Stockholm’s Bridges Guided Tour: Explore the Venice of the North

Join Stockholm’s Bridges guided tour to discover why Stockholm is known as the Venice of the North. Experience the unique architecture of the Hammarby Slussen canal, glide under historic structures, and enjoy stunning views of this maritime city's blend of history and modernity.

Overview

Set off on Stockholm’s Bridges guided tour to dive deep into the essence of the city which showcases a remarkable feat of urban engineering, linking with 14 unique islands and over 50 bridges. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, this maritime hub has been molded by innovative Swedish architects, such as Tore Ahlsén and Holger Blom who transformed a medieval fortress into a dynamic modern city. The city's design necessitates that sailors make a careful transition from the brackish waters of the Baltic Sea to the fresh waters of Lake Mälaren, all while passing under a grand canopy of concrete, steel, and stone arches.

As you navigate under Skanstullsbron, you are greeted with a dramatic view of Stockholm’s southern entrance. Gliding through the Hammarby slussen canal, you find yourself overshadowed by the imposing, functionalist concrete pillars of this 1940s masterpiece. The air is infused with the unique aroma of brackish water mingled with the urban exhaust from the traffic thundering above on the 40-meter-high deck. Gazing up from the cockpit, the underside of the bridge creates a geometric pattern of shadows against the sky. Heading west towards the city’s bustling highway arteries, the Essingeleden bridges offer a striking and expansive view of Sweden's busiest transit route.

The highlight of your journey is the Årstabroarna, a stunning pair of railway bridges that gracefully embody the balance between Stockholm's history and its contemporary landscape. The older eastern bridge, crafted by Cyrillus Johansson in the 1920s, welcomes you with its classic brick-red masonry arches, reminiscent of an ancient Roman aqueduct spanning the water. As you glide beneath its robust stone arches, the scent of damp brick and moss lingers in the cool shade. Spend unforgettable moments with your loved ones in breathtaking Stockholm’s Bridges for approximately 2 hours, before returning to your hotel in Stockholm.

Explore Stockholm’s Bridges

Start cruising alongside the Keppsbron promenade, which is close to Skeppsholmen Island. Continue underneath the Skanstullsbron, one of the main bridges on the island of Södermalm, which is one of Stockholm's trendiest neighbourhoods. Your boat will take you under the Essingeleden bridges, one of Sweden's busiest motorways. See the coastlines of both Stora Essingen and Lilla Essingen islands from the boat. As you are back to the starting point, see the coasts of other modern areas of Stockholm, such as the Hammarby Sjöstad district. You'll also have an unparalleled view of the green and leafy Djurgården Island.

Guided services

There are numerous guided services available to assist you in exploring the fascinating aspects of the sites you visit at competitive prices. Learn about what to expect, as well as what is included and excluded.

OPTION 2: Expect

Cruise alongside the coasts of two beautiful districts, Katarina-Sofia and Hornstull and sail under 12 different bridges in the Swedish capital.

Included

Boat trip in Stockholm and Audio guide in English.

Excluded

Refreshments at the boat's café.

Price

Price per person. Check the latest price

OPTION 1: Expect

Enjoy a relaxing cruise around Stockholm and marvel at its many waterways and islands. Discover the sights and bridges as you cruise to the Royal Island of Djurgården.