Understated, overdelivered Stockholm
Stockholm is one of the most beautiful European cities I’ve ever been to—clean,
safe, and architecturally Disney-esque, with a maritime-turned-yacht culture that had me questioning my identity as a land animal. Despite their austere mannerisms and Viking history, Swedes are actually very nice, and the city’s low-key sophisticated dining scene and archipelago vibes make it a top 5 cities list for me. While Stockholm is incredibly livable, if you’re not planning to move there, I’d say 3 days is the perfect amount of time to explore the Venice of Scandinavia (I just made that up 🍪).
So what is the perfect Stockholm weekend itinerary for Stockholm?
Quick Facts:
📍 Country: Sweden; Largest & Capital City
💰 Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK); 1 USD ≈ 10.5 SEK (Quick math: think of 10 SEK ≈ $1)
🛒 But how much does it really cost?: Stockholm is about 20–30% more expensive than the average U.S. city. Food, alcohol, and taxis cost more; public transport and casual cafes are affordable.
🗣️ Language: Swedish (almost everyone speaks English fluently)
🛬 Airport: Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)
🕒 Time Zone: Central European Time (CET); +6 to +9 hours ahead of the U.S. depending on location
🚇 Transportation: Metro (Tunnelbana), ferries, trams, buses — no car needed
☀️ Best time to visit: May–September (long daylight, mild temperatures) – but May and September are best to skip school summer season in favor of shoulder season
🍽️ Typical foods: Swedish meatballs, cinnamon buns (kanelbullar), gravlax, herring, fika coffee culture
This guide is more to give you the information you need in order to craft your own 72 hours in Stockholm using inputs for sightseeing, food, nightlife, and travel tips – but with a suggested itinerary at the bottom.
Stockholm’s seasons are dramatic – and they shape the whole vibe of the city.
Spring
Spring and early summer (May to June) bring the long daylight hours, blooming parks, and mild temperatures that make the city come alive. May to September is considered the best time to visit Stockholm, when you can enjoy sunny days, ferries to the archipelago, outdoor dining, and sunsets that last past 10 PM.
Valborgsmässoafton
Valborgsmässoafton (or just “Valborg”) is a bonfire festival holiday in Sweden where everyone comes out into the streets to celebrate the first day of spring, after the long dark winter. There are big crowds, all the cafés are packed with people, and the atmosphere is bougie but welcoming, with undertones of cherry blossom.
Summer
July and August are warm but there are more tourists around, while September starts to get into the crisp early fall weather without the crowds.
Midsommar
Kind of like Thanksgiving meets Oktoberfest, Midsommar (Midsummer) is another big event you should know about. Held on summer solstice – June 20th in 2025, this is Sweden’s most beloved holiday, and the unfortunate subject of the A24 horror film of the same name. The country shuts down to dance around flower poles, drink schnapps, sing weird songs about being a frog, and celebrate the longest day of the year. If you time it right, it’s one of the most unforgettable ways to experience true Swedish culture, but book ahead if you don’t know any Swedes because the city empties out fast and things will be closed.
Winter
If you’re looking for a quieter, more unique experience, winter in Stockholm (November to February) transforms the city into a snowy wonderland with my favorite winter activity in the world – the Scandinavian Christmas markets. Sauna culture also contributes to the dreamy nature of the Swedish winter. Daylight will be limited to just a few hours, so mentally prepare for a dark adventure.
✈️ How to get to Stockholm
✈️If you’re flying into Stockholm, these are your options to get into the city:
🚖 Option 1: Taxi (easy but slightly more expensive)
Time: About 40–50 minutes
Cost: Around 450–600 SEK ($40–55 USD)
The deets: The airport taxi line is right outside arrivals at all terminals
🚄 Option 2: Arlanda Express Train (fastest, a little cheaper, and still easy)
Time: 18 minutes to Stockholm Central Station
Cost: 320–360 SEK (~$30–34 USD)
The deets:
Trains run every 10–15 minutes.
Buy tickets at the machines, online, or via the Arlanda Express app
Website for info: arlandaexpress.com
🚌 Option 3: Airport Bus (Flygbussarna)
Time: About 45 minutes to Stockholm Cityterminalen (next to Central Station)
Cost: About 129 SEK (~$12 USD) one way
The deets:
Buses depart every 10–20 minutes.
You can buy tickets online, from kiosks at the airport, or via the Flygbussarna app
Website for info: flygbussarna.se
🚃 Option 4: Commuter Train (Pendeltåg)
Time: About 38 minutes to Stockholm Central.
Cost: About 151 SEK (~$14 USD) — covered by the local public transport system (SL).
The deets: If you already plan to use Stockholm’s metro, bus, or train system during your stay, you might as well start now.
