The Stockholm Guide 2009

The Stockholm
Guide 2009
more THAn 100 inSiDer TipS
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Welcome to Stockholm
– The Capital of Scandinavia!
Stockholm is widely celebrated as nothing less than one of the world’s
most beautiful cities, built where lake meets sea, on fourteen islands,
with nine centuries of history and culture.
Stockholm is a city of contrasts – a cutting-edge metropolis that often
comes across as stunningly contemporary. Still, its striking modernity
coexists happily with ancient customs and traditions that many visitors
find unique and exotic.
Another quality that makes Stockholm so special is the city’s ability
to live on nature’s terms. Vast green areas don’t just surround the city,
they permeate it. Few other places let you experience the pleasures and
allures of nature, urban sophistication and cultural history, all in a single
day.
Come and experience this unique quality of life!
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Don’T miSS!
The Old Town Europe’s largest and best-preserved
medieval city center on the island of Stadsholmen, where
Stockholm was founded as a fortification in the 12th century.
All of the Old Town and the adjacent island of Riddarholmen
are like a living museum, pedestrian-friendly and filled with
sights, attractions, restaurants, cafés, bars, and shopping.
The narrow winding cobblestone streets give the Old Town a
unique character. The whole area is like something straight
out of a fairytale, especially in the winter. It is the place to go
for Swedish handicrafts, knick-knacks, and souvenirs.
In the Old Town you’ll find several beautiful churches,
including Sweden’s national cathedral Storkyrkan (the Great
Church). Of course, the biggest attraction of all is the Royal
Palace, one of the world’s largest inhabited palaces with
more than 600 rooms. It was built primarily in the 18th
century in Italian baroque style, on the site of the old Three
Crowns castle which burned down in 1697. In addition to
the state suites there are various interesting museums at the
palace, including the Royal Armoury, featuring clothing and
suits of armor worn by royals through the centuries. The guard
change, sometimes mounted, and the daily changing of the
guard are popular attractions.
Stockholm from the water Of course, a city built on 14
islands offers an infinite number of stunning water views.
Stockholm has scores of waterfront walkways, with
spectacular and constantly changing scenery. And be sure to
take a boat sightseeing tour of the city.
The Vasa Museum A five-star attraction on the island of
Djurgården. The 230-foot warship Vasa sank on her maiden
voyage in 1628 in Stockholm harbor and was not salvaged
until 1961. Over nearly half a century the Vasa has been
slowly and meticulously restored to near original splendor. If
you have the slightest interest in things marine – and even if
you don’t – don’t miss the magnificent Vasa.
Moderna Museet One of the world’s premier museums for
international art from the 20th and 21st centuries, located on
the beautiful museum island of Skeppsholmen. A fantastic
collection of Swedish and international masterpieces from
the last century. A superb program of temporary exhibitions,
a kids’ workshop and a charming restaurant with lovely views
across to Djurgården and the grand waterfront esplanade of
Strandvägen.
City Hall Stockholm’s majestic landmark, built as a
supersized Italian renaissance palace in the early 20th
century. Visit the famous Blue and Golden Halls, where the
Nobel Banquet is celebrated on December 10 every year.
Guided tours only.
Skansen The world’s oldest and prettiest open-air museum
on the island of Djurgården. An attraction for the entire family,
especially the little ones. Visit historical Sweden in miniature,
and see Nordic animals like the moose, bear, lynx, wolf,
wolverine and seal. Old farms and dwellings from different
parts of the country have been dismantled and transported to
the museum. There are also several restaurants and
attractions, terrariums, a monkey enclosure, children’s zoo
and a popular market. In December Skansen is special, with
a Christmas market and old-fashioned Christmas buffets can
be enjoyed.
Millesgården Exquisitely beautiful sculpture park and
museum on the island of Lidingö, with breathtaking views of
Stockholm and the port entrance. Created by the sculptor
Carl Milles. Unparalleled!
Junibacken A storybook world on Djurgården island. Based
on the much-loved and immortal characters from the books of
children’s author Astrid Lindgren.
Stockholm Archipelago Despite of all of the city’s attractions,
for many people Stockholm’s most spectacular attraction
is still the archipelago’s wonderful maritime landscape
with more than 30,000 islands, islets and skerries.
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THinGS To Do
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Get out and do!
Stockholm is overflowing with experiences and
sights, whether your game is art and culture, history,
shopping, theater and entertainment, or nature. And
if it’s all of the above, even better! In Stockholm
you can combine vastly diverse experiences and
pleasures on one and the same day.

THree WorlD HeriTAGe SiTeS
The Stockholm region has no fewer than three sites listed
on Unesco’s register of places judged invaluable for
humanity.
Birka Sweden’s fi rst real town. During Viking times, Birka on
the island of Björkö in Lake Mälaren, was the central hub and
the most important marketplace in the entire Mälar Valley.
It was established in the eighth century, attracting travelers
from near and afar. Birka of today has a wealth of ancient
remains that have been excavated and studied since the
19th century. Birka is ideal for a daytrip. During summer,
boats depart from the dock at City hall.
Drottningholm Drottningholm Palace is often called the Versailles
of the North. This has caused many people to believe
that Drottningholm is a copy of Versailles, but in fact, they are
more or less contemporary. Construction began in the 17th
century, and today the Swedish royal family lives there. The
gardens, the Palace Theater, with intact 18th-century stage
design, and the Chinese Pavilion are attractions worthy of a
visit in their own right.
The Woodland Cemetery A place of sublime beauty and
poetry. Created over a period of a quarter century
(1915-1940) on about 250 acres of pine-covered boulder
ridge under the direction of the famous modernist architects
Gunnar Asplund and Sigurd Lewerentz. Considered one of
the most important works of the modernists, it evokes a
Nordic philosophy on nature, life, and death. There are also
a number of beautiful chapels.
Stockholm Event City
THinGS To Do
THe SToCkHolm CArD
The Stockholm Card gives
you free admission to more
than 75 museums and
attractions, free travel with
public transport, free boat
sightseeing and numerous bonus offers. You can buy a
card for 24, 48, or 72 hours. A Stockholm guide is also
included. It’s guaranteed value for money!
Stockholm is one of Europe’s leading cities for
international events and congresses. The most widely
known of the annual events is the Nobel Banquet on
December 10, with awards ceremony in the Concert
Hall and the banquet in the City Hall. Only for laureates
and specially invited, but there are of course
lots of other public events. You can keep up with the
Stockholm action on www.stockholmtown.com and
the What’s On guide. One of the biggest events for
2009 will be the Volvo Ocean Race, which will be
celebrated with a number of events and festivities
during two weeks in June.

