Discover Drottningholm Palace: Your Ultimate Guide to Stockholm’s Royal Gem
Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Sweden’s most magnificent and well-preserved royal castles. Located on the island of Lovön, just outside Stockholm, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Swedish history and royal life. From its stunning Baroque gardens to the exotic Chinese Pavilion, Drottningholm is a must-see for any visitor to Stockholm.
But how do you get there, and what’s the best way to experience its grandeur? This guide will help you navigate the best tours to Drottningholm Palace, ensuring an unforgettable visit.
Getting to Drottningholm Palace: Your Options
There are several convenient ways to reach Drottningholm Palace, each offering a unique experience:
1. Public Transportation (Bus & Metro)
For budget-conscious travelers, public transportation is a reliable option. Take the green line of the metro to Brommaplan station, then catch a bus (lines 176, 177, or 301-323) directly to Drottningholm. The journey typically takes around 40-50 minutes from central Stockholm.
Pros: Economical, frequent departures. Cons: Can be crowded, less scenic.
2. Public Ferry Service
A popular and picturesque way to reach Drottningholm is by public ferry. Strömma Kanalbolaget operates scenic boat trips from Stadshuskajen (City Hall Quay) directly to the palace. The journey takes approximately one hour and offers lovely views of Lake Mälaren.
Pros: Scenic route, relaxing journey. Cons: Fixed departure times, can be busy during peak season.
3. Private Car or Taxi
If you prefer direct and flexible travel, a private car or taxi is a good choice. The drive from central Stockholm takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Pros: Door-to-door service, flexible timing. Cons: More expensive than public transport or ferry.
The Best Tours to Maximize Your Drottningholm Experience
While independent travel is possible, joining a guided tour can enhance your visit by providing valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the palace’s history and significance.
1. Palace Interior Guided Tours
Once you arrive at Drottningholm, consider joining one of the official guided tours of the palace interior. These tours, often included with your entrance ticket or available for a small additional fee, are led by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating stories about the royal residents and the palace’s rich history.
What to Expect: Learn about the various royal chambers, the impressive State Apartments, and the daily life of the Swedish monarchy.
2. Garden and Park Walks
Drottningholm’s extensive gardens are a masterpiece of landscape design, featuring Baroque-style parterres, a charming English park, and the exotic Chinese Pavilion. Many visitors enjoy exploring these areas independently, but guided garden tours are sometimes offered, providing insights into the design principles and hidden gems.
What to Expect: Discover the intricate patterns of the Baroque garden, the tranquility of the English park, and the unique architecture of the Chinese Pavilion.
3. Combination Tours (Bus & Boat)
Some tour operators offer combination packages that include both transportation and guided elements. These often involve a bus transfer to or from the palace, combined with a scenic boat trip, allowing you to experience both land and water perspectives.
What to Expect: A convenient way to combine different modes of transport with a guided experience.

Experience Unrivaled Luxury: Your Private Stockholm & Drottningholm Boat Tour
For an truly exclusive and unforgettable journey to Drottningholm, elevate your experience with our private luxury boat tour. Imagine gliding through the serene waters of Stockholm’s archipelago, witnessing the city’s iconic landmarks unfold before your eyes, before arriving in style at the majestic Drottningholm Palace.
Why choose our private luxury boat tour?
- Personalized Experience: Enjoy a private tour tailored to your preferences, with no crowds or fixed schedules.
- Breathtaking Views: Cruise through Stockholm’s stunning waterways, offering unparalleled perspectives of the city and its islands.
- Expert Local Guide: Your knowledgeable captain and guide will provide engaging commentary on Stockholm’s history, culture, and famous sights during the 2.5-hour journey.
- Direct to Drottningholm: Arrive directly at the palace by boat, offering a grand and memorable entrance.
- Unrivaled Comfort: Relax in the plush surroundings of our luxury vessel, perfect for an intimate and exclusive outing.
Our exclusive private luxury boat tour to Drottningholm, including a 2.5-hour tour of Stockholm, is priced at just 5500 SEK.
This is more than just a transfer; it’s a premium sightseeing experience, combining the best of Stockholm’s archipelago with a majestic arrival at Drottningholm Palace. Perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a truly special way to discover Stockholm’s royal heritage.
Book your private luxury boat tour today and embark on an unforgettable journey to Drottningholm Palace!