Stockholm

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Stockholm

Stockholm is a city of contrasts. Trends in music, design, fashion, and technology are born here. Hip bars and world-class restaurants are shoulder-to-shoulder with historical cafés and cosy neighbourhood pubs. Stockholm is simultaneously urban and close to nature, and water is an ever-present feature in this city where the lake and sea meet. The atmosphere is open, tolerant, and welcoming, and diversity and innovation are highly encouraged. Stockholm is a city for everyone.

The City District Guides

The City

Founded in 1252 by Sweden's then-ruler Birger Jarl, Stockholm boasts a rich history that stretches back centuries. Built on 14 islands, the city has evolved from a small trading post to a thriving metropolis. In the 13th century, a fortress was constructed on the island of Stadsholmen, which played a crucial role in defending the region and facilitating trade. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Stockholm experienced remarkable development under King Gustavus Adolphus and his successors. The city underwent extensive urban planning, resulting in impressive palaces, churches, and public buildings. Landmarks like the Royal Palace, Stockholm Cathedral, and Riddarholm Church reflect this era of opulence and power. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Stockholm underwent significant social and industrial changes. Rapid industrialisation and urbanisation attracted migrants seeking employment opportunities. Infrastructure projects, including bridges and railways, enhanced connectivity between the islands and contributed to the city's growth. Stockholm also became a centre for art, literature, and scientific advancements, with notable figures like August Strindberg and Alfred Nobel making significant contributions to their fields. Today, Stockholm is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city, which seamlessly blends historical charm with modernity, offering a high quality of life and a thriving cultural scene. The city is renowned for its clean and green environment, with numerous parks and waterways. Stockholm is also a hub for technology and innovation, attracting startups and established companies alike.

District Guides

Stockholm is divided into many distinctive neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character. Here you can learn more about some of the most popular ones.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Big and small. Well-known and unique. Classics like the Vasa Museum and modern newcomers like The ABBA Museum and Fotografiska. In Stockholm, there are more than a hundred attractions to choose from.

Stockholm Must-Sees Tour

Discover Stockholm's top attractions on a Stockholm Must-Sees Walking Tour. Stroll along the cobbled streets of the charming Gamla Stan (Old Town), then stop by the Kungliga Slottet (the Royal Palace), and Storkyrkan (Coronation Church) with an expert local guide. Later, enjoy a ferry ride to the Djurgården island to tour the Vasa Museum, …

Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is home to Stockholm’s most famous ship, a 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was salvaged and painstakingly restored centuries later. As you step into the museum, you are immediately greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the nearly intact Vasa ship, adorned with intricate carvings and …

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet) is one of Europe's largest palaces. This is the official residence of the Swedish King and it features more than 600 rooms and five museums. You should not miss the parade of soldiers and the daily changing of the …

ABBA The Museum

The ABBA Museum is an immersive exhibition, which takes visitors on a fantastic journey through the rise and global success of the iconic Swedish pop group, offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at their music, costumes, and personal lives. Sing and dance along to ABBA's greatest hits in interactive exhibits, step into a replica of …

Skansen

Skansen is the oldest open-air museum and zoo in Sweden. It is a fascinating attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into Sweden's cultural heritage and natural beauty. It is home to 150 buildings and farms transported from different parts of the country, along with a diverse range of Scandinavian …

Stockholm Subway Stations

Riding the subway (or tunnelbana) in Stockholm is truly a unique experience. Since 1950, artists have worked to turn the city's underground system into a massive art installation. Out of the 100 subway stations in Stockholm, over 90 are decorated with sculptures, paintings, mosaics, and cave-like features. The best way to see them is to …

Stockholm City Hall

The iconic silhouette of Stockholm City Hall, with its spire featuring the golden three crowns, stands as one of the city's most renowned landmarks. A prime example of national romanticism in architecture, this magnificent structure was masterfully designed by architect Ragnar Östberg. To explore the interior of this architectural gem, visitors can partake in …

Gröna Lund

Situated on the island of Djurgården, Gröna Lund is a thrilling amusement park that promises an exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages. As one of Sweden's oldest amusement parks, it combines nostalgia with modern thrills, from heart-pounding roller coasters to classic carousels and family-friendly entertainment. Occasionally, Gröna Lund also hosts live concerts and …

