Stockholm is an incredibly walkable city, especially in the wonderful summer weather. If you don't feel like walking, you can find Lime (or similar) eScooters everywhere across the city.

The easily navigable Stockholm Metro is often referred to as "the world’s longest art gallery" due to the unique decorations at more than 90 of its stations, including sculptures, paintings, and light installations created by over 150 artists.

Uber and Taxi Stockholm 15000 are also great ways to get around.

We’ve rounded up some favorite spots across the city, from casual cafes to splurge‑y dinners and late‑night drinks. We highly recommend you review this list early and make reservations in advance!

Classic & Crowd‑Pleasers

♥ Riche – Lively Stockholm institution that’s great for classic dishes (including our favorite Swedish meatballs).​ Going during off hours gives you a better chance at a table if you don't have a reservation.

Lilla Baren – Cozy, casual spot right next to Riche (same menu/kitchen) that works well for drinks or a relaxed bite.​ Typically easier to get a table than Riche.

♥ Brasserie Astoria – Elegant brasserie with a grand, classic feel (set in a former theater) that’s perfect for a dressed‑up dinner or elevated lunch.​ Caesar Salad, Toast Astoria, Steak Frites, and Cognac flambéed beef tenderloin are all personal favorites of ours.

Humlan x Ollis Deli – Casual, easygoing outdoor place in Humlegården Park (near all block hotels) for a casual lunch or relaxed drinks before heading out.​

Kommendören – Flexible neighborhood hangout with a diverse menu with something for everyone. Good for lunch, dinner, or drinks, and turns lively later in the evening.​

Tako – Stylish, modern Asian fusion spot for dinner and fancy cocktails with a fun, social atmosphere.​

♥ Bistros Le Bisou – Charming French bistro that can host a larger group if you book ahead.​

Chez Jolie – Quiet, refined restaurant that’s great for a more intimate dinner.​

♥ Lisa Elmqvist – An iconic Stockholm establishment with a heavy seafood‑focus. Set in a historic upscale food hall (Saluhallen) worth visiting all on its own.

Ulla Winbladh – Beautiful, traditional Swedish cuisine in a picturesque park setting, ideal if you want classic dishes in a charming atmosphere.​ Large outdoor patio for al fresco dining.

Restaurang Prinsen – Delicious and affordable cozy Swedish food.

Swedish & Scenic

Godot Brasserie – Modern brasserie serving seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed dining area.​

Sturehof – Iconic seafood and Swedish restaurant with a lively courtyard and great people‑watching.​

Schmaltz – Casual spot for pastrami, small bites, and outdoor seating when the weather is nice.​

Saluhallen (Östermalms Saluhall) – Beautiful indoor food market with multiple vendors that’s fun to wander and snack your way through.​

Strandvägen 1 – Slightly fancier restaurant on the waterfront with very good food that works for all ages.​

Djurgårdsbrunn – Super cute, fresh, and airy restaurant with outdoor seating and a farmers‑market feel.​

Ångbåtsbryggan – On‑the‑water restaurant with classic Swedish dishes and both indoor and outdoor tables.​

Brunos Korvbar - Östermalm - Sweden's best known place for... hot dogs (Swedish style). Despite what you might be thinking, this place is a gem and has lines around the corner.

Special‑Occasion & Tasting Menus

Hantverket – Refined yet relaxed dinner spot with inventive dishes and a cozy atmosphere.​

Restaurant Ekstedt – Wood‑fired fine dining with a focus on Nordic ingredients (book in advance).​

Teatergrillen – Old‑school, upscale dining room with booths, a great bar, and the same kitchen as Riche.​

AIRA – Two‑Michelin‑star fine dining on the water; a splurge‑worthy tasting menu, with limited lunch service on Thursdays and Fridays.​

Frantzén – Three‑Michelin‑star experience and one of Stockholm’s most famous restaurants; reservations are essential well in advance.​

Punk Royale – Wild, experimental tasting menu with a party vibe and no phones allowed; definitely book ahead.​

Coco & Carmen – Sister restaurant to Punk Royale with a fun menu that’s a bit less intense but still playful.​

Old Town & Themed Spots

Pastis – A favorite little French bistro in Gamla Stan, perfect for a cozy date‑night dinner.​

