An Introduction by Andrew Cochrane, Noble Caledonia Founder & Director
"There is something about Sweden and in particular Stockholm that travellers find beguiling and fascinating. Surely one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals, a visit to Stockholm energises like few other cities can. Sweden has a justly well-deserved reputation for competence, for good order, everything works but at the same time it does not lack spontaneity or joie de vivre. It’s no secret that Swedes, like all Scandinavians, treasure the short summer months. So, to be in this city in high summer is to witness it at its very best.
During a week-long stay we will enjoy the sights of Stockholm’s outstanding architecture, delve into its history, visit its palaces and castles in the city and beyond and include visits to some stunning gardens. There will be many highlights as we span the history from the 16th century when Gustav Vasa broke from Denmark to the arrival early in the 19th century of Jean Baptiste Jules Bernadotte, a Napoleonic Marshal of France who became King Charles XIV John of Sweden in 1818.
Sweden is a joy to visit, we will explore the city of Stockholm built on fourteen islands, venture to the university city of Uppsala, marvel at historic Gamla Stan and enjoy the natural beauty of the countryside. It will be an enlightening and enjoyable week of varied and interesting sights and plenty of opportunities to sample some of the famous cuisine. “
Hotel Skeppsholmen
For our stay we have chosen the Skeppsholmen, a uniquely Swedish hotel in a very special setting. The views over the Stockholm maritime inlet are a delight as is the lush greenery of the island and yet the city centre is nearby. A listed historic building dating back to 1699, the hotel offers a combination of modern Swedish design with a sensitive adherence to the past. An outside patio garden is a lovely place to sit and watch the passing boats and ferries.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Stockholm, Sweden.
Fly by scheduled flight to Stockholm and on arrival transfer to the Hotel Skeppsholmen. After checking in enjoy some free time before we meet for a welcome drink and dinner in the hotel this evening. (D)
Day 2 Gamla Stan & Rosendal Palace.
After a leisurely breakfast we begin with a guided walk of historic Gamla Stan including the 14th century Storkyrkan Cathedral. Continue on to Djurgarden for lunch and a visit to Rosendal Garden, a charming oasis in the heart of Stockholm. Known for its biodynamic approach to organic agriculture, see the orchard, vineyard and flower gardens. After lunch in the renowned café we explore Rosendal Palace, famous for its French Empire interiors. Enjoy dinner at the hotel and perhaps a drink in the garden enjoying the summer light on the waterway traffic. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Drottningholm Palace & Archipelago Cruise.
A morning ferry ride brings us to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Drottningholm Palace, the home of the Royal Family. Built in the 1600s in a French style we will visit the Baroque palace, Chinese Pavilion and Court Theatre. Return to the hotel for some free time in the afternoon, perhaps make a visit to the nearby Modern Art or National Museum. This evening we take to the water once again to enjoy dinner on a private archipelago cruise. (B, D)
Day 4 Sturehov Castle & Tullgarn.
This morning we will head to the western fringes of Stockholm for a visit to Sturehov Castle. Completed in 1781, the castle has been described as one of the country’s most beautiful buildings in the Gustavian style. Designed by architect Carl Fredrik Adelcrantz, we will explore the well-preserved interiors which include the largest collection of tiled Marieberg stoves in Sweden. After a light lunch we will continue on to Tullgarn, the summer palace of Gustav V and Queen Victoria. Enjoy a guided tour of the Duke’s interiors, which are among the finest in the country, and some free time to enjoy the fresh sea air in the castle park. Return to Stockholm where the rest of the day and evening are at leisure. (B, L, T*)
Day 5 Stockholm’s Royal Palace.
After a busy few days, the pace is slower today with a morning visit to the Royal Palace followed by an afternoon at leisure. At the official residence of His Majesty the King we visit the Royal Apartments, Royal Treasury and the Museum of Antiquities. In the evening a private boat will take us to Fjaderholmarnas Krog, one of Stockholm’s best-known archipelago restaurants for dinner in a spectacular waterfront setting. (B, D)
Day 6 Gripsholm Castle & Vasa Museum.
This morning we make our way to the idyllic small town of Mariefred aboard the historic S/S Mariefred, a historic steamboat which has been in continuous service since 1903. After an early lunch on board we disembark for a visit to the fairytale-like moated Gripsholm Castle. Known as Gustav Vasa’s castle, it was he who was behind the building of the castle here in 1537. The 400 hundred years of history are shown here to great effect including the well-preserved rooms and the Swedish State’s Portrait collection. Return to Stockholm and the island of Djurgarden to visit the Vasa Museum, home to an amazing restoration of the magnificent Vasa warship which sank in Stockholm harbour after being launched on her maiden tour in 1628. After more than 300 years, the ship has been pieced together and now presents a unique and fascinating insight into 17th century maritime life. From the museum it is a short walk back to hotel. (B, L)
Day 7 Uppsala.
This morning we will leave Stockholm and drive to historic Uppsala, one of the oldest cities in Sweden that has played a dominant role in the political, intellectual and historical development of the country. We start with its Medieval cathedral including the Renaissance tomb of Gustav Vasa and continue to the Linnaeus Garden, Sweden’s oldest botanic garden. Spend some time in this beautiful, serene garden designed by Carl von Linne. After a light lunch we continue to Skokloster Castle on our way back to Stockholm. This is one of the great Baroque castles of Europe and was built between 1654 and 1676 for Count Carl Gustaf Wrangel and features well preserved 17th century interiors. Arrive back at the hotel in the mid-afternoon where the remainder of the day is free before meeting for our farewell dinner this evening. (B, L*, D)
Day 8 Stockholm to London.
Check out after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. (B)
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 15 to 22 July 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Superior Room - Twin/Double | £4495 | |
| Deluxe Room - Twin/Double | £4695 | |
| Superior Room - Sole Occupancy | £5295 | |
| Deluxe Room - Sole Occupancy | £5495 | |
Tour Reference Code: LA STOCKHOLM
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Seven nights accommodation at Hotel Skeppsholmen • Meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, L* - Picnic Lunch, D – Dinner) • Tour Leader • Excursions as described with entrance fees • Gratuities • Transfers.
Not Included: Travel Insurance.
Hotel Skeppsholmen
For our stay we have chosen the Skeppsholmen, a uniquely Swedish hotel in a very special setting. The views over the Stockholm maritime inlet are a delight as is the lush greenery of the island and yet the city centre is nearby. A listed historic building dating back to 1699, the hotel offers a combination of modern Swedish design with a sensitive adherence to the past. An outside patio garden is a lovely place to sit and watch the passing boats and ferries.
Also of Interest
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Explore the gardens and scenic wonders of Madeira whilst enjoying the luxury of Reid’s Palace, a Belmond Hotel
Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel
Itinerary at a glance
- Madeira / Quinta do Palheiro / Quinta das Cruzes Museum / Quinta da Boa Vista Gardens / Ribeiro Frio /Faial / Balcoes / Santana / Botanical Garden / Monte Palace Tropical Garden / Eira do Serrado
Book with Confidence
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