Sigtuna Travel Guide: Discover Sweden’s Oldest Town

Nestled by the serene waters of Lake Mälaren, just 45 minutes from Stockholm, Sigtuna is a hidden gem that feels like stepping back in time. Known as Sweden’s first town, founded in 980 AD, it’s a place where Viking heritage, medieval ruins, and storybook streets blend into a peaceful and picturesque destination.
 

Perfect for 

a day trip from Stockholm or a relaxed overnight getaway, Sigtuna invites visitors to stroll along cobblestone streets, admire ancient runestones, and immerse themselves in over a thousand years of Swedish history.

📍 Where is Sigtuna?

Location: Uppland region, about 48 km north of Stockholm

Nearby: Stockholm Arlanda Airport (only 20 minutes away)

Access: Easily reached by car, train + bus, or guided tour

🕰️ A Glimpse Into History

Sigtuna was founded by King Erik the Victorious around 980 AD, during the Viking Age. It quickly became a center of royal power, trade, and Christianity, issuing Sweden’s first coins and building some of its first churches.

Though Stockholm later eclipsed it in political power, Sigtuna remained an important ecclesiastical town and still reflects its ancient roots through architecture, artifacts, and atmosphere.

🧭 Top Things to Do in Sigtuna

1. Stroll Down Stora Gatan

One of Sweden’s oldest streets, Stora Gatan has been the heart of Sigtuna for over 1,000 years. Today, it’s lined with:

Colorful wooden houses

Local boutiques and handicraft shops

Quaint cafés and bakeries

Don't miss Tant Brun Café, a historic spot that feels like grandma’s house with delicious fika.

2. Explore the Church Ruins

Sigtuna is home to several atmospheric medieval church ruins, dating from the 11th to 13th centuries.

St. Olaf’s Church Ruin – Overgrown and romantic

St. Lawrence’s Church – Imposing stonework and arched windows

St. Peter’s Church – One of the best-preserved, near the town square

These ruins represent the early days of Christianity in Sweden and are ideal for history lovers and photographers.

3. Marvel at Viking Runestones

Scattered throughout town are more than 150 runestones, each inscribed with ancient Norse writing. These memorial stones offer glimpses into Viking families, beliefs, and stories.

Tip: Look for the Sigtuna Runestone Path, which takes you to the town’s most significant stones with interpretive signs.

4. Visit Sigtuna Museum

Discover artifacts that span the Viking Age to medieval times, including:

Ancient coins

Jewelry

Viking tools

Archaeological finds from early Christian churches

Interactive exhibits make it fun for kids and adults alike.

5. Sigtuna Marina & Lakeside Promenade

Enjoy a scenic walk along Lake Mälaren, where boats bob peacefully and swans glide past. In summer, you can:

Take a boat cruise

Swim at Sjudargårdsbadet beach

Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard

In winter, the frozen lake offers ice skating and winter walks.

6. Sigtuna Town Hall

Built in 1744, this is Sweden’s smallest town hall and a beloved landmark. Though no longer used for official business, it remains an icon of the town and is often open for tours and exhibitions.

📷 Instagrammable Spots in Sigtuna

Stora Gatan with colorful wooden buildings

Ruins of St. Olaf’s Church at sunset

Lake Mälaren shoreline at dawn or dusk

Tant Brun’s cinnamon buns in vintage setting

Viking runestones surrounded by nature

🍽️ Where to Eat in Sigtuna

For Fika:

Tant Brun Café – Cozy historic house, Swedish pastries

Bageri Speceri – Artisan bakery and coffee spot

RC Chocolat – Chocolate café with scenic outdoor seating

For Lunch/Dinner:

Farbror Blå – Bistro in an old merchant’s house

Sigtuna Stadshotell Restaurant – Fine dining with lake views

Kopparkitteln – Family-friendly meals and waterfront terrace

🏨 Where to Stay in Sigtuna

Boutique & Luxury:

1909 Sigtuna Stadshotell – Sweden’s oldest hotel, elegant lakeside charm

Sigtunastiftelsen Hotel & Conference – Historic, peaceful retreat with gardens and library

Mid-range:

Hotell Kristina – Colorful rooms, eco-friendly, art-filled spaces

Wenngarn Hotel Anstalten – Set in a historic estate with modern rooms

Budget:

Sigtuna Folkhögskola Guesthouse – Affordable, peaceful, and near the lake

🎉 Events & Festivals in Sigtuna

Sigtuna Literature Festival (August) – Book readings, author talks, and cultural events

Medieval Days (September) – Period costumes, reenactments, and medieval markets

Christmas Market (December) – One of Sweden’s coziest, with crafts, glögg, and lights

Folk music nights and lake concerts in summer

🚌 How to Get to Sigtuna

From Stockholm:

By car: ~45 minutes via E4

By train: From Stockholm Central to Märsta (40 mins), then bus 570 or 575 to Sigtuna (15 mins)

From Arlanda Airport: 20–25 minutes by car or taxi

Guided day tours are also available from Stockholm for ease.

📅 Best Time to Visit Sigtuna

🧠 Did You Know?

Sigtuna printed Sweden’s first coins around 995 AD

Its name is believed to mean “Victory Town” in Old Norse

The town has fewer than 10,000 residents but receives tens of thousands of visitors annually

Sigtuna once competed with Uppsala and Lund as Sweden’s most important city

🧳 Why Visit Sigtuna?

Sigtuna is not just a town—it’s an open-air museum of Swedish heritage, offering a rare combination of authentic Viking roots, medieval ruins, and charming small-town life. Its location makes it an ideal day trip from Stockholm or Uppsala, and its atmosphere makes it a perfect destination for romantic getaways, family trips, or even solo reflection.

Whether you're sipping coffee in a centuries-old café, exploring ancient church ruins, or admiring the stillness of Lake Mälaren, Sigtuna offers a timeless Swedish experience that lingers long after you leave.