Stockholm City
Stockholm city is the capital of Sweden, and it is located on the country’s Eastern side. It is built on 14 individual islands that are connected by an astonishing 57 bridges, and the city faces outward into the water. The city is known for its laid-back atmosphere, and Swedes welcome tourists with open arms.
Fun Facts about Stockholm
- Stockholm city is home to the best preserved medieval city center in all of Europe. You can find the original cobbled streets, churches, and Baroque-style restaurants at Gamla Stan, the foundation of Stockholm, which originated in 1252.
- More than two million people live in Greater Stockholm alone, and some 12% of those people immigrated from other countries.
- Stockholm city is home to 70 unique museums, ranging from the old to the weird – and more.
- Stockholm city also boasts the world’s largest spherical building, the Ericsson Globe. You can travel to the top in glass gondolas, called the Skyview, as long as you aren’t afraid of heights.
- Stockholm sees only about six hours of sunlight on its shortest days and 21 hours of sunlight on its longest.
- The city is home to the world’s largest Ikea store, which covers 56,301 square meters.
Stockholm’s Main Claim to Fame
There is no one thing that separates Stockholm from other cities in this region of Europe. Rather, it is the collection of attractions, schools, and culture that makes this area so very unique. Nonetheless, there is no denying that this city is the political, economic, cultural, and social center of Sweden. The architecture and design of the city is unlike anything else in the world. It is home to more than one of Europe’s top rated universities, and is home to the Stockholm Metro, which many claim is the longest art gallery in the world.
Accommodations, Restaurants, and Attractions
If you want an experience you will never forget, Hotel Rival in Stockholm city is the ticket. It is incredibly colorful and is touted the city’s first “boutique” hotel. It boasts an on-site cinema and bakery as well as a gorgeous, well-stocked bar. ABBA legend Benny Andersson owns the hotel, which explains its unique design. If you are a budget tourist, then the Rex Petit hotel is a great choice. Although it offers only two stars, the ambience is unique and the rooms are clean. For the cheapest experience, opt for a room with a common washroom; these are kept clean and queues are short, if they exist at all.
As far as restaurants are concerned, it doesn’t get any better than Wedholms Fisk, which is dedicated entirely to seafood. The dishes are primarily Swedish, but there are a few modern techniques that are quite unique. Book well in advance, though; the popularity of this place makes getting a table at short notice rather difficult. For budget dining, consider Meatballs for the People. Here, you can find the infamous Swedish meatball as well as other local fare. It offers an upscale atmosphere and locally-sourced organic ingredients at a surprisingly affordable price.
While visiting Stockholm, there are some attractions that you must see and do. Djurgarden is one of the best places to spend a day with many museums and beautiful sights to see. There are a number of walking tours around every corner, and you can even visit the ABBA Museum while you’re out and about. Don’t miss your guided tour of Drottningholm Palace; it could take you all day to explore it. Don’t miss out on the fabolous casino in Stockhom – It’s a load of fun!
