6 July , 2025
14.7 C
Stockholm

National Museum
– Centuries of Art in Stockholm’s Landmark Gallery

HomeMuseums & Attractions in StockholmArt & Design MuseumsNationalmuseum: Swedish & European Masterpieces in Stockholm
💡 Summary
Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts in Stockholm, a landmark since 1792. Set in a Renaissance-inspired palace, it showcases Swedish and European masterpieces—blending rich heritage with modern elegance in a must-see for art lovers.

The National Museum of Fine Arts:
A treasure trove of art and history

Located in the heart of Stockholm, the Nationalmuseum (National Museum of Fine Arts) is Sweden’s foremost institution for art and design. Founded in 1792, it stands among Europe’s oldest art museums, with a rich legacy and collections spanning centuries.

A stunning architectural marvel

The museum’s Renaissance-inspired building, designed by German architect Friedrich August Stüler, opened in 1866 on the Blasieholmen peninsula. With commanding views of the Royal Palace across Strömmen Bay, the museum’s architecture is as captivating as its collections. Inside, Carl Larsson’s grand fresco depicting Gustav Vasa‘s 1523 entry into Stockholm graces the central staircase.

Vast and diverse collections

The Nationalmuseum’s holdings include

  • Paintings and sculptures from the late Middle Ages to the early 20th century
  • Applied arts and design from the 14th century to the present day
  • Over 500,000 prints and drawings
  • Approximately 16,000 paintings and sculptures

Its Swedish art collection features iconic works by Carl Larsson, Anders Zorn, and Alexander Roslin. International highlights include pieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, Goya, and Gauguin.

🖼️ Midvinterblot: A Controversial Masterpiece Returns
In 1915, Carl Larsson completed Midvinterblot, a dramatic portrayal of a Norse sacrifice. Rejected by the museum due to its provocative theme, Larsson retained the painting privately. In 1997, changing attitudes led to its acquisition by the Nationalmuseum. It now hangs opposite Larsson’s Gustav Vasa fresco, symbolizing a new appreciation of Swedish art history.

Highlights and notable works

Don’t miss these standout pieces:

  • Lady with the Veil by Alexander Roslin (1769)
  • One of the world’s finest collections of French 18th-century art
  • Sculptures by Auguste Rodin and Johan Tobias Sergel

Renovation and modern appeal

After extensive renovations, the museum reopened in 2018, blending 19th-century grandeur with contemporary accessibility. The result is a dynamic space that honors history while meeting modern expectations—ideal for both seasoned art lovers and curious newcomers.

Visitor information

  • 🕰️ Opening Hours:
    • Tuesday–Sunday: 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
    • Thursday: Open until 8:00 PM
    • Monday: Closed
  • 📍 Address: Södra Blasieholmshamnen 2, 111 48 Stockholm
  • 🚶‍♀️ Getting There: A short walk from Kungsträdgården metro station or tram line 7. Located near the Royal Palace on the Blasieholmen peninsula.
  • 🔍 What to Expect: A vast and diverse collection of Swedish and European paintings, sculptures, and applied arts—housed in a stunning historic setting by the waterfront.
  • 🎟️ Admission: Entrance fee applies. Youth under 20 enter free.
  • 🎧 Guided Tours: Available for special exhibitions and groups; check the museum’s website for schedules and booking.
  • Café: A stylish on-site restaurant offers lunch, coffee, and Swedish pastries with waterfront views.
  • 🛍️ Shop: A well-curated museum shop with books, prints, gifts, and Swedish design items.

Nearby attractions

  • The Royal Palace in Gamla Stan, one of Europe’s largest and most iconic royal residences.
  • Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s historic Old Town filled with cobbled streets and colorful facades.
  • Moderna Museet, home to works by Picasso, Dalí, and other modern masters.
  • Vasa Museum, featuring the famous 17th-century warship preserved in full glory.
  • Skansen, the world’s first open-air museum and zoo, showcasing Swedish life through the ages.
  • Explore Djurgården, a peaceful island with gardens, trails, and several of Stockholm’s top museums.
  • Nordiska Museet, highlighting Swedish culture, traditions, and fashion.
  • Swedish History Museum, exploring Sweden’s past from prehistory to present.

