Take a leisurely stroll along Monteliusvägen, a 1,640 foot (500 meter) pathway with uninterrupted panoramas of Stockholm’s central islands. With pretty houses on one side and the Riddarfjärden bay of Lake Mälaren on the other, Monteliusvägen is among the most scenic and romantic lookouts in the city. The path is named after Oscar Montelius, a renowned Stockholm-born archaeologist.
Look down on the waters of Riddarfjärden, which glisten in the summer sunshine and are often covered with ice in winter. The towers and spires of ancient churches, such as the German Church, Storkyrkan and Riddarholmen Church, rise above the colorful merchant buildings in Gamla Stan old town. In the northernmost corner of this historic quarter, you can spot the huge baroque-style Royal Palace.
Directly across the water from the pathway’s lookout points is Stockholm City Hall, a magnificent red brick administrative building that hosts the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Come in the evening to experience jaw-dropping sunsets or, if you are an early riser, arrive at the break of dawn to view the sunrise.
Ivar Los Park sits behind the pathway and offers equally impressive views. It’s a favorite spot among locals, who meet to enjoy picnics and barbecues on long summer nights. Within the park is a children’s playground, wooden sculptures of farm animals and a collection of traditional-style farmyard buildings.
The pathway is just a short walk from Mariatorget and Slussen metro stations. You can also catch a passenger ferry from Kungsholmen and Norrmalm to Södermalm’s Söder mälarstrand waterfront promenade. Combine your time at Monteliusvägen with a visit to other attractions located on Södermalm. Among them is the 19th-century Mariahissen building and Skinnarviksberget, which is the highest natural point in Stockholm.
Monteliusvägen is accessible year round. Snowfall and ice can make the path slippery in winter so it’s advisable to wear suitable footwear.
