Scandinavian Summer: Stockholm Smörgåsbord

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Advisor - Alyssa Gordon
Curated By

Alyssa Gordon

  • Stockholm

  • Active Travel

  • Adventure Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Local Food

  • Local Culture

  • Outdoors

A view of a city next to a body of water at dusk.
Curator’s statement

If you're headed to the Swedish capital this summer, get ready for an endless smörgåsbord of delights! From mouthwatering burgers to buzzing outdoor bars, saunas and scenic swimming spots, Stockholm sizzles when the sun is shining. Pack your sunglasses and let's dive into this Scandinavian paradise.

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Where to stay in Stockholm

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Things to do in Stockholm

A Swedish flag hanging from a building and people walking in an alleyway in the background.

Cherry Blossom Chasing

In early spring, pretty pink cherry blossoms blanket parts of the city. Top viewing spots include Luma Park, Bysistorget Square and from the windows of the charming Kaffebar breakfast spot in Södermalm.

Outdoor Drinking Dens

When the weather is gorgeous, Stockholmers flock to outdoor bars and cafes. The patio at the posh Lydmar Hotel is perfect for sipping summer cocktails. Fredda and Mälarpaviljongen are idyllic waterfront spots with twinkling lights, blooming florals and stunning city views. Eden and Boulebar are also top picks for alfresco drinking and dining. Don't miss the rooftop terraces at Sus, Tak, Bank Hotel and Urban Deli for elevated imbibing with a view.

Sunny Day Pursuits

Stroll the pretty Danderydsgatan street or explore lush green spaces like Tantolunden park and the magical Hellasgården nature reserve. Cool off at beaches like Solvikbadet, Huvudsta strandbad, Johannelund, Långholmen (dog-friendly!) and Tanto strandbad. Or pack a picnic for Långholmsbadet. For a beach day trip, venture to Sandhammaren south of the city.

Fika

No visit to Stockholm is complete without joining the daily fika coffee break tradition. The stunning Rosendals Trädgården is an absolute must - relax in the apple orchard while savoring wood-fired baked goods made with their own fresh veggies and ingredients. Delicious sweet treats. Pure bliss! Restaurangen Blå porten is another great fika stop on Djurgården.

Party 'Til Dawn

When the sun goes down, Stockholm's nightlife heats up. Lemon Bar and The Soap Bar are popular for their youthful, high-energy crowds. Berns Asiatiska and Södra Teatern are iconic venues combining bars, clubs and special events. Morfar Ginko in the hip Mariatorget area has an edgy, industrial-chic vibe perfect for creative types. Trädgården and Watson's Bar are other hot spots, while Nada Bar and F12Terrassen really turn up the party in summer.

Sauna Serenity

Be sure to experience the beloved Swedish sauna tradition. Sthlm Sauna Vinterviken and Nautilus Boat Club both offer incredible sauna experiences to relax and recharge.

Stylish Stays

Treat yourself to a memorable hotel like the impeccably designed Ett Hem (Swedish for "A Home") or The Winery Hotel, a wine lover's paradise. The Sparrow Hotel is another adorable boutique option perfect for out-of-towners.

Places to eat & drink in Stockholm

A plate of Swedish meatballs, mashed potatoes, lingonberries, greens and gravy.

Burger Bonanza

No trip to Stockholm is complete without indulging in their burger scene. For the supposed best burger in town, head to Franky's in the trendy Södermalm neighborhood. But the local favorite is the Funky Chicken Foodtruck, voted Stockholm's #1 burger. Bap in Östermalm is also a must for their awesome smash burgers, while Stigbergets Fot on Söder offers tasty handheld delights.

With endless sunny day activities, a thriving food and drink scene and so much summer magic, Stockholm is an absolute must on your travel bucket list!

Advisor - Alyssa Gordon

Travel Advisor

Alyssa Gordon

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Alyssa Gordon’s guide, How to Start Planning Japan: Experiencing the Magic of Japan During the Winter Months. This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Stockholm.