"Karl XII's Funeral Procession" by Gustaf Cederström in 1884. Photo: Mattias Blomgren/Public domain.

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

"Karl XII's Funeral Procession" by Gustaf Cederström in 1884. Photo: Mattias Blomgren/Public domain.
💡 Summary
Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts in Stockholm, Sweden’s leading art institution since 1792. Housed in a Renaissance-inspired palace on the waterfront, it showcases Swedish and European masterpieces alongside decorative arts, design, and contemporary works—making it a must-see cultural destination.

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 is one of Europe’s oldest art museums, housing masterpieces and design treasures that span centuries of creativity.

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 monumental fresco of Gustav Vasa‘s 1523 entry into Stockholm greets visitors on the grand staircase.

Älvalek (Fairy Play) is an oil on canvas painting by August Malmström, 1866. The painting depicts a group of playful fairies in a forest setting. Photo: Nationalmuseum/Public domain.
Älvalek (Fairy Play) is an oil on canvas painting by August Malmström, 1866. The painting depicts a group of playful fairies in a forest setting. Photo: Nationalmuseum/Public domain.
"Still Life with Cherries" is an oil on oak painting created by Osias Beert in the early 1600s. Photo: Nationalmuseum/Public domain.
"Still Life with Cherries" is an oil on oak painting created by Osias Beert in the early 1600s. Photo: Nationalmuseum/Public domain.

Vast and diverse collections

The Nationalmuseum holds one of Northern Europe’s richest art collections, including:

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

Swedish highlights include iconic works by Carl Larsson, Anders Zorn, and Alexander Roslin, while the international collection features Rembrandt, Rubens, Goya, and Gauguin.

Alexander Roslin's painting "The Lady with the Veil" depicts the artist's wife, Suzanne Roslin, in 1768. The painting is an oil on canvas work. Photo: Nationalmusuem/Public domain.
Alexander Roslin's painting "The Lady with the Veil" depicts the artist's wife, Suzanne Roslin, in 1768. The painting is an oil on canvas work. Photo: Nationalmusuem/Public domain.
"Breakfast Time" is an oil on canvas painting by Hanna Pauli, created in 1887. Photo: Nationalmuseum/Public domain.
"Breakfast Time" is an oil on canvas painting by Hanna Pauli, created in 1887. Photo: Nationalmuseum/Public domain.
"Faunen" (The Faun) is a marble sculpture created by Johan Tobias Sergel in 1774. The sculpture depicts a mythical creature from ancient Greek mythology, a half-human, half-goat figure known for its love of nature and revelry. Photo: Nationalmuseum.
"Faunen" (The Faun) is a marble sculpture created by Johan Tobias Sergel in 1774. The sculpture depicts a mythical creature from ancient Greek mythology, a half-human, half-goat figure known for its love of nature and revelry. Photo: Nationalmuseum.
"Karl XII's Funeral Procession" is an oil on canvas painting created by Gustaf Cederström in 1884. The painting depicts the funeral procession of King Charles XII of Sweden, who died in battle during the Great Northern War. Photo: Linn Ahlgren/Nationalmuseum.
"Karl XII's Funeral Procession" is an oil on canvas painting created by Gustaf Cederström in 1884. The painting depicts the funeral procession of King Charles XII of Sweden, who died in battle during the Great Northern War. Photo: Linn Ahlgren/Nationalmuseum.
🖼️ Midvinterblot: A Controversial Masterpiece Returns
In 1915, Carl Larsson completed Midvinterblot, a dramatic depiction of a Norse sacrifice. Initially rejected for its controversial theme, the painting remained outside the collection for decades. In 1997, the museum acquired it, and today it hangs opposite Larsson’s Gustav Vasa fresco—symbolizing a renewed appreciation of Sweden’s artistic heritage.

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 a major renovation, the museum reopened in 2018 with restored 19th-century grandeur and modern amenities. Today, it blends historic charm with contemporary accessibility, making it an inspiring destination for both art connoisseurs 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 on the Blasieholmen peninsula near the Royal Palace.
  • 🔍 What to Expect: Swedish and European art across centuries, housed in a historic landmark by the waterfront.
  • 🎟️ Admission: Entrance fee applies. Free entry for visitors under 20.
  • 🎧 Guided Tours: Available for exhibitions and groups; see the museum’s website for schedules.
  • ☕ Café: On-site restaurant with Swedish lunch, pastries, and waterfront views.
  • 🛍️ Shop: Curated selection of books, prints, gifts, and Swedish design objects.

Nearby attractions

  • 👑 The Royal Palace — One of Europe’s largest royal residences in nearby Gamla Stan.
  • 🏘️ Gamla Stan — Stockholm’s historic Old Town with cobbled streets and colorful facades.
  • 🎨 Moderna Museet — A modern art museum featuring Picasso, Dalí, and other masters.
  • 🚢 Vasa Museum — Home to the world’s best-preserved 17th-century warship.
  • 🦌 Skansen — The world’s first open-air museum and zoo, showcasing Swedish culture.
  • 🌳 Explore Djurgården — A tranquil island with gardens, trails, and several top museums.
  • 🏛️ Nordiska Museet — Explore Swedish traditions, design, and fashion.
  • 📜 Swedish History Museum — Discover Sweden’s past from prehistory to the present.

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🏛️ Did You Know?
Fika isn’t just coffee—it’s a cultural institution centered around slowing down and socializing.