Stockholm

Stockholm is a city bustling with life and emotion but its unique location on 14 islands allows a distinct feeling of space so rarely found in a city. Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’, it easily competes as one of the world's most beautiful cities because of its combination of nature, colourful architecture and ancient history, plus its fantastic archipelago stretching some 80km east of Stockholm deep into the Baltic waters. It formed during the last Ice Age and is today considered to be one of the world’s natural wonders.

The archipelago has an impressive 23,000 islands and skerries making it also a paradise of swimmers, kayakers and sailors. There are nature reserves scattered throughout the archipelago to ensure that the delicate and unspoilt nature remains as it has for centuries.  Boat trips allow everyone to enjoy the Baltic Sea's many islands, birdlife and unique environment.

The city itself is modern, vibrant and historic. Stroll through 13th century Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s charming old town, where you cannot help but feel its medieval atmosphere as you wander through the cobblestone streets past narrow, colourful houses of yesteryear. And you need never walk far to appreciate the impressive views stretching across the Baltic water as it winds past the city walls. 

There is so much to see in Stockholm, appealing to so many different interests, that you are sure to find something special within walking distance of your hotel. We recommend a visit to Stockholm’s open air museum, Skansen, which is famous for its Nordic Zoo and living history exhibition; over the years about 150 historical buildings have been moved here from nearly every part of Sweden. Alongside Skansen is the always impressive Vasa Museum, The Vasa ship sank on its maiden voyage on 1628 and was salvaged from the depths of Stockholm’s harbour in 1961. Despite over 300 years lying at the bottom of the Baltic, the Vasa is extremely well preserved thanks to the Baltic’s brackish waters.

Not to be missed is Stockholm’s unique Ecopark - the world’s first National Park to be located within a city. The Ekopark is 27 km2 and is a green oasis combining cultural heritage and natural features. Here you can cycle or walk through ancient forests, visit palaces and bathe from waterside rocks. Animals such as foxes, badgers, marten, mink and deer roam freely and the greatest number of large oak trees in northern Europe are located right here, in the city centre!

For some tips about what to see during your stay in Stockholm visit out Stockholm Guide.

For further information, visit Visit Stockholm