Your complete Stockholm travel guide
Stockholm, Sweden’s vibrant capital, is a must-visit destination all year-round. It’s a destination that blends history, modernity, and stunning natural beauty. If you're planning your trip, this comprehensive guide will walk you through where to stay, must-see attractions, dining experiences, archipelago adventures, and the best photo spots in Stockholm.
1. Where to stay in Stockholm
Stockholm offers accommodations for every style and budget. Here are some standout options:
Downtown Camper: A hip and central hotel offering great activities and which has one of the best rooftop bars in Stockholm.
Scandic Grand Central: Perfect central hotel, close to central station. A trendy hotel with spacious rooms and their breakfast is also great!
Hotel Skeppsholmen: A boutique hotel set on a tranquil island, offering charming waterfront views but still close enough to the main sights.
Generator Stockholm: An excellent budget-friendly option with a fun social atmosphere.
Each of these hotels is a very good option, because of their interior but also because of their central location in Stockholm.
2. Must-Sees in Stockholm
Stockholm is a city full of culture, history, and stunning sights. Hereby a list of places you can’t miss when visiting Stockholm:
Gamla Stan: The Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic sites. The most famous square in Gamla Stan is called Stortorget and it’s definately beautiful. But also visit the other parts of Gamla Stan. The best way to explore Gamla Stan is to get lost.
Skansen: The world’s oldest open-air museum, showcasing Sweden’s cultural heritage. A place which is great to visit year-round and suitable for young and old.
Monteliusvägen; This is one of the best viewpoints in Stockholm. Monteliusvägen is located on the island Södermalm and this is a true gem. This scenic walkway overlooks Lake Mälaren and you can see Kungsholmen, Gamla Stan and Riddarholmen from this point (actually you can even see Djurgården). This is the perfect spot for photographers and sunset watchers.
Skeppsholmen: Escape the crowds with a walk along Skeppsholmen. This island offers waterfront views in many directions. So my tip is to walk around the whole island. You will be amazed by the gorgeous views of the city. The best time to go here for a walk is around sunset!
3. Where to eat
Whether you like to taste some traditional Swedish cuisine, modern dishes or vegetarian, Stockholm has something for everyone. Here some of the restaurants I recommend going to.
Restaurant Kvarnen: An authentic restaurant in Södermalm specializing in the Swedish cuisine. It’s the perfect spot in Stockholm to try the Swedish meatballs. Reservation recommended.
TAK: A beautifully located restaurant on the 13th and 14th floors in the middle of the city center. Not only are the views amazing, but the food is also amazing. TAK combines Swedish ingredients with Asian flavors in a fusion menu. Reservation recommended.
Hermans: For vegan and vegetarian food lovers, Hermans is my top recommendation in Stockholm. Especially during the summer months, you can enjoy their plant-based offerings on their picturesque terrace. With a relaxed ambiance, Hermans stands out as one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Stockholm.
Rosendals Trädgård: this amazing lunch spot is located on the green island called Djurgarden. Amazing and organic food in an amazing setting (you can have lunch in their greenhouse!). For the best experience, I recommend visiting on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
4. Tips for Exploring the Archipelago
Stockholm’s archipelago consists of over 30,000 islands, offering a perfect escape from the city. If you only stay in the city, you will never know what this other world looks like. So my Stockholm tip is for sure; take a ferry! Hereby some great Stockholm archipelago destinations:
Vaxholm: Known as the “Gateway to the Archipelago,” this charming island is ideal for a day trip. Frequent ferries go to Vaxholm and it’s filled with colorful wooden cottages and scenic spots.
Sandhamn: Famous for its sandy beaches and vibrant harbor, perfect for summer visits.
Fjäderholmarna: The closest island to Stockholm, just a 30-minute ferry ride away, offering amazing waterview restaurants and bars. Perfect to visit in the late afternoon/evening!
Want to have more information about all my recommendations for the Stockholm archipelago. All my Stockholm archipelago tips are part of my Ultimate Stockholm Map. A digital Stockholm map filled with 350+ hotspots and hidden gems. You also find all the necessary info needed to travel to the different islands in the Stockholm archipelago.
5. Best Photo Spots in Stockholm
As a Stockholm-based photographer, I love to share with you my favorite spots in Stockholm to take those perfect travel photos. Hereby are my top photo locations in Stockholm:
Monteliusvägen: A scenic viewpoint that is perfect for those ultimate Stockholm photos. Come around sunset for the best photo conditions.
Mäster Mikaels Gatan: A photogenic street in Södermalm. Beautiful old wooden houses. Go here around sunset for the best lighting!
Skeppsholmen: A beautiful island in the city center. From Skeppsholmen you have beautiful views over the water! Best time to go; around sunset!
Gamla Stan: You shouldn’t skip a photography walk through the old town. The best moment to go; early morning when the streets are still quiet.
Enjoy your time in Stockholm
Stockholm is a city that captivates with its beauty, culture, and unique experiences. By following this guide, you'll have a well-rounded visit filled with unforgettable moments. Happy exploring!
Are you in need of more Stockholm tips (including many hidden gems), get my Ultimate Stockholm Map now, which is filled with 350+ Stockholm tips and easy to use in Google maps.