Stockholm
Fun fact. I went to this city after I tasted a cardamom bun from the Swedish bakery Fabrique in NYC.
That first taste of that cardamom bun was what inspired my 30th birthday trip here. It was and is that good. When I landed in Stockholm, the pastries just got better and better. I had at least two of them a day.
Another reason I ventured to Stockholm was my love of Scandinavian design. There’s a reason this style has become so popular with its clean lines, pops of colors, and minimalist approach.
Stockholm does not disappoint with its culture, history, beauty, pastries (have I mentioned how good the pastries are?), hospitality, and more. Even in the dead of Nordic winter, Stockholm was alluring with its endless cozy restaurants, hotels, and bars.
If you’ve ever considered traveling to Stockholm, do it! I’m hoping to return one day soon.
TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN STOCKHOLM
Agrikultur - Agrikultur is one of those meals that you’ll remember for a lifetime. This intimate restaurant, located in Stockholm’s Södermalm neighborhood, focuses on seasonal Swedish produce. The contemporary approach to Nordic cuisine will leave you with a firm sense of place for Swedish food and heritage.
Fotografiska - You’ll find the Fotografiska on most Stockholm lists and for a reason. This museum focuses on world class photography and has a great cafe and bookshop once you finish perusing.
Vassa Museum - One of the most unique museums in the world, the Vassa Museum houses a ship from 1628 that immediately sank in the harbor after takeoff. The ship is almost 100% preserved from the day it sank, giving a close up look of this vast vessel from the 17th century. You’ll be in awe of the sheer size of the ship.
Miss Clara Hotel - As a self-proclaimed minimalist, staying at Miss Clara Hotel was a must for me. The hotel was a former girls school named after the headmistress. I loved the design, the chic bar downstairs, and that all of the products were Byredo.
Book a massage at The Grand Hotel - You must have a Swedish massage in Sweden. At least, that is what I told myself, and it was one of the best things I’ve ever done. The facilities at The Grand Hotel’s Spa are gorgeous and completely peaceful. Book your massage for early in the afternoon, then plan to stay and enjoy the facilities for hours after. You will walk out feeling like a new person.
Sturehof - A local recommended Sturehof to me and I’m so glad that they did. It was one of our favorite meals we had in Stockholm. You will be surrounded by the fabulous set of Swedes here, so be sure to dress the part.
Fabrique - Refer to the first line of this post. Fabrique is why I went to Stockholm in the first place. Lucky for everyone, they have locations all over the city. Have a cardamom bun for me or any of their seasonal pastries.
Green Rabbit - This delightful bakery from a well known Swedish Chef specializes in rye bread, but has delicious sweets as well. Get the plum and almond tarte if it's in season.
Glenn Miller Café - A cozy bar/cafe with great music. Glenn Miller is the perfect for a nightcap. **Note they are open on Sunday nights which is a rarity in the city!
Acne Archive - Fan of the Stockholm brand Acne Studios? Make a trip to the Acne Archive store to snag deals on past collections. Although it's slightly out of the way of Stockholm’s center, it's worth it for the prices.
TIPS + TRICKS FOR STOCKHOLM
Nothing is open on Sundays. If you find yourself in Stockholm on a Sunday, plan for nothing being open! And truly, I mean nothing. We were lucky to find a restaurant open in Gamla Stan on a Sunday evening.
The underground art is amazing. Take public transport and view the stunning underground stations in Stockholm. The picture of this post was taken at one of those stops.
It’s cold, but oh so lovely. Our trip was during the winter months and I’m so glad it was. Every place is outfitted to be cozy and warm complete with candlelight. I personally thought it was magic visiting in the winter.
In winter the sun sets at 3pm. Yes, you read that right. Don’t be alarmed though, there is still plenty of action throughout the day in the city until around midnight.