Easter has arrived and it is early spring here in Botkyrka south of Stockholm. The last few patches of ice remain in the shadows and on Flottsbro, our local ski slope. Temperatures still drop to freezing at night time, but birds and early spring flowers are ready to endure the chill to catch the morning sun.
Here are five ideas for what to see or do over Easter in or near Stockholm.
Egg hunt in the Stockholm metro
Hunting for hidden Easter eggs is a good old tradition that works for old and young. For a novel take, try hunting for Easter eggs in the Stockholm metro. Hidden in the patterns of the ventilation grid under the windows, you will find references to music, computer games, oak leaves and other symbols that describe the capital of Sweden. Gotta catch them all, as they say.
While you are in the metro, take a detour and explore the art that so prominently define many of the stations. For instance, Kungsträdgården, Technical University, Thorildsplan -- or my local station, Alby.
Learn how to make money in Tumba
Sweden started printing bank notes -- money on paper -- as early as 1750. At the original site in Tumba south of Stockholm, you can explore the buildings and area where workers lived with their families while hand crafting paper for Swedish bank notes. Learn about the history of money and try your hand making your own paper complete with water mark at Tumba Paper Mill Museum.
Outdoor adventure in Lida
If you like me enjoy hiking and exploring the nature of Sweden, why not string on your hiking boots, pack a backpack with snacks and a warm drink, and loose yourself on one of the many hiking trails near Stockholm?
Naturkartan has an almost endless list of trails to explore. Three of my personal favourites are Lida, Sätraskogen (for a trail closer to the city) and Stendörren (one hour by car but far away from the city noise).
Stockholm City Hall
The city hall of Stockholm is a famous landmark and the tower with three golden crowns feature on many a postcard and promo video. The brick building celebrated its 100th birthday recently. I find some of the interior decor kitsch and comical -- especially the Golden Hall -- but the overall impression of the building is still impressive and well worth a visit.
Rock carvings in Eskilstuna
Do you like cartoons? Then you don't want to miss the thousand year old rock carvings telling the story of Sigurd the Dragon Slayer. You can find the real thing north of Eskilstuna or you can visit the Historical Museum in Stockholm and find replicas and learn more about the Viking Age around Mälaren.
If you do drive to Eskilstuna, learn about tractors and the first Swedish locomotive at the Munktell Museum and visit the historical Rademacher Smithies.
Other nice places to visit in that area is Gripsholm, Mariefred, and Taxinge.
