Visiting Stockholm, a city defined by water, nature, and design
Built across an archipelago of fourteen islands, Stockholm is a capital where water and nature are part of the urban fabric. Its mix of medieval architecture, modern design, and trendy neighborhoods makes it a compelling destination, whether you are drawn by its history, diverse museums, or the local pace of life.
Gamla Stan: the historical heart
The Gamla Stan neighborhood is the city's old center, featuring cobblestone alleys and colorful buildings that date back to the Middle Ages. You will find the Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Sweden, and the Storkyrkan, Stockholm's cathedral. Walking these streets allows you to admire picturesque facades and browse numerous craft and souvenir shops.
Djurgården: museums and nature
The island of Djurgården is a mandatory stop for culture seekers. It houses the Vasa Museum, which displays a nearly intact 17th-century warship, and Skansen, an open-air museum that traces Swedish history through traditional dwellings. For families, the ABBA Museum and the Gröna Lund amusement park are popular options. The island is largely forested, making it perfect for a walk in nature.
Södermalm: the bohemian side of Stockholm
A former working-class district, Södermalm is now a hub for artists and design enthusiasts. It is packed with independent boutiques, cozy cafes, and art galleries. The Mosebacke viewpoint offers a great perspective of the city, while the SoFo area draws crowds for its relaxed vibe and vintage shops. It is also a prime spot to enjoy the nightlife in its many bars and restaurants.
Stockholm and its waterways
The Swedish capital is inseparable from its archipelago. A cruise around the islands offers a view of the city from a different angle. For longer trips, ferries allow you to explore nearby islands like Vaxholm, with its typical wooden houses, or Grinda, which is perfect for a nature excursion. In the summer, locals also take advantage of the many areas set up for swimming.
Nordic cuisine: tradition meets modern style
Swedish gastronomy highlights local and seasonal products. The signature dish is gravad lax, salmon cured with dill and sugar. Köttbullar, meatballs served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam, is a quintessential classic. For a sweet treat, do not miss the kanelbulle, a cinnamon bun often enjoyed during the traditional Swedish coffee break, the fika.
Where to eat?
- Pelikan (Södermalm), A traditional restaurant serving hearty Swedish plates.
- Nystekt Strömming (Gamla Stan), A stand famous for fried herring, a staple of local street food.
- Oaxen Slip (Djurgården), A chic bistro highlighting Nordic ingredients.
- Meatballs for the People (Södermalm), A go-to spot for sampling the famous Swedish meatballs.
Where to stay?
- Grand Hôtel (Norrmalm), A luxury 5-star hotel with views overlooking the Royal Palace.
- Hotel Rival (Södermalm), A cozy boutique hotel owned by one of the members of the band ABBA.
- Generator Stockholm (Norrmalm), A modern, functional hostel that is great for tighter budgets.
- Victory Hotel (Gamla Stan), A charming property located in the heart of the historic district.
When to go?
Stockholm is a year-round destination, but spring and summer are the most pleasant seasons, as the days are long and the city comes alive with outdoor festivals. Winter, while cold, offers a unique atmosphere with its Christmas markets and snowy landscapes. June is defined by Midsommar, a traditional celebration that is very popular in Sweden.
How to get there?
Stockholm is accessible via direct flights from most major European cities. A flight from a hub like Paris typically takes about 2h30, with round-trip tickets ranging from 100 to 300 € (about $108 to $325) depending on the season. It is also possible to reach the Swedish capital by train from Copenhagen or by ferry from Helsinki.
How to get around?
The Stockholm Metro, nicknamed the "world's longest art gallery," is the most practical way to navigate the city. The capital is also very bike-friendly, and numerous ferries connect the islands of the archipelago.
I haven't been to Stockholm in the winter, where in my opinion, the cold and the sunset at 3 PM really kill the vibe a bit.
But in the summer, it was a real pleasure to visit the city. The old center is very well preserved, the omnipresence of water gives it a lot of charm, and you find everything you would expect from a capital city.