We spent a lovely week at the end of our European trip in Stockholm, Sweden. This was a trip through my husbands work. So we do have some commitments, but most of those are dinners, and it’s nice, because the boys always find some friends!
A few observations we made while in Stockholm that may be helpful if you’re visiting:
- They are quiet people. I could not believe how quiet it was at the airport. Barely any honking at all. I went into a few stores, and couldn’t believe how quiet it was.
- They ALL speak English. Our tour guide said “if they don’t speak english, they aren’t Swedish” … which is wild but they really start them young to learn English. Some people would speak to me in Swedish, and then realize, and switch to English and there was literally no detectable accent. I have never been to a place like this!
- The service industry here is incredible. We had some of the best service we’ve ever had in our life while in Sweden.
- It’s a great place to go in the heat of summer in Europe. You’ll enjoy likely cooler temps than the rest of more southern Europe.
Below, I’ll share what we did, where we stayed, where we ate, and where I shopped.
WHERE TO STAY
We stayed at The Grand Hotel. It is a jewel box, and we were so well taken care of during our stay. I think it’s one of the most beautiful hotels we’ve ever stayed in.
When we arrived, they let us know they upgraded our rooms. I didn’t think much of it. When we got to the first room, we all thought that was the upgrade. It was a room with a little dormer, that was so cute, overlooking the Royal Palace. We were all so excited. Then they opened the doors to the adjoining room, and we couldn’t believe it! We had a living room, an extra bathroom, and stairs that led to the cutest head to ceiling wallpapered room. We couldn’t believe our luck! The set up was perfect for our family! Three bathrooms and two bedrooms in Europe, with extra space, was a dreamy way to end our last week in Europe.
Beyond the room, the location is excellent, service is phenomenal, and there are three restaurants on site. We did visit the spa one day, and while I have no photographic evidence – it was INCREDIBLE.
Another hotel I have been eyeing was Ett Hem. I’m sure there are many more wonderful ones. But The Grand and Ett Hem stuck out for me!
WHAT TO DO
There’s no shortage of activities here!
- The Royal Palace was beyond gorgeous and so well preserved. I couldn’t believe it. It felt every bit as opulent as Versailles, but without the crowds! We would be in these stunning rooms, but just our family at times. As someone who isn’t a big fan of crowds, this was a lovely surprise.
- The Royal Armoury. You can do this on the same day. This is much more kid friendly. It’s an extremely interactive and kid friendly space.
- Eat Swedish Meatballs. We all loved ordering this as often as possible!
- Lunch cruise to Drottningholm was a great way to see more of Stockholm. We had lunch on the way there, got off, explored the Palace there, and then got back on to cruise home.
- Futball game time! The boys loved the AIK game at Strawberry Arena. The concierge booked the tickets, and they were fantastic! It was a fun atmosphere, and a little slice of Swedish life.
- Vasa Museum. This was the highlight for JB and I. The entire museum is interactive and so kid friendly. I could have spent HOURS there. We had a private tour of the Vasa, followed by dinner right next to the Vasa. This was all through JBs work, but if you’re traveling with a large group, it may be something you’ll want to look into.
- The Old Town – fun to wander around the cobblestone streets. We didn’t spend too much time here. It had a lot of touristy shops, but the square is quite well preserved and beautiful.
- Fika – this is a tradition there. To grab a little something to eat and drink. Similar to Pinxtos, but sweeter. We had many cinnamon cardamom buns and coffee for us, hot chocolate for the boys.
- Salu Hall – a fantastic food hall. You can grab lunch/dinner here, or pick up something to cook.
- Svenskt Tenn – This is a GEM. I could have stayed here shopping for hours and hours. Home decor, fabric, tablescapes … it’s divine!
- Rosendals Tradgard – This garden, restaurant, shop, was probably the highlight for me. SUCH a beautiful spot, and not to be missed.
- Skansen – An open air museum and zoo. The boys loved the Nordic animals here. This place is huge, and the playgrounds are so fun. Maybe a better fit for younger kids though. But my kids had a blast all the same.
- Tour the archipelago – We went to Fjäderholmarna for lunch one day. What an adorable tiny island with restaurants, swimming, and some fun art!
- ABBA museum – even if you’re not a big ABBA fan (What?! how!) you’ll love this interactive museum.
- Viking Museum – This was the boys pick. I wouldn’t recommend it, lol.
- Wreck Museum – a good one, to do in place of the Viking Museum.
WHere to EAT
While we were there eight nights, three of those were with JBs company. We ate at the hotel two of those nights in the ballroom (gorgeous!) and one night at the Vasa Museum.
Here’s everywhere else we ate and enjoyed:
- Rodendals: This was so fresh! Absolutely loved dining inside of a green house.
- Brasserie Astoria: We all enjoyed this nice night out. Probably our favorite of the trip!
- Tradition: Great spot after a visit to the Royal Palace for Swedish meatballs.
Stori bagareit: great place for Fika
- VauDeville: Living restaurant – ate here after an afternoon of shopping
- Grand Soleil: LOVED this spot. So stylish, great menu, great people watching.
- The Cadier Bar: This was a fun spot for ice cream for the boys and a fun cocktail for JB and I!
WHERE TO SHOP
I didn’t do a ton of shopping, but loved the Soldermam area. Lots of slow fashion and thrift stores there. I would have loved to spend a day popping in and around stores there.
Svenskt Tenn – an absolute must visit!
Tambur – such a great home store
Toteme – Much cheaper. Plus you can do the VAT refund for even more of a discount.
