About Stockholm

Stockholm County is the vibrant heart of Sweden, encompassing the stunning capital city spread across 14 islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. Known as 'Beauty on Water,' Stockholm offers travelers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern Scandinavian design. Explore the perfectly preserved medieval streets of Gamla Stan (Old Town) with its royal palace and colorful merchant houses, then discover the world's first open-air museum at Skansen, showcasing traditional Swedish life. Art enthusiasts will marvel at the Stockholm Metro's 'world's longest art gallery' and the contemporary Fotografiska museum. The county is a gateway to the Stockholm Archipelago with over 30,000 islands, perfect for kayaking, sailing, and island-hopping adventures. Foodies can indulge in New Nordic cuisine at innovative restaurants or sample traditional Swedish fika (coffee break) culture in cozy cafés. From the Vasa Museum's spectacular 17th-century warship to the modernist architecture of the Stockholm Public Library, this region seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty.

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Travel Tips for Stockholm

Getting Around

Stockholm's public transportation (SL) is efficient with metro (T-bana), buses, trams, and commuter trains. Purchase an SL Access card or use the SL app. The metro system is famous for its art installations. Ferries connect archipelago islands. Taxis are reliable but expensive—use reputable companies like Taxi Stockholm. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt operate. Biking is popular with extensive cycle paths and city bike rentals. Walking is excellent in central areas. The Stockholm Pass offers transportation and attraction discounts.

Best Time To Visit

May to September offers pleasant weather (15-25°C), long daylight hours (including Midnight Sun in June), and vibrant outdoor life. July is perfect for archipelago exploration. December is magical for Christmas markets and festive lights, though days are very short. Winter (January-March) offers opportunities for ice skating and possible Northern Lights viewing, but prepare for cold temperatures and snow.

Local Customs

Swedes value personal space, punctuality, and quiet conversations. Remove shoes when entering homes. Dress is generally casual but smart-casual for nicer restaurants. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service (rounding up or 5-10% in restaurants). Always wait in orderly queues. 'Fika' (coffee break with pastries) is a cherished daily ritual. Avoid loud behavior in public. Sauna etiquette often involves nudity and gender separation. Always respect designated smoking areas.

Safety Information

Stockholm is generally very safe with low violent crime rates. Exercise normal precautions against pickpocketing in tourist areas like Gamla Stan, Central Station, and on public transport. Be cautious of distraction techniques. There are no specific no-go areas, but some suburbs like Rinkeby, Tensta, and Husby have higher crime rates and may be best avoided at night. Bike theft is common—always lock bicycles securely. During winter, watch for icy sidewalks. Emergency services are highly responsive and professional.

Health Information

Stockholm has excellent healthcare facilities including Karolinska University Hospital and Södersjukhuset. EU citizens should bring EHIC/GHIC card. Travel insurance is recommended for others. No specific vaccinations required beyond routine. Tap water is safe to drink. During winter, be prepared for limited daylight and cold temperatures that can exacerbate respiratory conditions. Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is recommended for those planning extensive outdoor activities in forested areas during spring to autumn. Pharmacies (Apotek) are widely available.

Languages Spoken

SwedishEnglish

Quick Facts

Currency

Swedish Krona (SEK)
kr

Timezone

Europe/Stockholm +01:00 (GMT) / +02:00 during Daylight Saving Time

Calling Code

+46

Electricity

Type C, F; 230V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

2.4 million

Area

6519 km²

Government

County Council (Region Stockholm) with elected assembly

About Stockholm

Things to do in Stockholm

Guided Swedish Food Walking Tour in Stockholm

Private Boat Tour in Stockholm

Exclusive Yacht Tour of Stockholm: sunset, dinner, lunch, cruise

3-Day Self-guided Kayak Weekend Tour

Stockholm: Archipelago Family-Friendly Private Kayaking Tour

Off-Trail Nature Stockholm Hike

Private full day VIP city tour by limousine car in Stockholm

RIB Speed Boat Tour and Archipelago Island Visit (4,5h)

Sauna and Cold Plunge, Forest Hike and Fireplace Lunch - Private

Midnight Sun and Campfire - National Park evening hike Stockholm

Forestbathing Slow Walking and Healing Spring Water, Stockholm

Nordic Ice Skating on a Frozen Lake in Stockholm

Stockholm City Evening Kayak Tour

Private 4h VIP city tour by limousine car and guide in Stockholm

Wolf and Wildlife Tracking in Sweden

Travel Tips for Stockholm

Getting Around

Best Time To Visit

Local Customs

Safety Information

Health Information

Languages Spoken

Quick Facts

Currency

Timezone

Calling Code

Electricity

Driving Side

Population

Area

Government

ISO Code

Emergency Contacts

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Tourist Police

Frequently Asked Questions