Stockholm Tourism
The "Venice of the North"
Sprawling idyllically across an archipelago of fourteen islands in the Baltic Sea, it’s easy to understand why the Swedish capital, Stockholm, has earned the nickname “Venice of the North.”
Image: Ola Ericson/imagebank.sweden.se
Located on the southeast coast of Sweden, Stockholm's weather changes across four distinct seasons. Summers are warm – sometimes very hot – and it rarely gets dark during the summer nights. Winters can be mild and rainy, but they can also be quite cold and snowy. The colors of autumn are spectacular in the city's parks, and spring is warmly welcomed by locals, wrapped in blankets and sipping drinks at outdoor restaurants and cafés.
A little history
Stockholm was officially founded in 1252 by the regent of Sweden, Birger Jarl. By the end of the 13th century, Stockholm had become the largest city in Sweden, serving as the political center and royal residence of the country. It was besieged multiple times in the following centuries. King Gustav Vasa is forever celebrated for reclaiming Stockholm in 1523 from the temporary rule of the Danish king.
Södermalm:
A trendy island with a laid-back style
Södermalm is the largest of Stockholm's 14 islands and is home to the young and alternative SoFo district, where people meet and art thrives. SoFo is the part of the island "South of Folkungagatan," located south of the Folkungagatan boulevard that crosses the island from east to west.
A museum: The Photography Museum, Fotografiska, for its exhibitions and breathtaking views of Stockholm.
An activity: The Millennium Tour for fans of Lisbeth Salander.
Image: Ola Ericson/imagebank.sweden.se
Östermalm:
The Elegant
Östermalm is the epitome of chic. If you're looking for art or decor, don't miss the must-visit Svenskt Tenn and Malmstenbutiken on Strandvägen.
A museum: Hallwylska Museet, a sumptuous 19th-century private palace preserved in its original state.
An activity: Savor Swedish luxury specialties (reindeer meat, gravlax, etc.) in the stunning Östermalmshallen covered market.
Gamla Stan:
Historic and Cozy
This is where it all began in the 13th century! Despite its small size, the island is home to the Royal Palace and Stockholm Cathedral. You’ll also find the city's oldest square, Stortorget, lined with beautiful colorful façades.
A restaurant: Gyldene Freden, one of the oldest restaurants in Stockholm, which has hosted many prominent Swedish personalities for nearly three centuries.
An activity: The changing of the guard at the Royal Palace and a visit to the Treasury Chamber.
Image: Ulf Lundin/imagebank.sweden.se
Skeppsholmen:
Green and Artsy
This small island is a green oasis, located right in the city center, opposite Gamla Stan. Together with its neighboring island Djurgården, which is home to the famous Vasa Museum, it hosts several of the most interesting museums, including the Modern Art Museum.
A museum: Moderna Museet, both for its collection and its viewpoints, especially from its restaurant/café! Its shop offers an unbeatable selection of beautiful books on design, art, and architecture.
Image: Ola Ericson/imagebank.sweden.se
