Riddarfjärden

The camera looks across Riddarfjärden, the wide stretch of water in central Stockholm where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. The view takes in the Västerbron bridge and the small islet of Riddarholmen, whose church spire and old buildings stand out against the skyline. Boats, ferries and the changing surface of the water give the scene its character.

Early morning is calm, with soft light on the water and few vessels. Summer evenings stay bright for a long time, and the low northern sun colours the buildings on Riddarholmen. In winter the water may freeze and snow changes the whole scene. Watch for ferries crossing and, in the warmer months, small boats passing under Västerbron.

Stockholm is built across a group of islands, and Riddarfjärden lies at the heart of the city. Riddarholmen is one of the oldest parts, with a medieval church and former noble houses. Visitors walk the waterfront, take ferries between islands and explore the old town of Gamla Stan just across the water.