TRAVEL GUIDES
OUR GUIDE TO STOCKHOLM
For us, Stockholm isn't just a destination; it's home, especially for Nils, who grew up there. The beautiful capital of Sweden, an archipelago comprising 14 main islands, holds a special place in our hearts, and we're thrilled to share its charm with you.
Stockholm effortlessly blends elegant architecture with stunning interior design, and its culinary scene is exceptional. Each neighborhood has its own unique vibe, from the upscale Östermalm to the hipster Södermalm. We also spend a lot of time in Vasastan, a foodie’s paradise with numerous excellent options for dining, fika (coffee and pastry break) and drinks.
Summer in Stockholm is magical. The best way to experience the city is by getting around the water or biking (even if the metro is very efficient). Visiting from May to September, you'll enjoy long, bright days that seem to stretch forever. But be mindful of the Midsummer celebration at the end of June. Many people leave to celebrate in the countryside, so businesses may be closed, and the city can feel unusually empty.
From October to March, Sweden experiences very short days and long nights. This winter darkness can be a unique experience, creating a cozy atmosphere with lots of candles and warm lighting.
Some final cultural insights to keep in mind when visiting: Almost everyone speaks English, so communication is a breeze! Swedes are generally quiet and skip small talk, but they’re friendly once you get to know them. Dinner is early, around 6 PM, so plan to eat early to fit in.
Enjoy our guide and discover the best of this stunning city through our eyes.
Where to Stay
Östermalm, Stockholm
From 270€ per night
Hotel Villa Dagmar shines with its prime location in the heart of Östermalm and a chic, intimate ambiance. We love unwinding before dinner with a drink in their stunning courtyard, which gives a bit of “Hotel Costes” vibes, and the street-side restaurant area is equally charming. Their freshly baked bread makes breakfast a standout experience, and the beds are exceptionally comfy.
A charming early 20th-century townhouse in central Stockholm that feels more like a welcoming home than a hotel. Each of the 25 rooms exudes warmth with a chic mix of contemporary and vintage elements - cane, wood, leather, and velvet. Enjoy the garden in summer, cozy fires in winter, and art-filled walls that add a personal touch.
Östermalm, Stockholm
ETT HEM
From 400€ per night
Modern hotel with a convenient location in central Stockholm on the edge between Östermalm and Norrmalm. The decor fuses modern with traditional. It is a great option for those who want a design hotel that is not too expensive or buzzy. The big plus? They have Byredo products in the showers!
Norrmalm, Stockholm
HOTEL NOBIS
From 200€ per night
Clara by Nobis is a centrally located boutique hotel that combines chic design with cozy comfort. The rooms are bright and airy, thanks to beautiful windows and plenty of natural light. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed and stylish stay, giving you a true Hygge feeling right in the heart of the city.
Norrmalm, Stockholm
MISS CLARA BY NOBIS
From 170€ per night
Another hotel located in central Stockholm! At Six is a sleek, trendy hotel that draws a creative crowd. Its large, stylish space is especially popular for its vibrant listening lounge, where DJs keep the vibe lively. The hotel’s sister restaurant, TAK, is a cool rooftop bar and lounge next door, offering great views and atmosphere.
Östermalm, Stockholm
AT SIX
From 200€ per night
A brand new hotel in Stockholm, absolutely impeccable design throughout! Set on the island of Södermalm, right in the city center. Located in a neoclassical building from 1875, the hotel has 32 minimalist, mostly cream-colored rooms with marble bathrooms. The team has worked at some of the world's best hotels (NYC’s The Mercer, LA’s Chateau Marmont) and Stockholm’s top restaurants (Babette). It has a seasonal restaurant located in a former chapel and spa with a sauna .
Södermalm, Stockholm
STADSHOTELL
From 250€ per night
What to do
GAMLA STAN
Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s enchanting old town. Although it's an island, you hardly notice it thanks to the many well-designed bridges connecting it to the rest of Stockholm. This area is very touristy but still it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city for the first time. Its narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with medieval buildings and traditional Swedish eateries. The area is also home to iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and Stockholm Cathedral.
