The Swedish capital of Stockholm is comprised of 14 islands that lie in Lake Malaren, with the Baltic Sea to its east. The city has more than 700 years of rich history that is represented by very grand architecture, palaces and museums throughout. Thus, you do not only visit Stockholm because it is the capital; it is a beautiful city that deserves some exploration.
The Old Town
Every city has some old stories to tell, and if you want to hear some of Stockholm’s, then visit the Gamla Stan, which is the city’s official Old Town. Gamla Stan is comprised of island of Stadsholmen island and the Riddarholmen, Stromsborg and Helgeandsholmen Islets. As you walk around the cobblestone streets and German-style squares, and gaze upon the 17th-18th century buildings, you will be immediately taken to the city’s glorious past. To be in the center of it all, start your sightseeing at the Stortorget Square, which is close to all major attractions.
One of the places you should not miss is the Royal Palace or the Kungliga Slottet, which was designed using the Baroque architecture. Several galleries and museums can be found in the Old Town, and some of the main ones include the Roy, Post Museum and Nobel Museum. There are also numerous cafes, bars and eateries in the area that will keep your appetite satisfied after a long day of sightseeing. The Den Gyldene Freden is the oldest existing restaurant in the city, which has been serving traditional Swedish cuisines for many years without changing its original interior design.
The Wonders of Nature
With 26 city parks to its name, there is no doubt that Stockholm values clean and green environment. The city even has a 6,671-acre Ecopark, formally called Royal National City Park. This park is the first national city park in the world. When visiting, it is quite amazing to see lakes, forests and wildlife such as deer and herons running around in an area within the city. Since the city is surrounded by the clean waters of Lake Malaren, it is so convenient to swim and experience freshwater fishing.
Stockholm is equally impressive during winter. Try ice skating at the frozen lakes of Norrviken and Malaren, which are the favored destinations of locals. Cross country and downhill skiing are also highly anticipated winter activities in the city. One of the best places to test your skiing ability is Hammarbybacken. This top skiing resort maintains several downhill ski slopes and a snowboard park, suitable for both beginners and experts of the sports.
Shopping and Nightlife
Stockholm locals love their shops, cafés and bars. If you want to experience shopping the Swedish style, head out to the commercial district of Norrmalm. One of the busiest shopping areas in this district are Drottninggatan Street and around the Odenplan Square. The Stureplan square within the rich commercial and residential district of Ostermalm offers upmarket shops and boutique. This square is also home to trendy nightclubs and bars, where the rich and fashionable hang out.
Traveling around the city is made easier if you purchase a Stockholm Card. This comprehensive travel card provides access to the city’s bus, train and metro services. It will also provide admissions to museums and famous landmarks in the city for free.
