Updated 2016
Stockholm is an excellent example of Scandinavia’s style and organization all laid over a puzzle-like landscape that consists of 14 separate islands. All the water and bridges make Sweden’s capital seem like an endless parade of postcard views, but there are many modern edges to this city full of tall and good-looking blond people. Visiting can be unforgettable, but take special notice of the season as Stockholm’s summer attractions are typically available from early July until late August before closing again for over 10 months.
What To Do
As you’d expect from a major capital, there are world-class museums and galleries throughout Stockholm, but there is a lot to see outdoors as well. The small island in the center called Gamla Stan is home to the city’s old town. The medieval cobblestone streets are charming enough on their own, but there are several churches and palaces sprinkled on the island that are worth seeing. Just to the south is the island of Sodermalm. This former working class neighborhood is gentrifying quickly and is now the bohemian arts and culture center.
Right next to the train station you can visit the Absolut Vodka Ice Bar, which is kept below freezing year round. It’s not cheap, but if you are interested you’ll be issued a jacket and gloves and let into the tiny bar completely made of ice where you can enjoy an Absolut cocktail or two. You can get a look at it from outside and it is interesting to see even if you don’t want to go in. Even kitchier still is the ABBA Museum in central Stockholm. Mamma Mia, we are so there!
Read: Six Tips for Exploring Stockholm on a Budget.
Getting There
If you’ve got a Eurail Pass it’s a good idea to burn a long day on the otherwise-expensive rail trip to Stockholm. If you are coming from any great distance you’ll want to book a flight into Arlanda International Airport. It’s a major hub and good deals are often available. There is an express train that goes the 40km from Arlanda to Central Station and 2-for-1 deals are available on weekends and holidays. There are several other regional airports near Stockholm, but most are far away. Some low cost carriers use these airports so be very careful when you are choosing so there are no surprises when you land somewhere other than where you expected.
Read: Stockholm for Snails.
Where To Stay
Stockholm is expensive and there is no getting around that. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and of course many cheap hotels in Stockholm as well. The city is rather spread out so there is not one district that is best for everybody. Sodermalm is a great nightlife district so if that means anything to you consider staying in one of its many hotels. During peak times the better places fill up well in advance so plan ahead.