Nestled between Stockholm and Uppsala on the shores of Lake Mälaren, Skokloster Castle is a stunning example of 17th-century Baroque architecture.
Built by Count Carl Gustaf Wrangel between 1654 and 1676, this castle tells the story of Sweden’s Age of Greatness.
With its unique unfinished halls and impressive museum collections, Skokloster offers a rich historical experience for all visitors.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know to plan your visit, from ticket prices to tips for making the most of your time at this magnificent castle.
Visiting Skokloster Castle: Practical Information
Opening Hours: Skokloster Castle is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but is closed on Mondays from November to April. Check their official website for updates.
Ticket Prices: Adults pay around 150 SEK for entry, while seniors and students get discounted tickets for about 100 SEK. Children under 18 can enter for free.
The Skokloster Castle
video by Per Amundsson Travel
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and the gardens are in full bloom. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, visiting during the winter months is also an option.
How to Get There: The castle is located 40 km from Stockholm. By car, take E4 towards Uppsala, then follow signs for Skokloster. By public transport, take a train to Bålsta station (40 minutes from Stockholm) and then a short taxi ride to the castle.
Parking: Free parking is available at the castle for visitors arriving by car.
The Unfinished Grandeur of the Castle
Skokloster Castle’s most fascinating feature is its “Unfinished Hall,” which remains in the same state as it was in 1676. This room gives visitors a rare glimpse of the 17th-century construction process. The castle’s other rooms are beautifully preserved and showcase Baroque elegance with period furniture, textiles, and artwork.
A standout piece is the painting “Vertumnus” by Giuseppe Arcimboldo, which portrays the face of Emperor Rudolf II as a Roman deity using fruits and vegetables. This 16th-century masterpiece was taken as battle loot during the 17th century.
The Museum Collections
Skokloster Castle is home to several remarkable collections:
The Armoury: The castle houses the world’s largest collection of 17th-century combat weapons, including muskets, pistols, samurai swords, and even an Eskimo canoe.
The Library: The library contains historical books, including celestial and terrestrial globes from the 17th century.
Paintings: The castle is home to various artworks, including the renowned “Vertumnus” and other 16th and 17th-century paintings.
Tips for Visiting Skokloster Castle
Guided Tours: For a deeper understanding of the castle’s history, consider taking a guided tour. Tours are available in Swedish and English.
Plan for 2-3 Hours: To explore the castle and its collections fully, plan to spend around 2-3 hours.
Photography: The castle is perfect for photography, so don’t forget your camera to capture its beauty.
Final Thoughts
Skokloster Castle offers a unique and immersive glimpse into Sweden’s royal past and 17th-century splendor. Its well-preserved interiors, impressive collections, and remarkable unfinished halls make it a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.
We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your visit, Lykkers! Don’t forget to add Skokloster Castle to your travel itinerary for a memorable and enriching experience!
