Millesgården Museum

Thoughtful planning helps unlock the secrets of Millesgården Museum, located in the peaceful suburb of Lidingö just outside central Stockholm. While no time feels truly empty in this popular spot, weekday mornings or late afternoons can be quieter. Tickets often sell quickly during busy holiday periods and weekends, so pre-booking helps save time and hassle. Public transit connects central Stockholm with the museum—expect a short, scenic journey, which may include either bus or light rail. Families find the gardens welcoming, with open spaces for children to roam; seniors and visitors with mobility concerns will notice some cobblestone paths but ramps and accessible facilities are available throughout most of the site.

• Best time to visit: May through September, weekday mornings or late afternoons for fewer visitors
• How to get there: Metro or light rail to Ropsten Station, transfer to Lidingöbanan tram to Torsvik, then walk 10 minutes
• Accessibility: Most paths and galleries accessible; some areas have uneven terrain or stairs, but ramps are present
• Average visit duration: Two to three hours covers gardens and exhibitions at a relaxed pace

For many, the draw begins with the open-air sculpture park—a hillside wonderland where mythological figures gaze out over the cityscape and water glimmers in hidden pools. Carl Milles’ monumental creations command the garden, blending Swedish folklore with classical artistry. Indoors, the artist’s former home reveals a more personal touch. Each sunlit room displays his sketches, treasured finds, and rotating exhibitions by Swedish and international artists. Don’t miss the atmospheric terraces, brimming with flowers or fresh snow, and the original studio, whose towering ceilings frame long-forgotten clay molds and dusty tools.

• Key sights or features: Main sculpture garden, Artist’s Home and Studio, Antique Collection, Lower Terrace’s colossal statues, and the expressive "Hand of God" sculpture
• Unique experiences: Join a guided weekend tour for stories of Milles’ creative process; find the fairy-tale fountain "The Poseidon Group," tucked beyond main pathways; explore occasional art workshops open to families
• Photo-worthy locations: The terrace with panoramic city and archipelago views; the monumental steps lined with statues; flowering courtyards in spring
• Cultural or historical facts: Millesgården was established in 1908 by Carl and Olga Milles as both a home and open-air gallery. Its classical layout mirrors Italian villas, while the art reflects turn-of-the-century Swedish imagination and craftsmanship