Our tour experts at Sweden Private Tours have crafted a full-day royal escape from Stockholm, designed for you to experience the grandeur of Sweden’s royal history and the beauty of its countryside. On this exclusive day trip from Stockholm, you’ll travel with your own private driver-guide, who brings deep knowledge of Swedish heritage, architecture, and local culture to every stop on your journey.
Walk through the ornate halls of Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the current royal residence, before continuing through the scenic Södermanland region to the storybook town of Mariefred. There, you’ll explore the fairytale towers and Renaissance interiors of Gripsholm Castle, set beside the sparkling waters of Lake Mälaren. Throughout the day, your guide will share the fascinating stories of monarchs, artists, and legends that shaped these iconic landmarks — making this a truly immersive and unforgettable royal experience just outside the capital.
Below, you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your visit — but every tour is fully customizable to suit your interests, pace, and preferences.
Drottningholm Palace & Gripsholm Castle Private Tour Itinerary
Below is a sample itinerary for a 1-day private tour of Drottningholm Palace & Gripsholm Castle. This itinerary is just a rough guide, and we can customize it to your personal preferences.
Collection from your Stockholm accommodation
On the morning of your tour, your private guide will be on hand to pick you up from your hotel, airport, or a location of your choice. As you leave the city, your guide will share an overview of Sweden’s royal history and what lies ahead during your regal day out.
Drottningholm Palace
Arriving at Drottningholm Palace, you’ll step into one of Sweden’s most magnificent royal residences. Built in the 17th century and inspired by French baroque architecture, this UNESCO-listed site is the official private residence of the Swedish Royal Family.
Your expert guide will lead you through:
The State Apartments – Featuring original furnishings, stunning tapestries, and portraits of Swedish monarchs
The elegant Palace Chapel – Used for royal events today
The Chinese Pavilion – A whimsical rococo pavilion gifted to Queen Lovisa Ulrika in the 1700s
The formal Baroque gardens and sprawling English-style park are perfect for photography and a leisurely stroll
As you explore, learn about royal life, palace intrigue, and the architectural evolution of this majestic estate.
Swedish Fika & Scenic Drive
Before your journey continues, enjoy a traditional fika, a Swedish custom of taking a coffee break and pastry, which is considered a daily necessity in Sweden. Enjoy a fresh coffee with a Swedish pastry as you enjoy breathtaking views of Drottningholm Palace.
When you feel recharged, you will depart Drottningholm and enjoy a scenic 1-hour drive through the heart of the Södermanland region. Along the way, your guide will highlight points of interest, rural villages, and lake views. This leg of the journey offers a deeper look at the Swedish countryside — dotted with forests, farmland, and red-painted cottages — and sets a peaceful tone for the afternoon.
Lunch in Lakeside Mariefred
Before your day of royalty continues, you’ll stop in the storybook town of Mariefred, nestled on the shores of Lake Mälaren and home to cozy streets, charming shops, and a stunning lakeside promenade. Enjoy lunch at one of the town’s best-loved restaurants before heading to Gripsholm Castle. Our guide will recommend options such as an old Swedish inn offering a refined menu of seasonal Swedish dishes or a stylish café-style eatery near the water. We can make a reservation on your behalf in a restaurant that works for you!
Gripsholm Castle
After a beautiful Swedish lunch, your guide will take you to explore Gripsholm Castle. It’s quite the picture – imagine a 16th-century Renaissance fortress beside a stunning lake. The castle was built by King Gustav Vasa, arguably the most famous Swedish monarch, as he played a pivotal role in Sweden gaining its independence. Explore the castle this famous king built, with attractions including:
The Royal Apartments featuring historic furniture, grand halls, and rich tapestries
The Swedish National Portrait Gallery houses over 5,000 portraits of monarchs, artists, and national icons — the largest such collection in the world.
Unique features like the circular tower rooms once used as royal prisons.
The castle’s inner courtyard ideal for a quiet moment and striking photos
Your guide will bring the castle to life with stories of royal intrigue, imprisoned nobles, and Sweden’s rise as a European power.
Explore Mariefred
After the castle tour, enjoy some free time to soak in the charm of Mariefred, one of Sweden’s prettiest towns, before beginning the journey back to Stockholm. Walk along the lake promenade, with picture-perfect views of Gripsholm Castle across the water. History enthusiasts can visit Mariefred Church, dating back to the 17th century. If you’d rather spend your time in Mariefred browsing local artisan shops, galleries, or antique boutiques. Your private guide is on hand to help you adapt your time in Mariefred to your liking.
Return Drive to Stockholm
Rejoin your driver-guide for a relaxing journey back to Stockholm. As you travel, take a moment to reflect on your day, exploring Sweden’s rich royal history, its beautiful rural landscapes, and the contrast between grand palaces and the charm of quiet towns. Your driver-guide will drop you off at your accommodation in Stockholm or at a location of your choice. They can also provide recommendations for restaurants and activities to enjoy during your stay in the city.
