Best Plazas in Sweden

Brantingtorget, or Branting Square, is a hidden gem within Stockholm’s historic Gamla Stan (Old Town). Named after Hjalmar Branting, Sweden’s first Social Democratic Prime Minister, this square is a unique blend of political history and modern architecture, reflecting the evolution of Swedish society.

History

The square is integral to Sweden’s political history, commemorating Hjalmar Branting’s contributions to the country’s development. Branting, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was instrumental in advancing democracy and workers’ rights in the early 20th century. The square itself was designed in the 1960s, blending classical elements of Gamla Stan with modernist features. It stands as a tribute to Branting’s legacy and a reminder of Sweden’s progressive political journey.

Notable Features

1. Statue of Hjalmar Branting: The square prominently features a statue of Branting, capturing his dignified presence and reflecting his importance in Swedish history. This statue, crafted by Carl Eldh, is a focal point of the square and a popular spot for visitors.
2. Architectural Design: The square’s architecture harmoniously integrates with the medieval aesthetics of Gamla Stan while showcasing mid-20th-century modernist influences. The surrounding buildings create a peaceful enclave that contrasts with the bustling streets nearby.
3. Artwork and Installations: Various art installations around the square provide insight into Sweden’s socio-political evolution. These pieces are not only decorative but also educational, offering context about Branting’s impact and the era in which he lived.

Visitor Tips

• Historical Context: Before visiting, familiarize yourself with Hjalmar Branting’s life and achievements. This background will enrich your understanding of the square’s significance.
• Photography: The square offers excellent photo opportunities, especially around the statue and the surrounding architecture. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting.
• Combine with Other Attractions: Brantingtorget is within walking distance of many of Gamla Stan’s key attractions, such as the Royal Palace and Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral). Include it in a walking tour to explore Stockholm’s rich history comprehensively.

Det regnade men jag såg en rolig duva som låg och vilade i ösregnet hellre än under tak.

En snubbe erbjöd mig en cigarett som jag tackade nej till.

Rekommenderar att vara där mellan 8-9 en lördag, lagom med folk.

Wonderful Location and traffic knot.

It is a nice and very busy stoppage. The main stoppage is odenplan. There is a famous church and lots of restaurants and shops.

Café panorama i Kulturhuset plan 5. Gott kaffe och lite olika kaffebröd. Fantastisk utsikt över fontänen och Sergels Torg. Lugnt, skönt, trevligt!

A lively and spacious square in the Vasastan part of Stockholm. Suitable for hanging out, meeting place and every day commute with a selection and number of shops, restaurants and cafes, equipped with both subway and commuter rail, lying a stones throw from the public library and Stockholm School of Economics

Located at the heart of Stockholm city, right in front of T-centraleon. Surrounded by shopping attractions, cultural centers, and restaurants. As a public space, it occasionally serves as a venue for protest assemblies. The atmosphere at Sergel Torg is vibrant and pleasant.

Nu på vintern är det kanske inte en lika fet upplevelse men sommartid är det definitivt en levande, vibrerande, kulturell plats. Älskar konsten som ständigt skiftar. Massa kostnadsfria kulturevenemang utomhus och Kulturhuset med allt vad det bjuder på i anslutning.

Sergels torg is a popular and main square in the center of Stockholm with a 37 meter high piece of art, the Crystal, which is made of glass and steel. There is an iconic triangular pattern of the pedestrian plaza. It is surrounded by the cultural center Kulturhuset, the Stockholm City Theatre, Swedbank, the Gallerian, many shops, and restaurants. I love the vibe, many events and live art performances take place.

Eine der künstlerischen Ubahn Haltestellen. Ist wie die meisten anderen auch sauber und aufgeräumt. Sie ist groß und teilweise etwas unübersichtlich wenn man nicht aus Stockholm kommt aber ansonsten passt alles. Gute Verbindungen mit dem Bus.

A “secret’ square where very few tourists visit.

Great meeting point. Good food. Many bus and metro lines.

Nice center area of Vasastan area. Good seating places. Nice church to visit. Connections for Bus, Metro, Pendletåg.

Ein sehr schöner Platz. Die Kirche im Mittelpunkt sollte man sich unbedingt anschauen. Sie ist ein Kleinod und strahlt Geborgenheit aus.

I love this tiny square, it’s so beautiful but people don’t know there that much

Sergels torg, eller plattan som det kallas i folkmun är en trevligare plats än vad de flesta har i minnet. Nuförtiden är det fullt med liv här, dag som natt. Vid Sergels torg går det dessutom att besöka Stockholm stads utställning Stockholmsrummet. Väktare är stationerade här, samt Klara citysamverkan.

The Sergels torg square is a large open space just down the main area of Kulturhuset and near a fountain when I was here in early May to me it seemed like there wasn’t a lot of places to sit such as benches but had a relaxing feeling. There was also a demonstration going on another day when we came here for the supper of Ukraine. There is also shopping and a few places for food at the plaza. To me the bigger attraction here is the cultural center at Kulturhuset. The square is in the heart of of the city of Stockholm and has a distinctive grey and white design here.

Fantastic place to relax with a good weather. The area looks modern, smart, innovative, inspiring and comfortable. Lots of options to eat and drink and to enjoy yourself. Great views, lots of room and lots of people.

Stumbled upon this cute little circular courtyard in Gamal Stan. Based on how adorable this space was, I was very surprised that there was nobody else there, especially given that it is right next to a very busy tourist street. I would certainly grab a coffee and pastry and eat it in this courtyard (you’d have the place to yourself!)

Super cute little hidden away place! Probably more enjoyable in the summer though!

During the summer, this place is always full of a lot of people. It is a nice place to meet people to socialize also. It is also the heart of the city, so it's easy to go to any location faster because it is accessible to train and bus station easily. Sometimes, you will always come across people here sharing setting information.

Beautiful hidden architectural gem

“Walking in a circle” was a way of suicide among the Scandinavian pagan priests. They considered it honorable not to die their own death, but to sacrifice themselves to the supreme god Odin. Therefore, when the priest became old and weak, he performed the above ritual on himself. True, historians suggest that previously the servant of the gods used some kind of anesthetic potion so as not to experience pain and torment. And later it occurred to someone that it was possible to execute criminals in this way. And, of course, already without any pain relief ...

Very nice place for photoshoot! I visited it during night but I think during day it will be great too!!