Royal Swedish Opera

Founded by King Gustav III in 1773, the Royal Swedish Opera is the country's national theatre for opera and ballet. As a visitor, you have the privilege of experiencing this venue in two ways. Firstly, you can immerse yourself in the magic of live performances as a member of the audience, witnessing captivating opera …

National Museum of Fine Arts

Located on the peninsula of Blasieholmen, the National Museum of Fine Arts houses an extensive collection spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. From renowned Swedish masters to international icons, the museum's exhibits feature a wide range of paintings, sculptures, and decorative …

Nobel Prize Museum

As the birthplace of the prestigious Nobel Prize, the museum provides an interesting journey through the history of the award as well as the remarkable individuals who have been honored. Visitors can explore the groundbreaking discoveries and contributions made in fields such as physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peace. With interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, …

Drottningholm Palace

Located on the picturesque island of Lovö, Drottningholm Palace is the official residence of the Swedish royal family and offers visitors a glimpse into its opulent past. Once inside the palace, you’ll be transported to a world of exquisite architecture, lavish interiors, and meticulously maintained gardens. The palace's main attraction is the magnificent Drottningholm …

Take a Swim

The waterways of Stockholm are not only beautiful to look at, but they're also so clean and clear you can take a dip right in the middle of town — there are not a lot of cities in the world that can make that claim! Check on several lovely beaches to bask on and …

Paddle in the City

Get a duck’s eye view of Stockholm by renting a kayak or canoe and paddling your way from island to island. See the Town Hall, Gamla Stan (Old Town) and many other attractions — because, in Stockholm, there is water …

Fotografiska

Fotografiska is a contemporary museum for photography, art and culture, featuring captivating exhibitions by world-renowned photographers and emerging talents. The museum also houses a Michelin-awarded restaurant, where guests can savour sustainable gastronomic delights or sip on a refreshing cocktail while enjoying a gorgeous waterside …

Millesgården Museum

Located on the picturesque island of Lidingö, Millesgården is an art museum and sculpture garden that invites visitors to explore the extraordinary world of renowned sculptor Carl Milles and his artist wife, Olga Milles. The museum, situated within the grounds of their former home, showcases original castings, tools, and works of art in a …

Museum of Spirits

Housed in an 18th-century naval building, the Museum of Spirits features entertaining exhibits on the history and culture of alcohol in Sweden — from distilling to how tastes and drinks affect us. There’s also a bar on-site, of course, and a …

Stockholm Ghost Walk

Walk through the winding alleys of Stockholm's Old Town and listen as your knowledgeable guide unveils the city's hidden tales of darkness and secrets. With only the flickering light of a torch illuminating the dimly lit streets, immerse yourself in the eerie ambience as stories of Stockholm's haunting history come to …

City Canal Tour

Admire Stockholm from a different angle, aboard a delightful boat trip through the city’s canals. With online guidance available on your mobile phone, you can effortlessly access fascinating information about the sights, the city's rich history, and its vibrant …

Junibacken

Inspired by the beloved stories of Astrid Lindgren, the renowned Swedish author, Junibacken offers an immersive experience into the world of children's literature. Visitors can embark on a whimsical journey through Pippi Longstocking's Villa Villekulla and other beloved story settings, brought to life with interactive exhibits and imaginative displays. The museum also features a …

Moderna Museet

Pay a visit to the Moderna Museet and experience one of Europe's foremost collections of art from the twentieth century to the present day. The museum's large collection includes masterpieces by celebrated artists such as Picasso, Dali, Derkert, and Matisse, plus temporary exhibitions. Situated on the picturesque Skeppsholmen Island, the museum itself is a …

Nordiska Museet

Located on the island of Djurgården, Nordiska Museet (The Nordic Museum) is Sweden's largest museum of cultural history. Explore its collection of folk art, textiles, furniture, table settings, and jewellery to learn more about how the Nordics lived from the 16th century …

Prins Eugens Waldemarsudde

Prince Eugene was a notable art collector and his former home, now a museum, serves as a testament to his passion for the arts. With a particular focus on Nordic and French art, it houses a collection of approximately 7,000 works encompassing paintings, sculptures, and crafts …

Swedish History Museum

Explore the vast and diverse history of Sweden with a visit to the Swedish History Museum. From the Mesolithic period to the present day, the museum houses a remarkable collection of Swedish archaeology and cultural artefacts. Among its highlights are one of the world's largest Viking exhibitions, the mesmerising Gold Room displaying intricate gold …

