This summer I traveled to Stockholm for the very first time. The reason for this weekend getaway was actually a festival. However, my fiancé and I still had enough time to discover the city. And to be honest, I kinda fell a little bit in love with the Swedish capital. The city is not only pretty, but the locals are also super friendly and food is really good. Here is what to do, eat and see in Stockholm during a weekend getaway.
WHAT TO SEE
Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan is the old town of Stockholm, which is completely surrounded by water. It is home to the royal palace as well as the noble prize museum. The narrow alleyways, the pastel colored houses and the many cafés and restaurants characterize this area. Make your way to Stortoget, the oldest square of Stockholm, to enjoy a little break.
Södermalm
Södermalm is located south of Gamla Stan and the rather hipstery and laid-back part of the town. It’s a great place to go shopping, to have a coffee at one of many hip cafés or go out for drinks with friends. Head to Mariatorget and Nytorget, which is located in SoFo – the trendy area of Södermalm. One of my favorite places was Urban Deli SoFo, a concept food store in Nytorget.
Monteliusvägen
Located in northern Södermalm, Monteliusvägen boasts a beautiful view of Gamla Stan. Take a walk on this peaceful path situated above the water. The view is probably best enjoyed during sunset.
WHAT TO DO
Have Fun at Gröna Lund
Gröna Lund is an amusement park on the island Djurgarden in the middle of the city. It’s the ideal place for an afternoon filled with fun and adrenaline. What I loved the most about Gröna Lund is its cute pastel colored retro look.
Lilla Allmänna Gänd 9, Djurgarden
History Lessons at Vasa Museum
If you’re a history buff, then head to Vasa Museum. It showcases the Vasa, an impressive well-preserved (actually the world’s best preserved) ship from the 17th century. It has been on the sea bed for over 300 years and can now be viewed in Stockholm.
Galärvarvsvägen 14, Djurgarden
Try Swedish Candy
Stop by at a Swedish candy store to pick and mix a bag full of candy. You will be spoilt for choices! A must try is without a doubt Swedish liquorice.
Shopping at Drottninggatan
If you’re in for some shopping, then Drottningggatan is the place to go. Drottninggatan is Stockholm’s main shopping street where you will find many Swedish brands. Drottninggattan is located in Norrmalm and leads to Gamla Stan.
Visit Hornstulls Market
Hornstulls Marknad is a flea and street food market situated along the water in Södermalm. It is open every weekend from April till September. Stroll by the stands and grab something to eat. Visiting this small market is a popular weekend activity in Stockholm.
Hornstulls strand 4, Södermalm
WHAT TO EAT
Breakfast at Greasy Spoon
Avocado toasts, poached eggs and pancakes. Greasy Spoon is the ideal place for a relaxed and yummy weekend brunch.
Tjärhovsgatan 19 Södermalm
Have a Kanebullen
Kanebullen are Swedish cinnamon buns and a must try when visiting Stockholm. Typically, they are enjoyed during a fika – Swedish for a moment to slow down and appreciate the good things in life aka coffee with friends. I really liked the Kanebullen from Fabrique Bakery, which has several locations across Stockholm.
Dinner at Meatballs for the People
You cannot go to Sweden and not eat their famous meat balls called Köttbullar. Meatballs for the People is well known for their homemade meat balls. Besides the real deal, they also serve veggie balls.
Nytorgsgatan 30, Södermalm
