Updated: July 6, 2023
By Sweden Max
The best Areas to Stay in Stockholm
Stockholm is a small but world-class city which a lot to offer but most of the tourists might miss what it really has to offer in their rush to stroll around in Gamla Stan. It’s a city that rewards the curious and patient visitor with a lot of Scandinavian charm, distinctive flavours, and pleasant surprises.
For first-time visitors staying in one of the most centrally located neighborhoods with walkable access to Stadshuset, Gamla Stan and the Vasa museum. Norrmalm, the city centre or Gamla Stan both offer very short distance to all the central attractions.
For those preferring quieter stays with a bit of walking or transport, consider the Djurgården, Kungsholmen, Vasastan, and Gärdet, which still provide easy accessibility to the city’s highlights. And of course, the Stockholm Archipelago, around 60 km from central Stockholm, offers a unique escape and the tranquility of island life.
Each neighborhood in Stockholm is explored in depth below, but here is a quick overview: Gamla Stan is the oldest district, full of cobblestone streets, architecture and historical sites like the Royal Palace and the Nobel Museum. Norrmalm is the shopping area of Stockholm, housing the Central Station and major retailers along Drottninggatan. Södermalm, once a working-class area, has become a area of creativity, home to art galleries, vintage shops and a vibrant dining scene. Östermalm is the upscale district with luxury boutiques and some of the city’s most expensive residential areas. Djurgården is an island within the city, with a range of museums and attractions, including the Vasa Museum, Gröna lund and Skansen. Vasastan is a quieter district, known for its beautiful parks and trendy coffee shops. Kungsholmen, another tranquil area, mostly a residential neighborhood is the home of Stockholm City Hall and numerous waterfront restaurants and swimming spots.
Stockholm is an archipelago city that merges history with modernity. A city that stretches across fourteen islands, each of its districts offers a unique character and charm. Its well-preserved medieval core, Gamla Stan, dates back to the 13th century and houses narrow, winding streets lined with colorful buildings, churches, and squares. Meanwhile, the modern parts of the city are brimming with innovative architecture, contemporary museums, and sleek design stores. Stockholm, renowned for its commitment to sustainability and green living, is surrounded by water and abounds with green spaces, making it one of the cleanest capital cities on the planet.
Stockholm has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Royal Domain of Drottningholm, Skogskyrkogården, and Birka. Some of the city’s top museums include the Vasa Museum, which houses the nearly fully intact 17th-century Vasa ship, the ABBA Museum and the Nobel Museum. Dining, nightlife, and shopping are varied and plentiful in the neighborhoods that make up Stockholm’s city center. Several restaurants and bars offer stunning views, and the city’s food scene has a handful of Michelin-starred restaurants. Despite its northern location, the city enjoys a relatively mild climate, with warm summers and snowy winters that turn the city into a winter wonderland.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Stockholm
Best Places in Stockholm for…
- The Best Place in Stockholm for First-Timers: Gamla Stan.