You need to pay an extra fee (around 130 SEK) to access Arlanda C station from the airport
You can use an SL Access Card for easier public transit later
Quick Comparison Table
Info about general train travel through Sweden:
Most trains have Wi-Fi, outlets, and a café car onboard.
Don’t wait until the last minute to book unless you want to pay double
More info and tickets on sj.se
🚄 If you’re taking a train to Stockholm
Here are the 3 major train routes people often take into Stockholm:
🚆 Oslo to Stockholm (Norway → Sweden)
Time: About 5 hours 20 minutes to 6 hours to Stockholm Central Station
Cost: 300–600 SEK (~$28–55 USD)
The deets:
- Trains run daily
- The route is scenic and slower, passing through forests and countryside
🚆 Copenhagen to Stockholm (Denmark → Sweden)
Time: About 5 hours to Stockholm Central Station
Cost: 300–600 SEK (~$28–55 USD)
The deets:
- Trains run daily
- This is one of my favorite train rides I’ve ever taken
- Pro Tip: book the cheapest ticket and then go hang out in the dining car, since it will be empty when you get on in Copenhagen
🚆 Gothenburg to Stockholm (Sweden’s second-largest city → Sweden’s largest city)
Time: About 3 hours to Stockholm Central Station
Cost: 200–500 SEK (~$19–47 USD)
The deets:
- Trains depart almost every hour
- Both SJ and MTRX operate this route; MTRX often has cheaper tickets
🚆 How to get around Stockholm
Do not rent a car in Stockholm. Getting around is easy: leave the house on foot, in comfortabe shoes, and hop on the Metro, ferries, and buses as you come across the need to speed up the journey from A to B. Reserving public transportation tickets is easy because you don’t actually have to do it. You just tap your credit card or Apple Pay when you go into the turnstile and it charges you for a one-way ticket. If you’re here for a while, you can save a tiny bit of money by buying 72-hour passes through the SL system (Storstockholms Lokaltrafik) app or you could get a physical card, but there’s no need for short stays.
Stockholm is a super walkable city, especially in areas like Gamla Stan and Södermalm, and there is a lot that you would miss if you weren’t on foot. I forgo looking cute in Stockholm in favor of wearing sneakers because walking around the city is an event in itself. The metro system here (the Tunnelbana), is known as ‘the world’s longest art gallery,’ with over 90 of its 100 stations adorned with unique artworks.
Here’s a list of some of the most interesting stations:
- T-Centralen (Blue Line) – The central hub of the metro system, T-Centralen features serene blue and white floral motifs that pay homage to the workers who built the subway.
- Stadion (Red Line) – Known for its vibrant rainbow arch, Stadion station celebrates diversity and is a nod to the nearby 1912 Olympic Stadium.
- Solna Centrum (Blue Line) – This station captivates with its dramatic red and green color scheme, highlighting environmental themes and rural depopulation.
- Kungsträdgården (Blue Line) – An underground garden, this station showcases remnants of old Stockholm buildings, sculptures, and a unique color palette inspired by the park above.
- Rådhuset (Blue Line) – Designed to resemble an archaeological excavation, Rådhuset’s exposed bedrock and historical artifacts create a cave-like atmosphere.
- Tekniska Högskolan (Red Line) – Adjacent to the Royal Institute of Technology, this station features scientific themes, including a large dodecahedron and various technological motifs.
- Tensta (Blue Line) – Emphasizing themes of unity and multiculturalism, Tensta station is adorned with patterns and symbols from various cultures.
- Hallonbergen (Blue Line) – Displaying childlike drawings and playful designs, this station offers a whimsical experience reminiscent of a children’s storybook.
- Thorildsplan (Green Line) – Unique for its pixelated, video game-inspired designs, Thorildsplan brings a touch of nostalgia with its 8-bit art style.
For more info check out Stockholm Art Walk’s maps.
📍Orientation by neighborhood
Södermalm
Södermalm is an island-neighborhood and the kind of center of Stockholm. Wherever you’re going in Södermalm you can walk along the waterway that’s lined with boats (and I think yachts, although I still don’t understand the difference), and v cute eating and drinking spots. It’s hard to describe the atmosphere here but it feels like an elevated-but-attainable Scandinavian lifestyle that’s just not a reality for Americans.
If you stay in Södermalm you might walk by the Slussen (“the lock” in Swedish). This major transit hub and bridge area, which connects Södermalm to Gamla Stan (the Old Town), is in the middle of a massive renovation called the Slussen Project, which will rebuild the entire area to make it a beautiful pedestrian-friendly waterfront. When it’s done, in 2027, it’s going to be amazing but right now, it’s mostly just a crazy busy construction site. Starting June 2025, you’ll see milestones like the new Södermalmstorg square.