Gamla Stan, Stockholm
Stockholm’s premier photography museum, is a must-visit! This modern space is renowned for its impressive exhibitions featuring both contemporary and classic photography. The museum’s large, well-lit galleries showcase works by renowned international photographers and emerging talents alike. In addition to the art, Fotografiska has a fantastic rooftop café and restaurant with stunning views of the city, making it a great spot to relax and reflect on the exhibitions.
FOTOGRAFISKA
Södermalm, Stockholm
If you're a fan of ABBA, you can’t miss this! The museum celebrates the iconic Swedish pop group in a fun and interactive way. We suggest grabbing a drink at the bar on the top floor before starting your tour. We don’t want to spoil the details, but be prepared to leave in the mood to party!
ABBA MUSEUM
Djurgården, Stockholm
This store is a treasure trove of handpicked magazines, unique coffee table books, special editions and stylish stationery. Their goal is to be the go-to spot for anyone who sees fashion, art, design, music, and film as essential parts of their life. Whether you’re hunting for something new, seeking inspiration, or looking for the perfect gift, Papercut is sure to impress.
PAPERCUT SHOP
Södermalm, Stockholm
Stockholm has a rich history of spa culture, with a focus on health and relaxation evident in its numerous thermal baths and wellness centers. Yasuragi continues this tradition with its traditional Japanese bathing experience, featuring natural hot springs, saunas, and other soothing treatments, all surrounded by Japanese-inspired design and lush gardens.
YASURAGI
Saltsjö-Boo, Sweden
Vaxholm, a charming town on the edge of the Stockholm Archipelago, just a short ferry ride from Stockholm. Wander the charming streets, savor the waterfront , and check out the historic Vaxholm Castle for tours and great views. Depart from Strömkajen in central Stockholm for scenic views on the way. For ferry schedules check the Vaxholm ferry website.
TAKE THE FERRY TO VAXHOLM
Vaxholm Island, Sweden
Galerie Storm, founded by Carolina and Mattias Storm, blends contemporary art with carefully curated antiques and vintage finds. The gallery showcases a mix of brutalist furniture, unique objects, and sculptures, along with select new and artisanal pieces. They also offer bespoke sourcing and interior design consultations for private clients.
GALERIE STORM
Östermalm, Stockholm
If you like the Swedish fashion house Acne but think it’s a bit too pricey - then this is the store for you! Acne Archive offers a handpicked selection of Acne Studio classics, showpieces, accessories, shoes, and items from previous collections at up to 75 percent off. Enjoy the hunt!
ACNE ARCHIVE
Vasastan, Stockholm
Millesgården Museum, located on Lidingö Island just outside Stockholm, is a hidden gem for art and sculpture enthusiasts. Set in the former home and studio of renowned sculptor Carl Milles, it showcases his impressive collection of sculptures and art. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, explore the intimate studio, and enjoy panoramic views of Stockholm. The museum also features rotating exhibitions and a charming café for a relaxing visit.
MILLESGARDEN MUSEUM
Lidingö, Sweden
Founded by Estrid Ericsson in 1924, Svenskt Tenn is an iconic store in Stockholm known for its unique selection of home furnishings, textiles and vibrant patterns. The store offers everything from elegant furniture and stylish lamps to beautiful fabrics and decorative pieces. A must-visit for enthusiasts interested in Swedish design.
Östermalm, Stockholm
SVENSKT TENN
What to Taste
SVEDJAN BAGERI
Södermalm, Stockholm
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This bakery is clearly a neighborhood favorite, judging by the never-ending line. The service is quick and friendly. Once you taste the treats, it’s easy to see why—everything is absolutely delicious! They offer great baked goods, including a good sourdough. The butter cake is a bit heavy at the bottom but still tasty. Their coffee is carefully selected and high-quality, with prices that match most café chains but with a much more personal touch.
Östermalm, Stockholm
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Sturehof is "the place to be"—a must-visit spot in Stockholm. Whether you're checking out the neighborhood, enjoying the bar, dining in the restaurant, or hitting the nightclub upstairs, there's no doubt that Sturehof is a standout destination. Seafood lovers will be especially pleased with their offerings. The stylish setting and chic clientele make it a memorable experience. Definitely a place to check out!
