Things to see in Stockholm

Sweden's national historical museum, which traces the nation's history from prehistoric times to the present day, is now graced by a spectacular Gold Room, housing the gold of the Viking chiefs. These hoards, recovered from tombs or hiding places, show Scandinavian Viking culture at its most prosperous and magnificent. There is also one of the finest European collections of medieval painted wooden religious sculpture and church art on exhibition.

Carl Milles (1875-1955) was Sweden's best-known sculptor of the 20th century. In 1906, he bought a house on the island of Lidingö, and set about developing a garden where he could showcase his work. Today Millesgården covers 18,000 sq m (194,000 sq ft) in a series of level terraces reminiscent of an Italian villa, with superb views over the water. The artist's major works are represented here, and his own personal collection of art from Ancient Greece and Rome (unique in Sweden) is also on display. Admission to the museum also includes entry to the Carl Milles' studio.

Voted by the Swedes as the country's finest building, Stockholm's City Hall was begun in 1911, to an art nouveau design by Ragnar Östberg. Its interior has grand civic apartments, including the Golden Hall, with its glass and gold mosaics, while its tower gives a sweeping panorama of Stockholm. The building's Blue Hall (which is actually red) is the venue for the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Visitors must join one of the scheduled tours to see the interior, although access to the tower is unrestricted during opening hours.

Stockholm's most famous cultural figure has his temple here. The Blå Tornet (Blue Tower) was August Strindberg's last home from 1908 until his death in 1912. His apartment and library have been preserved in their original state. An exhibition showcases his last works, written on the premises. The museum, which also hosts temporary exhibitions and plays, is furnished in a strikingly sparse Nordic art nouveau style.