Where is the best area to stay in Stockholm?
By Andra Ioana Curutiu. May 16, 2023
With an impressive collection of 14 islands and a network of 57 bridges, it is no surprise that Stockholm is called the ‘Venice of the North’. Located in the east-central part of Sweden, the city offers many hiking and kayaking options, and it is home to a wide variety of unique viewpoints and natural parks. As the largest Scandinavian capital, Stockholm ranks high in the list of European cities to explore. Every year, tourists from all over the world gather here in search of vikings, reindeer soup and the ABBA group; and if you are lucky enough, you may even see the Northern lights.
In order to be close to the most important tourist attractions, the best area to stay during your trip to Stockholm is around the city centre. Here, you can explore anything, from 17th century buildings adorned with history, to luxurious modern hotels and the most popular museums. In between, tourists can stop by at one of the many cozy restaurants around and enjoy a Swedish Fika. The city centre is also best to stay for those looking to take a cruise around the picturesque islands of Stockholm, since it is close to many ports and the biggest ferry terminal.On the map, which shows the most convenient area to stay in Stockholm, you can see a selection of some of the best located hotels.
If you are interested in where to stay in Stockholm, you may also be interested in where to stay in Oslo, where to stay in Helsinki, where to stay in Reykjavik and where to stay in Moscow.
The best places to stay in the city centre of Stockholm
Norrmalm
Best for First Time Visitors / Tourists / Shopping
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Only a few minutes away from the Old Town, Norrmalm is a perfect location for those looking to immerse themselves into the city’s contemporary vibes, while being conveniently located next to the most important tourist attractions. The island is home to T-Centralen, Stockholm’s biggest train station, and it offers a wide variety of hotels and accommodation options at relatively good prices.
Recognised as Stockholm’s ‘New Downtown’, this central district hosts an impressive collection of modern elegant buildings, which have been built after the 1960s. The area is best known for its wide variety of entertainment and cultural options. During their stay in Norrmalm, visitors can sip unique cocktails at IceBar, surrounded by a constant temperature of -7°C; or enjoy world-class performances at the Royal Swedish Opera. Norrmalm also hosts the popular Drottninggatan street, which offers a good selection of high-end boutiques and budget-friendly stores. And the area is the most well-connected to contemporary art museums, such as Moderna or Arkdes.
Vasastan
Best for Nature / Budget Friendly
Located north of Norrmalm, the Vasastan area is perfect for those looking to explore the beautiful nature of Stockholm, while being in close vicinity to the centre. The area is a 20-30 minute walk from Hagapark, where the residence of Crown Princess Victoria and her family is located (The Haga Palace). And if you are lucky enough, you may even see the Northern lights from this part of town during the autumn and winter times. And during the summer times, visitors can stroll through the park’s various trails and beautiful gardens.
The Vasatan area is also close to the Karlberg Palace, which is now used to train Swedish military officials. This stunning palace dates back to the 1630s and boasts beautiful architecture and gardens that visitors can explore. The most well-connected metro station in the area is St Eriksplan, where tourists can hop on a train and get to the Old Town in about 10 minutes.
Ostermalm
Best for
Museums / Fine Dining / Luxurious Hotels & Shopping
If you are coming to Stockholm to find out how the vikings would fight, then you must stay in Östermalm. Located east of Norrmalm, this is the most well-connected area to the island of Djurgården, which hosts popular sightseeing sights such as the ABBA, the Vikings or the Vasa Museum; the latter one is particularly interesting for those passionate about sailing, as it displays the only almost fully intact 17th century ship that has ever been salvaged.
Östermalm is considered to be the richest and most exclusive area of Stockholm, with no shortage of luxurious hotels, award-winning restaurants, and exciting entertainment options. From admiring the elegant facades at Grand Hotel Stockholm to exploring artisanal products at Östermalmshallen indoor market or dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, there is always something to do in this vibrant part of Stockholm. And the area itself hosts popular museums such as the Army Museum and the Swedish History Museum. (153 words)
Gamla Stan
Best for
History & Old Architecture / Traditional Restaurants
For those passionate about history and looking to explore the old Stockholm, the best area to stay is in Gamla Stan. This is where Stockholm was founded back in 1252, and it is now legally protected from renovation. As the most central and picturesque island in Stockholm, Gamla Stan is filled with souvenir shops and Swedish restaurants, where tourists can savour traditional meatballs and reindeer soup.
Many houses on the island date back to the 16th or 17th century, including the Colorful Buildings of Stortorget square. The square also hosts the famous ‘Nobel Prize’ Museum, which showcases many of the discoveries and ideas of former Nobel Prize laureates. And the Stockholm Palace, the official residence of His Majesty The King, is located north of the island. Tourists can visit the Palace anytime throughout the year and from April till August, they can also attend the Royal Guards Ceremony. The Parliament of Sweden is located in close vicinity to the Palace.
Södermalm
Best for Viewpoints / Contemporary Art Galleries / Stieg Larsson Fans
If you are looking to stay in the trendiest part of Stockholm, Södermalm is for you. Located south of Gamla Stan, the island is home to Stockholm’s most bohemian residents, and the most charming art galleries and cafes in the city. The area was made popular by Stieg Larsson’s Millennium trilogy books, including The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
The main attraction on the island is Skinnarviksberget, the highest natural point in central Stockholm, which offers the best panoramic views of this enchanting Nordic capital. At the bottom of the hill, tourists can admire traditional 18th century houses, capture Instagramable pictures on wooden alleys or take romantic walks on Monteliusvägen at dusk.
Södermalm is also home to the Stockholm City Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of art and photography. The area is more affordable compared to central locations such as Östermalm or Gamla Stan, and has an excellent public transport system.
Kungsholmen
Best for Budget Friendly / Restaurants / Swimming
If you are looking for more affordable options close to the city centre, then the Kungsholmen area is perfect for you. Located east of Norrmalm, this area has excellent public transport connections, and a wide variety of good restaurants and more affordable hotels. While in the area, Instagram enthusiasts should pay a visit to the Pink Company, where you can enjoy a unique brunch surrounded by pink balloons, flowers and telephone booths. It’s a different experience, they say!
The area is also home to the Stadshuset (Stockholm City Hall), where visitors can take guided tours and learn about the history of Stockholm. And north of Kungsholmen is Fredhällsbadet, a Swedish bathing place on the rocks, where experienced swimmers can have an authentic Nordic experience and jump straight into the cool, clear water. During the summer times, tourists here can also enjoy some of the most beautiful and picturesque sunsets in Stockholm.
The best place to stay outside the city centre of Stockholm
Bromma
Best for Nature / Relaxation / Business
If you are coming to Stockholm on a business trip or are transiting the Nordic capital for a peaceful retreat, the best area to stay is in Bromma. Located western side of Stockholm, this residential district is well known for its serene lakes and green spaces, which offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the most popular attractions here is the Judarskogens Nature Reserve, where locals often go on a hike to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Bromma is also home to Nockeby Torg, an elegant square with unique architecture, where tourists can enjoy the traditional Swedish Fika. And no one coming here should miss the tasty bread and pastries at Nockeby Bageri, a true delight of this Nordic capital.
Bromma Airport, one of the most important airports in Stockholm, is located east of the district, and the Central Station is a 30-40 minute train ride away.
Our recommended hotels in Stockholm
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in StockholmNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