Aifur – Viking‑themed restaurant in Gamla Stan with hearty food and a fun, immersive atmosphere.​

Gyldene Freden – Historic tavern known for classic Swedish food, fun drinks, and occasional live music.​

Bars & Wine

♥ Strandbryggan – Waterside bar that’s perfect for a casual afternoon or golden‑hour drink by the water.​

Charles Stockholm – Rooftop bar with great views and a laid‑back, celebratory feel.​

The Bull and Bear – Fun spot for later‑night drinks with a lively crowd.​

Hallwylska – Beautiful courtyard bar and night spot that feels part cocktail bar, part club.​

A Bar Called Gemma – Lovely place to pause for a well‑made drink between activities.​

Kommendören (bar) – Also works just for a casual drink or a later‑night stop.​

Röda Huset – Craft cocktail bar with inventive, mixology‑driven drinks.​

Tyge & Sessil – Cozy natural wine bar with a great selection for wine lovers.​

Omnipollos Flora – Beer garden with excellent beers and burgers in a relaxed outdoor setting.​

Tilt – Bar with darts, pool, and games; you can book lanes/tables online.​

TAK – Large rooftop bar with outdoor space, great for a casual drink without being too fancy.​

Clubs & Late Night

Spy Bar – Classic Stockholm nightclub for late‑night dancing.​

Hell’s Kitchen – High‑energy club that goes late and draws a party crowd.​

FOU – Club option to consider if you’re in the mood for a big night out.​

Laroy – Restaurant and bar with a club downstairs for when the night escalates.​

V / Wall – Stylish club for those who want a more dressed‑up night out.​

Cafe Opera - Probably Sweden's most iconic night club, known for exclusivity and strict dress code but worth it if you can get in.

Cafes

Fabrique – Bakery with multiple locations for excellent bread, pastries, and coffee.​

♥ Stora Bageriet – Very popular bakery for a Swedish fika break, expect lines but it's absolutely worth it.

Valhallabageriet – Cozy local bakery where you can grab a pastry and coffee like a neighborhood regular.​

Explore Gamla Stan (Old Town)

Founded in 1252, Gamla Stan is the historic heart and birthplace of Stockholm, featuring cobblestone streets, medieval alleyways, cozy cafés, and colorful buildings.

Visit the Vasa Museum

One of the most visited museums in Scandinavia, see a fully preserved 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage. This is one of Aje's favorites.

Watch the Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace

Daily ceremony outside one of Europe’s largest palaces (also located in Gamla Stan). You can also tour the opulent interiors and museums inside.

Visit the ABBA Museum

For ABBA fans and music lovers alike, the museum offers a joyful, immersive experience with superb storytelling and plenty of chances to sing, dance, and strike a pose. Buy timed tickets in advance. This is one of Gabby's favorites.

Wander Through Fotografiska

World-class contemporary photography museum, with great café with panoramic views over the water.

Embrace Fika Culture

Swedish tradition of pausing for coffee and a treat like a Kanelbulle (cinnamon bun), Kardemummabulle (cardamom bun), or Chokladbol (chocolate ball).

Try Authentic Swedish Candy

This is one of Aje's must-do's if you have a sweet tooth. Stop by any ICA or other grocery store for a Lösgodis candy wall: hundreds of varieties of candy—sour, sweet, chewy, salty—sold by weight; expect your bag to feel heavier than it looks.

Visit Gröna Lund (Amusement Park)

Located within walking distance of the city, you will find a beautiful historic amusement park with modern attractions (think Tivoli in Copenhagen not Universal Studios) with some of the best views of Stockholm if you dare to ride the free falls. Note, somewhat child-/teen- oriented but with a few thrilling rides.

Visit Skansen (World's 1st Open Air Museum and Zoo)

Showcasing 400 years of Swedish history, it features historic, transplanted buildings, a Nordic wildlife zoo (wolves, bears, reindeer), and traditional craft demonstrations to illustrate Swedish life, culture, and nature.

For a fun and flexible way to see the city, try a Hop-On Hop-Off bus or boat tour, or take a ride on the unique Ocean Bus—an amphibious sightseeing vehicle that explores Stockholm by both land and water.