Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a city of captivating contrasts, offering both modern vibrancy and rich history. Spread across 14 islands, it effortlessly combines cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and cutting-edge design. Despite its size, Stockholm remains compact, with seamless connections via 57 charming bridges, making it ideal for exploration on foot.
Must-sees:
- Gamla Stan: Stockholm’s old town, one of Europe's best-preserved districts, where cobblestone streets lead to intimate cafés, local handicrafts, and unique boutiques.
- Vasa Museum: Home to the only preserved 17th-century warship in the world, the Vasa offers a glimpse into Sweden’s maritime history, complete with its intricate carvings and impressive restoration.
- Skansen: The world’s oldest open-air museum, offering a window into Sweden’s rural past with historical buildings, crafts, and Nordic wildlife.
Culinary culture:
Stockholm’s culinary scene is a blend of the traditional and the contemporary, where local Nordic flavours meet global influences. Traditional Swedish dishes such as gravad lax (cured salmon) and köttbullar (meatballs) are staples, while modern restaurants push the boundaries of Nordic cuisine. Explore Östermalm’s Saluhall, a bustling food market where you can sample fresh seafood, local cheeses, and Swedish pastries, or dine at one of the Michelin-starred eateries in the city.
Dive deeper:
For a richer experience of Stockholm’s culture, venture beyond the major attractions. Visit the Fotografiska, a photography museum showcasing both Swedish and international artists, or explore Djurgården, a peaceful island with parks, museums, and galleries. You can also take a boat tour to the surrounding archipelago, a serene escape from the city that reveals the natural beauty of Sweden.
If you visit in late June, you’ll experience Midsummer, a joyful Swedish tradition that marks the longest day of the year with flower crowns, maypole dancing and open-air feasts of herring and strawberries. It’s a time when villages and islands are filled with music and laughter, and the midnight sun casts a golden glow that gives the celebrations a timeless charm.
Good to know:
The local currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK), and Stockholm enjoys a temperate climate, with winter temperatures often dipping below freezing and summer highs reaching 20°C. Public transport is efficient and easy to navigate, with ferries, buses, and the metro linking the city. English is widely spoken, making it accessible for international visitors year-round.