Easter in Stockholm 2015

Easter Lunch!
Photo by Marie Andersson/Skansen

To start off with... the Swedish word for Easter is Påsk (good to know when visiting the city on Easter weekend). While Sweden is one of the least religious countries in the world, it has loads of bank holidays that are religious in origin. On Easter weekend (first weekend in April this year) we have two bank holidays, besides the obvious Easter Sunday, or Påskdagen: Good Friday (Långfredag) and the Monday following Easter Sunday (Annandag Påsk). Even Thursday (Skärtorsdag) is somewhat special as many office workers take a half day off ahead of their 4 day holiday. Once upon a time this meant that the city came to a standstill for 4 days... but these days it isn't that bad. Banks, liquor stores, cafés and smaller shops will be closed or have changed opening hours. Many restaurants, most larger department stores and shopping centers will be open as normal. Though perhaps with shortened opening hours. The Rival Bistro, Bar and Café are all open all weekend long!

Children dressed up as Easter witches (påskkärringar)
Photo by Marie Andersson/Skansen

As for the museums, the big ones (Vasa, Fotografiska, ABBA, Skansen and Moderna) are open as normal. Some others are closed on Friday (April 3rd); these include the Royal Palace and Maritime (Sjöhistoriska) museums. The History Museum (Historiska) is closed on both Friday and Saturday. While these closures can be bad news, there is some good news as well. Monday is a day in Sweden when many museums are closed, however some of these museums are staying open on Monday, April 6th, as it is a holiday. They include History, Medieval, Millesgården, Natural History and Drottningholm Palace.  Keep in mind that I haven't checked ALL the museums in Stockholm... just the top 20 or so of the 85 museums in the city. Talk to me directly, if you are staying at the Rival Hotel, or check the individual websites if you are interested in other, smaller museums. Sightseeing tours operate as normal.

Scene from Skansen. Photo by me!

If you want to experience Swedish Easter traditions then you should definitely visit Skansen (open-air museum, park and zoo). Don't be surprised if you see little children dressed up as cute witches (påskkärringar)! Here you can learn about, watch, listen to or partake in traditional Easter activities. These are all of special interest if you have children with you. They also have an Easter Market, open (11am to 4pm) from Thursday to Monday, where you can purchase traditional Easter handicraft, decorations, toys and food. For a full calendar of activities at Skansen... click here. I did mention that Sweden isn't a very religious country, but that doesn't mean that it is devoid of religion! There are, of course, many churches (mainly Lutheran and Catholic) that have special Easter services and masses. Contact me directly, if you are staying at the Rival Hotel, for service/mass times at different churches. Several churches offer services in languages other than Swedish.

www.rival.se

Easter in Stockholm 2015

Posted by zlatin

Easter Lunch!
Photo by Marie Andersson/Skansen

To start off with... the Swedish word for Easter is Påsk (good to know when visiting the city on Easter weekend). While Sweden is one of the least religious countries in the world, it has loads of bank holidays that are religious in origin. On Easter weekend (first weekend in April this year) we have two bank holidays, besides the obvious Easter Sunday, or Påskdagen: Good Friday (Långfredag) and the Monday following Easter Sunday (Annandag Påsk). Even Thursday (Skärtorsdag) is somewhat special as many office workers take a half day off ahead of their 4 day holiday. Once upon a time this meant that the city came to a standstill for 4 days... but these days it isn't that bad. Banks, liquor stores, cafés and smaller shops will be closed or have changed opening hours. Many restaurants, most larger department stores and shopping centers will be open as normal. Though perhaps with shortened opening hours. The Rival Bistro, Bar and Café are all open all weekend long!

Children dressed up as Easter witches (påskkärringar)
Photo by Marie Andersson/Skansen

As for the museums, the big ones (Vasa, Fotografiska, ABBA, Skansen and Moderna) are open as normal. Some others are closed on Friday (April 3rd); these include the Royal Palace and Maritime (Sjöhistoriska) museums. The History Museum (Historiska) is closed on both Friday and Saturday. While these closures can be bad news, there is some good news as well. Monday is a day in Sweden when many museums are closed, however some of these museums are staying open on Monday, April 6th, as it is a holiday. They include History, Medieval, Millesgården, Natural History and Drottningholm Palace.  Keep in mind that I haven't checked ALL the museums in Stockholm... just the top 20 or so of the 85 museums in the city. Talk to me directly, if you are staying at the Rival Hotel, or check the individual websites if you are interested in other, smaller museums. Sightseeing tours operate as normal.

Scene from Skansen. Photo by me!

If you want to experience Swedish Easter traditions then you should definitely visit Skansen (open-air museum, park and zoo). Don't be surprised if you see little children dressed up as cute witches (påskkärringar)! Here you can learn about, watch, listen to or partake in traditional Easter activities. These are all of special interest if you have children with you. They also have an Easter Market, open (11am to 4pm) from Thursday to Monday, where you can purchase traditional Easter handicraft, decorations, toys and food. For a full calendar of activities at Skansen... click here. I did mention that Sweden isn't a very religious country, but that doesn't mean that it is devoid of religion! There are, of course, many churches (mainly Lutheran and Catholic) that have special Easter services and masses. Contact me directly, if you are staying at the Rival Hotel, for service/mass times at different churches. Several churches offer services in languages other than Swedish.

www.rival.se

Stockholm Museum App

First page for the app.

So... do I need to explain what an app is (short for "mobile application")? No, probably not. Remember 15+ years ago when we had to go to the library to do research? These days there is an app for everything and they make our lives simpler by bringing more information to our finger tips via smart phones/pads.

Category: Cultural History

It should come as no surprise that there are lots of apps available that can make your vacation abroad easier. Many are free to download or just cost a few euros/dollars/crowns. I was recently given a tip about a new app for museums in Stockholm, available in Swedish and English, that is very good. It is free to download through iTunes and is compatible for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch (requires iOS 6.0 or later version).

Searching for museums nearby...

Stockholm has an amazing amount of museums and attractions (80+) for a city of its size, so this app is very helpful. The app sorts the museums into four different categories: Cultural History, Art, Natural Heritage and Technology. You can also search for museums alphabetically. Many museums aren't open daily, especially during the low season, and the app lets you also search for museums that are actually open on the day you are out and about. One final search tool is by location. The app can show you, via an online interactive map, which museums are near your current location.

Part of Skansen's page in the app.

There is plenty of information regarding each museum and attraction, including symbols which let you know if it is child-friendly, accessible for the disabled, has a gift shop, café or restaurant. The app also lets you know how to get to the museum and links to its homepage for even more detailed information. If you staying at the Rival Hotel and need help downloading the app or more information... come talk to me directly. All pictures in this article are screenshots from the app.

Stockholm Museum App

Posted by zlatin

First page for the app.

So... do I need to explain what an app is (short for "mobile application")? No, probably not. Remember 15+ years ago when we had to go to the library to do research? These days there is an app for everything and they make our lives simpler by bringing more information to our finger tips via smart phones/pads.

Category: Cultural History

It should come as no surprise that there are lots of apps available that can make your vacation abroad easier. Many are free to download or just cost a few euros/dollars/crowns. I was recently given a tip about a new app for museums in Stockholm, available in Swedish and English, that is very good. It is free to download through iTunes and is compatible for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch (requires iOS 6.0 or later version).

Searching for museums nearby...

Stockholm has an amazing amount of museums and attractions (80+) for a city of its size, so this app is very helpful. The app sorts the museums into four different categories: Cultural History, Art, Natural Heritage and Technology. You can also search for museums alphabetically. Many museums aren't open daily, especially during the low season, and the app lets you also search for museums that are actually open on the day you are out and about. One final search tool is by location. The app can show you, via an online interactive map, which museums are near your current location.

Part of Skansen's page in the app.

There is plenty of information regarding each museum and attraction, including symbols which let you know if it is child-friendly, accessible for the disabled, has a gift shop, café or restaurant. The app also lets you know how to get to the museum and links to its homepage for even more detailed information. If you staying at the Rival Hotel and need help downloading the app or more information... come talk to me directly. All pictures in this article are screenshots from the app.

