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Palace · Estocolmo, Estocolmo
Kungliga slottet
The Palácio Real de Estocolmo, the king's official residence, at the tip of Gamla Stan: 18th-century baroque, more than 600 rooms, state rooms, the Treasury and the changing of the guard in the courtyard.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Kungliga slottet
The Kungliga slottet, the Palácio Real, stands on the site of the old Tre Kronor castle, which burned down in 1697. The new palace was designed by Nicodemus Tessin, o Jovem, in a baroque style inspired by the palaces of Rome, and was completed in 1754. It is the official residence of the King of Sweden, with more than 600 rooms. The royal family lives in Drottningholm, but here the offices are located and state banquets take place.
The visit includes the Royal Apartments, with state rooms, Queen Christina's silver throne room and the halls of the orders of chivalry. In the basement are the Skattkammaren, the Treasury, with the crowns, sceptre and orb used in the ceremonies, and the Museum Tre Kronor, in the foundations of the old castle. The Livrustkammaren, the Royal Armory, with armors, garments and the kings' carriages, has a separate entrance on the quay side.
The changing of the guard takes place in the outer courtyard, with a military band and cavalry on some days; the time varies depending on the day of the week and the season. On the north side the palace faces the water and the Parliament; on the south side the slope Slottsbacken descends to the quay. The royal chapel and the church Storkyrkan are attached to the building.
Parts of the palace are closed during official ceremonies, and the visit is by a combined ticket for several areas.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1.5 to 2 hours for the apartments and the Treasury; plus 1 hour for the Royal Armory.
Best time
In the morning at opening, and before the changing of the guard, which is usually around midday. In summer the palace is open every day; in winter hours are reduced and some days it's closed. Check before you go, because official events can close rooms with little notice.
How to get there
It's on the northern edge of Gamla Stan. From Gamla Stan metro it's an 8-minute walk; from the central station, 15 minutes, crossing the Norrbro bridge. Buses that go along Slottsbacken stop at the door.
Tip
Arrive a little before the changing of the guard to get a spot at the courtyard rail. The palace ticket usually includes the apartments, the Treasury and the Museum Tre Kronor; the Royal Armory is separate. Guided tours in English help to understand the rooms.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kungliga slottet
Does the royal family live in the Palácio Real?
No. The king and queen live at the Palácio de Drottningholm, west of the city. The Palácio Real is the official residence and the place of work and state ceremonies.
When is the changing of the guard?
Every day, in the outer courtyard, around noon; on Sundays it is usually a bit later. In summer the ceremony is larger, with a band and sometimes cavalry. Check the schedule for the day.
What must you see inside the palace?
The Apartamentos Reais, with the state rooms; the Tesouro, with the crown jewels; and the Museu Tre Kronor, in the ruins of the medieval castle. The Armaria Real is in the same building, with entrance from the quay.