FeelingGoodWithSofy

Right in the center of Stockholm, just south of Östermalm, lies the lovely island of Djurgården. It’s a splendid green oasis where you can enjoy long walks along the Baltic Sea, stop at a café for a traditional Swedish fika, and visit world-class attractions like Skansen—the world’s oldest open-air museum. The island is beautiful year-round, but it’s especially stunning during the summer and magical in the winter, when I usually visit, as well as in the spring when everything comes back to life. 🙂 It’s definitely been a while since I’ve been there in autumn—I hope the occasion will come soon. 🙂

A Piece of History

The island of Djurgården has a recorded history dating back to the 15th century, when King Karl Knutsson acquired it. Originally known as “Walmund’s Island,” it was placed directly under the royal administration. It was not until the 16th century that the island received its current name, which means “Animal Garden.” In 1581, King Johan III transformed the area into a grazing park and royal hunting park. For hundreds of years after, the park was reserved strictly for the Swedish crown as a private hunting estate stocked with game.

Things changed in the 18th century when King Gustav III ascended the throne and opened the island to the public. Almost overnight, the island evolved into a beloved getaway where city residents came to unwind in nature, listen to music, and relax at local taverns.

To this day, the royal family still owns the island, but it remains a protected national city park open for everyone to discover and enjoy.

A Feel-Good Island

Whenever I visit Stockholm, I always make time for Djurgården, as it is one of my absolute favourite places in the city. 🙂 There is so much beauty on this island: from the lush nature to the water glittering under the sun, creating a truly magical setting. But what I love most is the peaceful and lovely atmosphere—whether I’m walking to a café or noticing little details along the trails. There are countless spots where you can sit and enjoy a quiet fika outdoors, either alone or with good company. A few of my favourite cozy spots scattered across the island include Rosendal Garden Café and Fabrique Slipen.

If you’re interested, feel free to read my café article, where Rosendal Garden Café is featured! https://feelinggoodwithsofy.com/2024/11/04/my-three-favourite-cafes-in-stockholm-first-part/

What makes the experience even more special is taking the ferry from Slussen directly to Djurgården. Seeing the island from the water is truly lovely! Biking across the island is another highlight—it’s been a while since I biked there, but I still remember that feeling of freedom, soaking in the beauty around me without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. I’ve noticed the same thing on foot: you can walk in total peace without being surrounded by people. After all, the island is quite large, so there is plenty of space for everyone! 🙂 A large portion of the land is, in fact, dedicated to meadows, forests and walking paths.

Some of Djurgården’s Best Attractions

As I mentioned earlier, there are quite a few attractions on this island, and depending on what you enjoy, you have plenty of possibilities! The amusement park, Gröna Lund, is one option, alongside ABBA The Museum, The Viking Museum, Skansen, and more.

I’ve been to ABBA The Museum once and I really loved it—there is always a long queue whenever I pass by! The same goes for the amusement park and Skansen. You might think that an open-air museum and zoo like Skansen is just for children, but that’s not true at all! 🙂 I still thoroughly enjoy walking around there as an adult. The atmosphere and setting at Skansen are truly lovely; beyond seeing the animals, you’ll find charming historic buildings relocated from all over Sweden, an old-fashioned café called Kafé Petissan, and a beautiful church! During the winter season, Skansen even hosts its famous Christmas market.

Wrapping Up

Whether you are seeking a calming place to take a walk, a feel-good fika by the water or amidst apple trees, Djurgården truly has something for everyone. It’s a unique piece of Stockholm where culture, amusements, food, and nature coexist naturally and harmoniously. I hope this green oasis brings you as much joy as it does to me! 🙂

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