Gamla Stan is the ideal area for first-time visitors to Stockholm. This historic heart of the city offers close proximity to fascinating sites such as Riddarholmen and Stortorget. Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets, bustling in summer, where you can hunt for souvenirs along Västerlånggatan or catch the Royal Guard Parade at the majestic Royal Palace. Serving as a vibrant gateway between Södermalm and Norrmalm, Gamla Stan is a perfect spot for people-watching, day or night. For a truly unique experience, explore Gamla Stan like a Viking: the cellars along Stora Nygatan offer hearty meals and honey wine (mead) for the adventurous palate. - The Best Places in Stockholm for Sightseeing: Norrmalm and Gamla Stan
Stockholm is a city where many attractions, from museums to national treasures, are within walking distance. Particularly notable is the district of Norrmalm (also known as the ‘City’), home to renowned landmarks including the concert hall, Grand Hotel, the National Museum, and the Royal Opera House. Venture just a short walk from Norrmalm, and you’ll arrive at Skeppsholmen, one of Stockholm’s numerous islands. Here, you’ll be treated to stunning views of surrounding areas such as Gamla Stan, Djurgården, and Södermalm. At the edge of Skeppsholmen, you’ll find Kastellholmen, which provides fantastic views of Gröna Lund, Stockholm’s local Tivoli. Gamla Stan is not to be missed, boasting a wealth of sights including The Royal Palace, the Parliament House, the House of Nobility, and the island of Riddarholmen. Be sure to visit the Stockholm Cathedral and if you’re lucky, you might catch the spectacle of the Royal Guard Parade. Delve into Gamla Stan’s picturesque cobblestone streets, packed with restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss the historic square, Järntorget, which holds a wealth of history within its confines. - Best Places in Stockholm for Shopping: Norrmalm, Östermalm and Södermalm. For first-time visitors interested in retail therapy, the districts of Norrmalm, Östermalm, and Södermalm in Stockholm have plenty to offer. Start your shopping journey in Norrmalm, home to Drottninggatan – the longest shopping street in Stockholm. This bustling avenue runs through the entire district and culminates in the historic Gamla Stan. It houses all major retailers and offers a wealth of side streets where even more shopping adventures await. Adjacent to Drottninggatan, you’ll find Hötorget, a vibrant market square teeming with fresh produce, flowers, and on weekends, clothing stalls. Don’t miss Hötorgshallen, a two-story market hall offering local foodstuffs and culinary delights that you can both savor on-site and take home. Continue your walk along Kungsgatan until you reach Stureplan, Stockholm’s luxury district. Identified by a distinctive mushroom-like rain shelter known locally as “Svampen” (Mushroom in Swedish), Stureplan is a haven of luxury boutiques and upscale shopping. Cross Sturegallerian to enter Östermalmsgallerian, a chic market hall and food court. If your shopping preferences are more niche, consider visiting Södermalm. Starting at Slussen, head to Götgatan and take a left at Folkungagatan until you reach Nytorget. This eclectic area is known for its indie-type shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing a more bohemian retail experience.
- Best Places in Stockholm for Restaurants and Nightlife: Norrmalm and Östermalm. For the food-loving traveler, Stockholm’s Norrmalm, Östermalm and Vasastan districts are the go-to places. Stockholm’s culinary scene is diverse and not strictly bound to traditional Swedish dishes. Indeed, you’ll find Swedes enjoying an array of global cuisines, from sushi and salads to pizzas, noodles, and burgers, particularly around lunchtime when budget-friendly options are plentiful. Östermalm is a gastronome’s paradise, boasting high-end restaurants such as Hantverket (Sturegatan 15), Miss Voon (Sturegatan 22), Restaurang Oxenstiernan (Storgatan), and Grodan Grev Ture (Grev Turegatan) amongst others. Each restaurant offers an unforgettable culinary experience, so do remember to book your table in advance. Norrmalm, too, doesn’t fall short when it comes to dining. “Tak” in Brunkebergstorg not only serves great food but also presents an amazing city view. The Royal Opera (Strömgatan) is another unique dining experience, blending food, art, and culture in one setting.
- Best Places in Stockholm for Local Vibes: Vasastan, Kungsholmen and Södermalm
Stockholm truly comes alive in the summertime, especially in local-loved areas like Vasastan, Kungsholmen, and Södermalm. One of the best places to soak in the local vibes is Rörstrandsgatan in Vasastan, which transforms into a lively hub of bars and restaurants, brimming with locals enjoying the warmer months. A walk over Sankt Eriksbron, the bridge connecting Vasastan with Kungsholmen, offers stunning views over Karlbergssjön and Barnhusviken. Kungsholmen itself invites exploration, with places for a quick dip like Hornsbergstrand, and scenic spots such as Fredhällsklipporna. Further along the route, you’ll find Rålambshovsparken, a vibrant park where locals play volleyball, sunbathe, and enjoy other outdoor activities. Over in Södermalm, several parks provide perfect picnic spots and gathering places for locals, especially during summer. Nytorget is a popular pitstop for ice cream, and just around the corner, you’ll find the popular café, Kajsas i parken, offering a delightful mix of food and entertainment. No true local experience would be complete without a visit to Skinnarviksberget. Here, locals and tourists alike gather to share a bottle of wine and witness the breathtaking Stockholm sunset. This magical spot provides the perfect end to your day - Best Places for Short Trips: Norrmalm, Gamla Stan and Södermalm.
