You can see quite a lot with one day in Stockholm. More than you might expect!
Even though Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden, it’s not quite as big as you might think. In fact, if you were to walk across the entire inner city, it would probably take just an hour and a half. But then, of course, you wouldn’t have time to really experience much. So here’s a handy guide to get the most out of your day in Stockholm and see some of the highlights this beautiful city has to offer.
Morning
If you’re starting your day in the morning, you might want to begin with some breakfast. Stockholm is full of cute bakeries and coffee shops, so you have plenty of tasty choices. Let’s begin in the neighborhood of Södermalm.
- If you’re starting your day early, look for places that open by 8 a.m. like the Greasy Spoon on Tjärhovsgatan for eggs, pancakes or a full English breakfast. Or perhaps a lighter breakfast with excellent coffee at Johan & Nyström on Swedenborgsgatan.
- However, if you’re a late riser, but still want a hearty and fun breakfast, then start at Älskade Traditioner on Södermannagatan with some very quirky waffle combinations
Afternoon
After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll up to Slussen and the new Slussterassen, with lovely views toward Gamla Stan. Continue on to Gamla Stan and explore the little shops and old buildings in the area. Stop for ice cream at Stikki Nikki if it’s summertime or Under Kastanjen for coffee, pastries or even lunch any time of the year – as it’s hidden in a quiet square away from all of the tourists.
You might also take the chance to visit places like the Nobel Museum, Storkyrkan, the Royal Castle or perhaps Livrustkammaren. But when you’re ready to move on, walk down to the water and consider taking the ferry across to Djurgården. The ferry is included with your SL travel card. It’s a great way to get in a “free” boat ride with some glorious views of Stockholm as you make your way to the island of parks and museums.
Once at Djurgården, you may want to make your way to the most popular museum in Stockholm: the Vasa museum. The Vasa museum features a full 17th century wooden ship that is really something you have to see to believe. It’s truly a unique experience.
Evening
After your adventures, it’s time to unwind with some dinner. Take the tram from Djurgården back into town where you have your pick of interesting places to eat:
- For a simple, but very tasty price-worthy meal, pop in for some Neapolitan pizza at one of Meno Male’s locations. You can find them back on Södermalm at Mariatorget and Renstiernas gata, or search for them in other parts of town.
- Or if you’re with kids (or even without), check out La Neta for some authentic, low-price Mexican food. Or Koh-Phangan for Thai food in a tropical setting that’s sure to delight.
- If you’re looking for something more upscale, try Corvina Enoteca, a cozy wine bar in Gamla Stan with excellent Italian dishes. Or try some classic Swedish food at Pelikan, an excellent restaurant on Södermalm that’s been open since 1904.
Night
Why not top off your evening with a cocktail at one of Stockholm’s bars? For bright, summer nights, head over to Pelago for amazing views over the city (not open during the winter), or Mosebacketerassen for a beer or bubbly with the crowd. During the colder months, stay warm at Himlen, in the Skrapan building, with a wonderful nighttime view over Södermalm. Or the Capital cocktail bar near central station in the Scandic Continental Hotel.
