Stockholm is known as the Venice of the North, and is made up of 14 islands and 57 bridges. But that doesn’t make it hard to get around. You’ll discover a northern land full of top-notch restaurants, unique museums and so much more.
Itinerary Tips
- We stayed at At Six, which was in the city center. We loved the decor and location, and highly recommend it.
- If you’re catching an early morning flight, stay at the airport at the JumboStay Hotel! It’s a Boeing 747 that has been converted to a hostel. Book the cockpit suite, the ensuite black box, or the single bed ensuite for your own bathroom and more privacy. The engine room is also a private option for solo travelers, but you’ll have to leave your cozy quarters to use the shared bathroom.
- Stockholm is a foodie scene, so if you’re going to be dining fancy make sure you book well in advance!
- We went in the dead of winter, because we combined it with a trip to Kiruna to see the northern lights. It gets dark pretty early, but in the summer people stay out all night because the sun barely sets!
Day 1: Classic Stockholm
- After you settle in, get a classic lunch at Tennstopet. It’s got all the classics, including Toast Skagen and Swedish meatballs – and yes they are better than IKEA’s.
- Visit the ABBA Museum. Even if you’re not a fan of the music, you’ll thoroughly enjoy yourself and learn so much about Eurovision winners. And, you’ll know quite a few of their songs, and have the chance to sing and dance along.
- Stop by for a drink at many of the city’s cocktail bars. We loved 2hundra5, a skater bar that served up excellent libations as well as grogs, or as Americans call it “jungle juice.”
- Eat with the locals at Lilla Ego. This neighborhood joint is in Vasastan, and is one of the hardest tables to get. But if you can, you can enjoy a rotating seasonal menu of modern Swedish classics.
Day 2: Fika and photos
- Grab fika: It’s the Swedish way of life. The coffee shops are part of the Scandinavian country’s vibe, and people grab coffee and a snack several times a day. Throughout the trip, we tried Fabrique, Cafe Pascal, Green Rabbit, Drop Coffee, Il Cafe, Under Kastanjen, and Pom and Flora.
- Look at the bigger picture at Fotografiska. This chain of photography museums started in Sweden, and the original location is in a former customs house from 1906. They also have EXCELLENT free coffee. (Noticing a trend here)
- Since you are in Södermalm, take a seat at Restaurant Nytorget 6. This also serves modern Swedish classics in a cafe-type establishment.
- Drop some dough shopping in Södermalm. We loved so many stores here. Two standouts were Stockholms Stadsmission for thifted finds and Grandpa for serious Scandinavian style.
- Treat your tastebuds at Adam/Albin. This 1-star Michelin restaurant will have your tastebuds singing. But be prepared for a lengthy meal.
Day 3: Explore the past - Set sail at the Vassa Museum. This museum houses an entire ship that sunk during her maiden voyage in 1628. You can walk around and see exactly how massive these seafaring creations really were back in the day.
- Explore the city with the Gamala Stan Walking Tour. This tour gives you a little context into the history of Sweden and its past. It also is a great place to see traditional Swedish architecture.
- Sample modern Scandinavian food at Bar Agrikultur or Restorantg Babette. We visited the now-closed Agrikultur, which was one of our favorite fine dining meals of the trip. Bar Agrikultur was the sister bar/mini-restaurant that still serves up that delicious food. Every restaurant suggested going to Babette for a nightcap, but they also had great small plates and fresh baked bread.
- If you’re into metal music, Sweden is the place to be. Pub Anchor or Harry B. James are solid metal bars. Debaser, Nalen and (if you’re up for a long Uber or public transportation) Fredagsmangel are great places to start if you’re looking for live shows.
Day 4: The Best of Scandinavian Cuisine - Stop by At Six Brunch. After a night out, you’ll probably want to enjoy an easy meal. At Six’s brunch buffet was one of the best in the city. The Swedes know how to create a great spread.
- Visit the world’s first open-air museum Skansen. Sure it’s meant for kids with its zoo and replicas of houses from all across the country. But that doesn’t mean adults can’t enjoy too!
- Experience a once-in-a-lifetime meal at Restaurant Frantzen. This 3-star Michelin restaurant is the pinnacle of Scandinavian cuisine, and a great way to end your trip.
- Round off your trip with a stop at A Bar Called Gemma for unique cocktail concoctions.
