7. April 2026
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Katarinahissen (Katarina Elevator) Stockholm (Pictured Story)

Florian Buechtingby Florian Buechting

Nowadays, every major city feels having one or many viewing decks or platform allowing to overlook the neighborhood – or even more distant places. One of the most famous ones in the Swedish capital Stockholm is definitely the Skyview, taking you on top of Avicii Arena. However, there are a couple of – also better located – options. One of the them is the Katrinahissen (“Katrina Elevator”), which is comparably close to the Old Town district Gamla Stan. It is a high platform, connected to the ground levels by elevator. During my stay there in November 2026, I took the trip – and share my impressions with you in a Pictured Story.

 

Katarinahissen – Location & Times

Katarinahissen is located on the Northern shore of the Södermalm island, located right opposite the South tip of Gamla Stan. There are three exit levels. On ground level, you just cross the street to reach the Slussen metro station, connecting to all red and green metro (Tunnelbana) lines. The lower floor exit is at water level, also allowing to walk along the shore line. The top level is like a bridge, leading to a commercial building right opposite. At the hill on the South of the elevator is rather steep, you can also skip the climb by using the attraction.

The elevetor operates daily from 8:00 to 22:00. There are reports that riding the elevator costs 20 SEK, roughly 1.85 Euro. During my visit in November 2025, there was not admission for the usage.

 

Katarinahissen – Impressions

The original Katarinahissen was built in the early 1880’s. The elevator has a height of some 38 meters. Already at the time of opening, people had to pay for using it. The original elevator was turned down in the 1930, a new version opened in 1935. This evolution reflects the Katarinahissen as you can visit and ride it now. The bridge has two levels, an open air platform, which is used as a viewing deck, and a covered and closed level underneath. The lower area did host a cafe, which was not operating during my visit. There is a cafe at the Southern end of the platform, though. The elevator has a capacity of 2,500kg, which translated to 33 persons. During the ride, the view is limited and partially blocked, due to supports and some grates in front of the Northbound window. Additionally, the engines of the elevator are blocking the view towards Gamla Stan. Nonetheless, the views from the platform are lovely, featuring views of the islands around like Djurgarden.

Leaving the platform Southbound on the upper level is less spectacular, though. If you don’t want to get deeper into Södermalm, you likely take the downward ride after your visit again.

 

Views from Above – Top Pick!

Here are all my observation deck and similar place reviews leading to a Top Pick! rating.

 

Travel Posts (Stockholm)

Here are all my travel posts related to the Swedish capital Stockholm:

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