THinGS To Do
A CiTy for kiDS
Stockholm is an ideal city for kids and families. Its public
facilities are designed for people of all ages. Restaurants,
museums, public transport, and tourist attractions offer
generous discounts for the little ones. In and around
Stockholm you’ll find an array of attractions for kids and
the whole family. Below are a few of these, and many
more are listed on www.stockholmtown.com
Junibacken A fairy tale world on the island of Djurgården,
based on the many beloved, immortal characters from Astrid
Lindgren’s books. You can ride a train around the facility.
There’s also a children’s museum devoted to storybooks, and
a theater that puts on several shows a day.
Skansen The open-air museum with the historical Swedish
buildings and environments offers tons for the little ones to see
and do. There’s a zoo with bears, wolves, lynxes, monkeys,
seals, and a terrarium, children’s zoo, fun fair and much
more. It’s one of Sweden’s most loved attractions.
Gröna Lund Stockholm’s amusement park, Gröna Lund (the
Green Grove) has attractions for the whole family. Open during
summer and during December when it features a lavish
Christmas market.
Tom Tits experiment A large science center for kids in
Södertälje south of Stockholm, well worth a day trip. Kids
can try more than 600 different scientific experiments. It’s
hands-on learning for life, through play and fun.
Swedish Museum of Natural History/Cosmonova Enjoy
dizzying movie experiences in the IMAX Theater, with a
8,180 square foot domed screen. See films about space, the
earth, and the oceans in the world’s largest film format.
SiGHTSeeinG in DifferenT WAyS
Stockholm’s diverse geography means there are numerous
ways to discover the city. Your experiences and perceptions
of the city change constantly as you pass through
or over it. Here are a few different ways to get to know
Stockholm. For more, see www.stockholmtown.com
Hot air ballooning Stockholm is one of few cities where
ballooning is permitted. A horizon dotted by colorful
balloons is a typical Stockholm view. Experiencing the city
from above, while floating silently in a hot air balloon, is
unforgettable.
Rooftop hiking See Stockholm from the rooftops on a
guided tour, well secured with safety equipment. It’s a unique
combination of climbing and sightseeing – for people not
afraid of heights.
City walks Stockholm is a wonderful city for walking. There’s
an abundance of walkways combining natural and cultural
experiences. You can also choose from a large selection of
guided walking tours.
Boats A city built on 14 islands simply must be seen from the
water. In Stockholm and the archipelago, there are numerous
boat sightseeing tours to choose from.
Buses There are several guided bus tours available, including
some on double-deckers.
Horse and carriage Travel like a king and queen in noble
style, through scenery like the unique urban park on Royal
Djurgården Island. The coachman tells you about all the
fascinating sights along the way. At the end you get a picnic
basket to enjoy in a park.
PT Segway A means of transport which you control in the
simplest way possible – you just move your body weight forward
or back. Stockholm has guided city tours on personal
transporter Segways.
Streetcar Take the museum streetcar from Stockholm city
center to Djurgården island, and all the sights there. One of
the streetcars is a mobile café.
RIB Boat An adventurous way to experience Stockholm
and the archipelago from the water, at high speed. The RIB
boats’ outstanding performance allows you to reach
spectacular parts of the archipelago that would be
inaccessible in a slower vessel. Unforgettable whether the
water is mirror-like or choppy.

UrbAn WilDerneSS
Perhaps Stockholm’s most distinctive quality is the
interplay between the city and the wild nature which surrounds
and traverses it. Enjoy the rare pleasures fresh air,
clean water and birdsong in the heart of the metropolis!
Ekoparken The world’s first national urban park is a green
lung forming an arc more than six miles long, stretching
around and through the city. The park abuts the adjoining
forests around the city, ensuring an exceptional wealth of
species. You can encounter deer and hares, even foxes and
moose, and spot rare birds, butterflies and insects, right
inside the city. You can walk for days through the Ekoparken,
discovering ever new lovely spots. There’s an abundance of
things to see: museums, an amusement park, theaters and
entertainment, castles, inns and hotels, sports facilities,
numerous residences from different historical periods, hills
with centuries-old oak trees, lakes, streams, bays, marshes
and canals, meadows with grazing cows, horses and sheep,
secluded swimming spots, rocky hilltops and areas with wild,
virgin nature where you will have difficulty imagining you’re
in the middle of a big city.
Fishing. People fishing outside the Royal Palace is a classic
Stockholm sight. These waters are good for salmon fishing
– otherwise fishers wouldn’t be standing there every day,
year round. The record for a salmon caught in downtown
Stockholm is said to be 48 pounds!
Swimming. Stockholmers are proud that you can swim in
the center of town. Stockholm and its surroundings have lots
of swimming spots that are popular with sun worshippers on
summer days, for instance the beaches of Långholmsbadet,
THinGS To Do
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Rålambshovsbadet and Reimersholme. Find your own private
swimming spot, in the middle of Stockholm!
Kayaking. There’s no more beautiful way to discover
Stockholm than from a kayak. You can paddle between all
the city’s islands, going ashore for a meal or a coffee, and
then why not head out into the archipelago. Kayaks are
available for rent at various locations, including at the lovely
Djurgård Canal.
Golfing. Stockholm and environs has more than 60 golf
courses, including several championship courses and many
in very scenic surrounds. Some have green fees among the
lowest in Europe. Playing late into the night on light summer
evenings is particularly exotic.
Biking. Being sprinkled over 14 islands, and with its
constantly changing viewpoints, Stockholm is perfect for
two-wheeled discovery. Bike lanes run throughout the city,
for convenient, safe cycling. In addition, bike rental firms are
plentiful.
Ice skating. It’s fairly rare that Stockholm’s waterways freeze
over. But when they do, it’s a magical experience to glide
across the sea and lakes in and around the city. Many locals
will do anything for a good day out on the ice. Trip skating
on natural ice requires knowledge and special equipment.
An alternative is to rent skates and take to the ice in Kungsträdgården,
a park in the center of town, or one of the many
skating rinks and courses around the city.