There is a scenic elevator ride and a pretty cool bar located inside the Slussen area. Gondolen Skybar and restaurant is perched above the water with views of the harbor and city skyline, but it’s really hard to find so be prepared to ask around. (pictured left)
You’ll see random art installations like this Hometown sign, created by Swedish artist Katarina Löfström, built to keep the space interesting and vibrant instead of just a construction zone. (pictured right)
Don’t miss Fotografiska, a contemporary photography museum known for its cutting-edge exhibitions, waterfront views, stylish café, and lively cultural programming. The restaurant at the top is supposed to be really good even though it sounds weird to eat at a museum. It’s just a short walk from Monteliusvägen – a scenic path along Södermalm’s man-made cliffs offering some of the best panoramic views of Stockholm’s Old Town, City Hall, and Riddarfjärden bay.
Östermalm
Östermalm is Stockholm’s wealthiest district. This is where you’ll find high-end shopping (like Biblioteksgatan), fancy hotels, embassies, and luxury apartments. It’s quieter, more residential, and more ‘old money’ than Södermalm – a little more conservative, less young. If you’re rich and not really into nightlife, this is your spot for wine bars and expensive boutiques.
Other reasons to come to Östermalm:
- Östermalmshallen food market: upscale Swedish eats like gravlax, oysters, reindeer
- Hötorgshallen: a 3-story food hall with shops
- Lucy’s Flower Shop: speakeasy below an actual flower shop – it’s somehow a top rated bar in the world and non-pretentious at the same time
- Meatballs for the People: Chef’s choice is 8 meatballs from every animal source, plus vegan
- Fotografiska: a contemporary photography museum in Stockholm’s Södermalm district, known for its cutting-edge exhibitions, waterfront views, stylish café, and lively cultural programming.
- Kungliga biblioteket (the National Library of Sweden): houses every book and publication printed in Sweden since the 1600s along with vast archives of manuscripts, maps, and early photographs. Unless you’re a bookworm, you can probably just peak your head in.
Norrmalm
This is where you’ll land when you take the train from the airport to the Stockholm Central Station. It’s Stockholm’s main downtown district – centrally located but arguably lacking charm. The major hotels, big shopping streets like Drottninggatan, business hubs, and higher-end dining are concentrated in this area.
The vibe is business casual with a mix of sleek modern buildings, 19th-century architecture, and wide open plazas like Sergels Torg. This is a good spot to stay to be near the picturesque Gamla Stan (Old Town) without paying premium prices for a hotel in this ultra-touristy area. You’ll also be near Kungsträdgården park and the waterfront ferries.
The Avicii Experience, located in Space Stockholm right off Sergels Torg, is an immersive museum dedicated to the late DJ and producer Tim Bergling. The interactive exhibits, recreated studios, and unreleased music, let you peek into a legend’s life and legacy, while also supporting mental health initiatives through the Tim Bergling Foundation.
The Kungsträdgården park is a central park, especially popular in spring when the sakura trees bloom, making it one of the most Instagrammed spots in the city.
Gamla Stan (literally ‘Old Town’ in Swedish)
Charming is Gamla Stan’s middle name, and you need to check this area out, but in my opinion, you pay an unnecessary premium to stay here because you could just stay a few minute’s walk outside of it, in either Södermalm or Norrmalm for much cheaper. It’s small and compact but here’s what you should do here:
- Nobel Prize Museum: Tells the story of Nobel laureates and how they changed the world in about an hour
- The Royal Palace: One of Europe’s largest with over 600 rooms, this place is particularly beautiful at night. They do the changing of the guard at 12:30 daily, except Sundays, which is 1:15, because God takes a lunch break that day.
- Märten Trotzigs Gränd: the narrowest alleyway in Europe – not made for Americans.
- Wooden Horse Museum: jk
Djurgården
This is the nature and family island. It’s beautiful and packed with museums, but this is where public transportation is least frequent because it’s just really remote. Take the ferry over for these daytime activities:
- Vasa Museum: This is one of my favorite museums I’ve ever been to. It’s basically a building built around the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship, the Vasa, which sank and was salvaged centuries later. It’s like 3 stories tall, and you can make it as short or as long of a stay as you want.
- Nordic Museum: This is a castle-ish building dedicated to Swedish cultural history. You walk through galleries and look at Swedish fashion, toys, table settings, etc. from the 1500s to today. It’s less like a museum and more of a cultural time capsule with really photogenic rooms and good storytelling.
- Viking Museum: This small, kitchy museum brings Viking history to life with reconstructed scenes, artifacts, and a ride through a Viking saga. This one is a little more touristy – good for kids or if you run out of things to do.
