Parliament House is one of the most iconic and historic buildings in Stockholm. Guided tours are available of the majestic structure, where you are free to watch public hearings and debates. Arrive on Helgeandsholmen island in the Gamla Stan Old Town district to witness the center of Swedish politics.
Admire the neoclassical design, as you pass through the arched opening on the adjacent bridge. Join a guided tour with an English-speaking docent to learn about the building’s history and its various uses today. The docent will take you up the elegant staircases near the entrance, while explaining the duties of politicians and the way the system works in Sweden.
Visit the Riksdag Library, which dates back to 1851 and whose books on social sciences and law are available to borrow. Spot the school groups taking part in role plays and democracy workshops.
Admire the transparency of the Swedish political system, with all goings-on within the building said to be open to the public. Attend a debate in the Public Gallery, which has a capacity of 500, to see how local politicians do things here. Go to a public hearing, where experts provide politicians with in-depth analysis on certain topics.
Expect security checks upon arrival, which may delay your entrance to the Public Gallery by a few minutes. Bags and other items must be left in individual lockers near the entrance.
Note that guided tours are free and are held once per day on weekends in winter. In summer, the tours are available several times per day Monday through Friday. You may have to book your place in advance.
Find the Parliament House on the western side of Helgeandsholmen island in the Norrström river. Get here by traversing either the Riksbron or the Norrbro bridge from the mainland. While on the tiny islet, check out the Museum of Medieval Stockholm, the Riksplan and the Museum Tre Kronor.
