Beginner's Guide to Sweden

Sleep Cheap

2006-06-07T20:11:02Z

For a great night’s sleep with a low price, check out some of these low cost accommodations that Stockholm has to offer.

City Backpackers Vanddrarhem/ Hostel. This hotel is located right next to Central Station. Known for its friendly staff and beautiful, this hotel is a perfect place to stay if you are on a low budget. If you are planning on backpacking, every room is equipped with a security key code to ensure the safety of your gear. Internet access is available as well as a washer/dryer, TV room, and sauna. This is a great place to come rest after a long day of travel.

Gustav af Klint. If you are looking for a place to stay in the town centre, the Gustav af Klint is the least expensive. It is located on a boat and provides breathtaking views over the port and city centre.

Brygghuset. The Brygghuset is located near Odenplan T-bana. It is a beautifully converted brewery and is a very tranquil and relaxing place to stay. Make your reservations now, it is only open from June to mid-September.

Hostel Zinkensdamm. The Hostel Zinkensdamm is a gorgeous accommodation located by the T-bana water. It is a large facility with fully equipped kitchens to suite your every dining need.

Tre smu rum. The Tre smu rum is a smaller hotel with seven bright and modern rooms that provide much comfort. It is located in the heart of Soder T-bana Mariatorget.

Stockholm - Seven Day Itinerary Overview

2006-06-07T20:11:27Z

No matter what time of year it is, the city of Stockholm contains enough to do to fill every day of your vacation. Make the most of your visit to Stockholm by creating an itinerary for yourself and your family. This will help ensure that you see as much as you can during your Stockholm stay. However, don’t be afraid to stray from it, because one of the fascinating things about Stockholm is all the little treasures you can find anywhere you go. If you are interested in creating an itinerary, the following is an example that you can use to get you started:

Day One

2006-06-07T20:12:35Z

Stockholm contains some of the most intriguing museums in the world. What a great way to start off your vacation in Stockholm then by viewing some of these beauties. Be sure and check out the Vasa Museum. This museum is not only Sweden’s most visited museum, but also Scandinavia’s. This museum is located on the only remaining 17th century ship in the world- the Vasa. Discovered in 1961, the Vasa was completely restored and opened as a museum in 1990. The museum contains artifacts that depict what life would have been like on the ship. There are also countless films and slideshows that tell more of the ship’s history.

Once you are done visiting the Vasa Museum, take a stroll through Stockholm’s other famous museum, the Skansen. The Skansen is located on the same island as the Vasa Museum and is the world’s first open-air museum. When you walk around this museum you will feel as if you’ve transported into another world of traditional farmhouses, schools, and windmills. The Skansen also includes a zoo that houses native and exotic animals.

No matter which of the many museums you choose to go to while in Stockholm, you are sure to be taken aback by the city’s rich culture and beauty.

Day Two

2006-06-07T20:13:04Z

Today is a day for shopping! But don’t make the mistake of thinking that you are done looking at Stockholm’s history: even the shopping centers are like museums in that they showcase Stockholm’s rich culture.

Be sure to not miss out on the Gamla Stan. The Gamla Stan, also known as “Old Town” is Stockholm’s first settlement. It is located in the heart of Stockholm and contains the Vasterlanggatan, the most touristy street in Sweden. This street is lined with shops that offer rare gifts and brilliant souvenirs. If you are traveling with family members who are not really in to the shopping scene, don’t worry! There is also a large arcade and several ice cream parlors to keep them occupied.

Day Three

2006-06-07T20:13:25Z

Today is the perfect day for a visit to one of Stockholm’s largest amusement parks! Perfect for all ages, the Grona Lund is sure to make anyone feel like a child again. The park is full of music and multi-colored flashing lights. Take a trip in the “Oldsmobile” while your there- it’s quite safe! In the Leklandet, children between four and nine years old can take a trip in the Nyckelpigan, a small rollercoaster.

And what would an amusement park be without popcorn or cotton candy? Candy stores line this park making it a true candy lover’s paradise. Tickets are 45 SEK for adults, and children under the age of nine go in for free when accompanied by an adult.

Once the kids are done eating candy if they still want a great place to play, take them just a mile away to the Vita Bergen, a playground that is like a children’s heritage area. This park contains fantastic views of the Hammarby area and contains everything a child could imagine at a park: swings, climbing frames and an old tractor to climb and play on. If you are there during the summer, you will probably see a few pigs, hens, and sheep. In the winter, the park has many sled slopes to keep the young and old alike entertained.

Day Four

2006-06-07T20:13:50Z

Get ready for more sightseeing as you embark on one of Stockholm’s boat tours! This is a great way to start your day by getting a good view of the cloisters of islands that Stockholm has surrounding its city. There are several boat tours to choose from, and the prices and lengths of the trips vary. Each tour is sure to show you up close views of the islands as well as entertain you with the beauty of Stockholm’s waters.

Most of the boat tours depart from Stromkajen, which is close to the National Museum. Once you are done with the tour, grab a bite to eat in a nearby café and then take a short walk to Stadshuset, also known as City Hall.

