CITY BREAK stockholm > ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
Stockholm is renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, vibrant culture and its beautiful archipelago, made up of thousands of islands, perfect for boat trips and island hopping. Stockholm is a great destination for art lovers, as it has many museums and galleries, such as the Moderna Museet, showcasing works by famous Swedish and international artists. It is a must-see City Break destination for anyone looking to experience the history, culture, and beauty of Sweden!
CITYTRIP TO STOCKHOLM, VENICE OF SCANDINAVIA
Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is renowned for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and beautiful setting. The city is built on 14 islands and is surrounded by water, making it a truly unique destination. The Old Town, also known as Gamla Stan, is a must-see place, with its narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and the famous Royal Palace. The Vasa Museum, which houses the only surviving 17th-century ship, is another must-see attraction. Stockholm is has many wonderful museums, such as the Moderna Museet, the Museum of National Antiquities, and the ABBA Museum, which showcases the history of the famous Swedish band.
The city also offers a vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and music venues. The city is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Djurgården, which offers a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s mild climate. The nearby archipelago of Stockholm is a great place to visit for a change of scenery, with beautiful islands and beaches. Stockholm is a city with a rich history, culture and stunning architecture. The picturesque setting, delicious food and vibrant cultural scene make it a must-visit city break destination. Stockholm offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a destination that caters to a variety of interests and needs!
City Break stockholm: Vibrant Neighbourhoods
Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan is the old town neighbourhood of Stockholm. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and narrow cobblestone streets, Gamla Stan is one of the most picturesque areas of the city. The neighbourhood is home to many historic buildings and landmarks, including the Royal Palace, the Stockholm Cathedral, and the Nobel Museum. Gamla Stan is also a hub for shopping and dining, with a variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants lining its streets. In the summer, the area comes alive with outdoor seating, street performers, and a bustling atmosphere. You can also enjoy boat tours that depart from Gamla Stan and offer scenic views of the city’s waterways.
Östermalm
Known for its upscale atmosphere, Östermalm is one of the city’s most affluent areas and is home to many luxury boutiques, designer shops, and high-end restaurants. Here you will find cultural landmarks, including the National Museum and the Royal Opera, as well as several parks and gardens, including the popular Djurgården Park. Östermalm is also known for its vibrant street life and lively atmosphere, with many local bars, cafes, and restaurants serving as popular meeting places. If you are looking to experience the best of Stockholm’s shopping, dining, and cultural scenes, you have found your spot.
Vasastan
Vasastan is a popular destination for those looking for a lively atmosphere. The neighborhood is home to several local shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as cultural landmarks, including the Vasateatern theater and the Konstfack University College of Arts, Crafts and Design. Vasastan is a hub for outdoor activities, with several parks and green spaces, including the popular Haga Park, which offers a peaceful escape from the city. Vasastan is known for its quiet streets and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for families and those looking for a more laid-back neighborhood experience.
Kungsholmen
Known for its green spaces, quiet streets, and lakeside location, Kungsholmen is a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre. The neighbourhood is home to several parks, including Rålambshovsparken, which offers stunning views of the city and its waterways, as well as the popular Stadshagen Park. Kungsholmen is home to a range of local shops, cafes, and restaurants, serving everything from traditional Swedish cuisine to international dishes. Despite its peaceful atmosphere, Kungsholmen is well-connected to the city centre and is easily accessible by public transportation.
Södermalm
Södermalm is known for its creative, bohemian vibe, and is a hub for artists, musicians, and young professionals. It is home to many independent boutiques, vintage shops, and a thriving food and drink scene, with a range of bars, cafes, and restaurants serving everything from traditional Swedish cuisine to international dishes. Södermalm has stunning views of the city and its waterways, where you can enjoy panoramic views from several parks and viewpoints, including the iconic Monteliusvägen. It is easily accessible by public transportation and a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Djurgården
Djurgården is home to several cultural landmarks, including the Skansen open-air museum, the Vasa Museum, and the Gröna Lund amusement park. Djurgården is a hub for outdoor activities, with several parks and walking trails, including the popular Djurgården Promenade, which offers stunning views of the city and its waterways. Djurgården is known for its peaceful atmosphere, and you can enjoy a peaceful escape from the city while still being close to its main attractions.
The TOP 10 must-see attractions in stockholm
Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan, also known as Old Town, Is a small island located in the heart of the city. It is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval city centres in Europe. Gamla Stan is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and colourful, historic buildings. The most famous attraction is the Royal Palace, which has served as the official residence of the Swedish monarchs since the 17th century. Other notable sites in the area include the Stockholm Cathedral, the Nobel Museum, and the Riddarholmen Church. Gamla Stan is full of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular and charming place to stroll and explore.
