Stockholm, one of the largest and most beautiful cities in Scandinavia, never ceases to amaze me with its stunning Swedish architecture, historic buildings, picturesque waterways, and charming cobblestoned streets.
The city is particularly unique because it stretches across fourteen islands, while the Stockholm archipelago is made up of over 20,000 islands. With all of these attractions and delightful architecture, it is definitely one of my favorite summer destinations.
If you're looking for the perfect place to stay during your trip to Stockholm but are unsure where to start, I'm here to help. In this guide, I'll help you find the ideal area and hotel that fit both your interests and budget so you can figure out where to stay in Stockholm.
The best areas to stay in Stockholm
With many islands and areas, navigating Stockholm can be quite daunting. To make it a little easier for you, here I have picked my favorite areas to stay in!
For first-time visitors interested in sightseeing, I suggest staying in the city center called Gamla Stan. If you're seeking luxury, nightlife, and shopping, consider exploring Norrmalm and Östermalm.
On the other hand, for a more edgy or local atmosphere, you should check out the areas of Södermalm or Kungsholmen. Alternatively, if you want a peaceful getaway with your family, consider staying in Djurgården or Skeppsholmen.
1. Where to stay in Stockholm for the first timers & main sights: Gamla Stan/Old Town
Are you wondering where to stay in Stockholm for the first time? Gamla Stan, also known as Stockholms Old Town, is a great choice. It’s the oldest part of Stockholm, and it’s filled with beautiful cobblestoned streets, ancient buildings, and majestic cathedrals.
Gamla Stan is located on the east side of Stadsholmen Island and is connected to both Norrmalm and Södermalm by bridges. This central location makes it perfect for exploring all of Stockholm, as it is within walking distance of many other interesting areas.
Additionally, it is home to several popular attractions, such as the Royal Palace, Nobel Museum, and the oldest church in Stockholm, Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral).
Best area for:
Travelers
City trips
Backpackers
Things to see & do in Gamla Stan
During my first visit to Stockholm, I spent the entire day sightseeing. Although I don't usually recommend rushing through tourist attractions, I couldn't resist wandering through the city's streets and admiring the Royal Palace and Nobel Museum, which I absolutely recommend to all first-time visitors!
Fika! You'll probably read this word a few more times in this guide, and you will most definitely read and hear it once you're in Sweden. Fika means both “to drink coffee” and “to have a break with friends”. To me, it's the perfect afternoon activity, and the Swedes have perfected it. My favorite spots in Old Town for Fika are Fabrique and Under Kastanjen. Both of these cafés serve amazing barista-made coffee and Danishes that are to die for!
Best hotels in Gamla Stan
($$$) Hôtel Reisen
The Hôtel Reisen is an excellent luxury pick and might be the best place to stay in Stockholm. Located in central Stockholm, it offers rooms with modern decor, some of which are even equipped with a private sauna and balcony.
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($$) Hotel Gamla Stan
This hotel is one of the best mid-range hotels in Gamla Stan. It's located right at the waterfront, close to the Royal Palace, and is housed in three different buildings, all from the 17th century.
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($) Mälardrottningen Yacht Hotel
For something a little different, opt for the Mälardrottningen Yacht Hotel. Located on a boat in the harbor, it is the perfect budget option in the Old Town, and on top of that, it is one of the most unique places to stay in Stockholm.
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2. Where to stay in Stockholm for shopping: Norrmalm
If you're a shopping fanatic, then Norrmalm is the area to stay in Stockholm. With its big department stores and countless shops selling everything from fashion to antiques, this part of town has it all. However, Norrmalm is also a cultural hub, with plenty of exhibitions or plays to enjoy.
Norrmalm is located on the western side of Stockholm, right next to Gamla Stan. It is easily connected to Östermalm and Södermalm by several bridges, making it convenient to access the other parts of town.
Best area for:
Shopping
Culture
Couples
Things to see & do in Norrmalm
For all of you shopaholics (guilty!), Norrmalm is packed with some of the best stores and shops, including department stores that have been around since the 1880s. Walking down Drottninggatan, the main shopping street in Norrmalm, you will find anything from mainstream fashion shops to unique designer boutiques.
If you don't feel like shopping, you could experience some Swedish culture instead. You'll find the Royal Opera House in Norrmalm, where you can enjoy top-quality opera and ballet performances. There's also Kungsträdgården, a lovely park where you can spend a relaxing afternoon, and the National Museum.
Best hotels to stay in Norrmalm
($$$) Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel
The Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel is an excellent luxury option. Located right in the heart of Norrmalm, close to Stockholm central station, it offers modern rooms with plenty of amenities and a great view of Lake Mälaren.
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($$) Downtown Camper
The Hotel Gamla Stan is the best boutique hotel in Stockholm, close to the city centre. The four-star hotel offers spacious rooms and activities such as kayaking or even yoga lessons.
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($) Generator Stockholm
Generator Stockholm is definitely one of the coolest places to stay in Stockholm and a great budget option! This hostel offers comfortable and stylish rooms with benefits such as free breakfast and a lounge.
