Monteliusvägen: Stockholm’s Romantic Viewpoint

Whenever friends ask me where to find the absolute best view of Stockholm, I don’t point them toward a skyscraper or a fancy rooftop bar. Instead, I tell them to head to Södermalm. Over the three decades I’ve spent exploring Sweden, I’ve found that the most magical moments happen on a narrow, 416-meter-long footpath perched high on the cliffs. This is Monteliusvägen. It is, quite simply, one of the most romantic and impressive viewpoints in the city.

The best part? It feels like a local secret.

Why Monteliusvägen is a must-see

Imagine standing on a steep cliff on the northern shore of Södermalm island, looking out over the water. This narrow walking lane offers a panorama that looks like a postcard come to life.

From here, you have a front-row seat to the skyline:

Stockholm City Hall: Located right across the Riddarfjärden and Lake Mälaren.
Riddarholmskyrka: The iconic church with its lattice spire stands just to the east of the City Hall.
Gamla Stan: You can see the historic Old Town stretching out before you.
The Royal Palace: Look closely into the background, and you’ll get a glimpse of the King’s official workplace and the ceremonial heart of the Swedish monarchy.

Trust me, whether it’s a crisp morning or a golden sunset, the view never gets old.

Want to stay within walking distance of this view?

Check availability for your dates and enjoy the vibe of Stockholm’s coolest neighborhood: Boutique hotels in Södermalm

Insider tips from 30 years of Sweden travel. This guide contains affiliate links (marked with ➔) to help support my work at no extra cost to you.

Finding the “hidden” path

Because Monteliusvägen is a small walking lane, it isn’t always listed on every map. I remember getting turned around my first time trying to find it!

Here is how you find it like a local:

The path runs parallel to Bastugatan.
It begins near Skolgränd.
If you are walking from the Central Station, you can reach it by crossing the Centralbron bridge and heading up Hornsgatan and Bellmansgatan.

The walk is named after Professor Oscar Montelius, a famous Swedish archaeologist and member of the Swedish Academy who lived in the city from 1843 to 1921. Walking this path feels like walking through a piece of Stockholm’s history.

Pro tips for your visit

I’ve walked this path in every season, and while it’s always beautiful, there are a few things you should know.

Watch your step in winter: Stockholm is stunning under a blanket of snow, but the city does not plow Monteliusvägen in the winter. It can get very slippery on those cliffs. If you’re visiting between December and March, good footwear is highly recommended to keep you upright while you take your photos.
Best time to visit: Sunset is unbeatable for photography enthusiasts.
What to bring: A good camera and a warm coffee from one of the nearby cafés on Hornsgatan.
Nearby comfort: If you want to experience the best of Södermalm’s nightlife and culture, I recommend booking a spot in the heart of the district. See the latest prices and reviews: Top-rated Södermalm accommodations

Crowds vs. quiet

While Monteliusvägen is my personal favorite for a quiet stroll, there is another famous viewpoint nearby called Fjällgatan. Fjällgatan is beautiful as well, but it’s where most of the large sightseeing buses stop. If you want a more intimate, “local” experience, stick to the narrow cliffs of Monteliusvägen.

The verdict

If you only have time for one walk in Stockholm, make it this one. Monteliusvägen is short, it’s free, and the view of the Old Town and the City Hall is something you don’t want to miss.