Stockholm - Travel Pocket Guide

Explore History, Beauty, and Scandinavian Charm.

Immerse yourself in the captivating allure of Stockholm, where history meets innovation, and natural beauty merges with modern design. Discover a city of enchanting waterways, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class attractions. From strolling through charming cobblestone streets to indulging in delectable cuisine and experiencing renowned Scandinavian hospitality, Stockholm promises an unforgettable adventure.

Cruises & Boat Tours  |  4-Star Hotels in Stockholm  |  Where to eat in Stockholm  |  Flights  |  Beijing holiday apartments  |   Stockholm car rentals

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Best Central Stay: I stayed at the Radisson Collection, Strand Hotel, Stockholm.
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Stockholm best time to go on holiday, winter, summer, spring, @travelandhome min
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The best time to go on holiday to Stockholm

Deciding when to explore Stockholm can feel like ‘rolling the dice’, but it should not. In addition to the seasonal tips I’m about to share, consider your preferences for crowd sizes, outdoor activities, and specific events happening during different seasons to choose the best time for your holiday.

  • Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Stockholm. The city experiences long days with ample sunshine, and temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Summer is an excellent time to explore the archipelago, go boating, visit outdoor attractions, and enjoy various festivals and events.

  • Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October): These seasons offer mild temperatures, usually ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The city is less crowded compared to summer, and you can experience beautiful foliage in the parks and gardens. Springtime also brings the cherry blossoms in Kungsträdgården, which is a sight to behold.

  • Winter (November to March): Winter in Stockholm is cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. However, if you enjoy winter sports and holiday festivities, this can be an exciting time to visit. You can experience the magical atmosphere of Christmas markets, go ice skating, or even try cross-country skiing.

Stay at Award-Winning Hotels in Stockholm

World Travel Award Winners 2020 - 2022

Grand Hotel, Sweden, Travel Awards, Sweden's leading hotel , best places to stay in Stockholm with sea view

Sweden's Leading Hotel 2020 - 2022

Grand Hôtel Stockholm

Experience luxurious charm in the heart of Stockholm at the Grand Hôtel Stockholm. Indulge in elegant accommodations, impeccable service, and a prime location, just steps away from the city’s iconic attractions. Your dream Scandinavian getaway starts here! 

Check availability at Grand Hôtel Stockholm.

Sheraton Stockholm Hotel, Sweden, Travel Awards, Sweden's leading business hotel , best places to stay in Stockholm with sea view

Sweden's Leading Business Hotel 2021

Sheraton Stockholm Hotel

Elevate your Stockholm stay to new heights at the Sheraton Stockholm Hotel Towers. With stunning city views, contemporary design, and top-notch amenities, this urban oasis is the perfect base for exploring the vibrant capital. Discover a stylish retreat that combines modern luxury with Swedish hospitality.

Check availability at Sheraton Stockholm Hotel.

Travel Tip(s)

Look for free cancellation options: Some hotels offer free cancellation up until a certain date. Booking accommodations with free cancellation can provide flexibility in case your plans change.

Check the map view: Booking.com has a map view feature that shows the location of hotels. This can help you identify accommodations in areas that are both desirable and affordable.

Entry Tickets to Stockholm Events and Sites

The Top 7 Things That's Worth Doing in Stockholm

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Visit the ABBA Museum

Dance, sing, and immerse yourself in the world of Sweden’s iconic pop group at the ABBA Museum. Learn about the band’s history, see their costumes and memorabilia, and even record your own ABBA song. It’s an interactive and fun experience for music lovers of all ages.

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Wander through Djurgården

Escape the city bustle and unwind in Djurgården, Stockholm’s green island oasis. This vast park offers beautiful gardens, walking trails, and attractions like the Skansen open-air museum and Gröna Lund amusement park. Enjoy a picnic, rent a bike, or simply relax in this peaceful retreat.

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Take a boat tour of the archipelago

Stockholm’s archipelago is a breathtaking collection of islands, offering stunning natural beauty and picturesque coastal villages. Hop on a boat tour to explore the archipelago’s tranquil waters, enjoy the scenic landscapes, and visit charming islands like Vaxholm or Sandhamn.

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Explore the Vasa Museum

Marvel at the awe-inspiring Vasa warship, a 17th-century maritime artifact that sank on its maiden voyage and was salvaged centuries later. The Vasa Museum showcases this remarkably preserved ship, providing a fascinating glimpse into Sweden’s maritime history.

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Visit Gamla Stan

Explore the charming old town of Stockholm, Gamla Stan, with its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic attractions like the Royal Palace and Storkyrkan Cathedral. Don’t miss the chance to browse through unique shops and enjoy a fika (Swedish coffee break) at a cozy café.

Slow Travel: Self-guided Audio Tours - the absolute best!

I’ve discovered self-guided audio tours and I am absolutely hooked! It is the ultimate travel companion. I explore at my own pace while listening to expertly narrated stories that breathe life into historic landmarks, hidden gems, and local secrets. With the freedom to roam and the power to curate your own journey, get ready to be hooked on the magic of self-guided audio tours.

