The ship’s arrival into Stockholm this morning was a slow sail through the archipelago that lends itself to its magic. 

If I am being honest, seeing this city has been “on this list” for a quite some time and I could not hide my excitement. As I saw the main city islands come into view and the notorious Gamla Stan (Old Town) before me, I was ready for the day to begin. 

Our ship docked a bit further from the Old Town that I expected. Thank goodness for good weather.  Once out of the port, you follow the blue line on the sidewalk to the City.  Once you hit Slussen, turn right and the magic starts. We walked along the water across from the National Museum up to the Royal Palace and Storkyrkan (The Great Church).  This Cathedral was stunning.  Most notably for me was the St. George slaying the dragon sculpture. Magnificent!

Moving over to Riksplan park for amazing views with a quick stop at the big dog.

Then across the bridge to the King’s Garden.  It was lovely to see the tulips were still in bloom.  It was at this point we commented that everywhere we turned was another beautiful view, stunning architecture and vibrant colors. 

We made our way back by the Parliament Building to Riddarhurst (Nobility House) the 17th century house and great hall, and the Riddarhurst Church.

At this point we had circled the outer edge and immediate surrounds of Gamla Stam or Old Town.  It was time to dive into the 17th and 18th century buildings with narrow winding cobbled streets. 

Of course with all that walking we needed a little local lunch of Swedish meatballs (come on you simply have to) and Vasterbotten cheese pie at Fika & Wine.

Energized from lunch it was onto Stortorget, the original town square of Old Town and the most recognized block of colorful merchant buildings in Stockholm.

A bit more of a wander through the streets including Marten Trotzigs Grand…Stockholm’s narrowest street measuring less than one meter wide, before heading back to our ship. 

I will state for the record, this Scandinavian Jewel hit the mark and is everything I had hoped it would be and more.