Vasa Museum
The Vasa Museum is dedicated to the Vasa, a Swedish warship that sank in 1628 on its maiden voyage. It was recovered from the seabed in the 1950s and is now the best-preserved warship from the 17th century. The museum is located on the island of Djurgården. It features exhibits on the history of the Vasa, including the ship’s construction, its sinking, and its recovery. The museum also includes exhibits on the daily life of the sailors who served on the ship and the cultural and political context in which the ship was built. The museum is offers guided tours in several languages.
Skansen
Skansen was founded in 1891 and is the oldest open-air museum in the world. Skansen covers an area of 75 acres and features over 150 historic buildings from various regions of Sweden, including farmhouses, windmills, and other structures that give a glimpse into the country’s rural and coastal history. There is a zoo with a variety of animals native to Scandinavia, including elk, reindeer, and wolves. The museum offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including folk music concerts, dance performances, and traditional craft demonstrations. Skansen is a popular place for families with children, offering a unique and educational experience for all ages.
The Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is the official residence of the Swedish royal family, open to the public. You can tour the palace’s state apartments, throne rooms, and the Treasury which features the crown jewels. The palace is also home to the Royal Armory, which features a collection of royal costumes and armour, and the Royal Chapel. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens such as the palace garden, the royal stables and the palace square. The palace offers guided tours of the palace and the changing of the guard ceremony.
The Moderna Museet
The Moderna Museet is a contemporary art museum. It was founded in 1958 and is one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art in Scandinavia. The museum’s collection includes works by famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Henri Matisse, as well as a comprehensive selection of works by Nordic artists. The museum is also home to an extensive collection of photography, design, and architecture, making it an important cultural institution in Stockholm. The museum is housed in a modern building designed by architect Sven Markelius, and its central location makes it a popular museum.
The ABBA Museum
The ABBA Museum in Stockholm is a highly interactive and immersive museum dedicated to the iconic Swedish pop group, ABBA. Located in the Djurgården area of Stockholm, it was opened in 2013. Discover the history of the band, learn about their music and costumes, and perform on stage with hologram versions of the band members. The museum has a store that sells ABBA merchandise, a café, and a lounge area. It provides a unique and entertaining experience for fans of the legendary pop group and anyone interested in music history. The museum’s collection of memorabilia and interactive experiences is of course a must-visit for true ABBA fans.
The City Hall
The Stockholm City Hall is a stunning building located in central Stockholm. It was built between 1911 and 1923 and is known for its magnificent architecture and rich history. The City Hall is the site of the Nobel Prize banquet, held annually on December 10th, and is one of the most famous buildings in Sweden. The building’s grand entrance hall and the Blue Hall, with its impressive mosaics, are the most well-known parts of the City Hall. You can take guided tours of the building, which include access to the stunning ceremonial halls and stunning views of the city from the top of the building.
The Drottningholm Palace
The Drottningholm Palace is a stunning royal palace on the island of Lovön. It was built in the late 16th century and is one of the best-preserved examples of Baroque architecture in Sweden. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is also home to a theatre and a Chinese Pavilion, both of which are unique cultural treasures. The palace is the official residence of the Swedish Royal Family, and you can take guided tours of the state apartments, which are decorated with beautiful furnishings and works of art. The palace also has a museum that showcases the history of the palace and its residents.
The Fotografiska
Fotografiska is was founded in 2010 and is one of the largest photography museums in Europe. The museum is known for its diverse exhibitions of both established and emerging photographers, which cover a wide range of subjects and styles. The exhibitions are constantly changing, making Fotografiska a dynamic and innovative space for photography lovers. The museum has a restaurant and a store, offering visitors a unique and comprehensive experience. Fotografiska is a must-visit for anyone interested in photography and contemporary art, offering a unique and thought-provoking look at the world through the lens of some of the most talented photographers.
The Konstmuseet
The National Museum of Fine Arts was established in 1792 and is one of the oldest art museums in the world. The museum has a vast collection of art from the 16th century to the present day, including works by Swedish and international artists. The museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building and features several exhibitions showcasing the development of art and design throughout history. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and other renowned artists, as well as an extensive collection of Swedish art from the 19th and 20th centuries. Another must-visit for anyone interested in art, history, and design.
