Stockholm Map

Stockholm is Sweden’s capital and the most populous city in Scandinavia. It boasts of being one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and is the cultural, political, media, and economic centre of Sweden. Famous for its 24-hour summer days and being the 3rd best city in Europe in terms of air quality, Stockholm is both a cosmopolitan, as well as a historic and classical city.

Geography

Stockholm comprises of 14 districts or islands that are connected by about 50 bridges on the Lake Macaren, which flows into the Baltics. The city is made of 30% waterways and 30% green spaces, making Stockholm a metropolitan surrounded by and consisting of natural resources.

How to Reach ( Transport)

By Plane – there are 4 airports found in and around Stockholm. The primary airport is Stockholm – Arlanda Airport, or simply known as Arlanda – that provides domestic and international flights to most of the major cities in the world. Bromma Airport, located 8km west of the city centre, provides domestic flights, as well as to nearby countries such as Norway, Estonia, and Belgium. Skavsta Airport, located 100km southwest of the city centre serves domestic flights, while Vasteras Airport, located 100km west of the city centre provides flights to and from London.

By Train – the main train station is called Stockholm Central, providing both commuter and long-distance routes to farther cities and international destinations. The Tunnelbana is the city’s metro system, with 100 stations located across the city centre. The Pendeltag is Stockholm’s system for suburban areas.

By Bus – the City Central is the main bus terminal, connected to the Stockholm Central and the T Centralen. Buses are available for domestic and long-distance routes.

By Boat – Stockholm has a number of seaports that serve trips to other islands and cities. The Stockholm Public Transport integrates most modes of transportation such as the light rail, the ferry, the subway, and the bus system – all using an integrated ticket system called the SL Access.

By Taxi – several companies are available within the city centre but they can be expensive as operators asking for more than what is to be paid is not illegal.

By Bike – bike paths are located in most roads with several bike stands available with bicycles for rent.

When to Visit

The best time of the year to visit Stockholm is in the summer – during the months of July and August. This is the time when the city experiences the warmest weather, with temperatures at 68-71 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as almost 24 hours of complete daylight. However, summer is also the priciest time to visit Stockholm, as businesses raise prices to meet the peak season.

Culture (Fairs and Festivals) and Traditions

Stockholm Culture Festival – Every year in August, the streets of the inner city are filled with performances of all sorts – from art to music, to dancing, to theatre, and even film and photography. Stockholm celebrates all kinds of culture that draw locals and international visitors to the 6-8 stages and performances all across the city.

Stockholm Jazz Festival – one of the country’s oldest festivals, local, national, and international jazz musicians come together to perform and learn about this beloved genre of music. Every July of the year, performances are spread across different venues around the city.

Stockholm International Film Festival – a gathering of Sweden’s filmmakers, as well as showings of international films, this festival is held every 2nd half of November.

Points of Interest (Places to Visit)

Old Town/Gamla Stan – a must place to visit in Stockholm, the old town is one of the largest and best preserved medieval city centres in Europe. Stroll through cobble-stoned streets and well-preserved historic buildings that have been turned into cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Vasa Museum – the most visited museum in Scandinavia, the Vasa Museum is a salvaged 17th century warship that is the best preserved in the world.

Skyview/Ericsson Globe – the Ericsson Globe is the biggest spherical building in the world – an indoor arena that has held notable events in its establishment, an elevated incline has glass gondolas that take people from the base to the building, that’s perched at 130 meters above sea level.

Skogskyrkogarden Cemetery – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cemetery is credited for changing cemetery design across the world. It provides a beautiful view of landscape architecture from Nordic Classicism styles to nature functionalism.

Accommodation

There are many places to stay in Stockholm that cater to different types of travelers. The city centre is packed with expensive 4-star hotels while cheaper alternatives can be found in the city limits. Hostels and cheaper places to stay within the city are very few so it’s best to book in advance.