Sweden‘s photogenic capital, Stockholm is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating national capitals in the world that is older than 750 years. Ideally scattered across a series of islands, where the freshwater Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea, Stockholm is a combination of waterways, parks and spire-filled skylines that creates a neighborhood effect found nowhere else in the world. There are so many beautiful landmarks and places of interest in the city that a week or two are not enough to explore them all. What you should do is to do yourself a favor and buy a Stockholm Card, which will enable you to go around the city by bus, train and metro and get loads of free admissions to many Stockholm museums and other attractions.
Must-Sees
Old Town
Old Town or Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s original city center and is one of the most popular attractions for history buffs, as it’s the best place to get acquainted with the rich history of the city. Made up of Stadsholmen Island and the islets of Riddarholmen, Helgeandsholmen and Strömsborg, the Old Town dates back to the 13th century and is characterized by charming cobbled streets, alleyways, faded mustard and colorful town houses and meeting squares, all examples of north German architecture. Some three thousand people live there today, while the city is also one big melting pot of various cafes, award-winning restaurants, a variety of shopping venues, studios, galleries and museums.
Stockholm Archipelago
Stockholm archipelago is an idyllic group of islands, containing more than thirty thousand islands, islets and skerries of various shapes and sizes, some isolated and uninhabited, while others boasting high-end restaurants and luxury hotels. Island hopping is the best way to discover the natural beauty of the archipelago, amazing gems off the beaten track, and a horde of attractions that for centuries have lured many travelers. Perennial hotspot Vaxholm and the town of Sandhamn, famous for its parties are tried-and-true favorites, while for watersports enthusiasts the archipelago offers plenty of options. Visitors will fast ferry boats on regular routes or more leisurely trips on which to cruise around amongst the many islands for a few hours.
SkyView
Another famous attraction in Stockholm that is an experience far above the ordinary is SkyView – a gondola made of glass, which takes you 130 meters up to the top of the world’s largest spherical building, the Ericsson Globe Arena. Each SkyView ride takes approximately 30 minutes, with the gondolas departing 6 times an hour. The ride allows you to enjoy exceptional 360 degree views of the southern part of the city.
These are just a few of the loads of attractions Stockholm has to offer. The city is also an ideal getaway for those travelling with kids, as it has numerous amusement parks, a zoo, and other attractions your kids will definitely appreciate.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options in Stockholm are bountiful, though by most people’s standards rather expensive. However, it’s still possible to find budget-friendly options. Most hotels offer discounted prices at various times during the year with the cost varying depending on the area. Norrmalm and the area surrounding the central station are said to be the best bets for budget-friendly lodgings, while more expensive choices tend to be found in the Old Town.
One of the features of the city is that it has a long and unbroken tradition of commitment to the environment with the main goal to create healthy residential environments.
From enjoying a BBQ at the picturesque Tyresta National Park to swimming in both indoor and open-air pools in the far south of Södermalm, to visiting Drottningholm Island to explore the royal residence and UNESCO World Heritage Site Drottningholm Palace, Stockholm is this and more!