SkyView

SkyView consists of two glass gondolas, which take you on an exciting journey along the outside of the Avicii Arena. The ride takes about 20 minutes, and from the top, 130 metres above sea level, you'll enjoy an unbeatable view of …

Stockholm Concert Hall

One of Sweden's architectonic masterpieces in the neoclassical style, the Concert Hall was built especially to house the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra. Apart from being a venue for world-class concerts and performances, it hosts the annual Nobel Prize Award Ceremony and the Polar Music …

Museum of Technology

Unravel the mysteries of science and embrace the marvels of technology at the Museum of Technology. With its diverse range of interactive exhibits and engaging displays, this museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore the wonders of scientific and technological advancements. From astronomy and physics to engineering and robotics, the museum covers a broad …

Dining

From traditional Swedish eateries serving flavorful Nordic dishes to international restaurants bringing global flavours to the city, there is something to satisfy every palate in Stockholm. The city is also home to numerous Michelin-starred establishments, showcasing innovative and artistic creations by world-renowned chefs. Alongside fine dining, Stockholm boasts a thriving street food culture and trendy food markets where visitors can indulge in a variety of delicious bites.

Lux Dag för Dag

Housed in an old factory dating back to 1916, Lux Dag för Dag is a hip brasserie-style restaurant serving modern Swedish dishes made from carefully sourced …

Ulla Winbladh

"Ulla, my Ulla," a renowned Swedish ballad from the eighteenth century by troubadour Bellman, sets the stage for the beloved Ulla Winbladh. Located in the heart of the picturesque and tree-lined island of Djurgården, the restaurant bearing her name holds a rich heritage. Here, visitors can enjoy traditional Swedish home-cooked meals throughout the year, …

Mom's Kitchen

Mom's Kitchen is a cosy and compact eatery that captures the essence of authentic Swedish cuisine. With a large selection of homemade dishes, this restaurant offers a delightful taste of traditional Swedish flavours at an affordable price range, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a satisfying and wallet-friendly dining …

Hermitage

Hermitage offers a famous and affordable all-you-can-eat buffet based on vegetarian and vegan dishes. The cuisine is international and includes curry stews, falafel, pasta gratin, and tortillas. Located in the Old Town, it is a perfect spot to fill your tummy before continuing a sightseeing day in …

La Neta

La Neta is a small chain that offers affordable Mexican food, such as tacos and quesadillas, in its cantina-style restaurants. With two branches located in Norrmalm and Södermalm, they proudly claim to be Stockholm's first authentic taqueria. Despite the bustling atmosphere and frequent crowds, the experience is well worth the …

Ekstedt

At the heart of Niklas Ekstedt's culinary vision lies a kitchen where food is prepared using the original methods over an open flame. The exceptional quality and artisanal excellence that characterises Ekstedt's other restaurants are also present here, along with a deep appreciation for the origins of ingredients and the essence of Scandinavian cuisine. …

Lilla Ego

Lilla Ego is a small neighbourhood restaurant in Vasastan, where the love for Swedish food shines through in every dish. The two owners are award-winning chefs who serve contemporary Swedish fare at a very decent price level and in a rustic-chic setting with a small …

Matbaren

In 2007, the renowned Swedish chef Mathias Dahlgren unveiled his latest culinary venture, a modern bistro located in the magnificent Grand Hôtel. Boasting breathtaking views of the Royal Palace, the restaurant became an instant sensation. Dahlgren's innovative approach to cooking brings Swedish ingredients and culinary traditions to new heights. With a creative and contemporary …

Nybrogatan 38

Nybrogatan 38 is a charming bistro, open from morning till late seven days a week, serving a popular and affordable Mediterranean-style …

Prinsen

For over a century, Stockholm's cultural elite has frequented Prinsen, a renowned dining establishment founded in 1897. Adorned with wood-panelled walls featuring portraits of notable patrons, Prinsen offers a charming and cosy atmosphere for those seeking well-executed Swedish classic dishes. Among their specialities, their renowned rendition of Biff Rydberg stands out as a must-try …

Bistro Barbro

Bistro Barbro is a hip venue featuring a Japanese bistro, plus a trendy bar and an art-house …

