quiet winter forest scenery.
3.3 Snowmobile and snowmobile
For adventurous tourists, the experience of snowmobile and snowmobile will bring you an unprecedented excitement. At some ski resorts and mountains in the suburbs of Stockholm, visitors can rent snowmobiles and experience the thrill of extreme speed.
4. Things to note for winter travel in Stockholm
4.1 Warm clothing and equipment
The weather in Stockholm is cold in winter, especially when you are outdoors. It is essential to bring warm down jackets, gloves, hats and non-slip shoes. For tourists who are skiing and ice activities, don’t forget to wear suitable ski clothes and waterproof boots.
4.2 Transportation and transportation cards
Public transportation in Stockholm is very convenient. Tourists can buy SL cards to facilitate the use of transportation such as subways, buses, light rails and boats. If you go to the ski resorts and the ice skating rink on the ice lake, you can choose to use public transportation or rent a car to drive yourself.
4.3 Budget and costs
The cost of skiing in Stockholm is relatively high, but it is still competitive compared to other Nordic countries. Ski resort tickets usually cost between 250-400 Swedish kronor, and the cost of renting ski equipment is about 200 Swedish kronor. For tourists who take ski lessons or guidance, the cost will be higher.
Stockholm’s ski resorts and abundant winter activities are a great way to experience the Nordic winter style. From the ski resorts in the city to the ski resorts in the suburbs, whether you are a beginner or a professional skier, you can find snow activities that suit you. And unique winter activities such as ice skating on the ice lake, snow hiking, and snowmobiling can make you feel the infinite charm of this city in the cold winter.