The best city break activities stockholm
Shopping in Stockholm
Stockholm is a great place to go shopping, with a wide range of stores, markets, and malls offering everything from fashion and home goods to souvenirs and local products. The city has a number of popular shopping districts, including Östermalm, which is known for its fashionable boutiques and high-end stores, and Södermalm, home to a number of trendy shops and markets. Gamla Stan (Old Town) is also a popular shopping destination, with charming storefronts and souvenir shops. Looking for a big mall during your City Break Stockholm? The Mall of Scandinavia is one of the largest malls in the Nordic region.
3 Fun activities for Children
Junibacken Children's Museum
The museum is dedicated to the works of the famous Swedish author Astrid Lindgren, who is known for her children’s books such as Pippi Longstocking. The museum features interactive exhibits and activities that bring the stories to life. The museum has several play areas and it’s suitable for children of all ages, it’s a great place for families to spend a day together. The museum is open all year round and it’s located on the island of Djurgården, easily accessible by public transportation.
Gröna Lund
The park features a variety of rides, including roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions. It also has arcade games, and a range of food and drink options. The park is open seasonally, typically from April to October and it’s suitable for all ages. It is easily accessible by public transportation and it’s located on the island of Djurgården, close to the city center. Gröna Lund is a great place for a fun day out with family and friends, offering a variety of exciting rides and attractions as well as live music events during the summer.
Stockholm Zo
Also known as Skansen Aquarium, the zoo features a wide variety of animals from around the world, including primates, big cats, birds, reptiles, and aquatic life. The zoo also has an aquarium with a wide variety of fish and sea creatures from the Baltic and the Mediterranean. The zoo is located on the island of Djurgården.
Football Stockholm
AIK is one of the most successful football clubs in Sweden, having won the Allsvenskan (the top division of Swedish football) 13 times. They play their home matches at the Friends Arena, which is located in the suburb of Solna. Djurgårdens IF is another successful football club in Stockholm, having won the Allsvenskan six times. They play their home matches at the Tele2 Arena, which is located on the island of Djurgården in Stockholm. Hammarby Fotboll is based in the Södermalm neighborhood of Stockholm and plays its home matches at the Tele2 Arena.
Centralbadet
Centralbadet is a historic public bathhouse built in 1904 and it features a variety of saunas, swimming pools, and spa treatments. The bathhouse has a gym, a restaurant and a rooftop terrace. You can enjoy a traditional Swedish sauna experience, or relax in the swimming pools and jacuzzi. The bathhouse offers a variety of spa treatments including massages, facials, and body treatments. It is open all year round and a great spot if you are looking to unwind and relax during your City Break Stockholm. It is also a great place to experience the traditional Swedish sauna culture.
Östermalms Saluhall
Östermalms Saluhall is a historic indoor market with a wide variety of food and drink vendors, selling everything from fresh seafood and meats to cheeses, breads and pastries. The market is a great place to experience the local food culture, and to try a variety of traditional Swedish dishes. The market is open all year round and one of the best markets in Stockholm. A must-visit spot for foodies and those interested in the local food culture. For more info: https://en.ostermalmshallen.se
Most Romantic Spot
The Stockholm archipelago is definitely a romantic spot for couples. The archipelago is made up of thousands of islands, islets and rocks located just outside of Stockholm and is known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Take a boat tour to explore the islands and enjoy the scenery, where you can see the beautiful landscapes, the crystal clear waters, and the variety of wildlife. Some islands offer romantic accommodations, like small cottages or treehouses, where couples can spend a romantic night or weekend away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Why not take a romantic hike or bike ride on the islands, or take a dip in the sea? There are also several traditional seafood restaurants on the archipelago, where you can enjoy the freshest fish and seafood.
Best Kept Secret
One of the best kept secrets of Stockholm is Monteliusvägen. It’s a scenic walking path that offers panoramic views of Stockholm, located on the hill Södermalm. It’s a great spot to take in the city’s skyline, and also offers a great spot for a romantic sunset or sunrise views. The path is not well known among tourists and is often overlooked, making it a true hidden gem in the city. It’s a great spot to take a stroll and get away from the crowds while still enjoying the beauty of the city.
stockholm Food & Drink Scene
Stockholm is a city with a vibrant and diverse food scene, influenced by its location on the coast and its proximity to the Nordic region. The city offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Swedish cuisine to modern and international cuisine. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the sea, with an emphasis on seafood such as herring, salmon, and crayfish. Some of the must-try dishes in Stockholm include traditional Swedish meatballs, served with lingonberry jam, gravlax (cured salmon), and smorgasbord. Stockholm is also a great place to try Nordic cuisine, which emphasizes the use of local ingredients and simple preparation methods.
