Let's fly away: Stockholm

Hej! Last week we were in Stockholm, the capital city of Sweden, where modernity meets historic tranquility and charm. Where trend-setting restaurants and vibrant night clubs are located, but where you can also find idyllic islands. Stroll down the cute, cobblestone streets of the Old Town (Gamla Stan) and over the 57 picturesque bridges, that magically connect the different parts.

The beauty and fashion sense of the city is intimidating; each neighbourhood has its own character, but they are close enough to spend time in different areas. Like one would expect of the Scandinavian city it is all about trend-setting design, top cuisine, beautiful museums, pretty green parks and amazing shopping.

Gamla Stan is where Stockholm was founded in 1252 and nowadays it is one of the best preserved medieval centres in Europe. It almost feels like walking in a museum full of sights, because of its narrow streets with buildings in all shades of gold. If you are a fan of fairytales, you should visit the district in winter time, when you imagine yourself walking in Grimm’s Story Book. This is only a few metres from the modern city centre, shining bright like you see in modern magazines.

Once ranked as the ‘coolest neighbourhood’ (Vogue 2014), Södermalm is the place to go to. ‘Söder’ (or SoFo) is where the cool people come together. With cosy 16^th century architecture and spectacular views over the city, the area is also filled with trendy vintage boutiques, galleries and little bars. Be prepared for a relaxed, creative and trendy vibe! Plan a visit to one (or all) of the shops of Grandpa Södermannagatan, where you can find a cool mix of designer clothes, vintage furniture and accessories.

Tired of shopping and chilling out? There are several beautiful museums to go to; next to the largest attraction, the Royal Palace (don’t miss the soldier parade!), there is the Fotografiska Museet, the museum of modern photography. And after days of walking and discovering, it is time to act like the Swedes and treat yourself to a ‘fika’ (something sweet and a hot drink).

And to make your city trip even easier and stress-free, we already made a selection of the nicest hotel and restaurants for you.

Where to sleep?

We think a lovely hotel, already makes 50% of your trip, since you want to relax after a long day. We found you three possible options;

• Stay in a charming boutique hotel (with wine bar!), the Nofo Hotel in trendy SoFo. The place was built as a brewery back in the 18^th Century, but has also been used as a hospital. The rooms are decorated in different styles; Parisian Moulin Rouge, Urban Castle and Scandinavian Design. Either start or end the your evening at their wine bar.
• The Miss Clara by Nobis Hotel (we love the poppy name!) was originally built as a girl’s school at the beginning of the 20^th Century. The hotel has been named after the headmistress of the school. Now it has been transformed into a unique design hotel, in Art Nouveau style, with dark parquet, stone floors and leather chairs.
• The Haymarket by Scandic Hotel in art-deco-style, is like entering the roaring 1920s but then with a modern touch. We adore the golden details and most of all the powdery pastels, which just pop up everywhere. The location is just perfect, in the centre of Stockholm.

Where to eat?

After unpacking or strolling through the city, make sure you visit one of the following places;

• A hidden jewel is Babylon, with a nice ambiance and garden. Björns Trädgårdsgränd 4, Stockholm
• In trendy SoFo you can visit The Urban Deli, which is a restaurant, bar, bakery, grocery store and, of course, a deli in one. Nytorget 4, Stockholm
• Robin Delselius is a baker from a family with 30 years of bakery experience. His own bakery on Södermalm continues the long tradition with delicious bread, cookies and pastries. But they also serve salads and wraps for lunch, and another plus; they have a cute terrace. Renstiernas gata 19, Stockholm

Have fun! Hej då (Bye)!