Norrmalm is a district in the heart of Stockholm, where you’ll find many of the Swedish capital’s most iconic attractions. Its southern section has parks and historic buildings overlooking the Norrström river, while the neighborhoods are more residential in the northern outskirts. Enjoy the ritzy side of the city in its theaters, museums and glorious plazas.

The district reveals its history via a set of acclaimed museums. Descend beneath the Norrbro stone bridge and Helgeandsholmen island for the underground Museum of Medieval Stockholm.

See the preserved section of the old city ramparts alongside graveyards from centuries ago. The museum stands beside the Parliament House, whose grand halls and debate chambers are open to the public, with English-speaking guided tours.

North of the island is Gustav Adolf Square, which is surrounded by some of the cornerstones of Swedish culture. Attend an elegant show at the Royal Swedish Opera here and bring your kids to a children’s workshop in this theater.

A few blocks farther north stands Norrmalms Square. Marvel at the extraordinary architecture and visit the location of a 1970’s bank robbery and hostage situation. Stockholm Syndrome developed in this spot when the prisoners bonded with their captors.

Head south for the National Museum and study paintings by Manet and Rembrandt and porcelain works of the Gustavsberg Collection. On a warm, summer day, enjoy a picnic in Berzelii Park. Take a break at the park’s restaurants and attend a production at the adjacent China Teatern.

The locality of Norrmalm spreads from the northern part of Stockholm’s city center to the Norrström River. Take the train to the Stockholm Central Train Station or the Strömkajen Ferry Terminal and get around the district by train, tram or bus. Continue north for the Vasastan area or head east for the Östermalm section of Stockholm.

Norrmalm is at the center of Stockholm’s culture, architecture and history.