JUNIBACKEN
– SWEDEN´S BEST MUSEUM FOR CHILDREN
Welcome to Junibacken, here you can explore the worlds of Astrid Lindgren’s
well-loved books for children. Play in Pippi Longstocking’s house and meet
a whole host of characters from children’s books. Guided tours are
available in various languages. Open all year round!
More information at www.junibacken.se

Roslagen is the archipelago
Welcome to the archipelago 20 minutes north of the centre of Stockholm!
The shimmering archipelago of Roslagen attracts visitors with its national
park, boat tours, white-tailed eagles, seals and 13,000 islands. As well as
restaurants and accommodation in genuine settings, kayaking and sailing
in historical ships.
Roslagen is Vaxholm, Österåker, Norrtälje and Östhammar. Here you’ll find
idyllic spots by the water and charming little towns – so you can enjoy everything
from fishing and festivities to delicacies and design.
Experience Swedish history at the Walloon ironworks, which are unique
in the world, or at Wira ironworks, Vaxholm fortress and Finsta, birthplace
of Saint Birgitta. There are also 40 medieval churches and just as many
museums to discover!
www.roslagen.se
Foto: Johan Garsten

THINGS TO DO
Stockholm’s magical archipelago
Of course Stockholm is wonderful. However, many visitors are
unaware of its most spectacular feature – the archipelago. This
magnificent maritime landscape of more than 30,000 islands,
islets and skerries, of which just some one thousand are inhabited,
is unique in the world. Visitors can hardly believe their eyes the
first time they experience Stockholm’s archipelago on a sunny summer’s
day. Not to mention on a crystal-clear winter’s day. Within
two hours by boat or car from Stockholm you can be anywhere in
the archipelago – to your very own paradise, where you feel like
you’re a thousand miles from the nearest city.
Stockholm’s fleet of classic white archipelago boats includes
many lovely, well-preserved old workhorses, some dating back
more than a century and still steam powered. Many boat tours
offer lunch or dinner.
More about the archipelago at www.stockholmtown.com

Some archipelago tourS
Fjäderholmarna The island group closest to Stockholm,
just 20 minutes by boat from the city center. Excellent
restaurant open in summer and for Christmas buffets. This
island group gives time-poor visitors a good taste of the
archipelago.
Sandhamn An island where you can experience the
remarkable maritime terrain of the outer archipelago.
Sandhamn is the key meeting place for sailors and yachters,
with a vibrant party scene during summer. The idyllic village,
a historical sea pilot station, has an inn, hotels, the classic
Royal Swedish Yacht Club, and numerous restaurants and
bars. Sandhamn is also worth a visit off-season, when the
archipelago has returned to its peaceful natural state.
Vaxholm Idyllic archipelago town with many well-preserved
wooden houses from the turn of the last century,
painted in the archipelago’s typical delicate pastel tones.
Vaxholm has numerous charming restaurants, cafés and
shops. Waxholm Hotel, with its great views of the fortress
and harbour, is a classic choice for lunch or dinner, or, why
not a Christmas Buffet. Vaxholm is easily accessible year
round, by boat or bus.
Grinda A charming island, just over an hour away by the
fastest boat, via Vaxholm. A blissful archipelago setting, in a
nature reserve. Good swimming in summer. Grinda Wärdshus
is an inn, built in art nouveau style, open on weekends
and holidays year round. Grinda has hotels, cabins, a youth
hostel and campground, plus a range of activities including
kayaking. Open all year, although only weekends during
winter.
other excurSionS
The Stockholm region has an enormous selection of
interesting, enjoyable and exciting day trips. Below are
two suggestions. Many more can be found at
www.stockholmtown.com
Sigtuna Sweden’s oldest town, founded in the 10th
century. Small-scale and pedestrian friendly, with charming
wooden buildings by Lake Mälaren, less than an hour
outside of Stockholm. Good selection of stores, cafés,
restaurants and hotels, plus an interesting museum. The district
is rich in rune stones, to fascinate history buffs. Sigtuna can
be reached by train, bus, or boat from the center of
Stockholm. Nearby is Skokloster Castle, a first-class
attraction. Skokloster was the residence of one of Gustav II
Adolf’s generals when Sweden was a superpower, and the
castle interior from the mid 17th century has been kept
completely intact.
Mariefred Sweet, picturesque small town with plenty of
history, just over an hour by car from Stockholm, built around
the majestic Gripsholm Castle. Gripsholm was a fortress in
thingS to Do
the 14th century, and took its present form in the 1530s under
King Gustav Vasa. It houses the Swedish State’s portrait
collection. Also worth seeing is Grafikens hus, an important
museum for graphic art. In the warm months you can reach
the town on the historical steamship Mariefred. Launched in
1903, it has trafficked this route ever since. You can eat lunch
on board in the beautiful dining saloon. Mariefred also has a
narrow-gauge historical railway. The charming town center
has numerous charming restaurants, cafés, and shops.
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Shopping
Stockholm attracts shopping-hungry visitors from all over the
world. And compared to other international cities, Stockholm
is reasonably priced. Here are some interesting places to
shop; you can find more at www.stockholmtown.com
city
Here you’ll find the big department stores and chains,
with affordable shopping, especially for the young trendy
crowd.
PUB Classic department store by Hötorget Square. Now
offering an exciting, creative blend of new and vintage
fashions, art and design, cosmetics, jewelry, books, CDs and
magazines, exhibitions, events and much more.
Weekday Concept store for the successful jeans brand
Cheap Monday. Featuring a wide, updated selection of
other brands, especially Swedish. Götgatan 21, Olofsgatan
1 and Drottninggatan 65.
NK Steeped in tradition, NK is Stockholm’s most luxurious
department store, established 1902. Swedish and
international fashion, cosmetics, jewelry, crystal, ceramics,
design, fine foods and much more. Hamngatan 18–20.
Gallerian Hamngatan Stockholm’s first and largest indoor
arcade. Youthful, fashion and more. Hamngatan 37.
SOUK Large, trendy, youthful shopping paradise with lots of
interesting Swedish and international brands. Vibrant and
noisy. Also includes hair salons, cafés and more. Drottninggatan
53.
Åhléns City Sweden’s largest department store, with
competitive prices for clothing, design, media, beauty and
much more. Large, diverse grocery store in the basement.
Klarabergsgatan 50.
BirKaStan
In recent years the cozy area around Rörstrandsgatan
in Birkastan just northwest of the city center has enjoyed
a renaissance. Nestled here are a range of creative
and trend-conscious clothing stores with Swedish and
international brands, as well as several designers’ own
stores. Examples include Strayboys, Plagg, Standard,
Black Market and Carin Wester. So for style buffs, the
area is definitely worth a visit. There are also plenty of
charming, cool restaurants, bars and cafés. This area
and nearby Vasastan are home to numerous antique and
second-hand stores where discerning buyers can pick up
some great items.
SöDermalm
Here you’ll find a diverse range of quirky, contemporary
stores offering clothing, design, second-hand/vintage
items and curios. The selection here is hipper and more
bohemian than downtown.
SoFo The blocks south of Folkungagatan are packed with
interesting, cool and creative shops specializing in clothing,
design, jewelry, knickknacks, vintage and second-hand,
houseware, books and magazines, music and much more.
Several fashion brands have their own stores in this district.
There are also scores of restaurants, cafés and galleries.
The atmosphere is laid-back, yet highly aware. In the warm
months, Nytorget Square is a bustling social scene.
Below are three examples of typical SoFo stores.
Grandpa Charming, personal mix of clothes, shoes, accessories,
jewelry, vintage items, design, and knickknacks.
Frequent DJs and live music. Has just opened a store on
Kungsholmen island. Södermannagatan 21.
Tjallamalla Clothes, shoes, accessories, jewelry, and
vintage pieces. Tjallamalla has a wide, up-to-the-minute
selection, with a focus on Swedish designers, from the well
established to the newest and edgiest. Bondegatan 46.
Sivletto Eccentric, irresistible store, featuring clothes, design,
magazines and music – all from the 1950s! Malmgårdsvägen
16–18.