Museums and Tours During the 2014-15 Holiday Season

Nordiska Museum, photo by: Ingemar Edfalk/imagebank.sweden.se

It is always a little tricky with museums during the holiday season as many close for a few days here and there. However, there is always something open so you don't have to worry about wandering the streets aimlessly. Here is a handy list that will help you plan your holiday visit better. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel and can't find the museum you are interested in... contact me directly. Stockholm has 80+ museums and I am only covering the major ones here! Please note that the National Museum is closed for renovations and instead they have exhibitions at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts (listed below).

• Skansen- open every day! Shorter hours on certain days.
• Vasa Museum- closed on December 23rd, 24th, 25th and January 1st.
• ABBA The Museum- closed only on December 24th!
• Fotografiska (photography)- closed only on December 24th!
• Moderna (modern art)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.
• Center for Architecture & Design- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Nobel Museum- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.
• Historiska (history)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th and 31st. Extra open on Monday, Dec 29th.
• Nordiska (nordic traditions)- closed on December 24th, 25th and 31st. 
• Medeltids (medieval history)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.
• Stadshuset (city hall)- closed December 24th, 25th, 26th and January 1st. Closes a bit earlier on other days.
• Spritmuseum (alcohol spirits)- closed December 24th, 25th and 31st. 
• Royal Palace- closed Mondays and December 24th and 25th.
• Livrustkammaren (royal armoury)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 26th, 31st and January 1st.
• Konstakademien (Royal Acad. of Fine Arts)- closed December 24th, 25th and 31st.
• Millesgården (art museum)- closed Mondays and December 24th and 25th
• Thielska Galleriet (art museum)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 26th, 31st and January 1st.
• Liljevalchs (art museum)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.
• Waldemarsudde (art museum)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 26th and 31st.
• Drottningholm Palace- closed between the 15th & 30th of December. Open daily between December 31st and January 6th (Swedish school's winter break). 
• Naturhistoriska (natural history)- closed Mondays and December 23rd & 24th.

Sightseeing tours, provided by the company Strömma, are offered everyday during the holidays... like the Panorama bus tour and the Winter boat tour among others! The company Free Tours have walking tours everyday and, as the name suggests, they are free. So, with this list you should be able to keep yourself culturally active every day of your holiday visit in Stockholm.

Museums and Tours During the 2014-15 Holiday Season

Posted by zlatin

Nordiska Museum, photo by: Ingemar Edfalk/imagebank.sweden.se

It is always a little tricky with museums during the holiday season as many close for a few days here and there. However, there is always something open so you don't have to worry about wandering the streets aimlessly. Here is a handy list that will help you plan your holiday visit better. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel and can't find the museum you are interested in... contact me directly. Stockholm has 80+ museums and I am only covering the major ones here! Please note that the National Museum is closed for renovations and instead they have exhibitions at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts (listed below).

• Skansen- open every day! Shorter hours on certain days.
• Vasa Museum- closed on December 23rd, 24th, 25th and January 1st.
• ABBA The Museum- closed only on December 24th!
• Fotografiska (photography)- closed only on December 24th!
• Moderna (modern art)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.
• Center for Architecture & Design- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Nobel Museum- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.
• Historiska (history)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th and 31st. Extra open on Monday, Dec 29th.
• Nordiska (nordic traditions)- closed on December 24th, 25th and 31st. 
• Medeltids (medieval history)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.
• Stadshuset (city hall)- closed December 24th, 25th, 26th and January 1st. Closes a bit earlier on other days.
• Spritmuseum (alcohol spirits)- closed December 24th, 25th and 31st. 
• Royal Palace- closed Mondays and December 24th and 25th.
• Livrustkammaren (royal armoury)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 26th, 31st and January 1st.
• Konstakademien (Royal Acad. of Fine Arts)- closed December 24th, 25th and 31st.
• Millesgården (art museum)- closed Mondays and December 24th and 25th
• Thielska Galleriet (art museum)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 26th, 31st and January 1st.
• Liljevalchs (art museum)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.
• Waldemarsudde (art museum)- closed Mondays and December 24th, 25th, 26th and 31st.
• Drottningholm Palace- closed between the 15th & 30th of December. Open daily between December 31st and January 6th (Swedish school's winter break). 
• Naturhistoriska (natural history)- closed Mondays and December 23rd & 24th.

Sightseeing tours, provided by the company Strömma, are offered everyday during the holidays... like the Panorama bus tour and the Winter boat tour among others! The company Free Tours have walking tours everyday and, as the name suggests, they are free. So, with this list you should be able to keep yourself culturally active every day of your holiday visit in Stockholm.

Fall Art Exhibitions at Museums & Major Galleries

At Waldemarsudde: Henrik Sørensen, Varietéartist, 1910. Picture cropped. Photo: Lars Engelhardt

The weather is getting cooler and there is a crispness in the air. Perfect weather for visiting an art museum or gallery when in Stockholm. Lots of different options to choose from! Something for everyone, as the saying goes...

• Moderna (modern art)- "A Way of Life" (Swedish Photography from Christer Strömholm until Today) is ongoing with the last day on Feb 15th. An exciting upcoming exhibition is "Sculpture After Sculpture" featuring Jeff Koons, Katharina Fritsch and Charles Ray (Oct 11th, 2014 to Jan 18th, 2015). There are several other smaller ongoing and upcoming exhibitions, check their website for details.
• Fotografiska (photography)- Their current large exhibition is "Anders Petersen" (until Nov 16th) and their upcoming exhibition is "Joyce Tenneson- Light Warriors" (Sep 18th to Nov 23rd). I am so excited that one of my favorite photographers will be exhibited here: "Herb Ritts- In Full Light" (Nov 21st to Feb 15th, 2015)!
• National (classic art)- closed for renovations, instead they have temporary exhibitions at Konstakademien (see below).
• Konstakademien (classic art)- The next exhibition is, in collaboration with the State Russian Museum, "From Tsars to Commissars" with significant paintings from Russian history (Oct 2, 2014 to Jan 11th, 2015).

  

  At Konstakademien: Aleksej (born 1925) and Sergej (born 1922) Tkatjov. "Children".(1957-60)
  © 2014, State Russian Museum, St. Petersburg 

• Millesgården (art & sculpture museum)- looking forward to seeing "Pompeii" which promises some impressive treasures excavated by the Swedish Pompeii Project (Sep 20th, 2014 to May 18th, 2015). While you are there... don't miss the sculpture garden with the work of Carl Milles.
• Waldemarsudde (art gallery/museum)- several good current and upcoming exhibitions, of special note is "Inspiration Matisse!" with works by both Matisse and Scandinavian artists influenced by Matisse (until Fab 15th, 2015).
• Thielska Galleriet (art gallery/museum)- Besides their permanent collection, they have an upcoming exhibition looking at Ernest Thiel's relationship to nature... hunting, art and business. No description in English on their website yet. From Oct 4th to Jan 18th, 2015.
• Artipelag (archipelago art gallery/museum)- the main upcoming exhibition is "Here/Now" featuring 10 Scandinavian artists (Oct 17th, 20147 to Jan 6th, 2015). 
• Liljevalchs Konsthall (art gallery/museum)- Upcoming exhibition is "Lena Cronqvist" (Oct 12th, 2014 to Jan 5th, 2015).  
• Sven-Harry's Konstmuseum (art gallery/museum)- Current exhibition is "Estrid Ericson: Svensk Tenn's Founder and Style Icon" (until Nov 30th, 2014).
• Bonniers Konsthall (art gallery/museum)- Two current exhibitions: "Experiences from Brazilian Art & Film from the 1960's and 70's" (until Nov 23rd) and "Laura Lima" (until Nov 30th).
• Magasin 3 (art gallery)- Upcoming exhibition: "wizz eyelashes" (Sep 18th to Dec 14th).

