Stockholm is the cultural, political, and economic capital of Sweden, and a refined metropolis that has something for everyone. The city has modern a... Read More
Stockholm is the cultural, political, and economic capital of Sweden, and a refined metropolis that has something for everyone. The city has modern art, cutting-edge design, and noteworthy architecture, all set among the cobblestoned streets of the Old Town, where many buildings date back to the 1700s. There’s also a bustling city center with many bars and restaurants, and several idyllic parks and outdoor swimming areas. You can shop for the newest fashions or Midcentury Modern furniture, then dine on rustic, traditional food or pioneering New Nordic cuisine. To top it off, you’re surrounded by friendly locals who speak faultless English, and in the summer, the sun never seems to set. As one of the most exciting, dynamic, and cosmopolitan European capitals, Stockholm offers an incredible array of options and experiences.
Read LessVisit Stockholm
Best Time To Go
Summer and fall—from June through October—are usually sublime with long, warm, sunny days. In the winter, the snow can be beautiful, but the darkness is challenging. Temperatures hover around freezing from November through April, and due to its far northern location, there can be as little as six hours of daylight in the dead of winter. (The upshot is that you can sometimes see the aurora borealis from Stockholm.)
Transportation
Stockholm is a compact city and pleasant to explore on foot. There’s also an easy-to-navigate subway and extensive bus routes, though the bus maps leave much to be desired. SL Centers in the subway stations can help you with tickets, everything from a single journey for $4 to a seven-day pass for $35. One word of caution: there are a surprising number of dodgy taxi companies in town that must be avoided. Stick to the big, reputable ones, which include Taxi Stockholm, Taxi Kurir, and Taxi 020.
Weather
February is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 23°F (-5°C). July is the warmest, at 72°F (22°C).
Know Before You Go
July is when Swedes take their annual month-long holiday. Many restaurants close, and people head off to their country houses, so the capital can feel either pleasantly calm or disappointingly quiet. The same mass exodus happens around the midsummer holiday, in June.
Language
Swedish, but absolutely everyone speaks excellent English, and they don’t think it at all rude if you address them in English.
Electric
Type F (two-prong plug)
Currency
Swedish krona