The city also has a strong coffee culture, and you can find a great variety of coffee shops, cafes, and coffee roasters all over Stockholm. Stockholm has a great variety of food markets, such as the famous Östermalms Saluhall, where you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood and traditional Swedish snacks, and delicacies. Stockholm is home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants, offering a high-quality dining experience for those who are looking for an upscale restaurant.
Smörgåsbord
This is a traditional Swedish buffet-style meal, featuring a variety of cold and hot dishes, including seafood, meats, cheeses, and breads. The meal is served with an emphasis on traditional Swedish flavours, such as pickled fish, meatballs, and lingonberry jam. Smörgåsbord is typically served as a special occasion meal, such as Christmas or other holidays, but it can also be found in some restaurants. The meal is usually served buffet-style, allowing guests to serve themselves, and it is traditionally accompanied by a variety of aquavit, a traditional Nordic spirit. Smörgåsbord is a unique and delicious way to experience the traditional Swedish cuisine.
Aquavit
Aquavit is a clear spirit that is typically served chilled and is often consumed as a schnapps, in small shots. It is a traditional Nordic spirit made from potatoes or grain, flavoured with caraway or dill and other herbs and spices. It is commonly paired with traditional Swedish food, particularly with smorgasbord. Aquavit is a popular choice for festive occasions such as Christmas and other holidays. It’s a traditional drink of the Nordic countries but it’s particularly popular in Sweden, where it’s often served as a pre-dinner drink or as an accompaniment to a meal. The traditional way to drink aquavit is to take a shot at a time and then take a sip of beer or water.
Michelin Restaurant Nour
The restaurant is known for its modern Mediterranean cuisine, which draws inspiration from the flavours of the Middle East, North Africa, and the Mediterranean. The menu features a variety of dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and it changes regularly to reflect the seasons. The restaurant serves unique and creative cocktails, which are inspired by the flavours of the Mediterranean. The ambiance of the restaurant is warm and welcoming, with a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Nour is open for lunch and dinner, and it’s considered one of the best Mediterranean restaurants in Stockholm. Make a reservation: https://restaurantnour.se
Rooftop Bar Tak
The bar is located on the rooftop of the Radisson Blu Waterfront hotel and offers a panoramic view of the city. The bar serves a variety of cocktails, wine, and beer, as well as a small selection of light bites. The ambiance is chic and stylish, with a modern decor and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s open seasonally, typically from May to September, and it’s a great spot for a drink or a casual bite to eat while enjoying the views of the city. The bar hosts live music events and DJ sets on certain nights. The bar is located in the city centre, easily accessible by public transportation and it’s a great spot for a special occasion or a casual night out during your City Break Stockholm. For more info: https://tak.se/en/tak-bar-and-terrace
Top Nightlife Spots stockholm
Stockholm is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late into the night. The city has a number of lively neighborhoods that are known for their nightlife, including Södermalm, Gamla Stan (Old Town), and Östermalm. These areas are home to a wide range of bars and clubs, ranging from trendy rooftop bars to cozy pubs and dance clubs.
Stockholm has a thriving live music scene, with numerous venues that host concerts and performances by local and international artists. There are also several comedy clubs and theatres that offer entertainment into the late hours and a great number of restaurants that stay open late, serving everything from traditional Swedish cuisine to international dishes.
Kungliga Operan
The opera house was built in 1773 and it’s considered one of the most important cultural institutions in Sweden. It hosts a wide range of opera, ballet, and classical music performances throughout the year. The opera house features a beautiful baroque architecture, with a grand auditorium and a stunning stage. It is known for hosting international guest performances, as well as its own productions.
Dramaten
This theatre is also known as the Royal Dramatic Theatre and features a wide range of performances, including plays, operas, and dance performances. It has a rich history, and it’s known for hosting some of the most prominent actors, directors, and playwrights in Sweden.
Ericsson Globe
The arena is the largest hemispherical building in the world, and one of the iconic landmarks in the city. The arena has a capacity of over 13,000 people and it’s primarily used for ice hockey, concerts and other events. The Ericsson Globe is the home arena of the Stockholm-based ice hockey team, the Stockholm Bruins. The arena is located in the city’s southern suburbs, easily accessible by public transportation. It’s also famous for its guided tours where you can take an elevator to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Stockholm Culture Festival
The festival features a wide range of cultural activities, including music, theatre, dance, art, and film. It is held in various venues throughout the city, including parks, museums, and concert halls. The festival typically takes place in August and is one of the most important cultural events in the city. The festival brings together artists and performers from around the world, and it’s a great opportunity to experience a diverse range of cultures and arts.