At Moderna- Jeff Koons
Michael Jackson and Bubbles, 1988. Porslin 106,7 x 179,1 x 82,6 cm Astrup Fearnley Samlingen, Oslo, Norge © Jeff Koons 

These are just the highlights at the major art museums and galleries. Keep in mind that there may be other exhibitions going on at these venues that I haven't mentioned. Check by visiting the venue's website (all linked above). There are also many smaller galleries in the city. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel, check directly with me for information about exhibits at the smaller galleries. I will definitely be visiting Moderna, Fotografiska, Millesgården and Waldemarsudde in the coming months... so check back for my reports!

At Sven-Harry's: Estrid Ericson's precious possesions.
Photo by:Lennart Nilsson/Svenskt Tenn 

Fall Art Exhibitions at Museums & Major Galleries

Posted by zlatin

At Waldemarsudde: Henrik Sørensen, Varietéartist, 1910. Picture cropped. Photo: Lars Engelhardt

The weather is getting cooler and there is a crispness in the air. Perfect weather for visiting an art museum or gallery when in Stockholm. Lots of different options to choose from! Something for everyone, as the saying goes...

• Moderna (modern art)- "A Way of Life" (Swedish Photography from Christer Strömholm until Today) is ongoing with the last day on Feb 15th. An exciting upcoming exhibition is "Sculpture After Sculpture" featuring Jeff Koons, Katharina Fritsch and Charles Ray (Oct 11th, 2014 to Jan 18th, 2015). There are several other smaller ongoing and upcoming exhibitions, check their website for details.
• Fotografiska (photography)- Their current large exhibition is "Anders Petersen" (until Nov 16th) and their upcoming exhibition is "Joyce Tenneson- Light Warriors" (Sep 18th to Nov 23rd). I am so excited that one of my favorite photographers will be exhibited here: "Herb Ritts- In Full Light" (Nov 21st to Feb 15th, 2015)!
• National (classic art)- closed for renovations, instead they have temporary exhibitions at Konstakademien (see below).
• Konstakademien (classic art)- The next exhibition is, in collaboration with the State Russian Museum, "From Tsars to Commissars" with significant paintings from Russian history (Oct 2, 2014 to Jan 11th, 2015).

  

  At Konstakademien: Aleksej (born 1925) and Sergej (born 1922) Tkatjov. "Children".(1957-60)
  © 2014, State Russian Museum, St. Petersburg 

• Millesgården (art & sculpture museum)- looking forward to seeing "Pompeii" which promises some impressive treasures excavated by the Swedish Pompeii Project (Sep 20th, 2014 to May 18th, 2015). While you are there... don't miss the sculpture garden with the work of Carl Milles.
• Waldemarsudde (art gallery/museum)- several good current and upcoming exhibitions, of special note is "Inspiration Matisse!" with works by both Matisse and Scandinavian artists influenced by Matisse (until Fab 15th, 2015).
• Thielska Galleriet (art gallery/museum)- Besides their permanent collection, they have an upcoming exhibition looking at Ernest Thiel's relationship to nature... hunting, art and business. No description in English on their website yet. From Oct 4th to Jan 18th, 2015.
• Artipelag (archipelago art gallery/museum)- the main upcoming exhibition is "Here/Now" featuring 10 Scandinavian artists (Oct 17th, 20147 to Jan 6th, 2015). 
• Liljevalchs Konsthall (art gallery/museum)- Upcoming exhibition is "Lena Cronqvist" (Oct 12th, 2014 to Jan 5th, 2015).  
• Sven-Harry's Konstmuseum (art gallery/museum)- Current exhibition is "Estrid Ericson: Svensk Tenn's Founder and Style Icon" (until Nov 30th, 2014).
• Bonniers Konsthall (art gallery/museum)- Two current exhibitions: "Experiences from Brazilian Art & Film from the 1960's and 70's" (until Nov 23rd) and "Laura Lima" (until Nov 30th).
• Magasin 3 (art gallery)- Upcoming exhibition: "wizz eyelashes" (Sep 18th to Dec 14th).

At Moderna- Jeff Koons
Michael Jackson and Bubbles, 1988. Porslin 106,7 x 179,1 x 82,6 cm Astrup Fearnley Samlingen, Oslo, Norge © Jeff Koons 

These are just the highlights at the major art museums and galleries. Keep in mind that there may be other exhibitions going on at these venues that I haven't mentioned. Check by visiting the venue's website (all linked above). There are also many smaller galleries in the city. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel, check directly with me for information about exhibits at the smaller galleries. I will definitely be visiting Moderna, Fotografiska, Millesgården and Waldemarsudde in the coming months... so check back for my reports!

At Sven-Harry's: Estrid Ericson's precious possesions.
Photo by:Lennart Nilsson/Svenskt Tenn 

Summer Museum Exhibitions- 2014

Nils Dardel at Moderna Museet!

Here is a handy list to help you with planning your visit to Stockholm this summer! There are many great museum exhibitions planned for this summer in Stockholm. Here are some of some of the major exhibitions (can't list them all!):

• Fotografiska (photography)- hauntingly beautiful black & white nature photographs in "Genesis" by Sebastião Salgado (until Sep 14th). Also exhibitions by Lisa Ross, Lu Kowski and Dana Sederowsky.
• Moderna (modern art)- an exhibit with one of Sweden's most beloved artists: "Nils Dardel and the Modern Age" (until Sep 14th). Also "Surrealism & Duchamp" and exhibits by Lena Svedberg, Georges Adéagbo and more.
• National (classic art)- closed for renovations, instead they have temporary exhibits housed at Konstakademien (see below).
• Konstakademien (classic art)- "Highlights: Famous and Forgotten Treasures from the National Museum" (until Aug 31st).
• Spritmuseum (wine & spirits)- a look at the myth and phenomenon of "Swedish Sin" (until Jan 2015). Don't miss the Absolut Art Collection as well.
• Nordiska (nordic traditions)- several continuing exhibits on a multitude of subjects... table settings, jewellery, Sami culture, fashion and more.
• Livrustkammaren (royal armoury)- "Power Games" a fascinating look how royalty (real and fiction) showed their power through costume.
• Nobel (nobel prizes)- great permanent exhibits as well as "The Nobel Prize: Ideas Changing the World" (until Nov 16th).
• Vasa Museum (warship Vasa)- Eleven permanent exhibits. Of special note is the newest one called "Meanwhile" which looks at interesting events happening in the world the same year as the Vasa sank (1628).
• Millesgården (art & sculpture museum)- Norwegian artist "Anne Karin Furunes: Beyond the Portraits" (until Aug 31st). Don't miss the sculpture garden with the work of Carl Milles.
• Historiska (history)- plenty of permanent exhibitions on Swedish history, including Vikings. New exhibit called "Medieval Massacre: The Battle of Gotland 1361".
• Waldemarsudde (art gallery/museum)- several temporary exhibits, including works of artists Staffan Nihlén and Rigmor Grönjord (both until Sep 14th). 
• Thiel Gallery (art gallery/museum)- The Collection as well as "Portraits of Thielska, Family & Friends" (until Sep 21st).
• Liljevalchs (art gallery/museum)-"Home Sweet Home, Furnished Tales" (until Sep 15th).
• Bonnier Konsthall (art gallery/museum)- closed June 30th to Sep 9th).
• Sven Harry (art gallery/museum)- permanent gallery and terrace as well as "Swedish Fashion: 2000-2015" (until Aug 31st).

Some images from the statuary garden at Millesgården.

Some fantastic museums without summer exhibitions but well worth a visit are Skansen and ABBA the Museum. There are, of course, plenty more museums and exhibitions. In fact, Stockholm has over 80 different museums. So if you are staying at the Rival Hotel and none of the above piques your interest... contact me and we'll find something to match your interests!

The history museum... Historiska!

Summer Museum Exhibitions- 2014

Posted by zlatin

Nils Dardel at Moderna Museet!