Den Gyldene Freden

In a medieval basement in the Old Town, you’ll find this classic restaurant. It is owned by the Swedish Academy, which selects the Nobel Prize for literature. Legend has it that many Nobel prizes have been decided at the Academy’s regular table here. The menu offers big names in classic Swedish cooking, nowadays with …

Brasserie Le Rouge

Brasserie Le Rouge is a sophisticated cellar restaurant adorned with lavish red and gold accents, offering a refined dining experience featuring exquisite French cuisine and an extensive selection of …

Cafés

Going for a 'fika' is a quintessentially Swedish tradition that is not easily translated but it basically means meeting for coffee accompanied by cake or pastries. Sweden takes great pride in its rich culture of baked goods, and throughout Stockholm, you'll discover a plethora of cafés and cake shops that exude an ambience of charm and offer high-quality treats.

Vete-Katten

Considered one of the city's institutions, Vete-Katten is a 1920s-style café with a wide range of offerings, including self-serve lunches, tasty pastries, snacks, coffee, and traditional afternoon tea. Renowned for their commitment to quality, Vete-Katten takes baking very seriously. Every item is meticulously crafted "from scratch" in the maze of baking corridors situated behind …

Flickorna Helin

A charming café in a secluded and leafy setting with a large and very popular selection of baked goods. The castle-like building is located along the pedestrian path on Djurgården, and it’s a splendid place for lunch or a coffee break between visits to Skansen, the Vasa Museum, and other nearby …

Tössebageriet

Occupying the same address since 1920, Tössebageriet is well-known as one of Stockholm’s most historic classic bake shops. Take a lunch break with a sandwich made from homemade bread in the cosy bake shop atmosphere, or enjoy a pastry if you’re able to choose from among their tempting creations. The Lenten cream buns make …

Drop Coffee

Drop Coffee is a small, independent coffee roastery offering alongside their specialty coffees, a delectable array of sandwiches and pastries. The venue boasts a charming terrace, allowing patrons to enjoy their treats in the open air. There's also a shop on-site, providing visitors with the opportunity to take home their favorite coffee …

Louie Louie

Named after the Rock’n Roll song, Louie Louie features music on stage, for sale, and in the rockabilly decor. The café attracts a younger SoFo crowd with sandwiches, pastries, and coffee at reasonable …

Gildas Rum

The décor of Gildas Rum is stylishly kitschy, with muted red and gold tones. The bookshelf pattern on the wallpaper and the comfy armchairs lend the feeling of an old-fashioned reading room. The selection of home-baked goodies is popular, as well as the fresh lunch menu. Situated in the Bohemian SoFo neighbourhood, Gildas Rum …

Chaikhana

During the colder seasons, indulging in afternoon tea has become a prominent trend in Stockholm. For an exceptional experience, look no further than Chaikhana, a tea house nestled in the historic Old Town. Here, you can enjoy a variety of first-class teas sourced from different corners of the globe, accompanied by high-class savouries and …

Kafé 44

Kafé 44 is an anarchist bookstore, concert venue and café all in one. It is located in the buzzing Katarina neighbourhood in Södermalm and offers affordable vegan cuisine in their Dagfiket café. At Scen44, they organise concerts twice a week – with no limits in genre or age. If you want to read or …

Chokladkoppen

Chokladkoppen is a cosy little café at idyllic Stortorget Square, not far from the Royal Palace in the medieval Old Town, serving exquisite sandwiches and pastries. During the summer, there's a popular alfresco …

Rosendals Garden Café

Rosendals Trädgård is one of Stockholm’s true gems. The garden café is located in a fantastic setting on the picturesque Djurgården island and offers salads, soups, sandwiches and pastries. Produce from the garden is used in season, and the pastries come from the restaurant’s own bakery. Many Stockholmers make the pilgrimage to Rosendal on …

Petite France

At Petite France, you’ll find an abundance of French specialities: genuine croissants, brioches, and several types of pastries. They offer lovely breakfast specials and affordable lunches — all high quality and with a French …

Saturnus

Saturnus is an all-day café and lunch spot that offers a French-inspired menu in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Notably, their cinnamon rolls have gained widespread acclaim and have been hailed as the best in …

Bars & Nightlife

How about clubbing in an opera house, mingling under the stars on a terrace, or lounging on a boat deck sipping drinks? Stockholm has trendy nightlife, from cool, sophisticated Stureplan to the bohemian clubs and bars of Södermalm and Gamla Stan. In the summertime, the city’s nightlife moves outdoors and revellers take in long, light nights when the sun never sets.