- Skansen: Skansen is the world’s first open-air museum and zoo, featuring historic Swedish buildings, Nordic animals, and traditional crafts demonstrations. The animals (moose, bears, wolves, lynx, and reindeer) are in natural enclosures rather than cages. For people who hate zoos ( 🖐️), Skansen is generally seen as more educational and conservation-focused than a regular zoo, with many of the animals there being part of breeding programs for endangered Nordic species.
- Spiritmuseum (Drinking Museum): This quirky museum explores Sweden’s relationship with alcohol through interactive exhibits, art, tastings, and seasonal exhibitions. We had a few drinks and a snack in the kitchen area before we went in, which was perfect. Entrance is $20 per person.
- ABBA Museum: A low-calorie interactive museum where you can sing, dance, and relive the global success story of Sweden’s most famous pop group. Great for after the drinking museum.
- Gröna Lund Amusement Park: This is the classic waterfront amusement park you can see from Södermalm. There are roller coasters, concerts, and funfair vibes right on the edge of Djurgården. It’s closed during winter. If the ABBA museum left you wanting more, catch The Party – a full-on dinner show held inside the Tyrol venue at Gröna Lund. You sit down for a four-course Mediterranean meal, but the whole night is basically one giant musical where the servers are actors, the dining room turns into a dance floor, and you’re pulled straight into the story. It’s cheesy, chaotic, and fun. 💵 Tickets for dinner and the show are between 1,395–1,795 SEK ($133 – $177 USD).
Vasastan
This residential area is known for being safe, quiet, and relatively inexpensive compared to the more central districts. It’s a little farther out from Stockholm’s main tourist attractions, but still easily accessible by public transportation, making it a great option if you want a more local, relaxed experience. You’ll find leafy streets, cozy cafés, and hidden parks, offering a slower-paced vibe away from the downtown crowds.
Kungsholmen
Kungsholmen is another largely residential neighborhood just south across the water from Vasastan. It’s a peaceful, local vibe with beautiful waterfront paths, leafy parks, and a handful of casual cafés and restaurants. As with Vasastan, it’s a little quieter than the city center but close enough to reach major sights easily by public transportation, or even walking.
🛏️ Where to stay in Stockholm
Södermalm
Luxury: Hotel Rival – historic and artsy
Mid-range: NOFO – Hotel wine bar vibes, Clarion Hotel Stockholm sleek and central
With your points: Hilton Stockholm Slussen – waterfront views – 50,000–60,000 Hilton Honors per night (with the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card)
Östermalm
Luxury: Ett Hem – private luxury townhouse, Hotel Diplomat Stockholm – classic waterfront charm
Mid-range: Mornington Hotel Stockholm City – cozy and bookish
With your points: Elite Eden Park Hotel – steps from Humlegården Park – 16,000–20,000 Choice points per night (with the Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard®)
Norrmalm
Luxury: At Six Stockholm – bold modern luxury
Mid-range: Hobo Hotel Stockholm – funky and youthful
With your points: Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel – right by Stockholm Central Station – 44,000–66,000 Radisson Rewards per night (with the Radisson Rewards™ Visa® Card)
Gamla Stan
Luxury: Victory Hotel – elegant, nautical-themed boutique hotel
Mid-range: Lady Hamilton Hotel – charming and antique-filled
With your points: Hotel Reisen Stockholm – historic waterfront stay in the heart of Old Town – 20,000–25,000 Hyatt points per night (with the World of Hyatt Credit Card)
Djurgården
Luxury: Hotel Hasselbacken – historic with garden views
Mid-range: Scandic Hasselbacken – bright rooms with harbor views
With your points: Backstage Hotel – right inside Djurgården Island – 16,000–20,000 Choice points per night (with the Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard®)
Find more places to stay in Stockholm
Kungsholmen
Luxury: None – more residential and low-key
Mid-range: First Hotel Fridhemsplan – minimalist and budget-conscious
With your points: Courtyard by Marriott Stockholm Kungsholmen – family-friendly and peaceful hotel near Rålambshovsparken – 35,000–50,000 Marriott points per night (with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card)
🥘 Where to eat in Stockholm
Stockholm’s food scene is like cozy Nordic traditional foods got knocked up by a hot progressive younger guy. Expect everything from refined seafood dishes to laid-back cafés where locals indulge in the sacred Swedish ritual, fika – the practice of taking a midday break to slow down with coffee and cinnamon buns (kanelbullar), or maybe a slice of the famous princess cake.
If you’re ballin’ on a budget or just have regular-person money, know that lunch menus are often much cheaper than a very similar dinner menu at the same restaurant, so if it’s convenient, plan your bigger meals earlier in the day. And be warned: restaurants in Stockholm close earlier than you might expect. Even trendy spots may wrap up by 9 or 10 PM. Also, sorry to nag, but tables fill up fast, so I don’t want any of this whimsical, see where the wind takes us bullshit – we need reservations in this town if we want to eat at the good spots!