Here is a handy list to help you with planning your visit to Stockholm this summer! There are many great museum exhibitions planned for this summer in Stockholm. Here are some of some of the major exhibitions (can't list them all!):

• Fotografiska (photography)- hauntingly beautiful black & white nature photographs in "Genesis" by Sebastião Salgado (until Sep 14th). Also exhibitions by Lisa Ross, Lu Kowski and Dana Sederowsky.
• Moderna (modern art)- an exhibit with one of Sweden's most beloved artists: "Nils Dardel and the Modern Age" (until Sep 14th). Also "Surrealism & Duchamp" and exhibits by Lena Svedberg, Georges Adéagbo and more.
• National (classic art)- closed for renovations, instead they have temporary exhibits housed at Konstakademien (see below).
• Konstakademien (classic art)- "Highlights: Famous and Forgotten Treasures from the National Museum" (until Aug 31st).
• Spritmuseum (wine & spirits)- a look at the myth and phenomenon of "Swedish Sin" (until Jan 2015). Don't miss the Absolut Art Collection as well.
• Nordiska (nordic traditions)- several continuing exhibits on a multitude of subjects... table settings, jewellery, Sami culture, fashion and more.
• Livrustkammaren (royal armoury)- "Power Games" a fascinating look how royalty (real and fiction) showed their power through costume.
• Nobel (nobel prizes)- great permanent exhibits as well as "The Nobel Prize: Ideas Changing the World" (until Nov 16th).
• Vasa Museum (warship Vasa)- Eleven permanent exhibits. Of special note is the newest one called "Meanwhile" which looks at interesting events happening in the world the same year as the Vasa sank (1628).
• Millesgården (art & sculpture museum)- Norwegian artist "Anne Karin Furunes: Beyond the Portraits" (until Aug 31st). Don't miss the sculpture garden with the work of Carl Milles.
• Historiska (history)- plenty of permanent exhibitions on Swedish history, including Vikings. New exhibit called "Medieval Massacre: The Battle of Gotland 1361".
• Waldemarsudde (art gallery/museum)- several temporary exhibits, including works of artists Staffan Nihlén and Rigmor Grönjord (both until Sep 14th). 
• Thiel Gallery (art gallery/museum)- The Collection as well as "Portraits of Thielska, Family & Friends" (until Sep 21st).
• Liljevalchs (art gallery/museum)-"Home Sweet Home, Furnished Tales" (until Sep 15th).
• Bonnier Konsthall (art gallery/museum)- closed June 30th to Sep 9th).
• Sven Harry (art gallery/museum)- permanent gallery and terrace as well as "Swedish Fashion: 2000-2015" (until Aug 31st).

Some images from the statuary garden at Millesgården.

Some fantastic museums without summer exhibitions but well worth a visit are Skansen and ABBA the Museum. There are, of course, plenty more museums and exhibitions. In fact, Stockholm has over 80 different museums. So if you are staying at the Rival Hotel and none of the above piques your interest... contact me and we'll find something to match your interests!

The history museum... Historiska!

Easter in Stockholm- 2014

Photo by Henrik Trygg/mediabank.visitstockholm.com

(EDIT- for updated information for 2015, click here!) To start off with... the Swedish word for Easter is Påsk (good to know when visiting the city this week). While Sweden is one of the least religious countries in the world, it has loads of bank holidays that are religious in origin. On Easter weekend we have two bank holidays (besides the obvious Easter Sunday, or Påskdagen): Good Friday (Långfredag) and the Monday following Easter Sunday (Annandag Påsk). Even Thursday (Skärtorsdag) is somewhat special as many office workers take a half day off ahead of their 4 day holiday. Once upon a time this meant that the city came to a standstill for 4 days... but these days it isn't that bad. Banks, liquor stores, cafés and smaller shops will be closed or have changed opening hours. Many restaurants, most larger department stores and shopping centers will be open as normal. Though perhaps with shortened opening hours. The Rival Bistro, Bar and Café are all open all weekend long!

Easter Lunch!
Photo by Marie Andersson/Skansen

As for museums... the big ones (Vasa, Fotografiska, ABBA, Skansen and Moderna) are open as normal. Some others are closed on Friday (April 18th); these include the Royal Palace, The Royal Armoury, Maritime (Sjöhistoriska) and Army museums. The History Museum (Historiska) is closed on both Friday and Saturday. While these closures can be bad news, there is some good news as well. Monday is a day in Sweden when many museums are closed, however some of these museums are staying open on Monday, April 21st, as it is a holiday. They include Army, Artipelag, History, Medieval, Millesgården, Natural History, Stockholm City and Drottningholm Palace.  Keep in mind that I haven't checked ALL the museums in Stockholm... just the top 20 or so of the 85 museums in the city. Talk to me directly, if you are staying at the Rival Hotel, or check the individual websites if you are interested in other, smaller museums. Sightseeing tours operate as normal.

Children dressed up as Easter witches (påskkärringar)
Photo by Marie Andersson/Skansen

If you want to experience Swedish Easter traditions then you should definitely visit Skansen (open-air museum, park and zoo). Don't be surprised if you see little children dressed up as cute witches (påskkärringar)! Here you can learn about, watch, listen to or partake in traditional Easter activities. These are all of special interest if you have children with you. They also have an Easter Market, open (11am to 4pm) from Thursday to Monday, where you can purchase traditional Easter handicraft, decorations, toys and food. For a full calendar of activities at Skansen... click here. I did mention that Sweden isn't a very religious country, but that doesn't mean that it is devoid of religion! There are, of course, many churches (mainly Lutheran and Catholic) that have special Easter services and masses. Contact me directly, if you are staying at the Rival Hotel, for service/mass times at different churches. Several churches offer services in languages other than Swedish. More Easter tips! And even more tips...

Scene from Skansen. Photo by me!

Easter in Stockholm- 2014

Posted by zlatin

Photo by Henrik Trygg/mediabank.visitstockholm.com

(EDIT- for updated information for 2015, click here!) To start off with... the Swedish word for Easter is Påsk (good to know when visiting the city this week). While Sweden is one of the least religious countries in the world, it has loads of bank holidays that are religious in origin. On Easter weekend we have two bank holidays (besides the obvious Easter Sunday, or Påskdagen): Good Friday (Långfredag) and the Monday following Easter Sunday (Annandag Påsk). Even Thursday (Skärtorsdag) is somewhat special as many office workers take a half day off ahead of their 4 day holiday. Once upon a time this meant that the city came to a standstill for 4 days... but these days it isn't that bad. Banks, liquor stores, cafés and smaller shops will be closed or have changed opening hours. Many restaurants, most larger department stores and shopping centers will be open as normal. Though perhaps with shortened opening hours. The Rival Bistro, Bar and Café are all open all weekend long!

Easter Lunch!
Photo by Marie Andersson/Skansen

As for museums... the big ones (Vasa, Fotografiska, ABBA, Skansen and Moderna) are open as normal. Some others are closed on Friday (April 18th); these include the Royal Palace, The Royal Armoury, Maritime (Sjöhistoriska) and Army museums. The History Museum (Historiska) is closed on both Friday and Saturday. While these closures can be bad news, there is some good news as well. Monday is a day in Sweden when many museums are closed, however some of these museums are staying open on Monday, April 21st, as it is a holiday. They include Army, Artipelag, History, Medieval, Millesgården, Natural History, Stockholm City and Drottningholm Palace.  Keep in mind that I haven't checked ALL the museums in Stockholm... just the top 20 or so of the 85 museums in the city. Talk to me directly, if you are staying at the Rival Hotel, or check the individual websites if you are interested in other, smaller museums. Sightseeing tours operate as normal.

Children dressed up as Easter witches (påskkärringar)
Photo by Marie Andersson/Skansen

If you want to experience Swedish Easter traditions then you should definitely visit Skansen (open-air museum, park and zoo). Don't be surprised if you see little children dressed up as cute witches (påskkärringar)! Here you can learn about, watch, listen to or partake in traditional Easter activities. These are all of special interest if you have children with you. They also have an Easter Market, open (11am to 4pm) from Thursday to Monday, where you can purchase traditional Easter handicraft, decorations, toys and food. For a full calendar of activities at Skansen... click here. I did mention that Sweden isn't a very religious country, but that doesn't mean that it is devoid of religion! There are, of course, many churches (mainly Lutheran and Catholic) that have special Easter services and masses. Contact me directly, if you are staying at the Rival Hotel, for service/mass times at different churches. Several churches offer services in languages other than Swedish. More Easter tips! And even more tips...

