The Stockholm Witch Trials: A Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour Game

Stockholm , Sweden

The Stockholm Witch Trials: A Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour Game

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(1 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A self-guided audio walking tour, based on the true story of Malin Matsdotter and the Stockholm witch trials.

The Stockholm witch trials culminated in 1676. Malin Matsdotter was one of many women accused and killed through public executions, but the only one to be burned alive.

Walk through Stockholm as it was 300 years ago and visit several historical sites at Södermalm. Your narrator is twelve-year-old Gertrud, who lived next door to Malin. She is worried that history might repeat itself and wants to share Malin’s story with you.

This tour is self-guided via a GPS-based app downloaded to your smartphone. When you buy the tour you receive an email with instructions on how to download the app which serves as your guide and narrator. Listen to the story while you walk. Sounds, illustrations, and game elements are triggered to show up on your mobile screen when you get close to them.

This experience is completely flexible: you can start, pause and end it whenever it suits you.

Available options

The Stockholm Witch Trials: A Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour Game

What's included

Audio guide in English or Swedish

The StoryTourist app

The tour is yours after purchase, you can use it at any time you want and as many times as you wish.

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts in this little park with a beautiful view of Stockholm and the water below. When you get here, open the StoryTourist app and start the Stockholm Witch Trials tour.

You will be greeted by your digital guide, 12-year-old Gertrud. She used to live next-door to Malin Matsdotter in the 1670's, and is worried that history might repeat itself.

Gertrud takes you to see her local church from across the road and tells you about the historic significance of religion, and the impact the church had on the women accused of witchcraft.

You'll stop outside the museum, which was used as the southern city hall and court house during the 1600's. This is where people accused of witchcraft were brought to face trial. Among those people were Malin Matsdotter.

Visit this square that dates back to medieval times, when there was a windmill here. Several of the women of Gertrud's story lived in this area. Anna Månsdotter was another of the accused women, and Lisbet Carlsdotter was one of the young maids who fabricated stories about neighbourhood women kidnapping children and bringing them to meet the Devil.

Visit this beautiful church from the 1600's, which was at the center of events during the witch trials. Many of the church congregants were involved in the events of the trials. Some of them were among the accusers and some were accused of being witches.

Visit the location where the locals set up a "watch house" during the mass hysteria of the witch trials period. Parents gathered with their children in the watch houses to keep watch over the children and keep them safe from witches supposedly coming to kidnap them.

Gertrud takes you to the location where the "Boy from Gävle" lived in the 1670's. He was supposedly the child who started spreading the rumours and mass hysteria about witches in Södermalm.

This little park is placed at the top of what used to be called Gallow's mountain, where public executions were held during the 1500-1600's.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones (use your own)

A live guide

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

SV EN

Written guide

SV EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Since this is a self-guided tour, there will be no guide to meet you. Instead, you go to the starting point, open the StoryTourist app on your phone and start the tour. The starting point of this tour is located next to the statue placed next to the fence in the lower part of the park.

Important notes

IMPORTANT! This is a self-guided tour which you download to your smartphone. You have been sent a separate message with instructions on how to redeem your ticket(s) and download the tour to your phone. Check your email (including your spam folder) or your Viator inbox. If you can’t find the message with the instructions, please contact StoryTourist (the tour supplier) by e-mail info@storytourist.com or call +46 720427346 and we will assist you.

For the tour: Bring a fully charged phone, with the StoryTourist app and the tour already downloaded. Make sure to download the app and tour while connected to Wi-Fi . For the best possible listening experience, bring headphones, and if your smartphone has reduced battery capacity, consider bringing a power bank.

About Stockholm

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is an archipelago city of 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. Known for its stunning waterfront, rich Viking history, and vibrant cultural scene, Stockholm offers a unique blend of modern urban life and historic charm. The city is also renowned for its innovative design, eco-friendly initiatives, and high quality of life.

Top Attractions

Gamla Stan

The Old Town of Stockholm is a charming labyrinth of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic sites. It's the heart of Stockholm and a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum houses the only preserved 17th-century ship in the world, the Vasa, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. It's a fascinating look at maritime history and shipbuilding.

Museum 1-2 hours 170 SEK

Skansen

Skansen is the world's oldest open-air museum, showcasing Swedish history and culture through historic buildings, animals, and traditional crafts. It's a great place for families and history enthusiasts.

Cultural Half day 170 SEK

ABBA The Museum

A fun and interactive museum dedicated to the famous Swedish pop group ABBA. It's a must-visit for fans of the band and those interested in music history.

Museum 1-2 hours 250 SEK

Drottningholm Palace

The private residence of the Swedish royal family, Drottningholm Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The palace and its gardens offer a glimpse into royal life and Swedish history.

Historical Half day 150-200 SEK

Must-Try Local Dishes

Swedish Meatballs

A classic Swedish dish made with ground meat (usually beef and pork), served with gravy, lingonberry jam, and mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes.

Dinner Can be made with gluten-free breadcrumbs and vegetarian versions are available.

Surströmming

Fermented Baltic herring, known for its strong smell. It's typically served with potatoes, sour cream, and onions.

Snack Not suitable for those sensitive to strong smells.

Gravlax

Cured salmon, traditionally served with mustard sauce, dill, and bread.

Appetizer Gluten-free and often available in vegetarian versions.

Kanelbullar

Cinnamon buns, a Swedish favorite, often enjoyed with coffee during fika (a traditional coffee break).

Dessert Can be made gluten-free and vegan.

Popular Activities

Kayaking in the archipelago Hiking in the national parks Biking around the city Fika (coffee break) at a local café Boat tours in the archipelago Spa treatments Visiting museums and historic sites Attending cultural events and festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor festivals. It's the best time for exploring the archipelago and enjoying outdoor activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Swedish
Widely spoken: English, Finnish, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swedish Krona (SEK)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Stockholm is generally safe with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.