The warship Vasa sank a few hundred meters from its own launch — today it stands in a museum in the middle of Stockholm
Travel stories from Stockholm, a city rich in history, and several places tell of dramatic events and cultural milestones.
- The Vasa ship: In 1628, the massive warship Vasa sank just a few hundred meters from where it was launched. Built as a symbol of Sweden's power, the ship instead became an example of technical failure. The Vasa Museum is a fascinating journey back in time with details of the ship's construction, sinking and salvage. Today, it is one of the world's best-preserved treasures from the 17th century.
- Gamla Stan: This district, founded in 1252, is full of mystery and history. It was here that the bloody event known as the “Stockholm Bloodbath” took place in 1520, when the Danish King Christian II had nobles executed. In addition to Storkyrkan, you can visit the Nobel Prize Museum and the Great Synagogue, which bear witness to the city’s cultural development over the centuries.
- ABBA The Museum: Stockholm has played a central role in the world of music. Visit the museum to learn more about ABBA's rise to global fame. Interactive exhibits allow you to sing and dance as a fifth member of ABBA.
Places to visit
Stockholm offers a diversity of experiences that combine history, nature and modern culture.
- Gamla Stan: One of Europe's best preserved medieval quarters. Don't miss Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, Stockholm's narrowest street, only 90 cm wide. Here you can also find unique shops, crafts and cafes.
- Djurgården: This green oasis is home to several attractions. In addition to Skansen, you can visit Gröna Lund Tivoli, which is Sweden's oldest amusement park, or take a relaxing walk along the water.
- The Vasa Museum: The museum is much more than just the ship. Through interactive exhibitions and films you can understand the political and social climate in Sweden in the 17th century.
- fotografiska: This museum is a tribute to modern photography and features exhibitions from the world's leading photographers. After an inspiring tour, enjoy dinner in the restaurant, which focuses on sustainable ingredients.
- Moderna Museet: If you are an art lover, this museum is a must. It is located on Skeppsholmen and features works by iconic artists such as Matisse, Duchamp and Kandinsky.
Good hotels
Stockholm offers a variety of hotels ranging from lavish luxury to cozy boutique hotels.
- Grand Hotel Stockholm: Known as Stockholm's most iconic hotel, it has hosted royalty and world stars since 1874. The spa offers views of the harbor and you can enjoy the award-winning restaurant Mathias Dahlgren.
- Hotel Skeppsholmen: This modern boutique hotel is housed in a historic building from 1699. Surrounded by nature, yet just a short walk from Stockholm city centre, it is perfect for those seeking a mix of tranquility and convenience.
- Hotel Hobo: A trendy choice for the young and creative. The hotel has an urban style with innovative solutions that make the stay fun and relaxed, including shared workspaces and a lively bar.
Restaurants to try
Stockholm has a diverse culinary scene, ranging from classic Swedish food to modern gourmet.
- Tradition: Perfect for those who want to taste the best of Swedish cooking. The dishes are made according to old recipes and the atmosphere is warm and relaxed. Try their should i put, a Swedish dish of potatoes, onions and diced meat.
- Operakällaren: This historic restaurant is the epitome of elegance. Here you can enjoy gourmet dishes such as venison and cod, presented in a way that reflects the restaurant's long tradition of quality.
- Pelikan: A gem for those seeking authentic Swedish home cooking. The historic inn from 1733 offers a cozy atmosphere, and their black pudding with lingonberries is a bold choice for food lovers.
- Frantzén: Sweden's only three-star Michelin restaurant. Here you will get an innovative experience where Swedish cuisine is combined with Asian flavors in a unique 10-course menu.
No travel stories from Stockholm without Food from the old days
Traditional Swedish dishes often feature simple but robust flavors that stem from the harsh winters and scarce resources. Some of the most popular dishes include:
- sild: Herring was once considered “poor people's food,” but is now a central part of both the Christmas and Midsummer tables.
- Sour herring: This fermented herring is known for its intense aroma and is a culinary challenge for many.
- Crispbread: This crispy rye bread was a way to preserve flour. Today it is often eaten with butter and cheese.
- Cabbage rolls: Introduced to Sweden by Charles XII after his stay in the Ottoman Empire. The dish consists of cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice, served with brown sauce.
- Pea soup and pancakes: A traditional dish dating back to the Middle Ages. Often served on Thursdays as part of the Swedes' weekly routine.
Tips for experiences
To make the most of your trip, combine the city's vibrant atmosphere with nature experiences. Take a boat trip in the Stockholm archipelago , which consists of around 30.000 islands, or experience the city from a bike. If you're visiting in the winter, several parks offer ice rinks where you can go ice skating.
Travel to Sweden all year round, 10 unforgettable travel suggestions
Travel to Sweden all year round, 10 unforgettable travel suggestions
More food and wine travel in winetalk.dk
Weekend trips with Momondo
🎬 Watch the journey on film — 365 ways to travel the world Watch our film →