öSTermAlm
Östermalm is Stockholm’s most exclusive district, offering
the finest of everything. Below are a few classic Östermalm
stores and shopping areas.
Birger Jarlsgatan Powershopping boulevard, with stores
for brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Orrefors/Kosta Boda,
Georg Jensen, Agent Provocateur, Hugo Boss and more, plus
exclusive multibrand boutiques like Nathalie Schuterman,
Maruschka de Margot etc.
Nathalie Schuterman Multibrand store with up-to-date selection
of international high-fashion brands like Prada, Miu Miu,
Balenciaga, Lanvin, Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, Marc Jacobs
and many more. Birger Jarlsgatan 5.
Maruschka de Margot Multibrand store for international
high fashion, featuring John Galliano, Alaia, Alexander
McQueen, Norma Kamali, Sonia Rykiel and more. Birger
Jarlsgatan 7.
Biblioteksgatan Pedestrian street with an array of high-end
clothing stores and jewelers.
Svenskt Tenn Classic interior design store on the beautiful
waterfront esplanade of Strandvägen 5. Fantastic collection
of furniture and textiles, predominantly by the Swedish-
Austrian designer Josef Frank. Gorgeous gift section, with
glassware, ceramics and much more. A must for design
aficionados.
Östermalm Food Hall The world’s most beautiful food hall?
This is were you can buy all of the finest Swedish delicacies.
The selection is enormous and the quality superb.
Östermalms torg.
Asplund Modern classic shop with an internationally
renowned collection of contemporary Swedish and
international interior design. Sibyllegatan 31.
Sturegallerian Exclusive arcade in upmarket Stureplan zone,
with fashion, resturants, cafés, and spa.
Kommendörsgatan On Kommendörsgatan and its cross
streets Nybrogatan and Sibyllegatan you’ll find many of
Sweden’s most respected antique dealers, selling art, furniture,
crafts, jewelry, books, rugs and much more. You can
spend days here, and find exquisite pieces.
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AfforDAble SWeDiSH fASHion AnD DeSiGn
Recently much has been written about what we call ”the
Swedish design and fashion miracle”. The phrase refers
primarily to brands and chains that have reaped worldwide
success by selling contemporary fashion and design
at reasonable prices to style-conscious target groups. Not
surprisingly, Stockholm has the most comprehensive collection
of these brands and concepts. Below are a few.
Acne This fashion house has proven a massive hit around
the world, led by its cool and innovative jeans collection.
Flagship store at Norrmalmstorg in the city center.
H&M These days H&M is a huge global player. In central
Stockholm you’ll find the biggest selection in the massive
concept stores at the intersection of the streets Hamngatan
and Regeringsgatan.
IKEA of Sweden A global phenomenon that has transformed
how we decorate our homes. The store in suburban Skärholmen
is Sweden’s and the world’s largest IKEA, opening in
1965. The area is also home to several other megastores
offering budget shopping.
Design House Stockholm Chain store featuring Scandinavian
design, with stores worldwide. Concept store at
Norrmalmstorg.
SHoppinG
Designtorget This chain has several stores in Stockholm, presenting
contemporary Swedish design, houseware, books,
toys and much more. It stocks products created by wellknown
as well as unknown designers and other creatives.