Attraction Info

English National Museum of Fine Arts

Swedish Nationalmuseum

Address
📍Södra Blasieholmshamnen 2
🗺️Stockholm
Contact
📞+46 (0)8-519 543 00
🌐https://www.nationalmuseum.se/en
✉️info@nationalmuseum.se
Getting there
🚇Kungsträdgården (exit Skärgårdsbåtarna)
🚌65 (stop Nationalmuseum)
2, 55, 65 och 76 (stop Kungsträdgården/Karl XII:s torg).
🚗The Djurgården ferry from Slussen or Djurgården (Allmänna gränd) to Skeppsholmen, approximately 10 minutes walk from the museum.
🅿️There are a limited number of parking spaces adjacent to the museum.
Other Info
ℹ️Nationalmuseum is Sweden’s premier museum of art and design, showcasing a vast collection ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. The museum regularly hosts internationally acclaimed exhibitions and offers educational programs for all ages.

Attractions nearby

Places to stay in the area

Lydmar Hotel
9.1

Lydmar Hotel

⭐ 5.0 | 📈 9.1 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Södra Blasieholmshamnen 2, Norrmalm

Lydmar Hotel offers luxury with free Wi-Fi, airport transport, and concierge services. Select rooms feature balconies, televisions, and minibars. Enjoy on-site dining, a bar, and recreational amenities like spa and fitness centers for ultimate relaxation.

Grand Hotel Stockholm
9.3

Grand Hotel Stockholm

⭐ 5.0 | 📈 9.3 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Södra Blasieholmshamnen 8, Norrmalm

Grand Hotel Stockholm offers free Wi-Fi, airport transfers, and concierge services. Enjoy luxurious rooms with in-room entertainment and essential amenities. Treat yourself to a homemade breakfast and unwind at the bar. Indulge in the spa and stay fit with the gym and pool.

Radisson Collection Strand Hotel
8.9

Radisson Collection Strand Hotel

⭐ 4.5 | 📈 8.9 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Nybrokajen 9, Norrmalm

Radisson Collection Strand Hotel, Stockholm: Enjoy exceptional service, free Wi-Fi, concierge, and parking. Smoke-free rooms with in-room dining and entertainment ensure comfort. Delight in breakfast, coffee shops, and dining. Stay active in the fitness center.

Bank Hotel
8.8

Bank Hotel

⭐ 5.0 | 📈 8.8 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Arsenalsgatan 6, Norrmalm

Nestled in the heart of Stockholm, Bank Hotel offers an exquisite blend of luxury and history. Located on Arsenalsgatan, this boutique gem boasts elegant rooms, exceptional dining, and a vibrant rooftop bar with panoramic city views. This boutique gem is ideal for both leisure and business travelers who are seeking a refined urban retreat.

StockholmMuseum Map

🖼 130+ Museums & Attractions  |  🧒 Family-Friendly  |  📍 Citywide Locations

Don’t miss these reads

Swedish History Museum: Explore Sweden’s Past in Gold and Stone

Discover Sweden’s past at the Swedish History Museum in Stockholm. From Viking treasures to medieval relics, explore over 10 million artifacts—including the spectacular Gold Room.

Sofia Church: A Tranquil Treasure on Södermalm

Discover Sofia Church atop Södermalm—a Neo-Gothic landmark with grand interiors, quiet gardens, and sweeping Stockholm views.

Gustaf Vasa Church: Neo-Baroque Splendor at Odenplan

See Gustaf Vasa Church at Odenplan—Neo-Baroque splendor, dome views, and artistic detail in Stockholm’s heart.

ANDETAG: A Breath of Art Beneath Stockholm’s Streets

ANDETAG is a meditative underground art experience in central Stockholm. Light, sound, and interactive textiles guide visitors through a tranquil, sensory journey.