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3. Coolest area to stay in Stockholm: Södermalm
Södermalm, also called Söder, is the hip and trendy district of Stockholm. It boasts plenty of coffee shops, art galleries, vintage stores, and bars, all with that special Södermalm vibe.
This area is also home to some of Stockholm's most popular attractions, such as the Fotografiska Museum and Fotografiska Parken. Here you can also find the Stockholm City Museum!
Södermalm is located on the south side of Stadsholmen Island and is connected to Norrmalm and Gamla Stan by bridges, making it very convenient to explore other areas as well. I took one of the electric scooters to get to other areas with no issue; there's plenty to choose from, Voi, Lime, and Bolt are the major ones.
Best area for:
Backpackers
Solo travelers
Students
Local vibes
Things to see & do in Södermalm
Södermalm is really about soaking in the vibes and atmosphere of this neighborhood. Make sure to take a stroll down Götgatan and check out the street art or some of the independent stores and cafes along the way.
I like to explore neighborhoods by trying out the local food. Pelican and Herman's are two of my favorite spots. Pelican not only has traditional décor but also serves delicious, traditional Swedish cuisine.
Meanwhile, Herman offers a great vegan buffet right at the waterfront, and I highly recommend this place to anyone—vegan or not!
Best hotels to stay in Södermalm
($$$) Hotel Rival
The Hotel Rival is a great luxury pick for those looking to stay in Södermalm. Located on Mariatorget Square, it offers modern rooms with private terraces and a restaurant offering traditional Swedish cuisine and excellent wines.
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($$) Clarion Hotel
If you're looking for a mid-range option, I recommend the Clarion Hotel. It is centrally located, close to the main train station, and offers great amenities such as a fitness center and sauna.
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($) STF Zinkensdamm Hostel
For backpackers or anyone on a budget, STF Zinkenbam Hostel offers laundry facilities, air conditioning, and even free walking tours in the trendy Södermalm area. Plus, it is conveniently located near cultural attractions.
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4. Where to stay in Stockholm for luxury & nightlife: Östermalm
If you are looking for wild nights, then Östermalm is the best place to stay in Stockholm for nightlife. It is one of the fancier districts and home to some of the city's finest restaurants and clubs.
Most of the restaurants, bars, and nightclubs can be found in Stureplan Square, a popular gathering place for the city's elite. Here, you will also find plenty of designer boutiques and the Swedish History Museum.
Östermalm is located on the eastern side of Stadsholmen Island, right next to Norrmalm. It is easily connected to Gamla Stan and Södermalm by several bridges, making it convenient to access other parts of town.
Best area for:
Nightlife
Luxury
Shopping
Things to see & do in Östermalm
What other activities are there to do besides clubbing, partying, and shopping in Östermalm? Personally, I recommend visiting Sturebadet and Östermalms Saluhall – two great options for the day after a night out!
At Sturebadet, you can treat yourself to a luxurious spa and wellness experience, perfect for unwinding after a night out. The spa features stunning designs and offers a variety of treatments, including massages and Turkish baths.
The Östermalms Saluhall is considered one of the best food halls in the world. Here, you can find everything from fresh seafood to Swedish delicacies, making it an absolute must-visit!
Best hotels to stay in Östermalm
($$$) Villa Dagmar
Villa Dagmar offers luxurious and elegant rooms and is one of the best 5-star hotels in Stockholm. It is a great option for those looking for a more exclusive experience, and it has a wonderful central location.
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($$) Elite Eden Park Hotel
The Elite Eden Park Hotel is an amazing hotel because it offers spacious and stylish rooms, plus amenities such as free WiFi, a gym, and a sauna. The luxurious hotel also provides easy access to Östermalm's popular attractions and restaurants.
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($) Pärlan Hotell
Pärlan Hotell is an excellent budget alternative for those looking to explore Stockholm without breaking the bank. This hostel has modern and stylish rooms, as well as plenty of amenities such as a 24-hour reception desk, great breakfast, and a lounge area.
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5. Where to stay in Stockholm for families & relaxation: Djurgarden & Skeppsholmen
If you are wondering where to stay in Stockholm with family and you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities, then Djurgården and Skeppsholmen are the perfect places to stay. This area is home to green parks, museums, and nature reserves, making it an ideal spot for families.
Djurgården is located on the east side of Stadsholmen island and is connected to the city center by bridges. It is home to popular attractions such as the Vasa Museum, Skansen Open-Air Museum, and Gröna Lund Amusement Park.
Meanwhile, Skeppsholmen is a small island on the eastern side of Djurgården that offers a great spot for relaxation.
Best area for:
Relaxation
Families
Couples
Things to see & do in Djurgarden & Skeppsholmen
Djurgården is full of great activities and attractions that are perfect for a family outing. Head over to the Skansen Open-Air or the Vasa Museum to learn more about Swedish culture, or take a boat tour around the island and spot some wildlife. Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch and explore some of the green parks dotted around the area!