Scene from Skansen. Photo by me!

Museums in Stockholm- Focusing on History!

King Charles XII

I write often about the different art museums in Stockholm, mainly because they generally have temporary exhibitions... changing from season to season. Museums with historical content, on the other hand, have mostly permanent exhibitions with few temporary exhibitions. In other words, after I have visited one of these museums and blogged about, there seldom is a reason to reblog... unless the museum does a major change. So, I thought I would put together a list of the top history museums in Stockholm to refresh everyone's memory and to show the wide range of historical themed museums.

Drottningholm Palace.

• Historiska Museet (Swedish History Museum)- a general look at Swedish history from the Stone Age to more recent history. A permanent exhibit on Swedish Vikings as well as the Gold Room (collection of Viking gold & silver finds).
• Medeltidsmuseum (Museum of Medieval Stockholm)- as the name suggests, this museum looks at life in Stockholm during the medieval era and how the city looked and grew during this time (Stockholm was first mentioned in texts during this period. 1252 to be exact).
• Stadsmuseet (Stockholm City Museum)- a museum dedicated to Stockholm: the architecture, life, art and... history! They also organize themed city walks, like the Millennium Trilogy and ABBA. 
• Vasamuseet (The Vasa Museum)- museum built around the salvaged wreck of the royal warship Vasa (sank 1628). Besides the ship, an extensive look at Stockholm and Sweden during the 1600's as well as life of sailors/soldiers onboard a warship. Recent blog article. 
• Armémuseum (Army Museum)- a look at Swedish history from a military perspective. Sweden's warlike past comes as a surprise for many visitors! Recent blog article. 
• Sjöhistoriska Museet (Maritime Museum)- a look at naval and maritime history... everything from Swedish naval history to commerce to sailor tattoos. 
• Judiska Museet (Jewish Museum)- museum on Jewish culture in Sweden and the history of the Swedish Jews. Interesting temporary exhibits from time to time...
• Skansen- park, zoo and open air museum that looks at historic Swedish traditions as well as rural culture. Farm houses, manors and churches have been transported to Skansen from counties all over Sweden. 
• Birka- the main town in Sweden during the Viking Age. Nothing is left of the settlement today, instead you have a museum there as well as a walking tour which describes the town's history as well as points out the archeological excavations. Open only during the summer and requires a full day with a boat trip. Blog article.
• Livrustkammaren (The Royal Armoury)- a collection of the armour, clothes and carriages belonging to the kings & queens of Sweden. The museum often has temporary exhibitions regarding Swedish royal history. A part of the Royal Palace.
• Skattkammaren (The Treasury)- The Swedish royal family's collection of crowns, swords, scepters and orbs. A part of the Royal Palace.
• Tre Kronor- A museum dedicated to the original royal castle in Stockholm, Tre Kronor, which burned down in 1697. A part of the Royal Palace.

At the Army Museum.

The Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet) itself is definitely worth a visit for history buffs. Not only does it contain the three last named museums (listed above), the Royal Apartments are also open to visitors. While this is the main palace, there are several other castles and palaces in the Stockholm region that are open for visitors... Drottningholm Palace, Gripsholm Castle and Skokloster Castle are the most popular.  

Part of the Royal Apartments... Gustav III's Bedchamber, photo by Alexis Daflos, Kungliga Hovstaterna

Certain historical Swedes are important enough to get museums dedicated to themselves. Learn more about inventor/philanthropist Alfred Nobel at the Nobelmuseet (Nobel Museum) and author/playwright August Strindberg at the Strindbergsmuseet (the Strindberg Museum). 

Click here for more Viking themed activities in Stockholm and nearby areas...

You can always experience living history
by wandering the streets of Gamla Stan.

Museums in Stockholm- Focusing on History!

Posted by zlatin

King Charles XII

I write often about the different art museums in Stockholm, mainly because they generally have temporary exhibitions... changing from season to season. Museums with historical content, on the other hand, have mostly permanent exhibitions with few temporary exhibitions. In other words, after I have visited one of these museums and blogged about, there seldom is a reason to reblog... unless the museum does a major change. So, I thought I would put together a list of the top history museums in Stockholm to refresh everyone's memory and to show the wide range of historical themed museums.

Drottningholm Palace.

• Historiska Museet (Swedish History Museum)- a general look at Swedish history from the Stone Age to more recent history. A permanent exhibit on Swedish Vikings as well as the Gold Room (collection of Viking gold & silver finds).
• Medeltidsmuseum (Museum of Medieval Stockholm)- as the name suggests, this museum looks at life in Stockholm during the medieval era and how the city looked and grew during this time (Stockholm was first mentioned in texts during this period. 1252 to be exact).
• Stadsmuseet (Stockholm City Museum)- a museum dedicated to Stockholm: the architecture, life, art and... history! They also organize themed city walks, like the Millennium Trilogy and ABBA. 
• Vasamuseet (The Vasa Museum)- museum built around the salvaged wreck of the royal warship Vasa (sank 1628). Besides the ship, an extensive look at Stockholm and Sweden during the 1600's as well as life of sailors/soldiers onboard a warship. Recent blog article. 
• Armémuseum (Army Museum)- a look at Swedish history from a military perspective. Sweden's warlike past comes as a surprise for many visitors! Recent blog article. 
• Sjöhistoriska Museet (Maritime Museum)- a look at naval and maritime history... everything from Swedish naval history to commerce to sailor tattoos. 
• Judiska Museet (Jewish Museum)- museum on Jewish culture in Sweden and the history of the Swedish Jews. Interesting temporary exhibits from time to time...
• Skansen- park, zoo and open air museum that looks at historic Swedish traditions as well as rural culture. Farm houses, manors and churches have been transported to Skansen from counties all over Sweden. 
• Birka- the main town in Sweden during the Viking Age. Nothing is left of the settlement today, instead you have a museum there as well as a walking tour which describes the town's history as well as points out the archeological excavations. Open only during the summer and requires a full day with a boat trip. Blog article.
• Livrustkammaren (The Royal Armoury)- a collection of the armour, clothes and carriages belonging to the kings & queens of Sweden. The museum often has temporary exhibitions regarding Swedish royal history. A part of the Royal Palace.
• Skattkammaren (The Treasury)- The Swedish royal family's collection of crowns, swords, scepters and orbs. A part of the Royal Palace.
• Tre Kronor- A museum dedicated to the original royal castle in Stockholm, Tre Kronor, which burned down in 1697. A part of the Royal Palace.

At the Army Museum.

The Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet) itself is definitely worth a visit for history buffs. Not only does it contain the three last named museums (listed above), the Royal Apartments are also open to visitors. While this is the main palace, there are several other castles and palaces in the Stockholm region that are open for visitors... Drottningholm Palace, Gripsholm Castle and Skokloster Castle are the most popular.  

Part of the Royal Apartments... Gustav III's Bedchamber, photo by Alexis Daflos, Kungliga Hovstaterna

Certain historical Swedes are important enough to get museums dedicated to themselves. Learn more about inventor/philanthropist Alfred Nobel at the Nobelmuseet (Nobel Museum) and author/playwright August Strindberg at the Strindbergsmuseet (the Strindberg Museum). 

Click here for more Viking themed activities in Stockholm and nearby areas...

You can always experience living history
by wandering the streets of Gamla Stan.

Elliott Erwitt (and more) at Fotografiska

Elliott Erwitt

A friend and I decided to have a cultural day this past Monday and chose to visit Fotografiska (museum of photography). Fotografiska is one of my favorite spots to visit in Stockholm regardless of the exhibition... beautiful space, nice cafe/bar with great views, fun gift shop and always interesting photography. But I had especially wanted to go back for a visit to see the Elliott Erwitt exhibition.

