Have a fun winter break in Stockholm
Publish date: 23 August 2024
The last week of February/first week in March gives the children of Stockholm a break from school with a half-term holiday (known as "Sportlov", Swedish: "Sports Holiday"). The idea is to give kids a chance to get some days off and spend some time on the slopes or ice-covered lakes of Sweden, while there's still snow left.
Visiting Stockholm during the winter? Go skiing on one of the city's slopes, glide around a classic ice-skating rink, or join a guided long-distance skating tour across Lake Mälaren.
Below you'll find our selection of guides on fun and adventurous winter activities. During the Sportlov/winter-break (2023; February 27 – March 5) many museums and attractions in Stockholm host special workshops, activities, and events for children and teenagers. You'll find a selection of highlights below, and even more in our events calendar.
- Ice-skating in the city: Public ice-skating rinks are plentiful and accessible in Stockholm. But if you'd prefer to skate on natural ice or even venture out on a guided tour on Nordic skates there are several options to choose from. Get more info on the ice rinks in Stockholm here, and the ice status on the city lakes here (in Swedish).
- Sled slopes in Stockholm: When snow dresses the city in white, there’s no better activity than to bring the whole family to the hilly parks of Stockholm. Don't forget to bring helmets!
- Ski slopes in Stockholm: Stockholm has several slopes perfect for downhill skiing or snowboarding. If you prefer cross-country skiing there are tracks available both with natural and artificial snow.
- Winter swimming: Swimming? In the middle of freezing winter? Yes, that's right. Taking a quick dip into chilly waters is both good for your health and a popular pastime.
- Outdoor cafés: Several cafés and restaurants have their outdoor areas open all year round. You might want to skip the ice cream and go for a hot cup of chocolate or coffee instead though!
- Hiking trails: Put on warm clothes, and comfortable boots and pack a backpack with snacks and warm drinks. Going on a winter hike in Stockholm is a lovely experience.
- Guided tours: Whether you'd like to go sightseeing in the city or take a nature tour there are several ways to take in the sights of the city. Some are pretty straightforward, others a little bit different (ghosts, anyone?).
- Winter kayaking: It's been said that Stockholm is best experienced from the water, and that still holds during the winter months. Several tour operators like Green Trails and Stockholm Adventure organize adventurous kayaking tours in the chilly waters of Stockholm.