The ABBA Museum is also in Djurgården, so if you are a fan of the band, it might be worth checking out!
For an even more relaxing experience, head over to Skeppsholmen for a leisurely stroll. This small island is full of quaint cafés, such as Café Blom, and galleries that are perfect for couples or those looking for some alone time.
Best hotels to stay in Djurgarden and Skeppsholmen
($$$) Hotel Hasselbacken
Hotel Hasselbacken is a great choice for luxury seekers looking to stay in Djurgården. It features spacious and modern rooms with wooden floors and marble bathrooms.
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($$) Backstage Hotel Stockholm
For anyone looking for something more affordable, Backstage Hotel Stockholm is located in the same building as the ABBA Museum. It offers comfortable and stylish rooms plus access to a fitness center.
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($$) Hotel Skeppsholmen
Hotel Skeppsholmen is the best place to stay in Stockholm for couples looking for a romantic getaway. It features chic and contemporary rooms with stunning views of the harbor and city skyline.
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6. Where to stay in Stockholm for local life: Kungsholmen
Kungsholmen is the perfect place to stay if you want to get a taste of local life in Stockholm. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants offering delicious Swedish cuisine.
If you can find some time to take a break from visiting bars and restaurants, I highly recommend checking out Stockholm City Hall. It's a stunning building and you can join a guided tour to discover more about the history of Stockholm.
Kungsholmen also offers some of the city's best bike paths, making it easy to explore the island on two wheels!
You may not find many tourist attractions here, but you'll discover genuine bars and restaurants; those are the type of places that actual locals would go to!
Best area for:
Backpackers
Second-time visitors
Travelers
Things to see & do in Kungsholmen
Kungsholmen is great for exploring on foot or by bike. Be sure to visit the iconic Stadshuset (City Hall) and take a stroll around Ralambshovsparken, a huge public park with plenty of green space perfect for relaxing.
Right next to the park, you can find Smedsuddsbadet, a cute little beach perfect for relaxing and sunbathing. The area is also home to multiple markets where you can find delicious local produce and handmade items.
There are plenty of great options for entertainment in Kungsholmen, from the buzzing pubs to the many art galleries. One favorite among all locals is Chewie's Bar, where they serve amazing craft beers and traditional Swedish snacks.
Best hotels to stay in Kungsholmen
($$$) Courtyard by Marriott
The Courtyard by Marriott is a great option for luxury seekers looking to stay in Kungsholmen, offering cozy rooms and one of the best restaurants in the area.
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($$) Clarion Hotel Amaranten
The Clarion Hotel Amaranten is a great mid-range option, featuring stylish rooms and an excellent buffet breakfast. It is conveniently located close to some of Kungsholmen's popular attractions and is also within walking distance of the bus and metro station.
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($) Nomad Cave
Nomad Cave is a great hostel and perfect for anyone on a budget who still wants a good night's sleep. It is conveniently located in the heart of Kungsholmen, and it has modern, cozy rooms with all the amenities one needs for a comfortable stay.
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Where to stay in Stockholm – Frequently Asked Questions
📍 Where is the main area of Stockholm?
The main area of Stockholm is called Gamla Stan or the Old Town. It is located in the center of the city, and it has a lot of historical buildings, restaurants, and shops.
📅 How many days should I spend in Stockholm?
I recommend that you spend at least three days in Stockholm to get a good sense of the city. You can explore Gamla Stan, visit the museums, and take day trips to nearby areas if you fancy it.
❓ What’s the best area to stay in Stockholm?
Gamla Stan is a great place to stay for any first-time visitors, despite it being the busiest part of town. I personally loved staying in Södermalm, one of the coolest parts of Stockholm. If you’re looking for luxury, Östermalm or Djurgarden and Skeppsholmen are great options; if you prefer something more local, then Kungsholmen may be a better choice!
💸 Is Stockholm expensive to visit?
Stockholm is an expensive city, but there are ways to save money. Accommodation can be quite expensive, so I recommend booking ahead and taking advantage of accommodation specials. There are also many great hostels or Airbnb options a little outside of the main areas, which is perfect for travelers on a budget.
🚶 How do I get around Stockholm?
When visiting Stockholm, stick to the city's efficient public transportation system consisting of buses, trams, and metro lines. If necessary, you can also opt for a rental bike, electric scooter or taxi.
✈️ What’s the best way to get from Stockholm airport to the city center?
The best way to get from Stockholm Airport (ARN) to the city center is by taking the Arlanda Express train. It takes approximately 20 minutes and runs every 15 minutes during peak hours.
Where to stay in Stockholm – Final Words
With all these different neighborhoods and hotels in mind, you will hopefully be able to make the best decision for your stay in Stockholm. There are a variety of options to suit everyone's tastes and budgets, so don't worry about feeling overwhelmed; pick up a map and start exploring!
Whether you're looking for luxury, relaxation, or a taste of local life, I'm sure you'll find something that you love in Stockholm.
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