Top 5 Reasons You MUST Visit Stockholm

Before my recent visit to Stockholm, I have to admit that I did not know all that much about the city, or come to think of it, Sweden itself. To me, the Scandinavian country conjured up images of great sparkling lakes, forests of towering pine trees and of course, the birth place of Abba. A little bit stereotypical, yes I know.

My two night stay was short but sweet, giving me enough time to tick off the main attractions and get a feel for the place and the Swedish culture. Having said that I feel that I have barely scratched the surface of this great city (and country) and that there is plenty more still to be discovered and one thing is sure, I will certainly be returning!

In other words, I’ve been convinced that Stockholm should be a destination earmarked for the top of everybody’s list but now it’s time to convince you – so read on to discover my top 5 reasons as to why you MUST visit Stockholm.

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The Beauty

I’m sure you’ve heard many places described as beautiful but Stockholm well and truly deserves this reputation. In fact, the city is considered by many to be one of the world’s most beautiful places. Too right!

Water Everywhere

From the moment you arrive in the city, whether that be by plane, or train, you will immediately be greeted with the sight of water. Water, water, everywhere!! As a matter of fact, thanks to its sparkling blue waterways, cluster of islands and its neighbouring archipelago, Stockholm is often described as the Venice of the North. Unlike Venice however, you don’t need to rely on gondolas and water taxis to get around, as the city has an extensive public transport network which takes you anywhere and everywhere across the city.

Culture & History

Stockholm is a city with a rich history and there are a whole host of attractions to entertain and entice its visitors. Spend some time exploring the maze of medieval streets in colourful Gamla Stan, the well-preserved Old Town, passing through the chocolate-box square Stortorget on your way to the wonderful Royal Palace. If you time your visit right you may even catch the traditional changing of the guards ceremony. Take a trip across to the museum island of Djurgården and explore Skansen, the world’s very first open-air museum, the Vasa Museum or the Abba museum, to name just a few.

Alternatively if you fancy a trip outside the city, hop aboard and take a boat cruise around the scenic archipelago or to the Drottingholm Palace just 50 minutes away.

Discover the Flavours of Sweden

Forget pickled herrings and those Ikea meatballs (although they are delicious), the Swedish food scene is rapidly expanding and where better to get your taste buds involved than in the capital. The city is full of award winning restaurants, offering traditional Swedish foods, as well as trendy bars and cosy cafes scattered throughout the city’s districts.

Whilst we’re on the topic of food, no visit to Sweden can be without a ‘fika’ experience. Fika is a Swedish custom which involves a social coffee break where people gather to have a cup of coffee or tea and a few nibbles. The most customary accompaniment is a delicious cinnamon or nutty flavoured pastry. So, fika at breakfast, mid-morning, lunch, or anytime of the day in fact – you want to make sure you try all the varieties after all..!

Modern Vibes

Not only is Stockholm a city where land meets sea, but it is also a place where history meets modernity. Stockholm is the birthplace for new trends in music, design, fashion and technology and attracts all sorts of visitors from around the world who are keen to experience this centre of innovation.

Modern Stockholm offers a great nightlife scene, trendy and affordable shopping, exclusive fashion, art and design, as well as urban trend in the young, somewhat bohemian quarter of Södermalm.

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I hope I’ve managed to convince you with my reasons to visit Stockholm. You better be booking those flights.. the city is waiting for you!