Getting around the city
Stockholm Arlanda Airport
Stockholm Arlanda Airport is the main international airport serving Stockholm and the surrounding region. It is located about 40 kilometres (25 miles) north of the city canter, and it is easily accessible by a number of transportation options, including trains, buses, and taxis. Stockholm Arlanda Airport is one of the busiest airports in the Nordic region, serving more than 27 million passengers annually. It has four terminals, and it offers flights to destinations around the world, including major cities in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Stockholm Arlanda Airport serves as a hub for several major airlines, including Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and Norwegian Air Shuttle. The airport is well-equipped with amenities and services, including a variety of shops and restaurants, currency exchange kiosks, and free Wi-Fi. There are also several other airports in the Stockholm region, including Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA), which serves domestic and regional flights, and Stockholm Skavsta Airport (NYO), which is located about 100 kilometres (62 miles) southwest of the city and serves mostly budget airlines.
Public transport
Stockholm has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, which includes buses, trains, subways, trams, and ferries. The city’s public transportation system is operated by Storstockholms Lokaltrafik (SL), a government-owned company that provides transportation services for the Stockholm region. The Stockholm subway, known locally as the “Tunnelbana”, is a network of three lines that serves the city canter and suburbs. It is the most convenient way to get around the city, and it is known for its efficiency and cleanliness. The subway operates from about 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., with trains running every few minutes during peak hours.
Stockholm has a network of buses, trams, and ferries that serve the city and surrounding areas. These modes of transport are also operated by SL, and they can be accessed using the same ticketing system as the subway. To use the public transportation system in Stockholm, you will need to purchase a ticket or a travel card. Tickets can be purchased at subway stations, on buses and trams, or at newsstands and convenience stores. Travel cards, which offer unlimited travel for a set period of time, can be purchased online or at ticket offices. Stockholm’s public transportation system is reliable and convenient.
Biking in Stockholm
Stockholm is a great city for biking, with many bike lanes and paths, and a relatively flat terrain. Biking is a popular way to get around and is considered safe, especially in the city centre and the residential areas. There are several places to rent bikes in Stockholm, including bike rental shops, hotels, and bike-sharing companies like Stockholm City Bikes. There are several bike lanes and paths in Stockholm, making it easy to navigate the city by bike. There are also several parks and nature reserves that are popular with cyclists. When biking in Stockholm, it is important to follow the traffic rules and to use a helmet. Biking is an environmentally friendly and efficient way to get around and is a great way to experience Stockholm from a different perspective.
Prepare for your Trip to stockholm
Famous movie
One of the most famous movies shot in Stockholm is “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (original title in Swedish “Män som hatar kvinnor” ) directed by David Fincher in 2009. The movie is based on a best-selling novel of the same name by the late Swedish author and journalist Stieg Larsson. The movie was shot mainly in Stockholm, Sweden and some parts of it were filmed in Gothenburg and the surrounding areas. The movie received positive reviews and it was a commercial success. It was nominated for several awards including best actress, best adapted screenplay and best original score.
Best travel book
“Stockholm: A Cultural History” by Michael Tapper. This book provides a comprehensive look at the city’s history and culture, and includes information on everything from its famous landmarks to its lesser-known gems. The author is a historian and an expert on the city, and his writing is both informative and engaging. He covers the history, culture, architecture, and landmarks of Stockholm, as well as providing practical travel information such as suggested itineraries and lists of the best restaurants, hotels, and shops. He also includes personal anecdotes and stories, which makes the book more interesting and relatable.
Time and money
The currency in Stockholm, Sweden is the Swedish Krona (SEK). The time zone in Stockholm is Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1). During the summer months, Daylight Saving Time is in effect, and the time zone is 2 hours ahead of UTC (UTC+2).
The history of Stockholm
Stockholm is the capital and largest city of Sweden, and it has a long and interesting history. The first known settlements in the Stockholm area date back to the Viking Age, and the city has been an important canter of trade and commerce for centuries. In the Middle Ages, Stockholm became an important hub for the Hanseatic League, a trading organization that included cities in the Baltic region. In the early modern period, Stockholm was the canter of the Swedish Empire, which was one of the great powers
of Europe at the time. During this period, the city underwent significant development, and many of the city’s landmarks and cultural institutions were founded. In the 20th century, Stockholm emerged as a major canter of technology and innovation, and it is now home to a thriving start-up scene and a number of major multinational companies. Despite its modernity, the city has managed to preserve its historic character, and it is now known for its beautiful architecture, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.