Stockholm Travel Review: A culinary and cultural gem worth exploring
If you’re looking for a destination that effortlessly blends rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant food scene, Stockholm should be at the top of your list. This Scandinavian capital surprised and delighted us at every turn, offering an experience that rivals any of our favorite cities. Here’s why Stockholm is a must-visit destination, from its incredible cuisine to its captivating cultural sites.
Stockholm's Food Scene
Let’s start with the food—because, trust us, it’s worth raving about. Stockholm’s culinary scene is absolutely phenomenal, and we were particularly blown away by two standout restaurants: Etoile and Frantzén. These dining experiences rival the best Michelin picks you’ll find in Miami, New York, and London—and that says a lot coming from us!
Etoile offers an innovative menu that seamlessly blends traditional Swedish flavors with modern techniques. Every dish is a masterpiece, both in taste and presentation, making it a dining experience that lingers long after the meal is over. It somehow manages to pull of a quirky but elevated vibe that is absolutely delightful.
Then there’s Frantzén, a three-Michelin-star restaurant that elevates Nordic cuisine to an art form. The attention to detail, the creativity of the dishes, and the overall dining experience at Frantzén are nothing short of extraordinary. We spent 5 hours at Frantzén and every second of it was an absolute joy.
And, of course, no trip to Stockholm would be complete without indulging in some classic Swedish meatballs and a smorgasbord or two. We found both to be just as delicious as promised. Whether enjoyed in a cozy restaurant or at a more upscale venue, the meatballs in particular were a delicious nod to Swedish tradition that we couldn’t get enough of.
The sauna and spa culture
No trip to Stockholm would be complete without experiencing the city’s rich sauna and spa culture. In Sweden, saunas are more than just a place to unwind—they’re an integral part of the lifestyle, offering a space to relax, rejuvenate, and even socialize. Whether you’re looking to detox after a day of sightseeing or simply want to experience this quintessential aspect of Swedish life, the city’s numerous saunas and spas are a must-visit.
We particularly enjoyed the Grand Hotel spa and baths. The traditional baths and serene atmosphere provided the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
For a truly immersive experience, consider visiting a floating sauna on Lake Mälaren. We didn’t get to this on our trips, but we’ve heard that these saunas offer breathtaking views of the surrounding nature and the city skyline, creating an unforgettable blend of relaxation and sightseeing.
Whether you’re a seasoned spa-goer or a first-timer, Stockholm’s sauna culture is a highlight that adds a unique layer to your travel experience. You know we love our luxe wellness, and Stockholm definitely delivers.
Fika: A delightful Swedish tradition
One of the most charming aspects of Swedish culture we embraced during our trip was the tradition of fika. Fika is more than just a coffee break; it’s a cherished ritual of slowing down, savoring the moment, and connecting with others over coffee and pastries. Whether you’re at a cozy café in the heart of Old Town or enjoying a scenic view by the water, taking time for fika is a lovely way to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.
We found it to be the perfect pause in our day, a moment to relax, reflect, and enjoy a sweet treat—often accompanied by a cinnamon bun or a slice of cake. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to experience Swedish culture, one that we found incredibly refreshing and enjoyable.
Historical and cultural highlights
But Stockholm isn’t just about incredible food, relaxing saunas, and cozy fika—the city is also rich in history and culture. One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Vasa Museum, where you can see the world’s best-preserved 17th-century ship. The sheer size and detail of the Vasa are awe-inspiring, and the museum does a fantastic job of bringing its history to life.
Old Town (Gamla Stan) is another must-see, with its charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic sites. Wandering through this medieval district feels like stepping back in time, offering countless photo opportunities and a chance to explore Sweden’s rich heritage.
We also found the Nobel Prize Museum to be incredibly inspiring. The museum does a nice job of showcasing the achievements of Nobel laureates and the impact of their work on the world. We particularly enjoyed the cinema room for an audiovisual showcase on some of the most incredible advancements in human history. Plus, the gift shop is a gem—perfect for picking up unique souvenirs that celebrate the spirit of innovation and discovery.
Navigating the city is a tourist’s dream
Getting around Stockholm as a tourist is a breeze. The city is exceptionally well-organized, with clear signage and an efficient public transport system. But our favorite way to explore was by riding scooters around the city. It’s an exhilarating way to see the sights, and the scooters are easy to rent and navigate. Whether you’re zipping through the city’s streets or gliding along the waterfront, it’s a fun and eco-friendly way to get around.
Final thoughts
Stockholm has all the ingredients for an unforgettable trip: world-class dining, rich cultural experiences, a relaxing spa culture, delightful fika moments, and easy navigation for tourists. Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge in some of the best cuisine Europe has to offer, a history buff eager to explore centuries-old sites, or simply a traveler seeking a beautiful and accessible city to explore, Stockholm has something for everyone.
Stockholm honestly exceeded our expectations in every way. If you’re looking for your next travel destination, we can’t recommend Stockholm enough—it’s a city that truly has it all.
Ready to book your trip? Feel free to check out our luxe travel picks or read our guide to creating a travel capsule wardrobe on Amazon for inspiration.