Elliott Erwitt

With a career spanning almost 65 years, Elliott Erwitt is a master photographer producing everything from advertisements, editorials, celebrity portraits, books, commissions, photo reportages and more. I found the exhibition to be really interesting and really appreciated the beautiful black & white photography and Erwitt's wry sense of humour (very apparent in many of the photographs). His work does tend to bring out emotion in the viewer... whether tears or laughter. The exhibition runs until March 2nd, 2014.

Elliott Erwitt

While at Fotografiska, we checked out the other, smaller exhibitions that are going on right now. This is the last week for the Jill Greenberg exhibit and it is well worth a visit if you are in town (ends February 9th). Beautiful color portraits of children and animals (bears, monkeys and horses). The resolution, clarity and details of the photographs are pretty amazing... the animals almost have human expressions.

Jill Greenberg (splitscreen done by me to show detail of different subjects).

The third current exhibition is by Johan Rheborg. Rheborg is a famous Swedish actor/comedian and... amateur photographer. The exhibition is called "Backstage" and that describes it very well! It is a series of black & white photographs taken by Rheborg of his colleagues backstage at different Swedish theatre productions. If you are Swedish then you will recognize many of the faces... if you are not, then you can enjoy the beautiful, candid images. Ends on March 9th!

Johan Rheborg

Fotografiska is open daily and open quite late for a museum (closes at 11pm Thurs through Sat, 9pm on the other days). Click here for exact opening hours and cost of admission. The museum is easy to get to from the Rival Hotel... just a 10 minute walk down to Slussen and then less than a 10 minute along the Stadsgård waterfront (location).

Elliott Erwitt (and more) at Fotografiska

Posted by zlatin

Elliott Erwitt

A friend and I decided to have a cultural day this past Monday and chose to visit Fotografiska (museum of photography). Fotografiska is one of my favorite spots to visit in Stockholm regardless of the exhibition... beautiful space, nice cafe/bar with great views, fun gift shop and always interesting photography. But I had especially wanted to go back for a visit to see the Elliott Erwitt exhibition.

Elliott Erwitt

With a career spanning almost 65 years, Elliott Erwitt is a master photographer producing everything from advertisements, editorials, celebrity portraits, books, commissions, photo reportages and more. I found the exhibition to be really interesting and really appreciated the beautiful black & white photography and Erwitt's wry sense of humour (very apparent in many of the photographs). His work does tend to bring out emotion in the viewer... whether tears or laughter. The exhibition runs until March 2nd, 2014.

Elliott Erwitt

While at Fotografiska, we checked out the other, smaller exhibitions that are going on right now. This is the last week for the Jill Greenberg exhibit and it is well worth a visit if you are in town (ends February 9th). Beautiful color portraits of children and animals (bears, monkeys and horses). The resolution, clarity and details of the photographs are pretty amazing... the animals almost have human expressions.

Jill Greenberg (splitscreen done by me to show detail of different subjects).

The third current exhibition is by Johan Rheborg. Rheborg is a famous Swedish actor/comedian and... amateur photographer. The exhibition is called "Backstage" and that describes it very well! It is a series of black & white photographs taken by Rheborg of his colleagues backstage at different Swedish theatre productions. If you are Swedish then you will recognize many of the faces... if you are not, then you can enjoy the beautiful, candid images. Ends on March 9th!

Johan Rheborg

Fotografiska is open daily and open quite late for a museum (closes at 11pm Thurs through Sat, 9pm on the other days). Click here for exact opening hours and cost of admission. The museum is easy to get to from the Rival Hotel... just a 10 minute walk down to Slussen and then less than a 10 minute along the Stadsgård waterfront (location).

Winter Art Exhibitions

Kraftwerk (at Moderna)
3-D video installation – 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8. Installation view Sprüth Magers Berlin., 2013
© Photo: Timo Ohler. Copyright Kraftwerk, 2013. Courtesy Sprüth Magers Berlin London.

The holiday season is winding down and it is time to look forward and turn our attention to other matters! If you are travelling to Stockholm in the next few months then you have some great art exhibitions to look forward to. Here is a list of the largest art museums and galleries with their main exhibitions this season...

• Fotografiska (photography): several great exhibitions! The main one is a look at Elliott Erwitt's 65 year long career (until Mar 2nd). The Jill Greenberg exhibit has been garnering both attention and some controversy (until Feb 9th). Also... only a few more days to see the Paolo Roversi exhibit (until Jan 12th).  
• Moderna (modern art): only a few more days left to see the popular Cindy Sherman exhibition (until Jan 19th). Coming up are two much anticipated exhibits... Dance Machines: From Léger to Kraftwerk (Jan 22nd to April 27th) and Gabriel Orozco: Natural Motion (Feb 14th to May 4th).
• National (classic art) is still closed for renovations, but in the meantime they have temporary exhibitions at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts (Konstakademien). They are currently showing a retrospective of Hans Gedda (until March 30th), one of Sweden's most famous photographers.
• Center for Achitecture and Design:  The current exhibit is... Light Houses- Young Nordic Architecture (until Feb 16th) as well as their permanent exhibit on Architecture in Sweden. 
• Bergsrummet: Don't miss the African Masterpieces which runs until Feb 23rd!
• Millesgården (art gallery and sculpture garden): Mettle and Modernity continues until Feb 9th, after which the main exhibit, which I am really looking forward to, will be Man Ray (Feb 22nd to June 8th).
• Thielska Galleriet (art museum/gallery): a few more days left of Russia 1900-1913 (until Jan 12th), still no info on coming exhibitions... but they always have a great permanent collection to view!
• Liljevalchs (art museum/gallery): their traditional "Spring Salon" runs from Jan 24th to March 23rd.
• Waldermarsudde (art museum/gallery): click here for current and upcoming exhibitions, but they do include Skagen: A Scandinavian Artists' Colony, Carl Malmsten and Karl Nordström.

© All rights reserved
Photographer: Cecilia Heisser/Nationalmuseum ©Hans Gedda

Other good art galleries to check out are... Bonniers Konsthall, Sven-Harry's Konstmuseum, Hallwyl Museum and Magasin 3. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel and are looking for other types of museums or want more information about the museums/exhibitions listed above... contact me directly!

Man Ray 1960, foto: Christer Strömholm/BVS Strömholm

Winter Art Exhibitions

Posted by zlatin

Kraftwerk (at Moderna)
3-D video installation – 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8. Installation view Sprüth Magers Berlin., 2013
© Photo: Timo Ohler. Copyright Kraftwerk, 2013. Courtesy Sprüth Magers Berlin London.

The holiday season is winding down and it is time to look forward and turn our attention to other matters! If you are travelling to Stockholm in the next few months then you have some great art exhibitions to look forward to. Here is a list of the largest art museums and galleries with their main exhibitions this season...

• Fotografiska (photography): several great exhibitions! The main one is a look at Elliott Erwitt's 65 year long career (until Mar 2nd). The Jill Greenberg exhibit has been garnering both attention and some controversy (until Feb 9th). Also... only a few more days to see the Paolo Roversi exhibit (until Jan 12th).  
• Moderna (modern art): only a few more days left to see the popular Cindy Sherman exhibition (until Jan 19th). Coming up are two much anticipated exhibits... Dance Machines: From Léger to Kraftwerk (Jan 22nd to April 27th) and Gabriel Orozco: Natural Motion (Feb 14th to May 4th).
• National (classic art) is still closed for renovations, but in the meantime they have temporary exhibitions at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts (Konstakademien). They are currently showing a retrospective of Hans Gedda (until March 30th), one of Sweden's most famous photographers.
• Center for Achitecture and Design:  The current exhibit is... Light Houses- Young Nordic Architecture (until Feb 16th) as well as their permanent exhibit on Architecture in Sweden. 
• Bergsrummet: Don't miss the African Masterpieces which runs until Feb 23rd!
• Millesgården (art gallery and sculpture garden): Mettle and Modernity continues until Feb 9th, after which the main exhibit, which I am really looking forward to, will be Man Ray (Feb 22nd to June 8th).
• Thielska Galleriet (art museum/gallery): a few more days left of Russia 1900-1913 (until Jan 12th), still no info on coming exhibitions... but they always have a great permanent collection to view!
• Liljevalchs (art museum/gallery): their traditional "Spring Salon" runs from Jan 24th to March 23rd.
• Waldermarsudde (art museum/gallery): click here for current and upcoming exhibitions, but they do include Skagen: A Scandinavian Artists' Colony, Carl Malmsten and Karl Nordström.

