Stockholm, Sweden, is a country that many visit in the summer, however there are many great sites and unique ways to explore the Scandinavian country during the winter.
Transit and getting around
When you arrive in Stockholm, the Arlanda Express is the fastest way into the city. The ride isn’t cheap, pricing just over $75 CAD, but it’s worth the time saved.
Stockholm’s underground transit system is robust and great year-round. Their stations are deep in the ground and are full of art, so make a point of visiting a handful of them to get a feel for the creativity.
The city is situated on 14 islands, so there are many waterways to get you around above ground, alongside buses. Regular ferry departures are available from Nybroviken and Slussen to Djurgården and Hammarby Sjöstad.
Make sure to purchase an SL Card for use on all major transit agencies.
Master Travellr’s favourite places to visit
Gamla stan: This is the city’s old town, full of history, preserved buildings, you’ll appreciate the architecture of the narrow and winding streets. It’s also home to the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Swedish monarch, located in Stadsholmen.
Nobel Museum: Also in Gamla stan, in a former Stock Exchange building in Stortorget, the Nobel Museum is a look at one of the most prestigious awards in the world, including the many recipients of the honour.
Djurgården: A quiet island in Stockholm, this is home to the Vasa Museum, Skansen Open-Air Museum, and ABBA Museum.
Vasa Museum: The Vasa is a maritime museum featuring a fully intact and restored 17th century ship. It sank in the harbour on her maiden voyage in 1628.
Skansen: As beautiful as it is in the summer, a different kind of a serene beauty in the winter, Skansen is an open-air museum and zoo. Opened in 1891, it’s a preserved village that incorporates historic views of Scandinavian culture, quaint restaurants, while incorporating new engaging activities for families.
ABBA Museum: If you’re a fan of Swedish band ABBA, make sure to check out the ABBA Museum in Djurgården. It’s a retrospective look at the pop band, including a collection of their work over the years.
Östermalm Food Hall: Currently being redone, but housed in a temporary market nearby, this food hall is visited by locals and tourists alike, and offers up tradition fare including Swedish meatballs, seafood, and game. Sample a bit of their culinary specialities–you won’t regret it!
Södermalm: Think SoHo or Queen West in Toronto, it’s a creative, relaxed, and artsy neighbourhood, full of unique vendors, cafés, and art galleries. There, you’ll also find Scandinavian fare and great brunch dives as you approach Nytorget Square and Hornstull.
Kungsträdgården: It’s Swedish for the King’s Garden, this is where you’ll find one of Stockholm’s popular hangouts in the summer with live events and concerts, but in the winter time, ice rinks are set up where you can bring your family for an afternoon of skating.
Where are some of your favourite places? Leave a comment below!