A Guide to Stockholm's Nightlife

Stureplan In Stockholm, Stureplan is the symbol of luxury and indulgence. This is where the young, rich, famous, and trendy hang out. Lines are long for the most popular clubs, and many have selective entry. Arrive early. Södermalm Rock, reggae, rockabilly, bohemian, electronic, gay, or lesbian. Södermalm blends all styles. This is a more relaxed, less expensive …

Trädgården

Trädgården is often referred to as Stockholm’s playground for adults and is the most popular summer club. Here you can party beneath Skanstull Bridge in Södermalm, soaking up the trendy atmosphere and festival vibes. There is a burger shack, as well as multiple other things to enjoy (e.g. table tennis). If you happen to …

Huset Under Bron

When the colder months of the year arrive, the revellers from Trädgården move to its winter counterpart — Huset Under Bron (House Under the Bridge). This club features indie, house, and electronic music, as well as a bar area upstairs. If you want to grab dinner before partying, check out their in-house vegan restaurant …

Tweed

Tweed is a bar renowned for its cosy leather armchairs and stylish tartan wallpaper. The menu offers a delightful selection of classic options, including craft beers, aperitifs, and cigars. For an extra touch of luxury, you have the option to reserve a Chesterfield armchair ahead of …

Teaterbrasseriet

The Scandic Grand Central is a trendy New York-inspired hotel bar in downtown Stockholm near the Central Station. It draws hotel guests as well as Stockholm locals who come in for a drink after work — and there is plenty of room for all. If not in the bar, in the lobby, or one …

Riche

Riche is a classic meeting place and brasserie in the city centre, with multiple bars and dining rooms offering a Swedish and French menu. Stockholm’s art, fashion, and club crowds gather here to see and be …

Södra Teatern

Södra Teatren is a dazzling retreat with an exceptional view of Stockholm. The original décor from the turn of the last century has been preserved. They have music several times a week with a good mix of styles and occasional live music. The generous veranda with its unique view draws many people in the …

Cliff Barnes

Cliff Barnes serves food from all over the world, with a focus on American cuisine. This small place is always full of people on the weekends and offers a lively, cheerful atmosphere. Around 11pm, the restaurant becomes a nightclub playing mostly dance band music and 70s …

Fasching

Fasching is a renowned jazz club in Stockholm’s city centre, which has held its doors open for international acts and jazz music since 1977. Enjoy an intimate atmosphere and a solid choice of Nordic dishes at this popular venue. The restaurant opens two hours prior to concerts. Check in advance for more …

Story Hotel

The spacious bar at the trendy Story Hotel has quickly become a popular after-work scene for the city crowd. A cool, jazzy atmosphere during the week heats up from Thursday to Saturday when DJs step up the beat. Before dancing it out, you can enjoy Asian specialities at Ling Long, the appendant …

Casino Cosmopol

Stockholm’s international Casino offers a wide range of games, including table games like roulette, blackjack, and poker, as well as an array of slot machines. Guests can indulge in fine dining at the casino's restaurant and enjoy live entertainment events throughout the …

Golden Hits

If you're a fan of pop hits and karaoke, Golden Hits is the ideal place for you. Here you can enjoy a cheery disco atmosphere with décor that takes you back in time. There are often long lines on the weekends, so get there …

Morfar Ginko

Morfar Ginko is a popular restaurant and bar featuring an industrial-chic vibe, a traditional Swedish menu, and DJ sets. It’s a place for mingling, hanging out, or even playing a game of ping-pong. The DJ works from a loft above the bar, which makes the place feel roomy. There’s also courtyard open in the …

Sturecompagniet

Stockholm’s biggest club, situated smack in the heart of Stureplan features an array of bars and dance floors, each with its own music style. Get there early — it can sometimes be quite difficult to get in. Signing up on the guest list is also a good idea, it is usually available on the …

Shopping

From the upscale districts of Östermalm and Bibliotekstan to the trendy neighbourhoods of Södermalm and Gamla Stan, the city offers a diverse range of shopping options. Visitors can explore high-end department stores, discover independent shops showcasing local craftsmanship, and immerse themselves in the stylish atmosphere of modern Swedish design. With a mix of renowned brands, vintage treasures, and innovative boutiques, Stockholm presents a dynamic and rewarding shopping destination for all.