© All rights reserved
Photographer: Cecilia Heisser/Nationalmuseum ©Hans Gedda

Other good art galleries to check out are... Bonniers Konsthall, Sven-Harry's Konstmuseum, Hallwyl Museum and Magasin 3. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel and are looking for other types of museums or want more information about the museums/exhibitions listed above... contact me directly!

Man Ray 1960, foto: Christer Strömholm/BVS Strömholm

Museums During Christmas and New Year's 2013

(EDIT: For this year's information... click here!) Now... on to museums! There is always something open so you don't have to worry about wandering the streets aimlessly. However, many are closed on the major holidays (some more than others) so a list will help you plan your holiday visit better. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel and can't find the museum you are interested in... contact me directly. Stockholm has 80+ museums and I am only covering the major ones here! Please note that the National Museum is closed for renovations and instead they have exhibitions at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts (listed below). Some museums are closed on Mondays and I have added those dates as well when applicable (Dec. 23rd and 30th this year).

• Skansen- open every day! Shorter hours on ceratin days.
• Vasa Museum- closed on December 23rd, 24th, 25th and January 1st.
• ABBA The Museum- closed only on December 24th!
• Fotografiska (photography)- closed only on December 24th!
• Skeppsholms Caverns (Bergrummet)- closed on December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.
• Moderna (modern art)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Center for Architecture & Design- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Nobel Museum- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Historiska (history)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th and 31st. 
• Nordiska (nordic traditions)- closed on December 24th and 25th. 
• Medeltids (medieval history)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Stadshuset (city hall)- closed December 24th, 25th, 26th and January 1st. Closes a bit earlier on other days.
• Spritmuseum (alcohol spirits)- closed December 24th, 25th and 31st. 
• Royal Palace- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Livrustkammaren (royal armoury)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, & 31st.
• Konstakademien (Royal Acad. of Fine Arts)- closed December 24th, 25th and 31st.
• Millesgården (art museum)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th and 30th.
• Thielska Galleriet (art museum)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Liljevalchs (art museum)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Waldemarsudde (art museum)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, & 31st.
• Drottningholm Palace- closed between the 15th & 30th of December. Open daily between December 31st and January 6th (Swedish school's winter break). Click here for program.
• Naturhistoriska (natural history)- closed December 23rd, 24th and 30th.

Sightseeing tours, provided by the company Strömma, are offered everyday during the holidays... like the Panorama bus tour and the Winter boat tour among others! The company Free Tours have walking tours everyday except December 24th and, as the name suggests, they are free. On the other hand, Stockholm Our Way is taking a holiday break... no guided tours between Dec 22nd and Jan 6th. So, with this list you should be able to keep yourself culturally active every day of your holiday visit in Stockholm.

Christmas tree in front of Fotografiska on a snowy day last year!

Museums During Christmas and New Year's 2013

Posted by zlatin

(EDIT: For this year's information... click here!) Now... on to museums! There is always something open so you don't have to worry about wandering the streets aimlessly. However, many are closed on the major holidays (some more than others) so a list will help you plan your holiday visit better. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel and can't find the museum you are interested in... contact me directly. Stockholm has 80+ museums and I am only covering the major ones here! Please note that the National Museum is closed for renovations and instead they have exhibitions at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts (listed below). Some museums are closed on Mondays and I have added those dates as well when applicable (Dec. 23rd and 30th this year).

• Skansen- open every day! Shorter hours on ceratin days.
• Vasa Museum- closed on December 23rd, 24th, 25th and January 1st.
• ABBA The Museum- closed only on December 24th!
• Fotografiska (photography)- closed only on December 24th!
• Skeppsholms Caverns (Bergrummet)- closed on December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st.
• Moderna (modern art)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Center for Architecture & Design- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Nobel Museum- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Historiska (history)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th and 31st. 
• Nordiska (nordic traditions)- closed on December 24th and 25th. 
• Medeltids (medieval history)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Stadshuset (city hall)- closed December 24th, 25th, 26th and January 1st. Closes a bit earlier on other days.
• Spritmuseum (alcohol spirits)- closed December 24th, 25th and 31st. 
• Royal Palace- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Livrustkammaren (royal armoury)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, & 31st.
• Konstakademien (Royal Acad. of Fine Arts)- closed December 24th, 25th and 31st.
• Millesgården (art museum)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th and 30th.
• Thielska Galleriet (art museum)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Liljevalchs (art museum)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.
• Waldemarsudde (art museum)- closed December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 30th, & 31st.
• Drottningholm Palace- closed between the 15th & 30th of December. Open daily between December 31st and January 6th (Swedish school's winter break). Click here for program.
• Naturhistoriska (natural history)- closed December 23rd, 24th and 30th.

Sightseeing tours, provided by the company Strömma, are offered everyday during the holidays... like the Panorama bus tour and the Winter boat tour among others! The company Free Tours have walking tours everyday except December 24th and, as the name suggests, they are free. On the other hand, Stockholm Our Way is taking a holiday break... no guided tours between Dec 22nd and Jan 6th. So, with this list you should be able to keep yourself culturally active every day of your holiday visit in Stockholm.

Christmas tree in front of Fotografiska on a snowy day last year!

Autumn Art Exhibitions in Stockholm

At Millesgården: Anna Riwkin, Självporträtt, 1920-tal
Foto: Erik Thor

As the weather gets colder, we start to concentrate ourselves on more indoor activities. One great way to spend a rainy autumn day is to visit one of the many fantastic museums in Stockholm. There are over 80 museums(!) in the city covering a wide range of subjects like military, history, sports, alcohol, biology, technology and even dance. There are also museums with quite specific subjects... like the warship Vasa and the pop group ABBA. Then, of course, there are many museums dedicated to art in all its forms! Here are some of the major art exhibits going on this season (some lasting through winter):

At Moderna: Cindy Sherman
Untitled #92© Courtesy of the artist and Metro Pictures, New York. 

• Fotografiska- world's largest photography museum. Several smaller exhibits but the main exhibition this season is "Paolo Roversi: Secrets" (until January 12th, 2014).
• Moderna- modern art museum. Several smaller exhibits but the main exhibition this season is "Cindy Sherman: Untitled Horrors" (October 19th to January 19th, 2014).
• Millesgården- sculpture garden and art museum. "Mettle and Modernity" (until February 9th, 2014). Looking forward, as well, to their upcoming Man Ray exhibit (Feb. 2014)!
• Liljevalchs- art and design museum. "Lena Cronqvist" (October 12th through January 5th, 2014).
• Prins Eugen's Waldermarsudde- "Skagen: A Scandinavian Artists' Colony" (until January 26th, 2014) and "Carl Malmsten: Designer & Educator" (October 19th through March 2nd, 2014).
• Thielska Galleriet- Ernst Thiel's art collection. The upper floor is closed for restorations and will reopen on October 26th. In the meantime, the museum is showing a smaller exhibit of art donated since 1978 (until October 25th).
• Bergsrummet (Världskultur Museerna)- Caverns of Skeppsholmen. "African Masterpieces" (until February 23rd, 2014).
• Architecture & Design Center- connected with Moderna. "Light Houses - Young Nordic Architecture" (Oct. 15th to Feb. 16th, 2014).
• Livrustkammaren- The Royal Armoury. "Images of (Queen) Christina" (until January 5th, 2014).
• Hallwylska- Palace and art & history museum. "Past, Present & Future" (until Novermber 17th).
• National Museum is closed for renovations. In the meantime they have temporary exhibits at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts (Konstakademien). "Carl Larsson: Friends & Enemies" (until November 3rd) and "Caravaggisti" (December 5th to March 30th, 2014) among others.
• Bonniers Konsthall- contemporary art. "Art of Memory" (until November 24th).
• Sven-Harry's- private art collection as well as museum and gallery. Illustrator "Björn Berg" (until November 10th).

