What do you do if you have 12 hours layover in Stockholm? Should you sit nicely in the airport eating Swedish meatball or should you venture out to the city? I chose the latter option. I couldn’t bear to miss the opportunity to explore this Viking city. Keep in mind before you venture out, Arlanda Airport is far from the city, so plan wisely.

Based on my experience, the best way to reach the city is by taking the Arlanda Express. It is pricier compared to the bus, but it is the most convenient with a shortest travel time. It takes you only 20 minutes from Arlanda to Stockholm. The train runs nonstop to the Stockholm central station. You can buy the ticket online or from a ticket machine at the airport. The most economical option for the Arlanda express is the 6 hours return ticket, it costs 370 SEK. This option is not available online, so you need to buy it at the airport from a ticket machine.

Now that you finally board the Arlanda express and travel all the way to central station, what can you do when you arrive at Stockholm central station? As you exit the central station, you can walk straight to Gamla Stan (the old town) in the central of Stockholm where Stockholm was founded in 1252. If you are a fan of Nobel Prize, you can visit the Nobel museum in Gamla Stan. Here you can discover the history of Nobel Prize and learn about the winners. You can stroll along the narrow winding cobblestone road that take you to numerous restaurants and souvenir stores. In this old town, you can also visit old churches and admire the architecture. And the most important landmark not to miss is the Royal Palace or Stockholm Palace.

The Royal Palace is largest palace in the world with over 600 rooms, including several museums. You will not have time to explore the entire royal palace during 12 hours layover, but you still can visit it and walk around. And if you happen to be there on the right time, you can witness the parade of soldier and the daily changing of the guard. If you are not ready to roam alone, then you can book the 90 minutes free walking tour to explore Gamla Stan and learn about Viking, Swedish royalty and the Stockholm bloodbath when Danish attacked the Swedish in 1520. But remember, don’t forget to tip, this awesome free tour deserve generous gratuity.

Last but not least, as you stroll along the cobblestone street of this beautiful and well preserved medieval city back to central station to conclude your little adventure, grab some Swedish food along the way such as artsoppa (pea soup) and Swedish pancake to complete your Swedish experience.