A recent visitor to Stockholm has declared the Swedish capital a new favorite, praising its vibrant culture, history, and friendly atmosphere. The city, often overlooked by British tourists, offers a wealth of activities and sights that make it an ideal destination for a short break.
Why Stockholm?
Stockholm is located across numerous islands in eastern Sweden, with a flight from London taking just over two hours. While Sweden is not a typical choice for British holidaymakers, those seeking something different will find it perfect for a few days away. The city is full of color, history, and welcoming locals.
Best Time to Visit
Arriving in early June provides decent weather, with some rain expected but also sunny spells reaching a comfortable 20°C—ideal for exploring the city.
Top Things to Do in Stockholm
Gamla Stan
The historic heart of Stockholm, Gamla Stan, features old buildings, cobbled streets, tourist shops, and restaurants serving traditional Swedish cuisine. The colorful architecture and winding streets offer excellent photo opportunities.
Boat Tour
A 90-minute boat tour around the archipelago, booked through Get Your Guide for around £28, provides insights into Swedish culture and history. An early booking leaves time for other activities.
ABBA The Museum
A dream for ABBA fans, this museum chronicles the band's early lives, rise to fame, careers, and current lives.
Skansen Open-Air Museum
Skansen is a massive open-air museum featuring old Swedish towns, an aquarium, Baltic Sea Centre, Baltic animal exhibits (including bears and moose), and a traditional market. At £28 per ticket, visitors can spend hours exploring, with live traditional music performances adding to the experience.
Södermalm
This trendy, well-off island south of Gamla Stan offers markets, top-rated bars, and cafes. It features gorgeous streets, lovely parks, and magnificent viewpoints over the city.
Flights to Stockholm from the UK
Airlines offering direct flights from UK airports include British Airways, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Norwegian, and Ryanair. Departure points include London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.
Is Stockholm Expensive?
Stockholm is a rather expensive city. A pint of beer in a pub can cost up to £10, and a main course in a restaurant may be close to £30.
Food in Stockholm
Traditional Swedish fare includes meatballs, cured salmon, and pickled herring. Seafood lovers will find plenty of options, though vegetarians may struggle for traditional meals. For fast food, MAX is a popular local chain. Stockholm also boasts excellent bakeries, where visitors can try Swedish Princess Cake and cinnamon buns as part of the 'Fika' tradition—spending time with others over coffee and sweet treats.