African Masterpieces at Bergsrummet.

There are several smaller art galleries and museums not listed above. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel, stop by or contact me in advance for further information and directions! 

At Sven Harry's! © Björn Berg / Bildmakarna Berg

Autumn Art Exhibitions in Stockholm

Posted by zlatin

At Millesgården: Anna Riwkin, Självporträtt, 1920-tal
Foto: Erik Thor

As the weather gets colder, we start to concentrate ourselves on more indoor activities. One great way to spend a rainy autumn day is to visit one of the many fantastic museums in Stockholm. There are over 80 museums(!) in the city covering a wide range of subjects like military, history, sports, alcohol, biology, technology and even dance. There are also museums with quite specific subjects... like the warship Vasa and the pop group ABBA. Then, of course, there are many museums dedicated to art in all its forms! Here are some of the major art exhibits going on this season (some lasting through winter):

At Moderna: Cindy Sherman
Untitled #92© Courtesy of the artist and Metro Pictures, New York. 

• Fotografiska- world's largest photography museum. Several smaller exhibits but the main exhibition this season is "Paolo Roversi: Secrets" (until January 12th, 2014).
• Moderna- modern art museum. Several smaller exhibits but the main exhibition this season is "Cindy Sherman: Untitled Horrors" (October 19th to January 19th, 2014).
• Millesgården- sculpture garden and art museum. "Mettle and Modernity" (until February 9th, 2014). Looking forward, as well, to their upcoming Man Ray exhibit (Feb. 2014)!
• Liljevalchs- art and design museum. "Lena Cronqvist" (October 12th through January 5th, 2014).
• Prins Eugen's Waldermarsudde- "Skagen: A Scandinavian Artists' Colony" (until January 26th, 2014) and "Carl Malmsten: Designer & Educator" (October 19th through March 2nd, 2014).
• Thielska Galleriet- Ernst Thiel's art collection. The upper floor is closed for restorations and will reopen on October 26th. In the meantime, the museum is showing a smaller exhibit of art donated since 1978 (until October 25th).
• Bergsrummet (Världskultur Museerna)- Caverns of Skeppsholmen. "African Masterpieces" (until February 23rd, 2014).
• Architecture & Design Center- connected with Moderna. "Light Houses - Young Nordic Architecture" (Oct. 15th to Feb. 16th, 2014).
• Livrustkammaren- The Royal Armoury. "Images of (Queen) Christina" (until January 5th, 2014).
• Hallwylska- Palace and art & history museum. "Past, Present & Future" (until Novermber 17th).
• National Museum is closed for renovations. In the meantime they have temporary exhibits at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts (Konstakademien). "Carl Larsson: Friends & Enemies" (until November 3rd) and "Caravaggisti" (December 5th to March 30th, 2014) among others.
• Bonniers Konsthall- contemporary art. "Art of Memory" (until November 24th).
• Sven-Harry's- private art collection as well as museum and gallery. Illustrator "Björn Berg" (until November 10th).

African Masterpieces at Bergsrummet.

There are several smaller art galleries and museums not listed above. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel, stop by or contact me in advance for further information and directions! 

At Sven Harry's! © Björn Berg / Bildmakarna Berg

Visit Djurgården!

Entrance to the visitors' center

I braved the drizzly weather today to visit the visitors' center for Djurgården called Visit Djurgården. Djurgården is both the name of an island as well as a National City Park (which includes the island). In fact, it is the world's first National City Park. For the sake of comparison, you could say that it is Stockholm's version of Hyde or Central Park. In the past this was a royal game park and these days it is still owned by the Crown. It is a great park to take a nature walk.

Some beauty found on the island.

Besides acres and acres of beautiful parks, woodlands and fields... Djurgården also has the highest concentration of tourist sites (museums, art galleries, amusement parks, etc;) in Stockholm. So if you are planning a visit to Stockholm, chances are pretty high that you will spend a considerable amount of your visit on this island! Here you will find museums such as the Vasa, Nordic, ABBA, Biology, Technology, Spirits and Maritime History. There are also several great art galleries/museums including Liljevalchs, Waldermarsudde and Thielska. If that wasn't enough, then you have Skansen park & zoo, Aquaria as well as the amusement parks Gröna Lund and Junibacken. You don't have to go hungry while here... quite a few restaurants like Villa Godthem, Ulla Winbladh and Oaxen Krog. Several cafés are spread throughout the park... a personal favorite during the summer is the rose gardens at Rosendals Trädgård.

Sjöcafé, adjacent to center, with boats and bikes for rent!

So you can see why I am so happy that they have built a visitor center just for the island/park. A great idea! There is so much to see and do that you sometimes need some expert advice... besides me! The visitors center is located just on the island side of Djurgårdsbron (the bridge connecting the island with the mainland). The center is open daily, year-round, and is manned by experts on Djurgården and its sites. There are also free maps of the park as well as brochures of the different museums and art galleries to help you decide what to visit. The center is connected to the newly renovated café Sjöcafé, so you can stay for ahwile and have a coffee or glass of wine. The café also rents paddle boats, kayaks and bicycles.

Take a street car to Djurgården, or...

Getting to Djurgården is quite easy... either by bus, street car or ferry (especially good for Rival Hotel guests!). Or why not walk along the waterfront promenade of Strandvägen? If you want to plan ahead of your visit, their website (linked at the top of this article) is filled with great information and an interactive map!

...a ferry (with Gröna Lund in background).

Visit Djurgården!

Posted by zlatin

Entrance to the visitors' center

I braved the drizzly weather today to visit the visitors' center for Djurgården called Visit Djurgården. Djurgården is both the name of an island as well as a National City Park (which includes the island). In fact, it is the world's first National City Park. For the sake of comparison, you could say that it is Stockholm's version of Hyde or Central Park. In the past this was a royal game park and these days it is still owned by the Crown. It is a great park to take a nature walk.

Some beauty found on the island.

Besides acres and acres of beautiful parks, woodlands and fields... Djurgården also has the highest concentration of tourist sites (museums, art galleries, amusement parks, etc;) in Stockholm. So if you are planning a visit to Stockholm, chances are pretty high that you will spend a considerable amount of your visit on this island! Here you will find museums such as the Vasa, Nordic, ABBA, Biology, Technology, Spirits and Maritime History. There are also several great art galleries/museums including Liljevalchs, Waldermarsudde and Thielska. If that wasn't enough, then you have Skansen park & zoo, Aquaria as well as the amusement parks Gröna Lund and Junibacken. You don't have to go hungry while here... quite a few restaurants like Villa Godthem, Ulla Winbladh and Oaxen Krog. Several cafés are spread throughout the park... a personal favorite during the summer is the rose gardens at Rosendals Trädgård.

Sjöcafé, adjacent to center, with boats and bikes for rent!

So you can see why I am so happy that they have built a visitor center just for the island/park. A great idea! There is so much to see and do that you sometimes need some expert advice... besides me! The visitors center is located just on the island side of Djurgårdsbron (the bridge connecting the island with the mainland). The center is open daily, year-round, and is manned by experts on Djurgården and its sites. There are also free maps of the park as well as brochures of the different museums and art galleries to help you decide what to visit. The center is connected to the newly renovated café Sjöcafé, so you can stay for ahwile and have a coffee or glass of wine. The café also rents paddle boats, kayaks and bicycles.

Take a street car to Djurgården, or...

Getting to Djurgården is quite easy... either by bus, street car or ferry (especially good for Rival Hotel guests!). Or why not walk along the waterfront promenade of Strandvägen? If you want to plan ahead of your visit, their website (linked at the top of this article) is filled with great information and an interactive map!

...a ferry (with Gröna Lund in background).