Västerlånggatan, Pedestrian street in Gamla Stan, Stockholm, Sweden.
Västerlånggatan is a pedestrian street running through Stockholm's medieval district with narrow cobblestone paths and multicolored wooden buildings housing shops and cafes. The street forms a continuous corridor of historic facades and traditional storefronts that define the old quarter.
The street originated in the 13th century as the main western route for merchants moving through medieval Stockholm. It evolved into a central commercial artery and has remained the heart of the district since its founding.
The street hosts numerous artisan shops and traditional Swedish bakeries where local craftspeople and bakers still work with regional products today. Walking here, you can watch woodcarvers and other craftspeople at work in their storefronts.
The street is easy to walk and connects to several public transportation options including nearby metro stations and bus stops. It is best visited during early morning hours or on weekdays when foot traffic is lighter.
Narrow fire lanes running to the water survive from medieval times, revealing how residents needed access for livestock and fire prevention. These hidden passages offer a glimpse into how the community managed daily life in the early city.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.