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The city of flavorful adventures
In recent years, Stockholm has been much publicized
in global media as one of Europe’s and the
world’s most exciting and creative gastronomic hubs.
The selection is impressive, whether your taste is
international fi ne dining, traditional Swedish dishes,
ethnic fare from around the globe or competitively
priced and updated bistro classics.
When it comes to dining, Stockholm offers prime
value for money. We dare say you won’t forget the
fl avors of Stockholm anytime soon.
In the selection of restaurants presented here, the
focus is on Swedish and international restaurants. For
a more complete picture, including ethnic eateries,
go to www.stockholmtown.com
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DininG
miCHelin STArS AnD oTHer lUminArieS
The selection of modern gourmet restaurants in Stockholm
is staggering. Last year the city had no less than seven
Michelin-starred restaurants. If you’re up for some truly
innovative dining adventures, many more are well worth
a visit. Stockholm chefs can certainly hold their own and
more with any competition in the world.
Esperanto Describes its approach as ”romantic, surrealist,
with touches of natural elements”. In the latest edition of the
White Guide, a respected Swedish restaurant guide,
Esperanto shared the award for best restaurant in Sweden.
As the name suggests, it finds inspiration in food cultures
worldwide. One reviewer writes: ”Spectacular entertainment
with dashes of humor and decadence”. Doesn’t that sound
quite enticing..? Kungstensgatan 2, +46 (0)8 696 23 23,
www.esperantorestaurant.se
Fredsgatan 12 (F12) A modern classic among Stockholm’s
top restaurants, located by the water and the Government
headquarters and ministries. The guests are an invigorating
blend of people from politics, finance, culture and of course
foodies. The focus is on innovative international cuisine with
unusual flavor combinations guaranteed to surprise any
pleasure-hungry diner. Fredsgatan 12, +46 (0)8 24 80 52,
www.f12.se
Lux Stockholm Lux Stockholm on the island of Lilla Essingen
was last year named ”Best restaurant experience, overall”
and ”Best service”, in the White Guide. Lux Stockholm
serves up contemporary Swedish and international cuisine
with locally produced ingredients. The venue is exquisite,
especially in summer when the doors towards Lake Mälaren
are opened. Primusgatan 116, +46 (0)8 619 01 90,
www.luxstockholm.se
Mathias Dahlgren In 2007 one of Sweden’s most
celebrated chefs opened his new restaurant in a magnificent
location in the Grand Hôtel, with views across to the Royal
Palace. Dahlgren’s kitchen takes Swedish ingredients and
culinary culture to new peaks. Superbly entertaining, both on
the plate and in the dining room itself, in addition to the
towering flavors. Södra Blasieholmshamnen 6,
+46 (0)8 679 35 84, www.mdghs.se
Leijontornet Elegant basement restaurant in the Old Town,
resting on a 13th-century fortification (Leijontornet, or the Lion
Tower). The kitchen’s ambitious goal is to develop a new
Swedish cuisine, based on reinterpretations of classical
themes, combined with more or less familiar flavors from the
Swedish natural world. The menu also has medieval touches
executed in hyper-contemporary, sometimes extreme fashion.
Lilla Nygatan 5, +46 (0)8 506 400 80, www.leijontornet.se
Operakällaren A classic. Sweden’s most famous dining
room, in the same building as the Royal Swedish Opera. A
magnificent setting, with views across the water to the Royal
Palace from the terrace bar. Dine on first-class international
delicacies, presented with bold, contemporary flair. The
legendary Nobis wine cellar is a wine lover’s magic cave.
Karl XII:s Torg, +46 (0)8 676 58 00, www.operakallaren.se
Frantzén/Lindeberg This compact restaurant in the
medieval Old Town is this year’s trendiest and most
talked-about hotspot. For foodies who like to push the
boundaries, dinner here is a spectacular show, full of surprises
and humor. Or what do you say about escargots and caviar
d’escargot, surrounded on the plate by a music box, circus of
aromas, cat grass, violets, pollen and rapeseed? Lilla Ny -
gatan 21, +46 (0)8 20 85 80, www.frantzen-lindeberg.com
Pontus! Modern, sophisticated food palace and social
scene, ranging over several levels in a spectacular setting near
Stureplan in central Stockholm. Featuring an oyster bar, an
Asian-themed bar with dim-sum and a sushi counter. Inter-
national and Swedish delicacies, prepared with style. Brunns-
gatan 1, +46 (0)8 545 273 00, www.pontusfrithiof.com
Edsbacka krog An inn with a history going back nearly four
centuries, located in Sollentuna outside Stockholm. The Michelin
stars disappeared temporarily when the founder and
head chef moved on, but the outstanding quality remains.
Edsbacka is a gastronomic journey in a cozy, welcoming
environment. The focus is on traditional Swedish and international
delicacies. +46 (0)8 96 33 00,
www.edsbackakrog.se
ClASSiC SWeDiSH
Den Gyldene Freden In a medieval basement in the Old
Town you’ll find this classic restaurant. Owned by the Swedish
Academy, which selects the Nobel Prize for literature.
Legend has it that many Nobel prizes have been decided at
the Academy’s regular table here. The menu offers big names
in classic Swedish cooking, nowadays with interesting
contemporary touches. Österlånggatan 51,
+46 (0)8 24 97 60, www.gyldenefreden.se
Sollidens restaurang This restaurant at the Skansen open-air
museum enjoys spectacular panoramic views across Stock-
Book a table!
7 to 7.30 pm are common starting times for dinner
in Stockholm. 12 pm is the regular time for lunch.
At popular restaurants, you should definitely
reserve, preferably well in advance. At the most
popular spots you often have to book one week
ahead for weekdays, even earlier for weekends.