Staying in Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s oldest district, is an area steeped in history. The neighborhood has grown up around the Royal Palace and has been continuously inhabited since the 13th century. It’s nestled between the city center to the west and the district of Södermalm to the east. Although Gamla Stan is one of the most popular tourist spots in Stockholm, it retains an irresistible charm with its narrow cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafés, restaurants and boutiques.
As you wander towards the southeastern end of Gamla Stan, you’ll find yourself in a labyrinth of small streets leading to the Royal Palace, beautifully characterized by traditional Scandinavian architecture with its colorful buildings and beautiful window boxes.
Gamla Stan is pedestrian-friendly. You’ll find some of the city’s most renowned restaurants and bars here, including Fem Små Hus (offering traditional Swedish cuisine in a historic cellar) and Aifur (a highly recommended Viking-themed tavern). However, venturing out of Gamla Stan offers an opportunity to explore more authentic dining experiences with more favorable prices.
Key attractions in the area include the Royal Palace, Storkyrkan (The Church), the Nobel Museum, and the Stortorget-square. For those interested in exploring Jewish heritage, the Jewish Museum of Sweden is a stone’s throw away.
Gamla Stan is served by Gamla Stan metro station, which connects directly to Stockholm Central Station. It also provides easy access to the Stockholm archipelago via the nearby Slussen ferry port. This makes Gamla Stan an ideal place to stay for exploring Stockholm with just a short walk or metro ride from the city’s other attractions.
Staying in Östermalm
Östermalm, one of Stockholm’s most prestigious districts, invites to an elegant blend of tradition and modernity, tranquility and vibrancy. As you settle in this upscale neighborhood, be prepared to immerse yourself in classic architecture, chic boutiques, and sophisticated dining.
Östermalm is home to several of Stockholm’s finest museums. You can spend an afternoon exploring the National Museum and the Hallwyl Museum(Hallwylska museet) or Scandinavian design at the Design Museum. Visit to the Royal Library, in the tranquil Humlegården park. Every Thursday they serve pancakes and pea soup, a Swedish tradition.
Biblioteksgatan and Birger Jarlsgatan are prime locations for luxury shopping. Don’t miss the Östermalmshallen, the city’s most iconic food hall, where local gastronomy is celebrated with a diverse range of fresh produce and artisanal treats.
Östermalm’s culinary scene is as refined as its shopping. The neighborhood boasts a variety of upscale restaurants such as Etoile and Operakällaren. There’s also a selection of charming cafés and bistros for a more laid-back dining experience. Enjoy traditional Swedish pastries in Vetekatten or a cozy lunch in one of the many charming cafés on Karlavägen.
Being located in Östermalm gives you convenient access to the rest of Stockholm via the city’s public transportation. Karlaplan and Östermalmstorg metro stations offer connections to the city center and other interesting districts.
Staying in Södermalm
Stay in Södermalm offers an insight to Stockholm’s culture. Once a working-class neighborhood, Södermalm has transformed into a relaxed, bohemian district known for its mix of independent shops, cafés, and captivating views over the city.
Take a stroll along the waterside promenades and through the narrow, winding streets filled with colorful and historic buildings. The neighborhood’s panoramic views from places like Fjällgatan and Skinnarviksberget shouldn’t be missed and offer the perfect spots to see the city turn red by the sun set.
Expect vintage stores, local design shops, and bookstores, particularly around the area known as SoFo (South of Folkungagatan). It’s less about upscale labels here and more about character and individuality.
Food and drinks in Södermalm are diverse to all tastes, whether you’re seeking a traditional Swedish fika (coffee break) or an international cuisine. Places like Café String and Pelikan provide an authentic Swedish dining experience, while Götgatan offers many bars and alternatives.
Södermalm has a vibrant art and culture scene. Fotografiska, the renowned photography museum is well worth to visit. They have a great restaurant. Or spend an afternoon exploring the art galleries around the district.
Södermalm has many parks, like Vitabergsparken or Tantolunden. Both hosts different audiences and quite croweded in the summer heat.
