Stockholm

Gamla Stan, the heart of Stockholm, sprawls across four islands and boasts one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. It's a must-see on any trip to Stockholm. There, you can admire the city's oldest buildings: the Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet), the Cathedral (Storkyrka), and the Swedish Parliament.

Also on the agenda during your stay in Stockholm: witnessing the changing of the guard (as impressive as in London); strolling through the winding streets and discovering charming little squares lined with cafes (like Stortoget Square, the oldest in the city). Explore the colorful houses with their typical Swedish facades. Take a walk through Norrmalm, the city's business district, home to shops, hotels, and restaurants. The architecture of this area is also worth seeing! For shopping enthusiasts, don't miss the pedestrianized Drottninggat street. 

There you'll discover must-have Swedish brands (H&M, etc.), as well as designer boutiques offering typical Swedish products. Finally, take advantage of your trip to stroll through the two famous squares, Sergels Torg and Hötorget, which are magnificent both day and night.

Must-see attractions in Stockholm

• Gamla Stan (Old Town): Behind this name lies the literal translation of "old town," and it designates the historical and geographical heart of Stockholm. This medieval center, with its narrow, winding cobblestone streets, is among the best preserved in Europe. Its ochre and red facades, Stortorget Square with its colorful houses, and the Royal Palace make it an enchanting district. Don't miss Storkyrkan Cathedral and the Swedish craft shops tucked away in the hidden passageways.
• The Vasa Museum: This exceptional maritime museum houses the only 17th-century warship preserved in the world. The Vasa, a warship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628, was raised intact after 333 years underwater. The modern building constructed around the ship allows visitors to admire this architectural feat from every angle.

What unusual experiences can you have in Stockholm?

• Kayaking in the archipelago: Stockholm is spread across 14 islands connected by 57 bridges, but the archipelago actually comprises over 30,000 islets and reefs. Rent a kayak to explore these calm waters, discover secluded coves, and reach deserted islands accessible only by sea. Some tours even offer camping on remote islands for a night under the midnight sun in summer.
• Stockholm's metro, the world's longest art gallery: Turn your commute into a cultural tour by exploring the Tunnelbana stations. More than 90 of the 100 stations feature works of art: sculptures, mosaics, cave paintings, and light installations. T-Centralen station with its Blue Grottoes and Kungsträdgården with its archaeological remains are particularly worth a visit.
• Floating sauna and ice bath: Experience the quintessential Nordic bastu (sauna in Swedish) by visiting one of the floating saunas moored in the harbor. After sweating in the soothing warmth of the wood, plunge into the icy waters of the Baltic Sea, just like the Stockholmers do. Several establishments offer this age-old tradition with a view of the illuminated city.

What are the specialties of Stockholm and Sweden?

• Köttbullar: These Swedish meatballs, a mixture of beef and pork, are served with a creamy gravy, tangy lingonberry jam, and mashed potatoes. A quintessential national dish, they embody Swedish comfort food and can be enjoyed in gourmet restaurants as well as at the covered market in Östermalms Saluhall.
• Gravlax: This raw salmon, marinated in salt, sugar, and dill, is a classic of Scandinavian cuisine. Thinly sliced, it is enjoyed on rye bread with a mustard and dill sauce (gravlaxsås). This traditional method of preserving fish reflects the deep connection Swedes have with the sea.
• Kanelbulle: This cinnamon roll, less sweet than its American counterpart, is the perfect accompaniment to fika, the sacred Swedish coffee break. Soft and fragrant with cardamom, sprinkled with pearl sugar, it's best enjoyed warm in one of the city's many traditional bakeries.
• Skagen toast: This refined appetizer combines fresh Nordic prawns, mayonnaise, sour cream, dill, and fish roe, all served on toasted bread. Created in the 1950s, this chic dish symbolizes the elegance of contemporary Swedish cuisine and is a staple on the menu of every seafood restaurant in the capital.