Take a holiday in Sigtuna, where history comes to life on the shore of Mälaren Lake.
Historical Sigtuna is about 40 miles from central Stockholm. Sigtuna was founded in the late 900s, earning the title of Sweden's first city it was also here that the first Swedish coins were minted. Not surprising, then, that there are many interesting attractions here dating from the Bronze Age onwards.
Stora gatan is the oldest street in Sweden, and this is where Erik Segersäll founded the city. Today, the street is lined with wooden houses in pastel colours from the 18th and 19th centuries, flourishing with small shops and restaurants. The 1744 courthouse is home to Sigtuna Museum and also hosts the Lundströmska and Borgmästar gardens, from the 19th and 20th centuries.
A 30-minute drive from the town is Skokloster castle, where visitors can tour castle rooms, such as the King's room and Cabinet of curiosities, and enjoy with a number of exhibitions. Other castles worth a visit include the Rosersberg castle from the 1600s and Steninge castle from the 1700s, with its baroque park. There are also many rune stones and relics from the Middle Ages in and around the town, such as Sälnastenen and St. Olof's church ruins.
For a physical challenge, you can hike along the Uppland trail, which stretches 280 miles through the entire county. If you'd prefer a relaxing weekend in Sigtuna, the shore promenade along Mälaren is a wonderful option. Go down to Sigtuna inn and gaze over the sparkling water while enjoying an ice cream. If you need to cool off with a swim, there are five outdoor swimming areas, including Steningebadet at Steninge castle and Sjudargårdsbadet.
Summer is not the only time to enjoy a stay in Sigtuna, as there is also plenty to do here in winter. On Stora torget people gather around the Christmas tree and the Sigtuna Christmas market sells sweets and handmade goods. Sigtuna Möte is another popular market, where visitors are invited on a journey back to 1912, with a chance to try on period clothing.
The closest international airport is Stockholm Arlanda, and regular trains and buses run from Stockholm and Uppsala. Once you arrive in Sigtuna, you can start travelling through time to the period that interests you most.