Vasastan, Stockholm
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A hot dog stand. Simple, but one of the best things you can eat in Stockholm. Gunter doesn’t speaks much English, so if you’re unsure what to get and let him choose for you, ask in Swedish. You’ll end up with one of the best sandwiches you’ve ever had. If you don’t catch what he says, friendly locals in line will help translate! The double kabanoss with sauerkraut is highly recommended, and definitely try the homemade spicy sauce :) A must-try place!
Located in the hip Södermalm area, Café Nizza and Cave Nizza are two stylish spots right next to each other. Both are fantastic in their own ways! We’ve mostly visited Cave Nizza, where the wine selection is superb. Meanwhile, Café Nizza is renowned for its delicious cacio e pepe pasta. The atmosphere at both places is lively and inviting
Södermalm, Stockholm
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LILLA EGO
This is a local favorite for classic Swedish fare and a cosy neighborhood vibe. It’s a little off the beaten path, but perfect for a low-key date night. The place is quite small and very popular, so make a reservation ahead of time (although you can usually walk in and snag a seat at the bar if you go early enough (which means very early for Swedish standards).
Vasastan, Stockholm
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Don't hesitate to venture a little further out of the city to discover this beautiful natural spot just a stone's throw from the center! Rosendals has a spectacular greenhouse setting and is an amazing casual lunch spot on the island of Djurgården. It’s best for a meal after visiting the nearby Skansen or Vasa Museum. The restaurant has an organic garden and farm which supplies the produce for the farm-to-table dishes.
Djurgården, Stockholm
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Östermalm, Stockholm
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Prinsen is an institution. An iconic, old-style restaurant perfectly situated in the heart of Stockholm where elegant waiters serve in crisp white attires. Renowned for its classic Swedish dishes, it serves some of the best meatballs in town, accompanied of course by the traditional potato mash, lingonberries, and pickled cucumber. Don’t miss their exceptional Toast Skagen, featuring shrimp, vendace roe, mayonnaise, and butter-fried toast.
Nils’ favorite spot for cinnamon and cardamom buns is an absolute must-stop for fika. We go every single time we’re in town. During Christmas, it’s traditional to enjoy saffron buns, and they make the best ones here. The exceptional bread is truly worth the detour!
Vasastan, Stockholm
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We haven’t been to Schmaltz Bar & Delicatessen yet, but just looking at the pictures of their Reuben sandwiches makes our mouths water. This place comes highly recommended by locals and has a lot of regulars. They offer a simple menu with a few options, including a sandwich and soup combo, but everything is said to be delicious. The cozy bar has a welcoming atmosphere, and the surrounding area has become quite lively with many other great spots to explore.
Östermalm, Stockholm
SHMALTZ DELICATESSEN
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Lisa Elmqvist, the standout stall at Östermalm Saluhall, is famous for its smoked fish and Skagen. This celebrated eatery is perfect for a casual lunch while you explore the market. From fresh fish and shellfish to expertly crafted smörgåsbord, Lisa Elmqvist has been a staple for quality Swedish cuisine for years. The charming setting and consistently excellent fare make it a must-visit for both locals and visitors.
Östermalm, Stockholm
LISA ELMQVIST
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Främmat is another gem on our to-go list among all Stockholm restaurants. A rather tiny, familiar, intimate place with a bistro and very cosy feel. The food and drinks selection is said to be excellently planned and very friendly service to always follows. There is outside seating in the summertime with a few tables. Definitely book ahead!
Vasastan, Stockholm
FRAMMAT
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Vasastan, Stockholm
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Ambar is all about natural wine, and even if you’re not familiar with it, give it a try—the staff are more than happy to share their knowledge. We did the orange wine tasting, which includes two different wines to sample. The dumplings and other dishes at neighboring tables looked incredibly tempting, though we didn't get to try them because we had dinner plans. Next time for sure!
