Drottningholm Palace: Tickets and Tours

The official home of the king of Sweden, Drottningholm Palace is a must-visit for any traveler to Stockholm. From ornate reception halls displaying regal portraits of Sweden’s monarchs through the ages to pristine English-style gardens and unexpected oriental pavilions, there are plenty of sights to keep every type of tourist engaged.

Booking Drottningholm Palace tickets is easy and the venue is suitable for all ages, making it the perfect family-friendly day out in the city.

Here's all you need to know about Drottningholm Palace, one of the most exciting attractions in Stockholm.

How much do Drottningholm Palace tickets cost?

With any Drottningholm Palace ticket you purchase, you’ll be granted access to the site within 60 minutes of your selected time frame.

Drottningholm Palace tickets

Those who simply wish to discover the architectural style and luxury of the Swedish monarchy’s official residence can book Drottningholm Palace easily online in advance.

• Adults: SEK150 (US$14)
• Children aged 7-17: SEK75 (US$7)
• Children under 7: Free

Drottningholm Palace plus Chinese Pavilion tickets

Alternatively, if you wish to dive even deeper into this fascinating destination, opt for combination Drottningholm Palace tickets that also allow you to explore the Chinese Pavilion, constructed for Queen Lovisa Ulrika as a birthday present.

• Adults: SEK220 (US$20)
• Children aged 7-17: SEK110 (US$10)
• Children under 7: Free

Who is eligible for discounts?

Students with valid identification benefit from a discount on their Drottningholm Palace entrance fee, reducing their pass to SEK130 (US$12) for standard tickets or SEK200 (US$18) for combined tickets. Those in possession of a cultural heritage card also qualify for a reduced rate of SEK75 (US$7) on their Drottningholm Palace tickets.

Should you book in advance?

While you can purchase your Drottningholm Palace tickets upon entry to the site, it is advisable to instead book your passes online in advance. By doing so, you’ll guarantee yourself entry at a time that suits your itinerary, making for a smooth vacation. You’ll also know that you are paying the best rate, helping to keep your vacation budget-friendly.

What are the best Drottningholm Palace tours?

Private Drottningholm Palace tour

Those who are seeking a seamless and convenient Drottningholm Palace guided tour need look no further than this private excursion. You’ll be picked up from the lobby of your hotel by your friendly guide at a predetermined time and transported to the palace in style.

Once you arrive at your destination, you’ll be led through its spectacular halls and plethora of rooms by your guide, learning about the history of the Swedish monarchy.

You’ll also pay a visit to the Chinese Pavilion, which is constructed in an eastern style, that was extremely popular during the 18th century, and learn about the surprise Queen Lovisa Ulrika received upon discovering this oriental building in her own gardens.

Are there any combined tickets or tours including Drottningholm Palace and other attractions?

By purchasing a combined Drottningholm Palace tour, you’ll typically save money versus booking two or more separate excursions. With a tour operator who will arrange all transportation between sites, you’ll also save both time and energy, enabling you to simply enjoy your vacation.

●     VIP Stockholm tour with Drottningholm Palace: This half-day tour provides you with a whirlwind introduction to Stockholm’s main attractions, including its private royal residence — Drottningholm Palace — as well as its enchanting Old Town and staggering cathedral.

●     Kayak tour to Drottningholm Palace: Perfect your paddling skills as you journey along the tranquil surface of Lake Mälaren on a kayaking tour to gain a unique view of Drottningholm Palace from the water, exploring Stockholm’s breathtaking islets along the way.

What will you see inside?

Drottningholm Palace is one of the most beautifully preserved examples of 17th-century European architectural styles and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site because of this. While the palace was used by the Swedish royal family during the 18th century as a summer residence, it was abandoned through much of the 19th century.

Since 1981 however, Drottningholm Palace has been the official home of the Swedish monarchy. Because of this, parts of the building are inaccessible, but those with Drottningholm Palace tickets can explore a multitude of rooms, showcasing the exquisite history of this site that has been used by many monarchs, including Queen Catherine Jagiellon and King Charles XI of Sweden.

You’ll also gain access to the gardens, as well as the Chinese Pavilion, both of which are outstanding to behold and offer a glimmer into the lifestyle of the country's most affluent figures.

How to get there?

Drottningholm Palace is located approximately 10 kilometers west of inner Stockholm, on the island of Lovön. In order to reach the venue from the center of the city, you can hop on a metro to Brommaplan. From here, you can board a local bus, which transports you to the palace.

Alternatively, those who visit Stockholm in the summertime may find it easier to travel to Drottningholm Palace via a public boat that connects the site with Stadshuskajen — also known as City Hall Quay.

What are the opening times?

Drottningholm Palace is open between 10 AM and 5 PM daily during the summer months of May to September, and from 10 AM to 4 PM from October through April.

When is the best time to visit Drottningholm Palace?

The best time to visit Drottningholm Palace is in the late spring (May) or summer (June to August), when the gardens are in full bloom. However, summer is also the peak tourist season. To see the gardens at their best and avoid the crowds, May is optimal for visiting.

It's also worth considering visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Weekdays might be less busy than weekends.

Travel tips

• The palace grounds are vast, and there's a lot to explore, from the main palace to the gardens and other buildings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
• The Baroque Garden, the English Park, and the Chinese Pavilion are all worth a visit. Each has its distinct charm and style.
• If you're visiting during the summer, check if there are any opera performances or events at the Drottningholm Palace Theatre, one of the few 18th-century theaters in the world still in use with its original stage machinery.