DininG
holm. Open through the summer and in December. During
summer, you should try a classic Swedish smörgåsbord in
Solliden’s classic dining room, served every day from noon
to 4 pm. Skansen open-air museum, +46 (0)8 566 370 00,
www.profilrestauranger.se
Carl Michael Updated traditional Swedish restaurant, near
the Gröna Lund amusement park on Djurgården Island. Rustic,
seasonal fare with fun and interesting surprises. Allmänna
Gränd 6 +46 (0)8 667 45 96. www.carlmichael.se
Operakällarens bakficka Classic mini-bistro and foodbar
with well-made traditional Swedish dishes. Part of the
Operakällaren’s food palace. Very popular for lunch. No
reservations, so come early or late. Karl XII:s Torg,
+46 (0)8 676 58 00. www.operakallaren.se
Restaurang 1900 Traditional Swedish flavors and ingredients
in new interpretations, with international influences. Beautiful
country-style interior, located right downtown. The hugely
popular bar is famed for its tasty, good-looking cocktails.
Regeringsgatan 66, +46 (0)8 20 60 10, www.r1900.se
DininG oUT of THe orDinAry
Stockholm overflows with restaurants offering beautiful
sea views and other unique qualities that add new dimensions
to your dining experience.
Grill A vast array of ingredients and a huge number of barbecue
techniques, with inspiration from five continents. The
interior is playful and imaginative, to say the least, with nine
different styles, spanning from hunting lodge to Versailles.
+46 (0)8 31 45 30, Drottninggatan 89, www.grill.se
Sturehof Classic brasserie and social stage at Stureplan in
the center of Stockholm’s entertainment precinct. Swedish cuisine
with international influences. Several bars. In summer the
alfresco section is the place to see and be seen. Stureplan 2,
+46 (0)8 440 57 30, www.sturehof.com
Kungsholmen Up market food court with no less than seven
different kitchens on Norr Mälarstrand, with views across the
oAxenS SkÄrGÅrDSkroG –
A GASTronomiC oDySSey
It’s often ranked as Sweden’s number one restaurant –
Oaxen skärgårdskrog in the Stockholm Archipelago, an
hour south of the city. As it’s only open in summer and
December, it isn’t rated in international guides. The restaurateurs
are pioneers in the use of local, organic ingredients
and in their focus on refining the classic Swedish flavors.
For genuine food lovers this is an excursion that is highly
recommended. There is also a charming hotel located in
a ship from 1935. Hölö/Mörkö, +46 (0)8 551 531 05,
www.oaxenkrog.se
beautiful bay of Riddarfjärden. Especially in summer, it’s a vibrant
meeting point with a large outdoor area in sea breeze
on the pier, surrounded by water. Norr Mälarstrand, Kajplats
464, +46 (0)8 505 244 50. www.kungsholmen.com
Restaurang Gondolen Despite the abundance of tough
competition, here are by far Stockholm’s most spectacular
views – from a gantry suspended high over the entrance to
Stockholm’s port. Large dining room with classy Swedish and
international cuisine, and a very popular cocktail lounge.
Stadsgården 6, +46 (0)8 641 70 90, www.eriks.se
Östermalm Food Hall Gorgeous food hall from the 1880s,
with counters and shelves are packed with the best of
the finest. There are also numerous restaurants and cafés
9
Lunch: a smart investment
Lunch prices in Stockholm restaurants are generally
very reasonable. You can normally get a well-made
’Dagens lunch’ (Lunch of the Day) for less than a
hundred Crowns, with a choice of meat, fish or vegetarian.
Also, at lunch you’re not expected to leave a
tip. Best of all is that the price usually includes a nonalcoholic
drink, plus bread and butter, salad, coffee
and sometimes even something sweet. After a lunch
like that you’re well prepared for a full day of walking,
sightseeing and shopping.

where you can enjoy traditional Swedish delicacies, with
an emphasis on seafood and the classic Swedish fare we
call ’husmanskost’. Open lunch and afternoons only. A great
place to people-watch. Nybrogatan 29–33 (Östermalmstorg
square), www.ostermalmshallen.se
GAy & leSbiAn
There’s no specific gay-lesbian precinct in Stockholm
– the rainbow flags fly right across the city. Listed here
is a selection of gay-lesbian and gay-lesbian-friendly
restaurants, bars and cafés. See www.stockholmtown.
com for more info.
Torget Restaurant and bar in the Old Town with crystal
chandeliers and velvet drapes. Popular theme nights and live
performances. Mälartorget 13, +46 (0)8 20 55 60,
www.torgetbaren.com
Mälarpaviljongen A verdant oasis with a restaurant, bar
and alfresco section, located on the pier, waterfront and a
barge at Norr Mälarstrand. Stunning views across the waters
of Riddarfjärden. Atmospheric, cozy local restaurant and
high-spirited bar with great music. Open during the summer
season only. Norr Mälarstrand 64, +46 (0)8 650 87 01,
www.malarpaviljongen.se
Roxy Intimate, enjoyable meeting place with a restaurant
and bar in the chic-bohemian Nytorget Square on Södermalm.
Run by three female restaurateurs. Attracts especially
– but by no means exclusively – a female crowd. Nytorget 6,
+46 (0)8 640 96 55, www.roxysofo.se
Chokladkoppen Cozy little café at idyllic Stortorget Square,
not far from the Royal Palace in the medieval Old Town.
Exquisite sandwiches and pastries, and in summer a popular
alfresco section. Stortorget 18, +46 (0)8 20 31 70.
pUrSe-frienDly qUAliTy
Caffè Nero Italian restaurant serving generous portions,
cooked with love in a modern, minimalist space. Run by
Italians, which is evident in the quality and the passion.
Top-grade ingredients and excellent pasta dishes.
Roslagsgatan 4, +46 (0)8 22 19 35, www.caffenero.se
Systrarna Lundberg Very popular restaurant and bar on
Rörstrandsgatan, a shopping street in the Vasastan district.
Generous servings and pleasant (nice) prices. No reservations,
so get there early. Rörstrandsgatan 12,
+46 (0)8 30 57 47, www.systrarnalundberg.se
Kvarnen Legendary restaurant, bar and waterhole with a
century’s history, in the old blue-collar district of Södermalm.
Enjoy well-made, classic Swedish fare in a beautiful setting,
with high ceilings and plenty of patina. Tjärhovsgatan 4,
+46 (0)8 643 03 80, www.kvarnen.com
Go for a “fika”!
DininG
Going for a fika is a very Swedish thing. Though untranslatable,
it basically means to meet up for a coffee
and a piece of cake or pastry. Sweden enjoys a highly
developed culture when it comes to baked goods, and
everywhere in Stockholm you’ll find cafés and cake
shops brimming with atmosphere, character and quality,
whether traditional or contemporary-creative.
Xoko at Rörstrandsgatan 15 in the Vasastan district
is an innovative and prize-winning café, chocolaterie
and dessert-bistro(!). Vetekatten at Kungsgatan 55
in central Stockholm is one of the scores of well-preserved,
tradition-packed coffee shops where you can
sample traditional Swedish pastries of superior quality.
Blå Porten A classic destination for Stockholmers on a
weekend walk or a visit to the museums of Djurgården island.
Beautiful old interior, and relaxed bohemian garden.
Tempting pastries and lunch dishes with a Mediterranean
touch. Djurgårdsvägen 64, +46 (0)8 663 87 59,
www.blaporten.com
10

