Stockholm: Island Hopping, ABBA and Swedish Meatballs

3-5 minuten

When you say Stockholm, you see water, colorful houses, cozy streets and you immediately hear an ABBA hit in your head. This Scandinavian pearl is spread over 14 islands and really has it all: a touch of royal flair, a touch of vintage charm and at the same time a lot of hip hotspots. You can effortlessly wander from medieval alleys to coffee shops where your barista does pronounce your name correctly. Think: creative concept stores, cozy food halls, boats floating by … In this blog I will show you the best places in Stockholm. Let’s go.

islandhopping 2.0

Stockholm is an archipelago in city format. Each island has its own vibe: one feels cozy and classic, the other is bursting with creativity and street art. And that’s exactly what makes it so much fun. Wherever you walk, it always feels like you’ve ended up in a different city. Nice and varied. What do you need? Nice sneakers, a bit of curiosity and above all: a desire to explore.

Gamla Stan
Welcome to the oldest and perhaps most charming part of Stockholm. Gamla Stan will catapult you back in time with its narrow alleys, cobblestones and pastel-coloured facades. The majestic Royal Palace has been standing here for centuries … and yes, you have to have seen it. Among the cute boutiques you can score original souvenirs and hidden gems. And as soon as you get hungry: time for fika! Café Schweizer is highly recommended: cosy, friendly and the cinnamon buns are next level delicious. Oh, and tip: Prästgatan is a dream for your Insta. Charming stairs, old facades, soft light … you know what to do.

Södermalm
Creative types, vintage hunters and lovers of all things hip: Södermalm is your playground. This island exudes character. Boutiques offer clothing that balances between fashion statement and work of art. In between, you can flop down in a coffee bar where the baristas pour their creations with love and flair. The walls? Full of street art that gives the district colour. Think of the edgy energy of Berlin, but with a stylish, Scandinavian twist. This is where you want to be.

Djurgården
Looking for some peace and quiet? Grab a blanket, some snacks and settle down by the water at Djurgården. Here you can enjoy nature, babbling boats and a breeze on your face. But this island is more than just chilling. It is packed with culture and fun.

Not to be missed:

The Vasa Museum: a real 17th century warship in top condition
Skansen: open-air museum and zoo in one, atmosphere guaranteed
Gröna Lund: roller coasters, live music and candy floss: pure nostalgia

Östermalm
Hello luxury! Östermalm is where fashion, food and design all come together. You’ll feel like an influencer right away, especially in Östermalm’s Saluhall: a food hall where every bite will make you smile. Treat yourself to a platter of local cheeses and enjoy them on a terrace with a view. You’re on holiday, remember?

Mamma Mia! the ABBA-museum

Ready to go full-on Dancing Queen? The ABBA Museum is not a boring ‘look-but-don’t-touch’ museum, but an interactive throwback to the seventies. Sing in the studio, dance on stage and admire outfits that you secretly want to shine in. Yes, even the sequined ones. Make a video of your own ABBA performance, perfect for your stories. Guaranteed that you will leave this museum dancing and humming.

Hop-on-hop-off: slow sightseeing with style

In Stockholm, you don’t go from highlight to highlight on a bike or by metro. No, you sail. The hop-on-hop-off boats are a relaxed way to see the city from the water. No traffic jams, but a fresh breeze and a fantastic view. Would you rather be on solid ground? The bus variant will take you just as easily anywhere.

Swedish meatballs: comfort food goals

It doesn’t get more Swedish than this. Smooth mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, a spoonful of lingonberries and of course: the iconic köttbullar. From cozy cafés in Södermalm to fancy spots in Östermalm: they taste amazing everywhere. Pro tip: always order an extra portion. Trust me, you’ll keep eating them. Fancy something extra? Go for a local beer or a glass of aquavit. Skål!

Stockholm calling!

Whether you’re strolling through Gamla Stan, spotting street art in Södermalm or leaving the ABBA museum like a true Dancing Queen, Stockholm will nestle itself in your heart without mercy. So: pack your bags, bring your raincoat (it’s Scandinavia after all), and sing softly along the way: “Thank you for the music…”