【Studio Ghibli】Complete Guide to Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town – the Model for Kiki’s Delivery Service
Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece animated film “Kiki’s Delivery Service.” The model for the beautiful port town “Koriko” where the protagonist Kiki comes to train is “Gamla Stan (Gamla Stan),” the old town in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden.
In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation, including local information, of the charm of Gamla Stan that any fan of Kiki’s Delivery Service would want to visit at least once, sacred pilgrimage spots, and actual methods of visiting.
The Relationship Between Kiki’s Delivery Service and Stockholm’s Gamla Stan
The Northern European Ancient Capital Visited by Director Hayao Miyazaki
When producing “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” which was released in 1989, Director Hayao Miyazaki and the production staff actually visited Stockholm, Sweden. In particular, it is said that the medieval stone-paved streets of the Gamla Stan district, the colorful buildings, and the harbor scenery became important sources of inspiration for the film’s stage “Koriko City.”
What is Gamla Stan?
Gamla Stan (Gamla Stan), which means “old town” in Swedish, is a historic district that has continued from the 13th century as the birthplace of Stockholm. Centered on Stadsholmen Island, this area retains almost the same medieval townscape to this day and is known as one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.
Although the area is small at approximately 0.9 square kilometers, it features stone-paved narrow alleys, buildings painted in colorful colors such as orange, yellow, and red, squares, churches, and more, evoking the scenery of “Koriko City” from within the film.
Landscapes That Evoke the World of Kiki’s Delivery Service
Points of Commonality with the Film
As you walk through Gamla Stan, you will encounter many landscapes that bring back scenes from the film “Kiki’s Delivery Service.”
1. Colorful Buildings
The greatest characteristic of Koriko City as depicted in the film is the bright and vivid colors of the buildings. The buildings in Gamla Stan are also painted in warm colors such as orange, yellow, red, and pink, creating a bright and warm atmosphere even under Sweden’s often cloudy sky.
In particular, around Stortorget Square and along Västerlånggatan, the main street, buildings resembling scenes from the film stand side by side.
2. Stone-Paved Narrow Alleys
The greatest appeal of Gamla Stan is the maze-like stone-paved narrow alleys (called “gränd” in Swedish). These alleys, which retain traces of the Middle Ages, evoke the streets of Koriko, where Kiki flew about on her broom.
The narrowest alley, “Mårten Trotzigs gränd,” is only 90 centimeters wide, narrow enough to touch the walls if you spread your arms. Such alleys are woven throughout the town.
**3. Harbor and Waterside Scenery
The harbor scenery that was striking in the scene where Kiki first lands in Koriko City. Since Gamla Stan is located on an island, you can access the waterside from anywhere, and you can enjoy views of the harbor, ships, and the cityscape reflected in the water, which overlap with the film.
In particular, the views from around Riddarholmen Church and the view of the City Hall from the east side of Gamla Stan showcase the beauty unique to a Nordic port town.
4. Clock Tower and Church
The town scenery with a clock tower that appears in the film can also be seen in Gamla Stan. The spire of Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan) and Riddarholmen Church overlap with the world view of the film as symbols of a medieval European town.
Major Tourist Attractions in Gamla Stan
Stortorget Square
The most famous square located in the center of Gamla Stan. This square, surrounded by colorful buildings, is a symbolic view of Gamla Stan visited by many tourists.
The buildings surrounding the square were built from the 17th to 18th centuries, and in particular, the red, orange, and yellow buildings lined on the east side are popular photography spots. In winter, a Christmas market opens, making it the busiest time of the year.
Nobel Museum
On the north side of Stortorget Square, the Nobel Museum displays exhibitions about the Nobel Prize and its recipients. The facility allows you to learn about the history of the Nobel Prize and the achievements of past recipients. At the adjoining café, you can also taste ice cream actually served at the Nobel Prize banquet.
Västerlånggatan Street
The main street of Gamla Stan running north to south along stone pavement. Both sides are lined with souvenir shops, cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, bustling with tourists.
While retaining a medieval atmosphere, the lively shopping district atmosphere evokes scenes of Kiki visiting shopping streets for deliveries. Walking along the street and exploring the side alleys are part of the fun of experiencing Gamla Stan.
Stockholm Palace (Kungliga Slottet)
Located in the northeast part of Gamla Stan, this is an active royal palace still used for official royal ceremonies in Sweden. With over 600 rooms, this palace is one of Europe’s largest royal palaces.
Parts of the palace interior are open as a museum, where you can see royal treasures, weapons, and the residences of past kings. The changing of the guard ceremony, held daily, is one of the highlights for tourists.
Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan)
The oldest church in Stockholm, built in the 13th century, with the formal name Saint Nicholas Church. The exterior is relatively simple, but the interior is decorated with lavish Baroque ornaments.
Most famous is the wooden sculpture “Saint George and the Dragon,” created in the 15th century, known as a masterpiece of medieval art. It is also a prestigious church where royal weddings and coronation ceremonies are held.
Riddarholmen Church (Riddarholmskyrkan)
A Gothic church built on Riddarholmen Island on the west side of Gamla Stan. Built in the 13th century, it underwent construction and renovation over many subsequent centuries.
It no longer functions as a church and is now used as a mausoleum for successive Swedish kings. The cast iron spire has become an important feature defining Stockholm’s skyline.
From the waterside around the church, you can see the City Hall and Stockholm’s cityscape at a glance, making it an excellent photography spot.
Mårten Trotzigs gränd
Known as Stockholm’s narrowest alley, the widest part measures just 90 centimeters. This alley, connecting Västerlånggatan and Prästgatan, includes 36 steps on a steep slope.
The name comes from Mårten Trotzigs, a German merchant who lived near here in the 17th century. Though not well known to tourists, it is one of the places where you can most deeply feel the medieval atmosphere of Gamla Stan.
Recommended Photography Spots for Kiki’s Delivery Service Fans
1. The East Side of Stortorget Square
As mentioned previously, this location with colorful buildings lined up best recreates the atmosphere of Koriko City. Early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft are particularly recommended.
2. Views from Tyska Brinken
A slope descending south from Stortorget Square where the stone-paved slope and buildings on both sides create a landscape that is the film world itself.
3. Prästgatan Street
A quiet street running parallel one block west of Västerlånggatan. With relatively fewer tourists, you can slowly savor the medieval atmosphere. The combination of colorful buildings and stone pavement is beautiful.
4. Waterside Views from Riddarholmen
From the waterside around Riddarholmen Church, you can see Stockholm City Hall and the opposite shore’s cityscape. It is an ideal spot to feel the atmosphere of Koriko as a port town.
5. The Kakbrinken Stairs
Among the many stairs in Gamla Stan, this staircase is a particularly picturesque location. The stone stairs and old buildings on both sides create a Northern European ancient capital atmosphere.
Access to Gamla Stan
Access from Stockholm City Center
Underground (Tunnelbana)
The most convenient access method is the subway. Getting off at Gamla Stan Station takes you immediately to the entrance of the old town. It is 2 stations from Stockholm Central Station with a travel time of approximately 5 minutes.
The subway is served by the Green Line (Gröna linjen) and Red Line (Röda linjen).
On Foot
It is also possible to access from Stockholm Central Station on foot, with a travel time of approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The route crossing Riddarholmsbron Bridge to enter Gamla Stan has good scenery and is recommended.
Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the area around Gamla Stan from various locations in the city. Buses 2, 55, 76, and others are particularly convenient.
Access from Arlanda Airport
From Stockholm Arlanda Airport, you can access as follows:
Arlanda Express
A high-speed rail connecting the airport and Stockholm Central Station with a travel time of approximately 20 minutes. From Central Station, access Gamla Stan via subway or on foot. The fare is approximately 300 kronor (approximately 4,500 yen) one way, which is expensive but the fastest and most comfortable method.
Airport Bus (Flygbussarna)
Takes approximately 45 minutes to Central Station with a fare of approximately 120 kronor (approximately 1,800 yen) one way, more economical than the Express.
Commuter Train (Pendeltåg)
The most economical method, taking approximately 40 minutes from the airport to Central Station with a normal public transportation fare (approximately 50 kronor).
Best Season for Gamla Stan Sightseeing and Time Required
Charm by Season
Spring (April to May)
Days become longer and temperatures rise, making it a comfortable season. Tourist numbers are not yet as high as summer, allowing for leisurely sightseeing.
Summer (June to August)
The busiest tourist season, but with extremely long daylight hours (in June, it remains light until around 11 p.m.), and cafés have expanded terrace seating. Temperatures are around 20-25 degrees Celsius and pleasant.
This season is ideal for feeling the bright and refreshing atmosphere of Kiki’s Delivery Service.
Autumn (September to October)
Fall foliage is beautiful, and tourist numbers are lower than in summer. Temperatures range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius, becoming slightly chilly, but sightseeing in the soft autumn light is exceptional.
