Enter a large greenhouse filled with more than 700 butterflies as well as lizards, koi and parrots. The tropical rainforest setting of Stockholm’s Butterfly House is a surprising contrast to Sweden’s far northern climate.
The year-round temperate climate allows the insects to transform from tiny eggs through larva and chrysalis states to become beautiful, colourful butterflies. Watch eating, mating and hatching processes inside the enclosure. Enjoy other features of the habitat as well as you follow the indoor trails. Waterfalls and fish ponds are surrounded by lush vegetation. Look closely for parrots sitting on overhead branches and lizards darting under leaves. Each afternoon koi feeding becomes a special entertainment event.
Haga Ocean, the sister facility next door, features sharks swimming past man-made reefs. The centre conducts important research on reef care and development, making it an entertaining and educational spot for a family visit. Bring a lunch for a picnic on the outdoor grounds or visit the on-site café.
Explore the grounds throughout Hagaparken, the park surrounding the Butterfly House. Gardens and wooded areas provide peaceful spots for relaxation during hectic travels. After a short rest, visit Gustav III’s Pavilion with a guided tour of the centuries-old royal palace and the nearby Royal Cemetery. If you’ve always wanted to try a Segway tour, this is the place to do it. The Butterfly House website offers details.
The drive from the centre of Stockholm to Hagaparken takes only 10 minutes. There are several pay-and-display parking lots near the park. Public buses stop near the entrance, which is a short walk from the greenhouse that is home to the butterflies.
Stockholm’s Butterfly House closes only on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. All other days the butterflies happily flap their wings for visitors. They will do so for free if you purchase a Stockholm card. This discount card saves money on public transport and offers free admission to the Butterfly House and about 80 other venues. To save money, purchase one in-country or on-line before you start your travels.
