When you explore Gamla stan, the historic old town in central Stockholm, you will come across the magnificent Tessin Palace (known in Swedish as Tessinska palatset). This impressive baroque town house sits directly next to the grand Royal Palace, perfectly facing Slottsbacken, which serves as the major approach to the Stockholm Palace. As you walk through the area, you will notice this historic mansion is neatly flanked by two charming alleys, Finska kyrkogränd and Bollhusgränd.
Constructed between 1694 and 1700 by the renowned architect Nicodemus Tessin the Younger, this grand residence holds rich Swedish history. The building was later inherited by Tessin's son, Carl Gustaf Tessin, who ultimately had to sell the estate in 1755 due to pressing financial reasons. Following the sale, the palace transitioned into property of the crown.
Over the years, it served an important civic function as the official residence for the Governor of Stockholm and subsequently the Governor of Stockholm County. Visiting this site allows you to admire late seventeenth-century architectural grandeur while immersing yourself in Stockholm's historic royal district. Make sure to take in its classic baroque exterior design and its historic position right alongside the central pathways of Sweden's royal heritage.
What to see at Tessin Palace
- Architectural design by Nicodemus Tessin the Younger between 1694 and 1700
- Prime location in Gamla stan facing Slottsbacken next to the Royal Palace
- Flanked by the historic alleys of Finska kyrkogränd and Bollhusgränd
- Former crown residence for the Governor of Stockholm and Stockholm County
Visiting tips
As you walk along Slottsbacken toward the Royal Palace, take time to view the exterior of Tessin Palace from the flanking alleys of Finska kyrkogränd and Bollhusgränd.
How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Tessin Palace is easy to reach on Stockholm’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Stockholm Palace and Tre Kronor Castle. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Stockholm travel guide.
See the full Stockholm travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.