Winter (November to March)
Daylight hours are short (in December, it becomes dark around 3 p.m.), and temperatures often drop below freezing, but snow-covered Gamla Stan is fantastical. Particularly during the December Christmas market season, the illuminated town is beautiful, drawing many tourists.
Sightseeing Time Required
If you just explore Gamla Stan, 2 to 3 hours are sufficient to visit major spots. However, to thoroughly explore the alleys, visit museums, and relax in cafés, it is best to allocate a half day to a full day.
Especially for “sacred pilgrimage” savoring the world of Kiki’s Delivery Service, including time for photography and atmosphere appreciation, a minimum of half a day is necessary.
Recommended Dining and Cafés Near Gamla Stan
1. Café Schweizer
A café facing Stortorget Square where you can enjoy coffee and cake while viewing the square. Swedish traditional cinnamon roll “kanelbullar” is exquisite.
2. Chokladkoppen
A small café just near Stortorget Square. Popular with locals, hot chocolate and cake are recommended. The interior is small but has a warm atmosphere.
3. Tradition
A restaurant serving Swedish traditional cuisine where you can taste typical Swedish dishes such as meatballs and pickled herring. Touristy but with a good atmosphere and memorable for Gamla Stan sightseeing.
4. Sundbergs Konditori
A long-established café founded in 1785, one of Stockholm’s oldest cafés. You can enjoy traditional Swedish pastries and cakes. The historic interior is also noteworthy.
5. Fem Små Hus
A luxury restaurant with a name meaning “five small houses,” utilizing a 17th-century building. Modernly arranged Swedish cuisine is highly regarded. Recommended for those seeking a special dining experience.
Souvenir Shopping in Gamla Stan
Moomin Shop
Though Moomin originates from neighboring Finland, Gamla Stan has an official Moomin Shop. It is ideal for finding Nordic miscellaneous goods and Moomin merchandise.
Swedish Miscellaneous Goods Stores
Items such as Dala Horse (Dala Horse), textiles, ceramics, and other Swedish-characteristic souvenirs can be found.
Antique Shops
Small antique shops are scattered throughout Gamla Stan, where you may encounter vintage tableware, miscellaneous goods, posters, and treasures.
Other Model Locations for Kiki’s Delivery Service
In fact, Koriko City in Kiki’s Delivery Service was inspired by more than just Gamla Stan. Multiple cities contributed to its inspiration.
Visby on Gotland Island (Sweden)
Visby, a medieval city on Gotland Island in the Baltic Sea in the same Sweden, is another important model location. The cityscape surrounded by city walls and stone buildings greatly contributed to creating the atmosphere of Koriko City.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, called the Pearl of the Adriatic, a walled city, is also said to have influenced the film’s world view. In particular, the harbor town scenery and red-roofed cityscape are said to be partial models for Koriko City.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s hilly streets and views of streetcars are also said to have been referenced.
However, among these, Gamla Stan particularly comprehensively embodies the film’s world view with its colorful buildings, stone-paved alleys, and port town atmosphere, becoming a sacred pilgrimage destination visited by many Ghibli fans.
Gamla Stan Sightseeing Precautions and Advice
Wear Appropriate Shoes for Stone-Paved Alleys
Gamla Stan is entirely paved with stones with many bumps, stairs, and slopes. Strongly recommended are comfortable sneakers and foot-friendly shoes.
Beware of Pickpockets
As a tourist destination, unfortunately pickpocketing incidents have been reported. Distribute valuables, carry backpacks in front, and maintain basic crime prevention measures.
Pay Attention to Business Hours
Many shops and restaurants have reduced hours or are closed on Sundays and holidays. If there is a specific place you wish to visit, it is good to confirm business hours in advance.
Early Morning Recommended to Avoid Summer Crowds
During peak summer season, daytime is quite crowded with tourists. For a quiet atmosphere, early morning sightseeing (until around 8 a.m.) is recommended. Gamla Stan in the soft morning light is exceptionally beautiful.
Full Cold Protection Necessary in Winter
Winter in Stockholm is extremely cold, particularly windy near the waterside. Layering, windproof jackets, hats, and gloves require thorough cold protection.
Photography Considerations
Photography in alleys and squares is generally free, but care is needed when photographing shop interiors or residential windows. Also, be mindful not to obstruct other tourists during crowded times.
Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting Along with Gamla Stan
Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset)
Located just across the bridge from Gamla Stan, the City Hall is famous as the venue for the Nobel Prize banquet. Climbing the 106-meter tower offers a wonderful panoramic view of Stockholm and Gamla Stan.