For a real local taste, make sure you try some of the typical Swedish foods like meatballs, new innovations like the late-night kebab pizza, and a very classic smørrebrød, which is basically a Swedish tapas that looks like open-faced sandies. And if you have an appreciation for herring and those fermented fish spreads you’re in heaven here.
Here are best restaurants in Stockholm:
Casual / Local
- Pelikan: Classic Swedish beer hall, hearty old-school dishes (Södermalm)
- Coco & Carmen: Organic, stylish new bistro with relaxed vibes (Södermalm)
- Omnipollos hatt: Tiny craft beer and pizza spot (Södermalm)
- Stigbergets Fot: Chill neighborhood beer bar and bites (Södermalm)
- Blå Dörren: Cozy old-school beer hall known for hearty Swedish comfort food and schnapps (Södermalm) (pictured right)
- Nybrogatan 38: Casual-chic Swedish tavern known for modern takes on classic dishes (Östermalm). Definitely order the The Köttbullar med potatismos (pictured left)
- Kajsas Fisk: Beloved seafood counter tucked inside Hötorgshallen market (Norrmalm)
- Told & Snaps: Cozy Danish-style smørrebrød and schnapps bar (Gamla Stan)
- Lilla Ego: Beloved casual New Nordic dining spot (Vasastan)
- Knut Upplandsgatan: Rustic-chic spot serving northern Swedish dishes like moose meatballs, reindeer, and flatbread pizza in a cozy cabin-style setting and where you’ll find boisterous people and good vibes (Vasastan)
- Tennstopet: Classic Swedish tavern with hearty traditional dishes and a cozy, old-school atmosphere (Vasastan)
Mid-Range
- Smorgastarteriet: Creative New Nordic in a casual, relaxed setting (Södermalm)
- Woodstockholm: Cozy, seasonal small plates with playful menus (Södermalm)
- Bar Agrikultur: Michelin Bib Gourmand casual plates in a tiny space (Södermalm)
- Sturehof: Traditional seafood brasserie with Swedish-English menus. Everyone is dressed like a captain or some sort of seaman. One of Stockholm’s most iconic brasseries, Sturehof has been serving seafood and Swedish classics in its marble-topped dining room since 1897. The vibe is timeless: white tablecloths, well-dressed servers, and a steady buzz of locals and business lunches. We ordered the S.O.S. plate — a sampler of herring preparations served with crispbread, new potatoes, and whipped butter. Each bite felt like a little love letter to the Baltic Sea. It’s salty, creamy, dill-forward, and deeply Swedish in the best way. (Östermalm)
- Stureplan 1: This leafy terrace in the heart of Stureplan is more than just a party spot — it’s also a sleek spot for lunch or an upscale bite in the sun. The menu leans light and European: think shrimp salad, truffle fries, burgers, and grilled proteins, served on stylish plates with just enough attitude. If you’re looking to lunch like a local power player or have a sexy midday meal before shopping the luxury boutiques nearby, this is the move. (Östermalm)
- Speceriet: Minimalist unfussy but Michelin-recommended bistro with a short and seasonal menu, often with just a few dishes each day that change based on what’s fresh. It’s the sister restaurant to the more pretentious Gastrologik, next door. (Östermalm)
- Restaurang Hantverket: We actually ate lunch at this craft-driven modern Nordic bistro one day and then came back for dinner because we liked it so much. I’m not a huge bread or butter guy but their bread and butter was just so good. We got the struva with chicken liver, which was very Swedish, but the Duck Rillette is the main character. This French-inspired dish is made by slow-cooking duck meat until tender, then shredding and mixing it with fat, and served chilled as a pâté-like spread. Also don’t miss their signature dish: the Hasselback potatoes. Thinly sliced potatoes, deep-fried to perfection, and topped with sour cream, dill, and Swedish vendace roe. The tab: was $42.67 for 2 people for a lite lunch with a few drinks each. (Östermalm)
- Oaxen Slip: Sustainable Nordic bistro with waterfront views (Djurgården)
Luxe
- Gondolen: Classic skybar and restaurant perched above Slussen (Södermalm)
- Fotografiska Restaurant: Fine dining with panoramic views inside the photography museum (Södermalm)
- Frantzén: Stockholm’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant (Norrmalm)
- Restaurant Ekstedt: Michelin-starred, wood-fire-only New Nordic dining (Norrmalm)
- Operakällaren: Iconic historic fine dining inside the Royal Opera House (Norrmalm)
- Rutabaga: High-end vegetarian tasting menu by Mathias Dahlgren (Norrmalm)
Fika
- Savoy Azabujuban: Minimalist bakery café with a Scandinavian–Japanese crossover feel (Östermalm)
- Vete-Katten: Historic café and bakery known for fika and princess cake (Norrmalm)
- Fabrique: Artisanal bakery chain famous for cinnamon and cardamom buns (Various; original flagship in Vasastan)
- Bröd & Salt: Popular local bakery chain known for fresh sourdough, cinnamon buns, and easy fika stops (many locations) [PHOTO]
🥃 Where to drink in Stockholm - because sometimes the days are very short
Södermalm
This is the fun area with the most drinking spots. Come here for craft beer, casual cocktail bars, and low-key cool.
