| VITAL INFORMATION | |
| Population | 788,269 |
| Languages spoken | Swedish, English |
| Currency | 1.00 SEK = 0.15 USD |
| Average temperature | Summer: 60F; winter 30F |
| High season | May to August |
The Swedish capital of Stockholm is often referred to as the Venice of the North, and with good reason; this unofficial Capital of Scandinavia is comprised of 14 beautiful islands and a labyrinth of magnificent waterways. The waterways are so clean and pure that you could safely drink straight from Mother Nature’s tap. Founded in the 13th century, Stockholm’s Old Town originally served as a port town for trade merchants. By the time the 18th century rolled around, Stockholm had become the government seat of Viking Kings and was now a popular home for royalty, knights and other wealthy families.
A century later, a rapid modernization project began and the city was revitalized with reconstruction efforts and a state-of-the-art transportation system. Fast forward to the 21st Century and you have one of the most culturally and architecturally rich cities in the world. Combine this with a nation of some of the friendliest and most beautiful people you could ever hope to meet, and it’s no wonder Stockholm has become a leading tourist destinations in Europe.
Day 1: Shopping, time travel and jazz
We recommend you stay at the beautiful Adlon Hotel. It’s central location will prove very convenient for your daily itinerary. After you’ve checked in, head a few blocks southeast to the shopping district. There you’ll find H&M, Sweden’s pride and joy, right in the center of it all. If you’re in the market for something more unusual, pick up a trendy T-shirt from Boutique Sportif. More suave than skater? The Sturegallerian invites you to visit J. Lindeberg for one of their fabulous knit sweaters or a sexy Fedora. Before you leave the gallery, make sure you check out CC Skor for some of the finest fashions in footwear.Next, head for the amazing Skansen open-air museum; the nearest subway is T-Centralen station. Skansen, a Michelin-ranked destination, gives visitors a peek into Viking history; you’ll think you’ve traveled back in time. Start with a traditional lunch at Stora Gungan; the chicken fillet will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. Walk your meal off with a stroll through the museum's incredible gardens, and give yourself time to explore the zoo. You’ll also want to catch one of the festivals, if you have time.
When you’re ready for dinner, dress smartly with the day's trendy purchases before heading over to the Clas pa Hornet. This traditional restaurant first opened in 1736, and boasts a very well-preserved decor. The seared pike-perch will melt in your mouth, and the creme brulee with berries will delight your taste buds. Top it off with a nice glass of wine and then head over to Jazzclub Fasching for some live Jazz with Sweden’s best musicians.
Day 2: Old Town and the Royal Palace
Stockholm’s historic old town (Gamla Stan) sits just south of the shopping district, so you should have no trouble locating it. Indeed, the 500-year-old architecture is easily spotted. Stroll down Kopmangatan, the oldest-named street in Stockholm. Gamla Stan is also home to Marten Trotzigs Alley, the narrowest alley in the city, with parts of it spanning only 35 inches. Visit landmarks like Storkyrkan Cathedral, the House of Nobility and the famous statue Sankt Goran and the Dragon. The Royal Mint, Nobel and Post museums are also of interest. For a light bite to eat, pop into a quaint cafe for a fika; order a pastry and wash it down with some delicious coffee.Next, head over to the Stockholm Royal Palace. With 608 rooms, it’s the largest castle in the world still occupied by a king. The castle is guarded by 45 armed soldiers, and if you’re there at noon on a Wednesday or Saturday you can watch the ceremony of the changing of the guards. You’ll enjoy the Royal Amory, the Hall of State, the Royal Apartments, and their amazing range of architectural style, as well as the Tre Kroner Museum. When you’ve experienced all things royal, head back to the hotel for a quick change before moving on to dinner. You’ll want to dress smartly again.
Den Gyldene Freden was built in 1722, and has always been a popular destination for Sweden’s cultural icons. The gourmet restaurant is renowned for traditional cuisine, and your mouth will water at the first sight of their Swedish meatballs. Follow it up with a sour creme mousse, and an after-dinner drink -- you can’t go wrong with a Sidecar cocktail. While the night is still young, head over to the Cosmopol Casino. This sexy hot spot is open until 5 a.m. and promises to fulfill your every expectation of excitement and glamor. If you’re not in the mood to drop cash, you can visit one of the Casino’s three bars and simply admire the sea of beautiful Swedish women. The dress code is smart, and a jacket is strongly encouraged.
Day 3: Museums for men
Langholmen Prison is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. You’ll find the prison located on a beautiful island just southwest of the hotel; take the subway to Hornstull and use the Langholmsgatan exit. The island has a lovely beach, so if it’s warm, feel free to take a swim with the natives. The prison itself is also a hotel; the cells have been converted to guest rooms. Catch the live Spinning House Mystery performance, and make sure you visit the famous wine cellar, once used to keep prisoners in solitary confinement. When you’ve had your fill of prison life, the Langholmen restaurant serves a delicious Brackt oxbringa (ox briskit) more worthy of a king than a prisoner.After lunch, hop back on the subway and head northwest until you reach the Ostermalmstorg subway station, where the nearby Army Museum awaits you. The large collection of mobile bridges, weapons, uniforms, and other war-time artifacts will thoroughly impress you. Next, catch the subway to Djurgarden, exiting at Karlaplan station, where you’ll be visiting the famous Vasa museum; an authentic Viking warship that first sailed in 1628. Step back outside and walk over the Museum Ships; two Swedish Ice-Breakers you can explore to your heart’s content.
Before dinner, head back to the hotel and put on your trendiest gear. Cruise over to the popular Musslan restaurant and treat yourself to their delicious oyster platter. Top the meal off with a house specialty truffle and klassisk champagne cocktail. And then grab the check and get ready to party at the Spybar. This club is famous for several reasons, the least of which being the never ending supply of stunning women. There’s a reason the Spybar has been reserved for your last night in Stockholm; if all goes well tonight, you won’t have much energy left tomorrow and you'll be ready to head back home.
tips for the trip
- Ask your hotel to arrange a 72-hour Stockholm a la carte card for your stay. It grants free transportation and free entrance to most museums during this time period.
- If you're visiting Stockholm in the winter, make sure you bring very warm clothing. The average temperature is at, or below, freezing.
- If you suffer from seasonal affective disorder, you may want to visit Stockholm in the summer months, as the winter only averages six hours of sunlight each day.
- When tipping remember that restaurants and taxis already have a 13% gratuity figured into the bill; if you want to add 5% more for exceptional service, it’s appreciated, but not necessary.
- U.S. and European power outlets are not shaped the same, and the voltage is sometimes different as well, so make sure you bring an adapter with you, as they can be hard to find in Stockholm.
- Smoking is not permitted in restaurants, nor is it permitted in most hotels.
stunning stockholm
Stockholm is one the few cities in Europe that still boasts much of its original architecture. Its rich history and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination. If the beautiful sites and trendy hot spots don’t get you, the gorgeous women certainly will. Treat your inner Viking to a man’s holiday; visit Stockholm as soon as you possibly can.Resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/
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