Djurgården Island
The cultural and leisure center of Stockholm, home to many tourist facilities including the Vasa Museum, Skansen open-air museum, and ABBA Museum. It can be accessed from Gamla Stan by ferry or bus.
Södermalm District
Located south of Gamla Stan, this trendy district is filled with stylish cafés, vintage shops, and design shops. Particularly the SoFo (South of Folkungagatan) area is popular with young people.
National Museum (Nationalmuseum)
The National Museum, reopened in 2018, is Sweden’s largest art museum, housing works by Rembrandt, Renoir, Gauguin, and others.
Accommodation in Gamla Stan
Staying within or near Gamla Stan allows you to explore during quiet early morning and evening hours, allowing for a deeper immersion in Kiki’s Delivery Service’s world view.
Recommended Hotels
Lady Hamilton Hotel
A historic boutique hotel within Gamla Stan utilizing a 17th-century building. Guest rooms are decorated with antique furniture, allowing guests to enjoy a medieval atmosphere.
Scandic Gamla Stan
Located near the entrance of Gamla Stan, this modern hotel is recommended for those seeking comfort and convenience. The rooftop views are also excellent.
Victory Hotel
A luxury boutique hotel within Gamla Stan themed around the sea. Each room features different designs, allowing for a special stay.
Stockholm Pass Utilization
If you plan to visit multiple tourist facilities, consider purchasing a Stockholm Pass.
This pass includes:
- Free admission to over 60 tourist facilities (Palace, Vasa Museum, City Hall tower, etc.)
- Sightseeing bus tours
- Some sightseeing boats
- Guidebook
Choose from 24-hour, 48-hour, 72-hour, and 120-hour validity periods with varying prices, often paying for itself when visiting many facilities.
Sacred Pilgrimage Plan for Kiki’s Delivery Service Fans
Half-Day Plan (approximately 4 hours)
9:00 – Arrival at Gamla Stan Station
Arriving at Gamla Stan Station by subway. First head toward Riddarholmen Church.
9:15 – Around Riddarholmen Church
Enjoy the waterside scenery and feel the port town atmosphere. Take photographs here.
9:45 – Stortorget Square
A symbolic square of Gamla Stan, take commemorative photos against the colorful buildings.
10:15 – Alley Exploration
From Västerlånggatan, venture into side alleys, exploring narrow passages like Mårten Trotzigs gränd.
11:00 – Café Break
Enjoy Swedish coffee and cinnamon roll at a café in Stortorget Square.
11:45 – Around Stockholm Palace
View the Palace exterior and, if possible, watch the changing of the guard ceremony (confirm timing).
12:30 – End
Full-Day Plan (approximately 8 hours)
In addition to the half-day plan:
13:00 – Lunch
Enjoy Swedish cuisine at a restaurant in Gamla Stan.
14:30 – Nobel Museum
Learn about Nobel Prize history and taste Nobel ice cream at the café.
16:00 – Souvenir Shopping
Shop for souvenirs along Västerlånggatan and surrounding areas.
17:30 – Stockholm City Hall Tower
Exit Gamla Stan and climb the City Hall tower for a panoramic view of Gamla Stan and Stockholm’s cityscape.
19:00 – Dinner
Dine in Gamla Stan or surrounding districts.
20:30 – Dusk Exploration
Re-explore Gamla Stan at dusk (remaining light late into summer evenings). Enjoy an atmosphere different from daytime.
Conclusion: Experiencing Gamla Stan Immersed in Kiki’s Delivery Service’s World
Gamla Stan in Stockholm, Sweden is a dreamlike place for Kiki’s Delivery Service fans. The medieval townscape that inspired Director Hayao Miyazaki, colorful buildings, stone-paved alleys, and harbor scenery are exactly like Koriko City from the film.
Beyond serving as a mere tourist destination, this place functions as a “sacred pilgrimage site” where one can experience the film’s world view, attracting many Ghibli fans. With every step, scenes from the film revive, and you can almost see Kiki flying on her broom—such a special experience awaits.
Though a small area, Gamla Stan offers new discoveries the more you explore it, never tiring no matter how many times you visit. Each setting—quiet early mornings, bustling daytime, and fantastical dusk—offers different charms.
Though Sweden is a distant country from Japan, for fans of Kiki’s Delivery Service, it is a special place worth visiting once in a lifetime. The experience of entering the film’s world will surely become an unforgettable memory.
Please use this article as a reference to plan your trip to Gamla Stan, the sacred pilgrimage site of Kiki’s Delivery Service. Kiki and Jiji are waiting in that beautiful port town for you.
