Drottningholm Palace

4.3
(3,436 reviews)
Ekerövägen, Drottningholm 178 93 Sweden
+46 8 402 61 00Official website
Architectural Buildings
Historic Sites
Sights & Landmarks
Attraction

About

Drottningholm Palace is a stunning exemplar of 17th‑century European architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers visitors a living window into Sweden’s royal past. The palace, located on the picturesque island of Lovön in Lake Mälar, was designed by the renowned architect Nicodemus Tessin the Elder for Queen Hedvig Eleonora and later embellished during the reign of Alexander the Great’s cousin, Queen Louisa Ulrika. The palace’s interiors remain largely unchanged, with state‑of‑the‑art draperies, gilded ceilings, and a wealth of original furnishings that illuminate the era’s opulence. One of the palace’s crown jewels is the Chinese Pavilion, modeled after the imperial gardens of Beijing and completed between 1763 and 1770. Visitors can also explore the grand Palace Theatre, where the Royal Swedish Opera performs during the summer season, and stroll through the Baroque and English gardens, which showcase beautifully sculpted lawns, intricate water features, and a medieval-style village. Together, these spaces make Drottningholm a must‑visit for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts alike. Admission to the palace is paid, with tickets available for adults, children, and seniors. The open hours are 10:00‑18:00 from Monday to Friday, and 10:00‑17:00 on Saturdays and Sundays, making the site accessible year‑round except for scheduled maintenance days. The combination of preserved architecture, exquisite gardens, and the alluring Chinese Pavilion ensures an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

Highlights

  • Chinese Pavilion
  • Palace Theatre
  • Baroque Garden
  • English Garden

Must-See Areas

Chinese Pavilion
Palace Theatre
Gardens

Good to Know

Good for

Families
History Enthusiasts
Culture Aficionados

Best time to visit

The palace’s gardens flourish in spring and early autumn, offering the most vibrant colors and the lightest crowds.

Pros & Cons

What visitors love

  • Grand Architecture
  • Beautiful Gardens
  • Cultural Heritage

Things to consider

  • Crowded Peak Season
  • Limited Sunday Hours
  • Restroom Shortages

What people are saying

"Family Friendly""Historic""Ornate Architecture"

At a glance

  • Typical visit: about 2 hours

Tickets & pricing

Adult

SEK 80.00

Child

SEK 25.00

Senior

SEK 20.00