For those looking for a sophisticated getaway, it’s hard to beat Sweden. The capital city of Stockholm is home to world-renowned architecture, four-star cuisine and beautiful water views. Whether you want a summer trip when the sun never sets a winter trip to see true Nordic culture in action, you won’t be disappointed,
Founded in the year 1252, Stockholm is one of the most manageable and walkable cities in Europe. And getting there is easy with direct flights from most major cities to Arlanda Airport (ARN).
From the airport, it is fast and easy to get to town via the Arlanda Express. This brilliant train takes 20 minutes to get your there and runs constantly throughout the day. Tickets can easily be purchased on your phone. Several auto options are also available from taxis to Uber and other car services available at the airport.
Once in Stockholm, getting around is simple and eye catching. The public transportation system is one of the best in the world. Stockholm offers a clean super-efficient system and every major metro station offers a unique design theme giving you Instagram-worthy shots along your journey through the city. Speaking of which, if you are there in the spring, be sure to check out Kungsträdgårdenstation’s famous cherry blossom square.
As for lodging, there’s no bad place to stay in Stockholm. Old Town offers beautiful hotels options as do other areas of the city giving the traveller convenience and plenty of beds to relax at the end of the day. If you are on limited time and want pure convenience, the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel is a good bet in central Stockholm.
The most well-known in Stockholm is the iconic Grand Hotel This five-star resort has all the amenities including a gym, Nordic Spa and a great nightclub. If you’re into art and design, you may fall in love with Hotel Sven Vintappare. This cool and quirky hotel in the heart of the Old Town delivers a unique lodging experience.
As Stockholm is a city made up of 14 islands, it may be best seen from the water. Take the early morning boat tour that leaves from Strömkajen and explore the archipelago. If the weather is nice you can rent kayaks and explore the islands close up slowly or do the opposite and take a thrilling 1-hour speed boat tour There are also sailboat charters which are pricey, but well worth it.
Afterward time on the water, head to Gamla Stanis, the city’s old town. This area is filled with cobbled streets and colorful 17th- and 18th-century buildings that capture the eye and your camera lens. This is the home to the medieval Storkyrkan cathedral and the Royal Palace, the king’s official residence. After the spectacular scenery, enjoy the may fashionable boutiques and hip coffee shops while exploring this neighborhood.
If you are hungry and looking for a great meal, options are plentiful with by heading to Östermalms Saluhall or Hötorgshallen Saluhall. These are amazing gourmet food halls and will satisfy any food lover. Beyond the variety of phenomenal tastes, these halls are fantastic places to walk around and explore.
Another culinary delight is the coffee which is part of the culture in Sweden. Fika, basically a 3 pm coffee break, is a Swedish tradition. Several coffee shops will give you an afternoon charge. Here are a few spots to enjoy Fika: Drop Coffee, Café Pascal, Cafe Foam, and Johan & Nystrom. It’s tradition to have something sweet with your coffee and Valhallabageriet AB is a great stop for traditional Swedish cinnamon buns.
For simple and tasty brunch head to Kaffebar in Södermalm, or for something more substantial try Pom & Flora. It has a comforting and delicious menu and all-you-can-pour coffee, which also makes it a great place for Fika.
The smörgåsbord buffet-style feast was invented in Sweden and most families reserve it for special occasions as a traditional one can have up to 40 dishes including things like eggs, various homemade bread, cheeses, salads, pâtés, terrines, cold cuts, and even delicacies such as smoked reindeer and caviar. The Veranda at the Grande Hotel offers a smörgåsbord with all the trimmings and it’s the best game in town. Reservations are a must.
Restaurant Pelikan boasts traditional Swedish food, highlights are the meatballs and roasted reindeer. Ekstedt is one of Stockholm’s most exciting restaurants. It has no traditional ovens or gas cookers insight and is responsible for the open-fire cooking trend that has swept Europe over the last few years. This is a must see dining experience.
If it’s a view you are looking for, a nice location for a waterfront meal, is Lux Dag för Dag. This farm-to-table spot is as popular with the locals as it is with tourists.
The nearly 800 year history of Stockholm delivers art and culture for every interest. Fotografiska is an amazing photography museum in Sodermalm with one of Stockholm’s best cafes. The ABBA Museum is another option if you’re a fan. The tourist district of Djurgarden is a short walk away. If it’s your first time in Stockholm, this area of town is worth taking a walk through. Another enjoyable stroll is along the water in Central Stockholm.
Not far away is Hellasgården. Swedes head here for a beautiful hike around the lake followed by a dip in the outdoor saunas. Just a warning, these are traditional saunas meaning they are sans clothing. Not to worry if you are shy, they do have separate saunas for men and women. This is a very Swedish thing to do!
If you have Scandinavian roots or are into Viking History, visit Birka which is a UNESCO World Heritage site not to be missed. You can travel by ferry to the ancient Viking settlement which was rebuilt to give an accurate picture of how the Vikings conducted their daily lives.
Stockholm is amazing on every level.
