Tusting Travels: The Stockholm Guide
The sleek, cultural and cool Scandinavian capital of Stockholm is made up of 14 islands to explore with different vibes on each. With a buzzing food scene, bakeries filled with cardamom buns and vibrant art and culture, Stockholm makes for a fresh city break away from the usual choices of Paris or Rome. Keep reading for our tried and tested recommendations of where to stay, eat and what to see.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of options in Stockholm depending on your budget and needs. Keep in mind you’ll probably be out most of the time enjoying the city. Miss Clara is a Nobis hotel located on Sveavägen, on one of the main streets in Stockholm, just a 20-minute walk from the city’s old town and only a 15 minute taxi ride to the museum island Djurgården. Expect art nouveau features and clean lines within the hotel and a great breakfast selection.
For a waterfront option, steeped in history, Bank Hotel, converted from an early 20th Century bank to a contemporary yet historic hotel, is a delight. Featuring modern art and stylish interiors married together to emphasise Stockholm’s own design. Enjoy an aperitif at the roof-top bar whilst enjoying views of the islands.
For those special-occasion trips, where the hotel is as much a highlight of the trip, Ett Hem is the perfect choice. A stylish red brick townhouse in the sophisticated Lärkstaden neighbourhood, the hotel is full of design classics and an impressive art collection curated by the owner Jeanette Mix. Touches of luxury are everywhere and if you’ve experienced Stockholm before, you may find yourself losing the afternoon in their Library with a glass of wine and piece of cake, just taking in the surroundings. My Tusting Weekender has never looked more at home!
Where to Eat
Eating and drinking around a new city is the best way to engage in the culture and see if you can imagine living in the city (which we all do). In a post covid world, reservations are key, gone are the days of walking in and securing a table besides in a very few places.
Drop your bags at your hotel, grabbing your Alice Clutch and head straight to Schmaltz bar and deli. This little wine bar offers small plates and a varied wine list; the perfect first stop to people-watch and relax into Stockholm (we’d highly recommend the anchovies – yum). From your afternoon aperitif, make a booking at Bar Nimes for dinner. A French-Italian bistro located at Rådmansgatan which is full of chic locals enjoying great food and a relaxed dining experience.
If you’re not staying at Ett Hem, be sure to book lunch or dinner here. In the summer months, request a table in their courtyard and enjoy their tasting menu and wine pairing which celebrates modern Scandinavian seasonal produce, this was one of the highlights of our trip to Stockholm. Worth travelling away from central Stockholm for is Solen. Do not be alarmed when it feels like you’re walking through an industrial estate, you’ll soon see the bright yellow letters indicating you’ve arrived. Solen is deceptive from the outside which hides bright, airy and sleek interiors, an open kitchen and welcoming fires. Brilliant food, friendly staff and dreamy interiors.
For an afternoon pick me up, a cardamom bun is a must. Head to the independent Stora Bakery for a bun and coffee – simple, delicious, and with a cult following! Finally, when in Sweden, one must have meatballs (there are veggie versions also). Tennstopet was recommended to us for traditional Swedish food in a classic setting. Expect an old-school dining room vibe but with top notch classics. We can confirm the meatballs were a delight and whilst crème brulee is not traditional Swedish cuisine, it followed exceptionally well!
What to Do
If you have time amongst your reservations to see the city, there is a plethora of options to explore. Take a stroll into Bellevue park and walk up the hill to find Carl Eldh’s Studio which is home to over 500 plaster sketches and original models as well at sculptures in bronze stone and clay. There is also a pretty café to enjoy the surroundings and sit amongst the cosmos flowers if you have a moment.
From the classics to contemporary, the Modern Museum of art is a must visit. With a range of changing exhibitions and a large shop for mementos, this is a particularly great visit for a few hours if a rain cloud is passing over the city.
Another weather-permitting option is Ostermalm Market Hall – think Harrods food hall but make it Swedish. It’s stylish and sleek, with small restaurant set ups as well as many deli counters to explore. And whilst I can’t vouch for the Abba Museum, I’ve heard it’s a big hit…