The Swedes themselves call this the most beautiful building in Sweden, so it is definitely one that you do not want to miss. It was built between 1911 and 1923, and includes the “Blue Hall”, where the Noble Prize banquet is held every year. Continue on, and you’ll see the ‘Golden Hall’ that is literally dripping with gold. Be sure and check out the view of Old Town you get from the top of the tower.

Day Five

2006-06-07T20:14:19Z

Take the time today to view some of the palaces and landmarks that Stockholm has to offer. First, head toward the Royal Palace. The Royal Palace is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is located just to the east of Vasterlanggatan.

This palace has 608 breathtaking rooms and is one of the largest surviving royal palaces in Europe. While there, be sure and see the Banqueting Apartments and the Museum of Antiguities, known world over for their charm and beauty.

Another great landmark to visit is the Fjarils- och Fagelhuset. Located in Hagaparken, this butterfly and birdhouse is a great place for people of all ages. You will first be directed through a greenhouse garden that has a collection of plants, trees, and fish. From there you will enter an amazing birdhouse that houses hundreds of birds that are definitely not afraid of humans! Then you will enter the Butterfly Room. This is a warmer room that will surround you with butterflies. This is a great place for you and your kids alike!

Day Six

2006-06-07T20:14:50Z

Now that you have visited some of the man-made sights that Stockholm has to offer, take a stroll through one of the many breathtaking national parks.

If want to see one of the most beautiful bays in the world, visit the Brunnsviken National Park. The bay provides a true oasis located right in the middle of the city. To walk all the way around Brunnsviken takes about two or three hours, but there are many distractions along the way. Your walk will take you by several swimming spots, cafes and the Bergianska Tradgarden’s gardens. To get to this great park, take the metro to Odenplan and walk north along Norrtullsgatan.

Another outdoor beauty can be found at the Hagaparken. Located just north of Stockholm, the Hagaparken is an English style park that contains several beautiful buildings and pavilions. Here you will also see the foundations of a magnificent palace. It was King Gustav III’s intention to place a collection of antique Roman statues in the palace, but it was never finished due to his assassination. The ruins of the Haga are a beautiful sight to behold and should not be missed.

Day Seven

2006-06-07T20:15:14Z

During your last day in Stockholm, take a trip to the Dramaten, Stockholm’s infamous theatre. This is the home to many of Sweden’s top international stars, and features many classic plays written by Strindberg, Ibsen, Chekhov and Shakespeare. This theatre was built by King Gustav III so that Swedish dramas could be performed in their original language. Besides the plays, guided tours are also available.

If you are in the mood to sit back and watch a movie, swing by the Astoria for a wide variety of movie choices before making the long flight home.

Restaurants

2006-06-07T20:15:48Z

Food and activities are a vital part of your vacation. Luckily, Stockholm provides so many choices in each of these areas. Whether you want to cast your eyes on breathtaking views or sit down to a delicious meal, Stockholm has so much to offer.

• Contemporary Cuisine

Sophie’s Bar. Sophie’s is ranked number one by several travel guide magazines. Sophie’s has a crossover menu with excellent service. If you want to catch a peak at a celebrity or a member of the royal family, Sophie’s is the place to go. This restaurant is decorated with African souvenirs and animal trophies. It also includes a lounge bar to suit your after-dinner champagne needs.

Sophie’s is open Mondays from noon-12 a.m., Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon-1 a.m., Thursdays from noon-2 a.m., Fridays from noon-3 a.m. and Saturdays from 1p.m.-3 a.m.

Restaurangen. Restaurangen is one of Stockholm’s most innovative bar and restaurant. This restaurant is equipped with a menu that is sure to awaken your taste buds. Every course has one dominant flavor, such as lime, pepper, or vanilla. If you stay until the evening, it transforms into a crowded bar and nightclub.

Restaurangen is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. and on Saturday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Prinsen. Prinsen is known as the meeting place for Stockholm’s artists, writers, and rich bohemians. This is a restaurant so famous that it is often mentioned in various books and stories. If you are looking for a meal that is so good it is depicted in artwork all over Stockholm, then this is the place for you. Don’t forget to dress up! It is known as a fancy restaurant.

Prinsen is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. and from 1-11p.m. on Saturdays. Also Sundays from 5-10p.m.

• French

Operakallaren. The Operakallaren is one of the few restaurants in Stockholm to earn the privileged star in the Guide Michelin. Equipped with a state of the art kitchen and a great staff, the Operkallaren is full of extraordinary modern dishes.

The restaurant offers a main room (open from 6-10 p.m. daily) as well as the Operabar and Bakfickan which are open from 11:30 a.m. until late in the night Monday through Saturday.

Creperie Fyra Knop. The Creperie Fyra Knop is the only creperie that you will find in Stockholm. Not only is the food delicious, but affordable as well! Be sure and get there early, because it is usually a packed place. However, don’t get discouraged if you have to wait: the food is well worth it. If you are looking for wide range of scrumptious Galettes and Crepes, this is the place for you.

