10 Things to Do in Stockholm in March
In March, Stockholm awakens from its winter slumber and prepares to welcome spring, with plenty to discover both in the city and in nature.
March is a special month to visit Stockholm, as the transition into spring adds a special charm. There are many things to see and do in Stockholm all year round, but during this month, the Swedish capital wakes up from winter and begins to prepare for the hustle and bustle of the high season.
From the shelter of the Paradox Museum to the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, in March you can discover Stockholm's rich heritage with fewer crowds. In this article, I'll tell you about the highlights of this month's festivities, so you can find out how the locals experience the season. Plus, I'll offer practical tips on how to make the most of your visit to the city.
1. Explore the nautical world at Allt För Sjön
Allt För Sjön is the annual boat show held every March to welcome the coming boating season. It is an ideal event if you are a water sports and sailing enthusiast, as you can explore the latest trends and developments in the marine world.
At the fair you will find a variety of products and services related to sailing, from boats and equipment to nautical accessories. In addition, you will see exhibits ranging from the latest boating technology to fishing equipment and water recreation. Allt För Sjön is the perfect place for you to discover the latest innovations if you are looking to get into the world of boating.
The fair lasts approximately two weeks, making it an ideal plan if you are staying in Stockholm for at least three days. At Allt För Sjön you will also be able to participate in events, demonstrations and talks related to aquatic life, meetings with experts, product presentations and live demonstrations.
It's an event that will give you a practical insight into the world of boating, as the city is known for its intense nautical life and the unmissable boat tours you can take in Stockholm.
Useful facts
- Location: Mässvägen 1, 125 80, Stockholm.
- Days and times: Days and times of different events may vary.
- Ticket price: from approximately €21 per person.
2. Visit the Stockholm Botanical Garden
March brings the end of winter in Stockholm and the promise of spring, so it's a great idea to visit the Stockholm Botanical Garden in March. The temperatures are still cool in March, so there are fewer tourists and you can explore the diversity of plants and flowers at your leisure.
The beauty of March at the Botanical Garden lies in the simplicity of the first flowers of the season. In this month you can appreciate the delicacy of the first green shoots and observe how nature gradually renews itself. The tranquil atmosphere allows you to stroll along the paths, enjoying the peace and quiet of this green corner of Stockholm.
The garden has two greenhouses with plants from all over the world, and a large outdoor green space with trees, herbs and plants, where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also terraces and a café overlooking the garden and Lake Brunnsviken.
Interesting facts
- Location: Gustafsborgsvägen 4 (Frescati), Stockholm.
- Days and hours: The outdoor areas of the garden and the Edvard Anderson Orangery are open all year round.
- Admission fee: about 8 EUR for adults. Children under 15 are free.
3. Explore the Stockholm Archipelago by boat
In March, sailing around the Stockholm Archipelago is one of the must-do experiences during your stay in the city. For one thing, the less crowded tourist season allows you to enjoy the scenery without distractions, so you can enjoy a more leisurely experience at your own pace. In addition, prices are more affordable compared to the high season.
Sailing on a scenic cruise is one of the best options for you to get to know the Stockholm Archipelago, a natural wonder made up of some 24,000 islands, islets and rocks. You'll also have a unique perspective of the city and some of its most representative buildings, such as the Royal Palace and City Hall.
You can also go by ferry to some of the islands of the Archipelago, such as Värmdö Island, which is the largest and most populated, where you can go hiking in the forest, explore museums and enjoy its gastronomy. Another good option is Grinda Island, where there is a nature reserve.
Interesting facts
- Starting point: Strandvägen 8, 114 56 Stockholm, Sweden.
- Days and times: daily at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. approximately.
- Entry fee: from €36 per person.
4. Learn about documentaries at the Tempo Documentary Festival
In March, Stockholm is transformed into the setting for the Tempo Documentary Festival, an event dedicated to documentary film and storytelling. This annual festival offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of contemporary documentary filmmaking.
The fascinating thing about the Tempo Documentary Festival is its ability to present powerful and thought-provoking stories. Its wide-ranging programme tackles social, political and cultural issues, giving you a revealing insight into the world around us. It is definitely an experience not to be missed if you are a film buff who wants to explore the richness of contemporary documentary film.
To make the most of your experience at the Tempo Documentary Festival, I recommend that you check the programme in advance and select the screenings that interest you most. Often, the festival also offers special events, talks with filmmakers and various opportunities for participation, so that you can have a more complete film experience.
5. Discover the universe of paradoxes in Stockholm
The Paradox Museum in Stockholm is a unique experience that defies the conventions of physics and logic. With more than 70 exhibits, this museum offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a world where paradoxes and optical illusions transform your perception of reality. March is the best time to visit the museum, as it receives fewer visitors, and you can take your time to solve the challenges.
The Paradox Museum's exhibitions cover a wide range of intriguing topics that challenge the mind and encourage curiosity, and are of interest to people of all ages. It is also designed to be enjoyed with your group of friends or family and is ideal if you are visiting Stockholm with children.