- Restaurant Akkurat: Beloved local favorite with one of Stockholm’s best beer and whisky selections
- Omnipollos hatt: Tiny, hip pizza and craft beer bar, famous for creative brews
- Stigbergets Fot: Casual neighborhood beer bar perfect for a low-key night out
- Oliver Twist: Classic local watering hole with a strong craft beer selection
- Woodstockholm: Known more for dining, but also has a bar space for relaxed wine or a cocktail before dinner
- Bar Agrikultur: Small but excellent for casual natural wine and a snack
- Gondolen: This famous skybar and restaurant is located at the construction site known as the at Slussen. Take the Katarinahissen Elevator ride up this iconic piece of Stockholm infrastructure and to the drinks overlooking the city.
- Old Beefeater Inn: Laid-back British pub with pints, whiskies, and classic pub food. Our Swedish friend recommended this palace. We sat at the bar, per usual, and chatted up the bartenders. When my husband told one of the that he looked like a model he was like, actually I was. I’m telling you this because if you’re a single lady, you should go to this bar.
Östermalm
For champagne, oysters, and elegant classic spots.
- Sturehof: Iconic brasserie that’s great for oysters, champagne, and late-night people watching; not a “bar” technically, but a classic drinking institution.
- Quality Caviar Stockholm: For the money bags – this is the Nordic region’s first caviar showroom and tasting venue offering curated caviar and champagne experiences in an intimate setting. The guys who work here were super cool, we ended up talking to them for a while, although we didn’t sit down and spend the $200 USD per person to do caviar flights.
- Stureplan 1: Come for the cocktails, stay for the people-watching. Stureplan 1 is one of the most iconic open-air bars in Stockholm, right on the square that defines upscale nightlife. It’s sceney but approachable — order a spritz, sink into a green velvet chair under the vines, and watch Stockholm’s socialites strut by. At night it’s a warm-up for Sturecompagniet’s clubs, but by day it’s a sunny, bougie oasis. (Östermalm)
- Glashuset: If you’re looking for cocktails with a view, Glashuset is the spot. Perched right on the water near Nybrokajen, this airy glass-walled bar and restaurant is built for golden hour. It’s sleek, sun-soaked, and full of locals sipping spritzes and watching the boats drift by. (Östermalm)
Norrmalm
For upscale hotel bars and stylish lounge cocktails.
- Cadierbaren: Elegant cocktail bar inside the Grand Hôtel, a Swedish favorite for upscale drinks.
- Restaurang Hantverket: Famous for food but also a stylish spot to stop for a high-quality cocktail at the bar.
Gamla Stan
For Quirky themed bars and bars that look directly into the square.
- Aifur: Viking-themed bar and restaurant (kind of more of a restaurant); touristy but fun to have everyone yell your name when you walk in. We got the only raised seating in the restaurant (no idea how or why) and we ran into friends just as we sat down so the four of us had our own VIP party with a birds-eye view of everything happening below, which was fun.
- Pharmarium – Pharmarium is an atmospheric cocktail bar inside Stockholm’s first apothecary, dating back to the 1500s. Inside it’s dark, moody, and filled with little candlelit tables. Every cocktail is inspired by old medicinal herbs and remedies, so you’ll get drinks with names like “Laudanum” and “Elixir of Youth,” mixed with ingredients like lavender, rhubarb, and bitters you’ve never heard of. It feels a little bit Harry Potter, a little bit Wes Anderson, and completely different from anywhere else in the city.
Djurgården
For waterfront spirits tasting before you go museuming.
- Spritmuseum (Museum of Spirits): Bar and tasting room dedicated to Swedish spirits and culture, with a waterfront setting perfect for an afternoon drink
🛍️ Where to shop in Stockholm
If you’re not #CoolGirlStyle TikTok, then you might not be aware that Stockholm is one of the most stylish cities in Europe. And it’s not in a flashy way. Stockholm fashion is all about being minimalist, polished, and practical. Think neutral colors, tailored coats, clean sneakers, and layering done with effortless perfection. Locals master the art of looking sharp without trying too hard, and shoppy tourists usually lean into that easygoing, upscale vibe.