The Fyra Knop is open Monday through Friday from 5-11p.m. as will as Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The Franska Matsalen. Known as one of Stockholm’s finest restaurants, the Franska Matsalen is a great place to dine for the best in French food and Seafood. The service and décor of this restaurant is breathtaking and the menu presents a variety of cuisines and specialties. Whether you are looking for high-dollar gourmet food or a much simpler and cheaper cuisine, this is the place for you. This restaurant truly caters to all kinds of budgets.

The Franska Matsalen is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m.-2p.m. and from 6 to 11 p.m.

• Fish and Seafood

Wedholms Fisk. If you are looking for some fresh fish and shellfish, Wedholms is the place for you. Wedholms prides itself on focusing on prime-quality ingredients and having the minutest attention to detail. Service here is great as well as the beautiful décor.

Wedholms Fisk is open Mondays from 11:30 a.m.- 2 p.m., 6 p.m.-11p.m., Tuesday through Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 11p.m. and Saturdays from 5p.m. to 11p.m.

Greitz Restaurang & Pressklubb. If you are planning on seeing a play at the Oscars or Vasa theatre, swing by this restaurant for a great pre-show meal. The Greitz is the home to some of Stockholm’s most brilliant gourmet dinners and attracts audiences from all over Sweden.
The Greitz is open Monday through Friday from 5-10 p.m.

Hotellet. The Hotellet is a great place to go eat and enjoy Stockholm’s nightlife. Its premises are enormous and beautifully decorated. The Hotellet contains a huge dining hall with room for over 200 guests. On the ground floor, there is a large bar for an after meal drink. Top all that off with a mezzanine level that is home to a comfy lounge and you have a great place to spend an evening while in Stockholm.

The Hotellet is open Sunday through Tuesday from 4p.m.-12 a.m. and on Wednesday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Activities

2006-06-07T20:17:10Z

Gamla stan. Also known as the Old Town, Gamla stan will intrigue visitors of all ages. This town contains cobbled streets and 17th century alleys that create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. This is a great place for history buffs as well as shoppers. There are small and large shops all over which offer souvenirs and rare books and gifts. Be prepared for an atmosphere that you will never forget!

Skansen. Skansen is the world’s largest and oldest open-air museum. It is home to Stockholm’s only zoo and contains a large collection of rare Swedish and Scandinavian animals. There are also several gardens and plantations to choose from as well as traditional buildings that were bought and restored from different parts of the country. This is a sight-seekers paradise!

The Skansen is open Jan-Apr: 10a-4p M-F, May: 10a-8p M-F, Jun-Aug: 10a-10p M-F, Sep: 10a-5p M-F, Oct-Dec: 10a-4p M-F.

Vasamuseet. The Vasamuseet is a highly-decorated warship from 1628. While on a voyage from Stockholm this beauty sank and could not be found. However, in 1961, the Vasa was discovered and salvaged and is not the world’s only preserved 17th century ship. Now converted into a museum, the Vasa is a six level wonder. Travel through time as you view the slide shows, movies, and exhibitions about the ship.

The Vasamuseet is open from 10a-5p Mon-Tue, 10a-8p Wed, 10a-5p Thu-Sun

Seglora kyrka. If you want to see one of the most beautiful churches in Sweden, don’t miss out on the Seglora kyrka. Initially built in 1729 in Vastergotland, Sweden, the Seglora was moved to Stockholm in 1916. The church’s walls are covered with paintings by Sven Wernberg that date back to 1734. Services are still held there every Sunday at 11 a.m.

The Seglora is open for viewing daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Stockholm Historical Museum. Stockholm’s Historical Museum displays Sweden’s art and culture right from the Stone Age. This museum contains art and artifacts from a diverse range of topics and time periods. Here you will find anything from gold treasures from the Bronze Age to sculptures from the 12th century.

The Stockholm Historical Museum is open Friday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. as well as from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays.

Sweden's People and Culture

2006-08-08T14:51:54Z

Sweden's Counties and Cities

2006-08-08T14:53:53Z

Sweden Activities and Attractions

2006-08-08T15:05:01Z

Stockholm - A One to 3 Day Itinerary

2006-08-08T15:06:05Z

Beginner's Guide to Sweden

Sleep Cheap

Stockholm - Seven Day Itinerary Overview

Day One

Day Two

Day Three

Day Four

Day Five

Day Six

Day Seven

Restaurants

Activities

Sweden's People and Culture

Sweden's People and Culture Introduction

Swedish Language

Religious Beliefs

Literature

Sweden's Counties and Cities

Sweden's Counties and Cities Introduction

Provinces

Counties

Stockholm County

Sweden Activities and Attractions

Sweden Activities and Attractions Introduction

City Adventures

Culture

Family Attractions and Activities

Stockholm - A One to 3 Day Itinerary

Stockholm - A One to 3 Day Itinerary Overview

Day One

Day Two

Day Three