After a 25-minute ferry ride, you arrive at Fjärderholmarnas Krog, a charming island with red-painted wooden buildings. The dining room offers stunning views of the Baltic Sea and attentive service. The menu focuses on fish and seafood, with a good wine selection. This spot is perfect for Christmas dinners, offering deer or bear meat for the adventurous, or for Midsummer celebrations (book in advance). Fjärderholmarnas Krog is a delightful escape for a memorable meal.
Fjäderholmarnas, Sweden
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Agrikultur Bar is the casual little sister to the fine dining restaurant Agrikultur, known for its creative cuisine. You can dine at the counter with a view of the kitchen, adding to the convivial atmosphere. They are famous for their cucumber dish. The space is tiny, with only about six tables inside and six outside if the weather is nice, so reservations are essential.
Södermalm, Stockholm
BAR AGRIKULTUR
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Taverna Brillo is a trendy and lively spot that's open until late, making it perfect for drinks, dinner, or even lunch. This unique venue merges a delicatessen restaurant with a small club atmosphere. It's a popular hangout for Swedes and attracts a diverse crowd who enjoy current music and don't mind a vibrant, high-energy environment. The food is excellent, and the experience is enhanced by a DJ, creating a dynamic and fun setting.
Östermalm, Stockholm
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Vasastan, Stockholm
Tranan, located in the residential Odenplan, is a charming family restaurant perfect for winter dining. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with red and white checkered tablecloths and large candles. Tranan offers a variety of typical Swedish dishes, such as herring, salt-cured salmon, and the classic Biff Rydberg. Their grated potato pancakes with bleak roe, sour cream, and onions are exceptional. It's a delightful spot in a homey setting.
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For a quick lunch, Stora is a bakery that serves delicious pastries, soups, and sandwiches. Though it’s easy to miss from the outside, once you step in, you’ll find a place filled with locals. It’s a popular spot, especially on Saturday mornings, so be prepared for a bustling, noisy environment. While it can be crowded, the quality of the food makes it worth it. Keep in mind that it’s on the pricier side compared to other bakeries and cafes in Stockholm.
Östermalm, Stockholm
STORA BAGERIET
€€
We love Pat’s Place and visit often. If you’re craving a break from Swedish cuisine in Stockholm, this is the spot for delicious Thai food. The influence of Thai cuisine in Sweden is strong, thanks to a significant Thai community that has made its mark on the local food scene. Pat’s Place offers a fantastic taste of this vibrant culinary tradition with everything meant to be shared. Don’t miss their great cocktails and the "Tear of the Tiger" dish.
Södermalm, Stockholm
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A hidden gem worth seeking out. With a knowledgeable staff, exceptional interesting wines (only natural), and delicious plates, it's perfect for a post-work drink or a break while exploring the city. Just be prepared to hunt a bit to find a spot! We particularly enjoyed the anchovies on toasted bread.
Östermalm, Stockholm
TYGE & SESSIL
€€
Erlands is Stockholm's top bar, known for its amazing, long-time staff and old-school vibe. It's small, with a cozy exterior and an upper floor and you might catch some live jazz music while you’re there. It’s such a favorite that Nils' father proudly wears their T-shirts and merch all the time. If you're looking for a classic, intimate bar experience with exceptional service, Erlands is the place to go.
Vasastan, Stockholm
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A Bar Called Gemma is a favourite from Stockholm friends. Although it's a small spot, making it tricky to get a table, the exceptional quality of drinks, service, and atmosphere makes it worth the wait. The staff goes above and beyond, tailoring cocktails to your preferences and cravings. If you’re looking for top-notch drinks in a vibrant setting, this is the place.
Östermalm, Stockholm
A BAR CALLED GEMMA
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Hot, sweaty, dark, smoky, loud… We’ve heard Punk Royale is an evening out of the ordinary. The food is said to be great but you go here for the experience in every way. Forget fancy dress, nobody cares here. Best of all you get to put your phone away and just enjoy. While the cost is on the higher side, you’re paying for a special experience. On our list!
Södermalm, Stockholm
PUNK ROYALE
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