Slussen is a major transportation hub in Södermalm, Stockholm. Maybe you find yourself so captivated by Södermalm’s laid-back spirit and local feel that you prefer to spend most of your time here, living as the Stockholmers do.
Staying in Norrmalm
Norrmalm, or Stockholm City as it’s often called, places you at the epicenter of Stockholm. One important aspect of Norrmalm’s history to bear in mind is the extensive urban redevelopment it underwent between 1950-, 1960- and 1970. This controversial project involved the demolition of many historic structures, particularly in the lower Norrmalm area, to make way for modern buildings and introduce the subway.
Your Norrmalm residence situates you next to T-Centralen, the city’s primary transportation hub. Navigating Stockholm’s other districts and islands is quite straightforward, yet Norrmalm itself presents a plethora of attractions.
Begin your day with a walk along Drottninggatan, Stockholm’s shopping street, which stretches 1.5 kilometers from Odenplan to Riksbron in the south. Many of the side streets offer interesting shops and cafes as well. Most of the restaurants around this streets are considered tourist-traps but during lunch, most local workers eat there as well. If you want to enjoy a local Swedish lunch on this street, consider Rydbergs bar & matsal and have a seat in the garden. Maybe match your stay with a spa-visit at Centralbadet.
Hötorget, a market square dating back to the 17th century, comes alive daily with vendors selling fresh produce and flowers. Don’t miss Hötorgshallen, a two level market hall.
Norrmalm houses several of Stockholm’s significant cultural institutions. The Royal Swedish Opera, founded by King Gustav III, continues with performances of opera and ballet. The Swedish National Museum, the country’s largest art museum, hosts over half a million drawings including Rembrandt and Antoine Watteau.
For a traditional Swedish experience, try Pelikan, one of the city’s oldest restaurants, established in 1733.
Kungsträdgården, this park, dating back to the 15th century, is beloved for its annual cherry blossom display.
Choosing to stay in Norrmalm provides an immersive Stockholm experience, where you can walk the streets tread by kings, dine where locals have for centuries, and witness the city’s dynamic blend of history and modernity.
Staying in Vasastan
Staying in Vasastan(a personal favourite), one of Stockholm’s most charming and well-preserved districts, offers an opportunity to experience a local side of the city. Though less visited than its flashier neighbors, Vasastan has a lot to offer.
As you walk through its streets, you’ll encounter a combination of beautiful architecture, green spaces, intermingled with a strong café culture. Lined with late 19th and early 20th century buildings, Vasastan is an architectural treasure trove. Karlberg Palace, a 17th-century palace by the Karlberg Canal, is a notable highlight.
Vasaparken, the district’s central park, provides a serene environment for a leisurely stroll, while Odenplan square, with its many boutiques and restaurants, is always buzzing with life. For those interested in literature, the August Strindberg Museum, located in the apartment where the famous Swedish writer spent the last four years of his life, is a must-visit.
Vasastan is also home to some of the city’s best eateries and bakeries. They are all over the place but a good recommendation is to start at Rörstrandsgatan and take a walk along Odengatan. Join the locals for breakfast or from any time during the day, a ‘fika’, Swedes loves their coffee break. Don’t be surprised if you see the locals having coffe during the evening.
Staying in Kungsholmen
Kungsholmen offers a balanced blend of Stockholm’s striking beauty, local charm, and access to key city attractions. As an island district located in central Stockholm, Kungsholmen is surrounded by beautiful waterways.
Norr Mälarstrand offers a beautiful waterside promenade with views over to Södermalm and Gamla Stan. The promenade ends up at Stockholm’s famous City Hall(Stadshuset), where the Nobel Prize banquet is held annually. You might appreciate a guided tour through its majestic halls or a climb up the tower for panoramic views of the city. I suggest that you walk around the whole island, otherwise you will miss lots of views and nice spots, including Fredhällsklipporna with beautiful views and local swimming spots.
Rålambshovsparken is one of the city’s most popular parks, people are enjoying playing volleyball, skateboarding, Boule pétanque picnics, windsurfing, kayak and much more.
For food lovers, Kungsholmen has a wide variety of restaurants and bars, from local Swedish cuisine to more international options. Hantverkargatan and Fleminggatan and the area around Kungsholmstorg have plenty of options.