Travel Tips for Stockholm, Sweden

Cost: €€ (expensive)

Safety: 5/5 for solo female travellers

When I arrived in Stockholm (the largest city in Scandinavia!) and began exploring, I was instantly struck by the beauty of the buildings and how well served the city was by public transport. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, stunning architecture, or simply enjoying the cosmopolitan atmosphere, Stockholm has something to offer everyone.

It is a water city, so I did have a few rodents to contend with but nonetheless, my time there was super and I would highly recommend a visit for 2-3 days. Swedes are lovely people, who made me feel welcome in their country.

As a solo female traveller, I felt quite safe walking around, although I am not one to stay out late at night when on my own.

How to get there

From Dublin, you can fly direct to Stockholm via Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). The flight takes just under 3 hours.

Language, Currency & Weather

The most widely spoken language is Swedish, but around nine out of ten people do speak English. The currency is the Swedish krona, however I primarily used my visa debit card or Apple Pay, as most places are card only and do not accept cash.

I would recommend you bring warm and rainproof clothing to Stockholm. While the weather was pleasant and sunny when I was there, it did get chilly as it is near the water. The best temperatures are usually between June and August, so if you are travelling during the winter, wrap up!

Public Transport

Getting around Stockholm is quite easy. When travelling to and from Arlanda Airport, you can get the commuter train (they depart twice an hour) and it takes around 45 minutes.

Once in the city, you can get the metro or bus and they have a 90-minute pass, as well as a 24-hour and 72-hour pass. The pass includes unlimited metro, tram and bus journeys and you can purchase at the window inside any metro station.

Stockholm’s metro stations are also really beautiful and you could spend the day inside (although I dragged myself away eventually!). Since the 1950s, 90 of the 100 stations have been decorated with paintings, mosaics, and sculptures by 150 artists.

Where To Stay

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation in Stockholm. I stayed just outside the city, about 15 minutes on public transport which was very straight-forward.

If you are looking for luxury I would recommend Hotel Frantz in Södermalm, or Bank Hotel in Norrmalm.

If you are looking for something a bit cheaper, I would advise you to book Thon Partner Hotel Kungsbron or Scandic No 53, both in Norrmalm.

If you are on a budget, there are lots of hostels like Generator Stockholm in Norrmalm or Ramilton Old Town Hostel in Gamla Stan.

Where To Go & What To Do

I would recommend booking a walking tour at the start of your trip. In my opinion this is the best way to view the city and soak in the atmosphere, as well as learning about the city’s history and culture. Another great option is a boat trip around the city.

The city is separated into many different districts, but my favourite neighbourhoods were Norrmalm, Djugården, Gamla Stan and Södermalm.

Norrmalm is the commercial heart of Stockholm, with the city’s main railway station and the Royal Opera House located here. It also has a wide range of shopping areas.

If you like ABBA, then Djugården is for you. Visit Rosendal Palace and several of its museums including the one dedicated to ABBA and NORDISKA MUSEET.

If history is one of your interests, pay a visit to the VASA Museum, Historiska Museet, Monteliusvagen (historic walking areas) or Kungliga Djurgården (historic sites).

I mainly visited Gamla Stan while I was in Stockholm. This is the “old town”, surrounded by cobbled streets and old buildings. It’s constantly busy, as people go to and from work. It has such a lovely buzz about, and is also home to the Royal Palace.

Södermalm has historic buildings but also some really cool bars, restaurants and shops! It’s the place to be, and where I dined in the evening.

If you’re interested in outdoor activities, I would recommend booking a hot air balloon ride over the city, or a moose and wildlife safari.  

What & Where To Eat

Speaking of dining, there are some must-haves while in Stockholm.

Take a little break from exploring and visit a café for a ‘kanelbullar’ which is a Swedish cardamom and cinnamon bun. Delicious!

One of my standouts while there was Stockholms Gastabud. I dined here and it is one of the most popular restaurants in the city. I can see why as it serves authentic Swedish dishes and is definitely a must-see when you’re in this city.

If you’re travelling between April and September, go to a street market called ‘Hornstulls Marknad’. It’s open every Saturday and Sunday, with loads of food to choose from. Another great option for flea and street markets is Östermalm Saluhall.

Enjoy exploring Stockholm!