Shopping in Stockholm is generally expensive compared to many other cities, especially if you’re shopping at local Scandinavian brands or in trendy areas like Östermalm and Norrmalm. The quality is very good, so if you want to shop, make sure you’re getting staple pieces that you expect to wear for a long time and or often and it will be worth it.
If you’re in Norrmalm and you happen to be rich, check out luxury department store NK Stockholm. Östermalm is home to Biblioteksgatan– “Stockholm’s Fifth Avenue,” where you’ll find high-end Scandinavian labels like Acne Studios, Filippa K, and Totême, alongside international designers.
Södermalm has a more indie, vintage, and creative shopping vibe. If you’re walking along Götgatan and the SoFo (South of Folkungagatan) area you’ll find boutiques selling local jewelry, vinyl records, vintage denim, and upcycled Scandinavian furniture.
If you’re into fast fashion just don’t be, it’s gross. You’re in Scandinavia where mass consumption is lame and sustainability and natural fibers are cool, so blend in, okay?
Here are some brands and stores to keep your eye out for if your money is burning a hole in your pocket:
- Acne Studios, Filippa K, and Our Legacy: High-quality Swedish brands known for timeless design, but with luxury-level price tags.
- & Other Stories, Arket, and COS: Mid-range brands owned by the H&M Group that are still noticeably more expensive in Stockholm than abroad and Sweden’s answer to American fast fashion.
- A Day’s March: A popular Swedish brand offering slightly more affordable basics and wardrobe staples, but still pricier than at lot of American mall brands. When my brother and his husband were in Stockholm they bought a lot of things here that I see them wearing all the time.
- Oscar Jacobson: Classic Swedish menswear brand known for sharp tailoring, timeless suits, and polished Scandinavian casual wear.
- Nitty Gritty: I really wanted my husband to get sneakers from this shop but we ended up getting distracted by food instead.
- MAEN Watches: This by-appointment-only men’s watch showroom is a great option if you’re in the market for a watch, since that seems to be a thing for men these days. My brother bought a really nice MAEN Manhattan 37 model watch for $750. He said it was a really cool experience meeting directly with one of the owners, who walked him through the collection, talked about the particular craftsmanship, and helped him pick out his watch.
- Svensk Slöjd: I bought a really cute hat $20 and gloves at this store located in Gamla Stan. They specializes in Swedish handicrafts and artisanal design — a great spot for authentic souvenirs that aren’t touristy junk.
Pro Tip: Sales tax (VAT) is high in Sweden (25%), but tourists can sometimes claim a tax refund when shopping if they spend a certain amount.
♨️ Sauna Experiences
So saunas are a thing here. Naturally, because it’s a huge part of the culture but let’s be honest with ourselves, Instagram is the reason you can’t do it without getting a reservation way in advance.
While Scandinavian sauna culture tends to draw up imagery of winter wonderland, summer sauna culture is still strong, especially in the archipelago, where you’ll see people jumping between the sauna and the ocean.
In Stockholm city, you can do both indoor spa saunas (more at fancier hotels and spa centers) and outdoor floating saunas (these are those waterside structures that look almost like a really fancy public restroom).
🔥 Here are some options for where to do our sauna experiences in Stockholm:
- Centralbadet: Historic art nouveau spa in downtown Stockholm — beautiful indoor saunas, pools, and gardens. (Norrmalm)
- Sturebadet: Luxury spa near Stureplan — elegant setting, upscale vibe, traditional Swedish sauna plus treatments. (Östermalm)
- Hellasgården: Outdoor lakeside sauna experience — super traditional. In winter, locals do the real-deal ice plunges after heating up. (Nacka Nature Reserve, just outside Södermalm)
- The Nest at Downtown Camper by Scandic: Modern rooftop spa with a sauna, heated pool, and skyline views. Very cool if you want a stylish version of the experience. (Norrmalm/Södermalm border)
- Floating Saunas: Places like Vada Sauna and Ö Sauna offer floating sauna rentals you can book for private groups — docked or gently moving on the water. Amazing in both summer and winter. (Stockholm Archipelago / Djurgården area)
How to “Sauna”
Dress code: Some saunas require swimsuits; others are nude – please check before you get naked.
Atmosphere: Quiet and calm. Basically don’t be American while you’re saunaing.
Timing: You can stay as long as you’re comfortable but for reference so you don’t die, people usually stay 10–15 minutes per round, with cold showers or dips in between. If you feel like you’re having a heart attack that means it’s time for a cold plunge.
Etiquette: Don’t be dirty. Like, shower before going in the sauna, and sit your nasty ass on a towel.
Mixed-gender saunas: Common in public places, especially when swimsuits are required.
Pro Tip: This is another time to not try to be whimsical. They have reservation systems, use them.
