Start with a “Gubbröra” on freshly baked bread, then climb the old wooden staircase to discover what feels like a mini museum of cookbooks. Wooden walls and hidden nooks are filled with thousands of cookbooks from around the world—new, old, rare, and familiar. Pick a book that speaks to you and dive into your culinary adventure. Whether you’re looking for a recipe to impress your next dinner guests, seeking vegan inspiration, exploring sushi creations, or brushing up on your German for Oktoberfest, you’ll find a recipe here. Vintage cookbooks, such as Prinsessornakokbok from the early 1900s, are waiting to be explored, while some of the most special works are framed and displayed like art, featuring names like Cajsa Warg alongside Chef KC himself.
For any food enthusiast, the upstairs dining room is a dream: a cozy corner to linger over a warm cup of coffee and freshly baked bread, while immersing yourself in the rich history of cookbooks and culinary tradition. True to Skansen’s spirit, the moment you step inside, the setting itself is an experience. Chef KC Wallberg has crafted a restaurant and menu as meticulous as the details found throughout Skansen.
At Krogen Stora Gungan, only the finest ingredients are used, each rooted in Swedish heritage. The food is a harmonious blend of history and flavor—where tradition meets thoughtful craftsmanship on every plate. Krogen Stora Gungan is both a celebration of Swedish cuisine and an invitation to explore flavors from around the world.
Christmas is over, the presents have been opened, and maybe things feel a bit dull after New Year’s? No way! My name is Sofie, and I’ve planned the ultimate tour to make the most of January with tons of fun things to do during the darkest part of winter. Royal Djurgården is packed with fantastic activities to keep you busy all month long.
Here are my four absolute favorite spots for an amazing start to the new year, along with my own tips to make each experience extra special!
Explore the world of imagination at the Museum of Etnografiska
Photo: Alexander Jansson/Etnografiska museet
The holidays are a stressful time, so I prefer to wind down in January and fill the month with a little magic. My top recommendation is the Museum of Etnografiska, which is perfect for starting off the new year.
There you can dive into the fascinating new exhibition Sagovärldar. It’s like stepping straight into another world, full of incredible adventures and stories from all around the world. I highly recommend trying to catch one of their storytelling sessions, which are included in the ticket (they run during the holiday from January 2–6). It’s truly the best way to keep your imagination and playfulness alive.
Enjoy the view from one of the many cafés and restaurants
Photo: Anna Hugosson/Skansen
No matter how you choose to spend your time, this is my best tip for maximizing that cozy vibe. January is all about having fun so you can start the year in the best way possible.
That’s why I recommend taking a refreshing walk around the whole of Djurgården. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings, the crisp winter air, and the timeless calm that Djurgården is known for. The island is full of great places to eat and warm up! My tip is to pick one of the many cozy cafés or restaurants for the perfect ending to your outing. It’s an easy way to combine fun activities with some recovery.
One of my personal favorites for all of us history lovers is a visit to the Nordiska Museum for a deep dive into Swedish culture. I would start with the exhibition Nordbor.
Photo: Hendrik Zeitler/Nordiska museet
Imagine a timeline stretching across 500 years, from the 1500s all the way to today, filled with fascinating details about how people actually lived throughout the ages. You’ll follow 22 real, filmed historical stories and check out around 4,000 objects that bring each era to life. My best tip? Go through it twice! It’s only in the second round that you notice all the little details you missed the first time. Afterwards, take a break and enjoy the architecture of the impressive grand hall.
To wrap up January in the best possible way, my final tip is one that requires a bit more movement. Set aside the evening of January 31 when it’s time for the awesome Winter Run at Skansen.
Photo: Simon Lokko/Skansen
Bring your friends and run one or two 5 km laps around Skansen. Besides getting some exercise, you’ll need to think outside the box. It’s a competition in creativity! Put on every light you own; headlamps, glow sticks, LED strips or anything that shines, to compete for great prizes in the “Most Illuminated” category. And for those who feel that 5 km is a bit too far, Skansen also has a 1.3 km kids run for ages 7–11. It’s going to be an incredible, energetic evening lit up from every direction and one you won’t forget anytime soon!
Make the most of the start of the year by planning lots of exciting activities on Djurgården!
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