At such a low cost, you have nothing to lose. Try it. With the freedom to roam and the power to curate your own journey, get ready to be hooked (just like yours truly) on the magic of self-guided audio tours.

Hop-On Hop-Off your way through Stockholm

More slow travel options: Pick from the BEST Stockholm Hop-On Hop-Off Tours.

Eat & Drink

The unique Swedish tradition of fika

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Kanelbullar (Cinnamon Buns)

Fika is a beloved and unique Swedish tradition that involves taking a break to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea accompanied by a sweet treat. More than just a coffee break, fika is a cultural phenomenon that promotes relaxation, socializing, and mindfulness.

During fika, friends, family, or colleagues gather together to pause their daily activities and engage in meaningful conversation while savoring their hot beverages and pastries. It’s a time to disconnect from work or stress and focus on enjoying the present moment.

Fika is deeply ingrained in Swedish culture and is seen as an essential part of everyday life. It can take place in various settings, including cafés, workplaces, or even at home. Swedes take pride in their quality coffee and often pair it with traditional treats like cinnamon buns (kanelbullar), cardamom buns (kardemummabullar), or cookies.

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Beyond its social aspect, fika also serves as a way to recharge and find balance in the midst of a busy day. It promotes a sense of well-being and encourages a slower pace of life, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

Whether you’re in Stockholm or any other Swedish city, embracing the fika tradition allows you to experience an authentic slice of Swedish culture and indulge in a moment of relaxation and connection.

Swedish truffles

When in Stockholm, satisfy your sweet cravings at Vete-Katten, a historic pastry shop in the heart of the city. Their skilled bakers craft delightful Swedish truffles, offering you a taste of tradition in every bite. For a modern twist, check out Chokladfabriken or Chokladkoppen in the charming Gamla Stan. These spots are known for their creative take on chocolatey delights, including heavenly Swedish truffles. Happy truffle hunting in Stockholm!

To make it yourself, click here!

Explore Two Countries on One Trip

Are You Ready To Add a Cruise to your trip?

Don't Do This in Stockholm

  • Don’t skip the queue: Swedes are known for their orderly behavior and respect for queues. Whether it’s at a museum, public transportation, or a popular attraction, wait your turn and avoid cutting in line.
  • Refrain from being loud or disruptive: Swedes generally value peace and quiet in public spaces. Avoid excessive noise, loud conversations, or disruptive behavior that may disturb others, especially in residential areas and on public transportation.
  • Don’t forget to remove your shoes: It is customary in Sweden to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, as well as in certain establishments like spas or traditional Swedish saunas (bathhouses). Pay attention to signs or follow the lead of locals to determine when shoe removal is expected.
  • Respect personal space and privacy: Swedes appreciate their personal space and privacy. Avoid unnecessary physical contact, respect people’s personal boundaries, and be mindful of privacy when taking photographs, especially in residential areas.
  • Avoid littering: Stockholm takes great pride in its cleanliness, so make sure to dispose of trash properly and use designated recycling bins. Keep the streets, parks, and public spaces clean for everyone to enjoy.

Travel Tip(s)

Be open to exploring beyond the well-known attractions and immerse yourself in the local way of life. Engage with the friendly locals, indulge in traditional Swedish cuisine, and take leisurely walks to uncover hidden gems. Embrace the city’s relaxed and inclusive atmosphere, and create lasting memories in this captivating Scandinavian capital.

Plan your trip to Stockholm, Sweden

Cheap Flight Tickets to Stockholm

There are two main airports serving Stockholm:

  • Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN): Located about 37 kilometers north of the city center, Arlanda Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Sweden. It serves as the primary international gateway, accommodating flights from various airlines worldwide.
  • Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA): Situated about 7 kilometers west of central Stockholm, Bromma Airport is the city’s closest airport. Although it has a smaller capacity and mainly operates domestic and regional flights, it offers convenient access to the city center for travelers.

The Currency to Use in Stockholm

The currency used in Stockholm, as well as throughout Sweden, is the Swedish Krona (SEK). It is advisable to have some Swedish Krona on hand for small transactions, especially in cash-based establishments. However, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. I always check upon arrival at a restaurant what their preferred method of payment is – just to be on the safe side. Additionally, ATMs are readily available in Stockholm, allowing you to withdraw cash in Swedish Krona if needed.

Compare car rental rates

Getting the BEST DEALS involves a few savvy strategies:

  • Comparison Sites: Utilize flight comparison websites to compare prices across multiple airlines and travel agencies.
  • Incognito Mode: Use private browsing or incognito mode to avoid cookies influencing prices based on your search history.
  • Unbeatable Packages and Flight Deals: Skip the admin and book all-inclusive popular holiday packages.

Extend your trip to Sweden

Travel and Home: Scandinavian Inspirations

Recipes From The Nordic Countries

The traditional Scandinavian recipe for Coconut Balls.

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