🫡 Suggested itinerary for 3 days in Stockholm
🗓️ Day 1: Gamla Stan + Norrmalm + Södermalm drinks
- Start with a Free Walking Tour
Kick off with a Free Tour Stockholm of Gamla Stan (Old Town). It’s about 1.5–2 hours, and gives great historical context plus helps you get your bearings.
2. After the tour, stick around Gamla Stan
- Visit the Royal Palace (peek in or time it for the 12:30 changing of the guard)
- Walk Märten Trotzigs Gränd — the narrowest alley in Europe
- Grab lunch at Told & Snaps (smørrebrød and schnapps) or Blå Dörren near Slussen
3. Walk over to Norrmalm
- Hit Kungsträdgården Park if the cherry blossoms are out
- Optional: pop into the Avicii Experience or grab fika at Vete-Katten
4. Evening in Södermalm – bar hop
- Drinks at Omnipollos hatt, Stigbergets Fot, and Akkurat
- Grab dinner at Coco & Carmen or Woodstockholm
- Nightcap at Gondolen — if you can find the elevator 😅
🗓️ Day 2: Djurgården + Östermalm
1. Morning: Museum Day on Djurgården
- Take the ferry to Djurgården
- Hit Vasa Museum first (get there when it opens)
- Then choose two more based on your vibe:
- ABBA Museum + Spiritmuseum for fun/light
- Nordic Museum + Viking Museum for cultural depth
- Quick lunch at Oaxen Slip (waterfront, sustainable Nordic bistro)
2. Afternoon in Östermalm
- Walk or ferry back to Östermalm
- Browse Biblioteksgatan and stop into Oscar Jacobson, A Day’s March, or Nitty Gritty
- Grab a fika at Savoy Azabujuban or Fabrique
3. Dinner + drinks in Östermalm
- Dinner at Restaurang Hantverket (get the duck rillette) or Sturehof (get the herring plate)
- Champagne or cocktails at Quality Caviar Stockholm or Stureplan 1
🗓️ Day 3: Södermalm day + optional sauna
1. Slow start in Södermalm
- Walk Monteliusvägen for morning views
- Visit Fotografiska (do brunch upstairs if you didn’t yet)
- Shop along Götgatan + explore SoFo for indie boutiques
2. Lunch at Pelikan or Meatballs for the People
3. Optional afternoon sauna
Book a session at The Nest (Downtown Camper) or go traditional at Hellasgården if you want the lakeside + plunge experience
4. Final drinks at Glashuset (back in Östermalm) or Cadierbaren (Norrmalm) — depends where you’re staying
✈️ Stockholm Arlanda Airport & Terminal 5
If you haven’t fallen head over heels with the city, just wait for the airport. Stockholm Arlanda is different. Clean, quiet, stylish, and just so civilized. The lighting is key, the seating is chic. It’s Stockholm’s last perfectly curated send-off – soft, minimal, and low-key luxurious.
Pro tip
If you’re flying out of Terminal 5, do not miss the American Express Lounge by Pontus near Gate F26. It’s moody, with a stunning open bar with crystal-clear glassware hanging overhead, and actual good food plated like a boutique hotel restaurant. You’ll need Priority Pass to get in (included with cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, or Capital One Venture X), and yes, it’s 100% worth it.
Also — and this is unexpected — shop at Swarovski in the terminal. I found a crystal ring there for around $60, which felt like a steal for something that pretty. They accidentally gave me two, and I actually walked back to return the extra one… because I didn’t want to go to hell over a sparkly airport ring.
Get your flight to Stockholm Arlanda Airport now
🎵 Recommended Media 📺
Sweden punches way above its weight in pop, dance-pop, and EDM — both performing and secretly ghostwriting most of the songs Americans and Brits think are homegrown.
Music
Avicii, Lykke Li, ABBA, Robyn, First Aid Kit, José González, The Knife, and Ace of Base are all from Sweden and are on this playlist.
FILM & TV
- Mamma Mia! (2008) – Takes place in Greece, but it’s ABBA.
- Midsommar (2019) – Creepy cult horror set in rural Sweden. Do not watch before going to Midsommar, visiting the countryside, or going to Midsommar in the countryside.
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011 or the original Swedish trilogy) – Gritty Nordic noir that gives you the cold, sleek side of Swedish culture.
- Force Majeure (2014) – A dark Swedish comedy-drama about masculinity and family unraveling during a ski trip.
- Bergman Island (2021) – Set on Fårö, where legendary Swedish director Ingmar Bergman lived and worked.
As always, if you have any questions or want specific recommendations leave them in the comments and I’ll respond.
If you want to message me privately, I’ll respond on Instagram @Le_Gipset
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I love Stockholm!