niGHT life
bArS
A quiet cocktail in a stylish international atmosphere?
Something ice-cold, or red-hot? Stockholm has bars
for every imaginable taste and mood. Here are a few
examples. More at www.stockholmtown.com
Riche Classic meeting place in the city center, with multiple
bars and restaurants. Stockholm’s art, fashion and club
crowds gather here to see and be seen. Birger Jarlsgatan 4,
+46 (0)8 545 035 60, www.riche.se
Cadierbaren Grand Hôtel Luxurious, elegantly cozy bar
with comfortable sofa groups and ravishing views of the water
and the Royal Palace. Innovative bar menu and popular
weekend brunch and afternoon tea. A classic Stockholm
experience. Södra Blasieholmshamnen 8,
+46 (0)8 679 35 85, www.cadierbaren.se
Absolut Ice Bar The planet’s first permanent ice bar, made
of ice from the world-famous Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, Lapland.
Everything except the liquids in the drinks is made of ice, and
the temperature is kept at a constant 23 degrees Fahrenheit.
Vasaplan, +46 (0)8 505 631 24,
www.nordicseahotel.se
Och Himlen Därtill Elegant, luxurious cocktail lounge and
sky bar with spectacular 360-degree views of Stockholm,
from the top of a skyscraper in Södermalm. Open to 3 am on
weekends. Also a stylish restaurant. Götgatan 78,
+46 (0)8 660 60 68, www.restauranghimlen.se
ClUbS
Rock or jazz? Classical or contemporary? Hard or soft?
Mainstream or cutting-edge? Stockholm’s vast selection of
clubs offers something for every taste. Many more tips are
listed at www.stockholmtown.com
Café Opera Everyone who is anyone has partied here,
and quite a few nobodys, beneath the famous crystal
chandeliers. This recently renovated club is housed in
magnificent interior spaces in the Opera House, adjacent to
with the equally famous Operakällaren restaurant. Karl XII:s
Torg, +46 (0)8 676 58 07, www.cafeopera.se
Berns Gorgeous entertainment mecca in well-preserved art
nouveau style from the 1860s, boasting a vast dining room
and numerous bars, cafés and alfresco areas in summer.
Also a hotel and stage, with a range of international artists
year round. Hot, hip members’ club with multimedia gallery.
Berzelii Park, +46 (0)8 566 322 22, www.berns.se
1
3
Sturecompagniet Stockholm’s biggest club, situated
smack in the heart of Stureplan. Choose from an array of
bars and dance floors, each with its own music style. Sture -
gatan 4, +46 (0)73 448 66 30, www.sturecompagniet.se
Fasching Long-lived, legendary jazz club with club nights
and concerts featuring jazz, soul and latin. Ambitious, varied
program, year round. Kungsgatan 63,
+46 (0)8 534 829 60, www.fasching.se
Debaser Stockholm’s center for live music and rock culture,
mainly for the younger crowd. Two locations, both on
Södermalm. Concerts most days of the week – everything
from pop to the hardest hardcore. Slussen and Medborgarplatsen,
+46 (0)8 30 56 20, www.debaser.se
2
Start when the night is young!
Clubbers in Stockholm are spoiled for choice, with a
particular concentration of venues around Stureplan in
the city center. Other hotspots include the boulevards
of Kungsgatan and Birger Jarlsgatan and the area
around Kungsträdgården. On Friday and Saturday
nights, most clubs are open until three, and sometimes
to five in the morning. Thursdays are also big club
nights. Some of the hottest clubs have long lines and
lots of VIP guests. Usually the lines don’t form until
after midnight, so it’s smart to start early – why not
combine it with a meal? Most clubs have restaurants
on the premises.

WELCOME TO STOCKHOLM´S
INTERNATIONAL CASINO
KUNGSGATAN 65 IN THE CITY CENTRE • OPEN DAILY 13-05
APPROVED PHOTO ID REQUIRED FOR ALL GUESTS
AGE MINIMUM 20 YEARS

accommoDation
A classic hotel, steeped in tradition, or the world’s first hostel
in a jumbo jet? Design hotels with sea views or wallet-friendly
camping? Stockholm has a huge range of accommodation in
every price bracket, to suit every taste.
If you want to stay somewhere a bit more basic and
inexpensive, there are scores of good quality, pleasant
and personal hostels, B&Bs and apartment hotels, many in
fantastic locations.
You’ll find an extensive selection of Stockholm’s hotels,
youth hostels, campgrounds and other types of accommodation,
and you can also make bookings, at
www.stockholmtown.com
BooK your hotel at
WWW.StocKholmtoWn.com
Discover more by train
There is so much to see in Sweden, and you
just have to leave the immediate area around
Stockholm to experience genuine Swedish
small-town life and its closeness to nature.
Trains to very interesting destinations depart
several times a day. A day out by train is an
excellent way to discover more. Välkommen!
For more information and bookings, please visit www.
sj.se/english, call +46 771 75 75 75 or visit SJ Ticket
Offi ce at the Stockholm Central Station.
Gripsholm
Castle
45 mins

