Stockholm Hotels

Stockholm Hotels

Sprawling over 14 islands, which are connected by countless picture-perfect bridges and viaducts, Stockholm is one of Europe’s most elegant and distinctive major cities. Its atmospheric Old Town, which dates back to the 13th century, is an intoxicating maze of cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways, and beautifully restored historical buildings. But it’s also a forward-looking, cosmopolitan city, with an alluring café culture, chic bars and restaurants, and a reputation for cutting-edge art and design. In winter, regular snow showers turn the city into a frosty fairytale wonderland, while in the summer months, visitors and locals alike head out of town to soak up the breath-taking, unspoiled natural beauty of the Stockholm Archipelago.

Things to see

The Vasa Museum is home to a unique cultural treasure - the world’s only preserved 17th century warship. Retrieved from the sea in 1961, it was meticulously restored to its former glory over the course of almost 50 years. The ship itself is accompanied by a host of fascinating exhibitions, one of which explores the lives of those who died on board. ABBA: The Museum is a fitting tribute to Sweden’s pop icons. At this fabulously interactive, state-of-the-art attraction, you can explore full-size replicas of studios and dressing rooms, before belting out a smash hit song alongside 3D holograms of the band themselves. The Stadshuset, or City Hall, is the city’s most instantly recognizable and photogenic landmark. It’s an exquisite example of Swedish National Romantic architecture, with a handsome red brick exterior, and an imposing, 106 meter-tall, gold-spired tower.

Hotels in Stockholm

If you’re craving a spot of self-indulgence, Stockholm boasts breath-taking luxury hotels, housed in opulent period buildings, and awash with decadent facilities like full-service Nordic spas, and gourmet restaurants serving lavish, traditional Swedish smorgasbords. If you’d prefer to save a little cash for sightseeing and shopping, there are plenty of appealing mid-range Stockholm hotels, offering fantastic home comforts like free buffet breakfasts, newspapers, and toiletries. Backpackers and budget travelers are also well served, with smart hostels and B&Bs, which provide essential amenities like free WiFi and self-catering facilities, for unbeatable prices.

Where to stay

Normalm is the beating heart of the city. It’s renowned for its diverse architecture, with ornate 16th century churches sitting side-by-side with 1970s modernist concrete structures. As many major museums and landmark buildings are located here, it’s a prime location for first-time visitors. Elegant Östermalm is one of Stockholm’s most exclusive neighborhoods. Here you’ll find tempting upscale shops galore, as well as Djurgården island, a lush urban oasis scattered with quirky cultural attractions like the Museum of Spirits, which explores Sweden’s relationship with alcohol. Södermalm is a hip, alternative borough, south of the city center. It’s known for its raucous nightlife, effortlessly cool vintage stores and fashion boutiques, and eclectic, multi-ethnic dining scene.

How to get to Stockholm

If you’re flying from overseas, you’ll most likely land at Stockholm Arlanda Airport. It’s Sweden’s largest airport, conveniently located around 40 kilometers from Stockholm city center. The Arlanda Express train service makes traveling into town a breeze – trains run every 15 minutes for most of the day, and the journey to Stockholm Central Station takes just 20 minutes. Taxis are also readily available, but it’s worth noting that fares are unregulated in Sweden, so prices can vary drastically. Your best bet is to use a well-known firm like Taxi Stockholm or Taxi Kurir.