Don't miss out
- Swedish State Portrait Collection
- The 18th century theater room
- Leo the Lion
- The beautiful castle park
Gripsholm Castle
Vasa Castle Gripsholm
On the shores of Lake Mälaren in Mariefred stands the magnificent Gripsholm Castle - one of the country's most iconic Vasa symbols. The castle was built in the 16th century on the initiative of Gustav Vasa and has since been a royal residence, prison and home to queens. Today it is managed by the National Historical Museums and is one of Sweden's most visited castles.
As you step through the gates, you are greeted by halls filled with history, art and anecdotes. Here you'll find the State Portrait Collection - one of the world's largest - with paintings that tell the story of Sweden's rulers, writers and cultural personalities from the 16th century to the present day. One of the towers also houses Gustav III's unique palace theater, preserved in the original from the 18th century.
On the other side of the bay is Gripsholm Värdshus, which shares its history with the castle. When King Karl IX often stayed at Gripsholm Castle, the inn became necessary - the burghers of Mariefred could no longer accommodate the court at their own expense. In 1609, a letter of privilege was therefore issued to the first innkeeper, Jocim Smock - and thus Sweden's first värdshus was born.
Over the centuries, both the castle and the värdshus have been shaped by history. During the renovation of the inn in the 1980s, remains of the ancient Carthusian monastery of Pax Mariae - Mary's Peace - were found, giving the town its name. Some of the finds are still preserved in the inn's wine cellar, as a reminder of the site's unique heritage.
Today, the tradition of hospitality, history and taste experiences continues at Gripsholms Värdshus - next door to one of Sweden's most fascinating castles.
With the Gripsholm package the castle visit becomes a whole experience where you sleep royally in our unique rooms, enjoy dinner in an ancient environment and wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee and good breakfast buffet.
Opening hours may vary, we recommend that you visit the Gripsholm Castle website for up-to-date information.
Sleep like royalty
Accommodation in an värdshus or B&B
At Gripsholms Värdshus you and your party guests will sleep like royalty. Our rooms have comfortable beds, luxurious down duvets and in many cases bathtubs.
You can also book accommodation at Gripsholm Bed & Breakfast. Here we offer nicely furnished rooms, all equipped with sinks and single or double beds.