traVel
It’s easy to get to Stockholm from most places in the world,
with direct flights from many large cities. Low-price airlines
have made it much easier and cheaper to travel here. Stockholm
has three airports, with good connections to the city
center. From the main airport, Stockholm Arlanda Airport, the
Arlanda Express fast train takes you to the city center in 20
minutes. Airport buses, Flygbussarna – Airport Coaches, run
frequently from all the three Stockholm airports.
Transport within Stockholm is efficient, convenient, and
safe. Fastest is the subway, which covers the entire Stockholm
area. The buses are quick and environmental, traveling in
separate lanes and powered by ethanol. At any time, you
can order a cab from your cell phone and be picked up often
within five minutes. Some of the leading cab companies are
Taxi Stockholm, TaxiKurir and Taxi 020. Some companies
offer a set price, and you can always pay by credit card.
The standard price from Arlanda Airport to Stockholm
City should be around 500 SEK.
For more information on travel,
see www.stockholmtown.com

GET THE BEST VIEW OF STOCKHOLM!
Sight-feeling – experiences for all senses
Sightseeing is a fantastic way to experience a city. By bus or boat, always with a good storyteller and sometimes with opportunities
to appease your hunger and sample Swedish food. In Stockholm, Strömma Kanalbolaget, Cinderella Båtarna, City Sightseeing and
Stockholm Sightseeing are the top providers of these experiences.
Tourist Office
Vasa Museum
Archipelago Tour
Royal Canal Tour
Stockholm
Panorama
Royal Palace
City Hall
Sandhamn
Under the bridges of Stockholm
OLD TOWN
Tour to Drottningholm
Tour to Birka
cinderellabatarna.com citysightseeing.com
stockholmsightseeing.se strommakanalbolaget.com
ONLINE:
BOOK

We’re here
for you!
We’re very proud of our city, and our job is to make your
stay in Stockholm as enjoyable and convenient as possible.
You decide how you want to use our services. Here
are our locations:
STOCKHOLM TOURIST CENTRE
At our big infopoint/meeting place in Kungsträdgården in
central Stockholm, you get personal service and help with
almost anything – hotel bookings, guides, and tickets to
events and sightseeing. We can help you with brochures
and all sorts of information. There’s also Internet access and
telephones. Hamn gatan 27, +46 (0)8-508 28 508,
info@svb.stockholm.se
ARLANDA VISITOR CENTER
A service center at Stockholm Arlanda Airport, providing airport
and tourist information, ticket sales for Arlanda Express
and airport buses, Flygbussarna – Airport Coaches, and
more. Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Terminal 5,
+46 (0)8-797 60 00.
300 VIRTUAL TOURIST INFO CENTERS
– THE STOCKHOLM PANELS
You now have easy access to all information and service
from stockholmtown.com, via our Stockholm Panels. They’re
free, at some 300 locations where visitors tend to circulate,
like the Central Station and many hotels.
LIVE CHAT WITH OUR TOURISM INFORMATION
PROVIDERS
At all of our 300 Stockholm Panels you can get answers to
your questions via a no-charge live chat with our knowledgeable
tourism information providers.
the StocKholm carD
The Stockholm Card gives
you free admission to more
than 75 museums and
attractions, free travel with
public transport, free boat
sightseeing and numerous bonus offers. You can buy a
card for 24, 48, or 72 hours. A Stockholm guide is also
included. It’s guaranteed value for money!
WHAT’S ON Up-to-date guide, full of information and tips on
events and attractions. Grab one once you’ve arrive in town.
It comes out nine times a year and is available at tourism
offi ces, hotels and many other locations.
WWW.STOCKHOLMTOWN.COM Our website with all the
information and help you need, before and during your visit.
You can even book hotels and buy the Stockholm Card.
1: © Nicho Södling/SVB, 2–3: © Richard Ryan/SVB, © Yanan Li/SVB, © Nicho Södling/SVB, © Shutterstock, © Shutterstock, © Jonas Kosunen/Strömma, 4–5: © Åke E:son Lindman/
Vasamuseet, © Tony Publik/Millesgården, © Nicho Södling/SVB, © Marie Andersson/Skansen, © Nicho Södling/SVB, © Ola Ericson/www.stockholmsfoto.se, © Susanne Hallmann/Kyrkogårdsförvaltningen
Stockholms stad, 6–7: © Junibacken, © Ulf Hinds/SVB, © Rederi Stockholms Ström, © Henrik Trygg/SVB, © Yanan Li/SVB, 10–11: © Chad Ehlers/Gettyimages,
© Jeppe Wikström/Johner, © Fjäderholmarnas krog, © Bosse Lind/Paragon, © Olaf af Scandinavia, © Janne Olander/pixgallery.com, © Mauro Rongione/Johner, 12–13: © Nicho Södling/
SVB, © Kristian Löveborg, © Roland Persson/Orrefors, © Nicho Södling/SVB, 14–15: © Magnus Skoglöf, © Grand Hotel, © Anders Thessing/Oaxen, © Stefan van der Kwast Gissberg,
© Max Plunger, © Eriks Gondolen, © Nicho Södling/SVB, 16–17: © Caffè Nero, © Max Plunger, © Nicho Södling/SVB, © Nicho Södling/www.imagebank.sweden.se, 18: © BigBen,
© Max Plunger, © Mathias Nordengren/Stureplansgruppen.se, 20: © Sesse Lind/Nordic Light Hotel, © Anne Söderberg/Grand Hotel, © Clarion Hotel Sign, 21: © Shutterstock, © Yanan Li/
SVB, 23: © Yanan Li/SVB.
Stockholm Visitors Board
Ph +46 8 508 28 508
info@svb.stockholm.se
www.stockholmtown.com

20 MINUTES
ARLANDA AIRPORT STOCKHOLM CITY
Book online: www.arlandaexpress.com/en
ARLANDA EXPRESS PART OF YOUR FLIGHT