Scandinavia is a sensational travel region with a unique combination of quintessential European appeal and distinct northern character. Often overlooked due to the logistics of heading north and perceived expense, the region is perfect for escaping the crowds and the oppressive heat that much of Europe experiences, especially in summer.
Stockholm makes a strong case for being Scandinavia’s most exciting city, and the following list of things to know before visiting should set you up for a successful trip with a mix of practical advice and personal recommendations that your author wholeheartedly stands behind after a recent visit.
The city has an island identity
One of the foremost pieces of information you need to know about Stockholm is that while most European capitals can be described as a patchwork of neighborhoods, Stockholm is a collection of islands. No matter where you go, you’ll always be within a stone’s throw of water, and this pleasant fact is likely to leave a lasting impression on you long after you leave.
Gamla Stan is great (but … )
Gamla Stan is the name of Stockholm’s atmospheric old town, and you’re probably going to spend a decent amount of time there because it’s home to the Royal Palace, The Nobel Prize Museum, The Stockholm Cathedral and the swoon-worthy pastel facades of Stortorget Square. But it’s also very crowded and can be a bit, well, tacky in parts. With that said, take an early morning or late night stroll through the district to have some of its most romantic alleyways and cobbled streets all to yourself, and you’ll see Gamla Stan in its best light, and probably love every minute of it.
Södermalm is super cool
To be clear, Stockholm is home to a dozen districts worth exploring, each one offering a distinct slice of Swedish city life. But if you can make it to only one, make it Södermalm, the large island south of Gamla Stan. The classic tale of “working-class district turns trendy” definitely applies here, with rooftop bars hanging out where factory workers once toiled and resided. From the vintage shops hiding in back streets full of interesting architecture to the bustling bars on Folkungagatan and Götgatan streets, this district fizzes with fun.
Another reason to love Södermalm? The views. No trip here is complete until you’ve savored the Stockholm skyline from one of the many viewpoints in the district. On my first morning, I went to the Monteliusvägen walking path, and gazing upon Gamla Stan and the surrounding water served as the perfect opening ceremony. Trust me, you’ll be pinching yourself that you are actually in Stockholm.
You will meet great meatballs
It’s not a myth: Meatballs are a big thing in Sweden, and I found a great mix of quality and cool vibes at Meatballs For The People. Pick your meat (everything from classic beef & pork to chicken, reindeer and vegan), and soon you’ll have a ball feasting on a plate full of meatballs, mashed potato and zingy lingonberries. Wash it down with a local craft brew or a chilled shot of aquavit, Sweden’s favorite liquor. Speaking of craft beer …
The Metro stations are marvelous
You don’t have to be a content creator to get excited about the paint splashed over certain stations on the Stockholm Metro. Keep your eyes peeled and you never know what you might see!
Coffee culture rules
The Swedes love their coffee, and you’ll find batch-brewed filter java poured everywhere in Stockholm. From department store cafes to coffee shops, it is usually quality stuff — and usually refillable quality stuff. After a morning of sightseeing, there’s no better way to spend an hour or so in the afternoon than by putting your feet up and enjoying a few cups with a cinnamon bun or cake on the side. After all, it’s the Swedish way.
Visiting the archipelago is essential
Remember that tidbit about Stockholm proper being a collection of islands? Well, just wait until you see what’s waiting for you in the Stockholm Archipelago, which fans out from the city and contains thousands of rocky, sandy and forested islands. Frequent ferries shuttle travelers and locals between the isles, which range from the close-in Fjäderholmarna, where I enjoyed sunset drinks under the summer sun at Rökeriet restaurant, to honeypot Vaxholm and distant Sandham, the latter offering Martha’s Vineyard vibes.
You should stop for supermarket sweets
You will walk past a decent-sized supermarket at some point in your trip. Make sure to stop in and swing through the candy aisle because you are in for a treat in more ways than one. Swedes adore their sweets, and it’s common for them to fill huge bags of self-serve goodies. So why not join the locals in this unique custom?
You’ll leave the city singing
If you don’t automatically associate Stockholm with music, you will after a visit. The most famous musical export is ABBA, and the iconic band has helped create an enthralling experience for fans at the ABBA Museum, located on leafy Djurgården Island. But that’s just the start. Stockholm is also the city of Avicii, and you can trace the life story of one of EDM’s most influential music makers at the Avicii Experience.
Like many other great European cities, Stockholm is also home to great jazz clubs, with the quirky Stampen leading the way with its combination of knick-knacks on the wall and ace acts taking the stage like The Beat From Palookaville, who rocked the house the night I was in attendance.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll be humming a mash-up of 1970s pop, 2010s dance and classic ska for weeks after you say goodbye to Stockholm.
Travelpulse.com/Tribune News Service
