A former royal hunting ground (owned by the Swedish crown since the 15th century), Djurgården literally translates as ‘the animal garden’. But these days it’s no longer packed with reindeer and elk, serving instead as a leafy oasis of waterfront paths and woodland trails. Just a stone’s throw from the city centre, it’s a popular weekend haunt for local families, while tourists love its proximity to some of capital’s most-visited museums. On the edge of the park, don’t miss the blooming flowerbed and greenhouse complex named Rosendals trädgård. Yes, it’s basically a posh garden centre, but in nature-loving Sweden it’s a respected spot to make a pit stop for a coffee and a cinnamon bun, and draws in all generations.
Time Out tip: If you’re feeling sporty, join Stockholm’s fresh-air loving locals on the trails before breakfast, when the well-trodden paths teem with joggers.