The Paradox Museum is located in the city centre, so you can include it in your tour of Stockholm and take away a different experience from your time in the city.
Interesting facts
- Location: Sergelgatan 20, 111 57 Stockholm, Sweden.
- Days and hours: daily from 10 am to 7 pm.
- Admission: Adults from €20 per person. Children under 4 years free.
6. Attend the carnival celebration in Stockholm
The Stockholm Carnival, an annual celebration that has been held for over 27 years, has carved out a unique space in the Swedish city. The event, organised by the Brasil bar, seeks to recreate the liveliness of traditional Brazilian carnivals in the heart of Stockholm. The initiative arose in the absence of spaces to celebrate the carnival festivities.
During the celebration, the musical offer covers various genres, from samba to reggaeton, soca and African rhythms. To participate in this event you must be over 18 years of age, and you can join in with costumes, contributing to the colourful and joyful carnival atmosphere.
To make the most of the Stockholm Carnival, I recommend that you buy your tickets in advance, as access to the festivities is on a pay-as-you-go basis. I also suggest you check the event's programme to make sure you don't miss out on any outstanding performances and parades.
7. Enjoy the flavours at Stockholm Waffle Day
Held annually, Stockholm Waffle Day is a festival that pays homage to one of the most delicious culinary delights. The celebration takes place every 25 March and originates from the Christian holiday Vårfrudagen, or Annunciation Day.
Waffle Day is celebrated at a variety of venues in Stockholm, from cosy cafés such as Älskade Traditioner (one of Stockholm's best coffee shops) to lively street markets. There you'll find a wide variety of waffles, from the classics with sugar and cinnamon to more innovative creations with unique ingredients.
Accompanying waffles with traditional Swedish sides, such as whipped cream and fresh fruit, adds an authentic touch to the experience. In addition, some establishments may offer special activities or events related to the celebration, so keep an eye out for scheduled activities to further enrich the experience.
To make the most of Waffle Day in Stockholm, I advise you to arrive early to popular spots, as demand can be high during this event. It's a good day to take a city tour of Stockholm by bike, as you can discover many hidden places and enjoy the local architecture and culture along the way.
8. Enjoy outdoor sports
March is the most appropriate month for skiing in Stockholm, as it marks the end of winter, but conditions are still suitable. The combination of well-preserved snow and more pleasant weather conditions provides a great environment for skiing in the city.
Among the top places to ski in Stockholm is the Nackareservatet region, which has extensive snow-covered areas. Another popular spot is the Flottsbro area, which is located approximately 20 kilometres south of the city and has well-maintained slopes and options for skiers of different levels.
If you decide to ski in Stockholm in March, I recommend that you check the conditions of the slopes before you go. Be aware that the slopes tend to be less crowded on weekdays compared to weekends.
Another popular option in Stockholm in winter is ice skating on the rinks located in different parts of the city. One of the busiest is at Kungstradgarden Park, which is located in central Stockholm.
9. Explore history in Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan is a picturesque historic quarter of Stockholm that lies in the heart of the Swedish capital. Located on an island between lakes Mälaren and Saltsjön, the neighbourhood has cobblestone streets and colourful buildings that tell centuries of history. A tour of the cobblestone streets is highly recommended in March, when temperatures start to ease and the days become longer.
Gamla Stan offers a rich variety of attractions, from the majestic Stortorget Square to the Royal Palace. In March, the smaller crowds of tourists allow you to enjoy its charms in a more serene way. Västerlånggatan, famous for its cosy shops and cafés offering traditional Swedish delicacies, is a must-see.
To get to Gamla Stan, you can use Stockholm's public transport system, which includes trains and buses, or book a guided tour if you want to learn more about the city's history and culture. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and dress warmly, as the weather is still cool at this time of year.
10. Taste traditional Swedish mulled wine
Mulled wine is a traditional drink that is particularly popular in winter and especially at Christmas in Stockholm and Sweden. However, as temperatures are still cold in March in the city, it's a good idea to try this delicious drink in one of the city's best restaurants.
Glögg or mulled wine is also drunk in other countries such as Norway, Germany and Denmark, but it is believed to have originated in Sweden. It is traditionally served with ginger or cinnamon biscuits, almonds or sultana and saffron buns.
You can also prepare it yourself, following one of the traditional Glögg recipes.
A good idea if you want to learn about the city's main dishes with expert guidance is to sign up for a guided tour, which is sure to include a tasting of this and other typical Swedish beverages.
Temperatures in Stockholm in March
In March, Stockholm experiences a gradual shift towards spring after the cold winter months. Temperatures at this time of year tend to vary, with daytime averages ranging from 0 °C to 6 °C. Mornings and evenings can be cool, with temperatures dipping below freezing, but as the month progresses, the weather tends to become milder.
There are also noticeable changes in the hours of sunlight, as the days lengthen and a brighter, more welcoming atmosphere is created in the city. It is a good month to visit the city, as it receives fewer visitors than the spring and summer season.