Visit King’s Garden to see statues of former Swedish kings, enjoy free live music and art exhibitions and dine at an array of restaurants. Formerly a burial ground and then a royal vegetable garden, this city centre park was opened to the public in the late 18th century by King Gustav III. Today it’s one of Stockholm’s most popular meeting points.
Art and architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s statues and sculptures. Find a neoclassical statue of King Charles XIII in the centre of the park. Surrounding it are four lions by Swedish sculptor Bengt Erland Fogelberg. Nearby is the Fountain of Molin by Johan Peter Molin. Look for its sculptures of characters from Nordic mythology. Molin also designed the statue of King Charles XII in the southern end of the park. During the summer, the lawns surrounding this statue are popular with picnickers and sunbathers.
Walk along the east side of the park to find cafés, restaurants and fast-food stands. Many have outdoor seating areas. Choose from traditional Swedish and Italian cuisine or international chain restaurants, among others. Art lovers will enjoy the free exhibitions at the Wetterling Gallery, close to the statue of King Charles XIII. Rotating exhibitions focus on work by contemporary artists, such as British pop artist Richard Hamilton.
Come to King’s Garden for one if its many festivals. Families can enjoy free magician shows and acrobatic performances during the Stockholm Street Festival. In August the park hosts We Are Stockholm, which is a festival of free music and sporting events for 13- to 19-year-olds. Don’t miss the Christmas market and the chance to shop for handicrafts and artisanal gifts. Further event information is available on the park’s official website.
Located in Stockholm’s city centre, King’s Garden is within walking distance of major city attractions. Gamla Stan (Old Town) and Sergels Torg are both 10-minute walks away. Public buses and the metro stop close to the garden’s entrances.
