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What to expect in Stockholm

Sweden’s beautiful capital city gives the gift of endless eye candy, boasting cobbled streets, green parks, magnificent museums, and offshore islands. City slickers will find inspiration in design-filled hotels and boutiques and in creative menus full of local delicacies.

When it comes to exploring the city, let us be your guide to Stockholm.

Stockholm's good looks are spread across 14 islands, which are linked by dozens of photogenic bridges. Exploring the diverse, distinct neighborhoods is a delight. The prime magnet for travelers to the city is Gamla Stan (Old Town), Stockholm's medieval heart.

Sure, it's a little touristy, but this cobblestoned collection of narrow alleys, rainbow-hued buildings, and postcard-worthy squares is something you won’t want to miss out on.

The best time to visit

Planning a trip to Stockholm from the US? The ideal time to visit Stockholm is during the late spring and summer months, from June to August. This season bathes the city in warm, comfortable weather and up to 18 hours of daylight, ideal for traversing the picturesque streets, majestic palaces, and tranquil green spaces. The city bursts into life with outdoor dining, sailing in the archipelago, and numerous festivals celebrating everything from music to Midsummer.

For those seeking a quieter visit, late spring and early fall serve up milder weather and fewer crowds, along with the chance to witness the stunning autumn foliage or the blossoming of spring. Winter in Stockholm has its own unique charm, with snow-covered landscapes and traditional Christmas markets. In short, there’s no bad time to visit Stockholm.

Things to do in Stockholm

A quintessential Stockholm experience is to rent a bike and go exploring Kungliga Djurgården island. The huge park on the island is a city oasis brimming with first-class attractions and garden cafes.

Located within the gardens, Skansen is the world's oldest open-air museum and is certainly worth making a stop at. Meanwhile, Junibacken fun park honors Pippi Longstocking amongst other children's literature favorites.

Djurgården island is also home to a range of other collections that span all interests, from modern art to treasures from times gone by (including memorabilia from both the Vikings and 1970s supergroup, Abba).

For nature enthusiasts, the Rosendals Trädgård provides a serene escape with its organic garden, orchard, and greenhouse, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic amidst blooming beauty.

Day trips from Stockholm

Those looking to venture beyond the confines of Stockholm have an array of options open to them. A must-visit is the historic city of Uppsala, less than an hour by train, where you can wander aimlessly through Scandinavia's largest cathedral and the centuries-old university until your heart’s content.

For another dose of Viking history, head to Sigtuna, Sweden's oldest town, with its picturesque streets, rune stones, and medieval churches.

Nature enthusiasts will revel in the archipelago's beauty, accessible by a short ferry ride, showcasing thousands of islands, each with its their own personality.

And don't miss out on the chance to visit Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the Swedish royal family's residence, set amid striking gardens. It sets the perfect scene for a memorable day out.

Where to shop in Stockholm

Sweden is celebrated for innovative design (beyond the Ikea flatpacks) and Stockholm's impeccable eye for beauty is found in everything from the smallest souvenirs to the largest architectural creation.

Neighborhoods primed for browsing include Södermalm's SoFo district (south of Folkungagatan) where both vintage and street fashion is sold alongside cool designer wares. Shoppers are well looked after with trendy cafes and bars providing the perfect pit stops between shops.

The Designtorget chain of stores showcases the work of established and emerging designers. Meanwhile, Gamla Stan has local handicrafts and design stores alongside the traditional souvenir sellers and Östermalm should be on your radar if you're seeking high-end fashion and design boutiques.

What to eat in Stockholm

Though famous internationally, we have to say that there's a lot more to try than just Swedish meatballs! Discover old-school bakeries, rustic cafes, and Michelin-starred beauties. Explore excellent food halls and markets (the best of which is in the chic Östermalm district).

Seafood from the Swedish coast is a star ingredient all over town. Try crayfish, herring and salmon for great local flavor.

Make sure you engage in fika at least once during your stay - this is the revered local custom of a coffee break, usually enjoyed with a baked sweet treat. The Swedes also invented the traditional smörgåsbord concept, and you can see it in its finest form at the luxury Grand Hôtel in Stockholm.

If traveling on a budget, cheap eats can be found at super-cool food trucks where street vendors sell delicious korv (hot dogs) and kebabs.

Traveling around Stockholm

The most convenient way to travel around Stockholm is by using the extensive public transport network. From metro and tram to bus and ferry, this is a city which is extremely well covered by public transport.

Hiring a bike and cycling around the city is also a popular option, among travelers and locals alike. This allows you to take in more of the sights and stay active while you travel.

While walking around Stockholm is possible, the city is quite spread out (it is the largest urban area in Scandinavia, after all) and so it’s recommended to hop on public transport when going between places.

For those looking for direct routes or traveling late at night, taxis can also provide a convenient alternative, though they can be a bit pricier compared to public transport, sometimes it’s worth it.

Getting from the airport to downtown

Icelandair flights land at Stockholm Arlanda International Airport (ARN), a short 20-minute train ride from the city center. Hop on board the Arlanda Express at the airport (it departs every 10-15 minutes) and you’ll be downtown in no time.

Tickets for the train cost a little more if you buy them on board, so we recommend travelers grab their tickets online or at a ticket booth before starting their journey.

Some travelers also choose to grab a taxi - for convenience and comfort reasons mostly. There are usually plenty of cabs available outside the airport, however, you could choose to pre-book an airport transfer for that added peace of mind.