Exploring Alternative Stockholm
Stockholm is breathtaking in its cityscape, historical sites, and active shopping streets, and when most people think of the city they think of that. However there’s much more to see that the normal tourist sites. In this article, we will show you the alternative side of Stockholm in which you can visit. We open up with hidden gems and then unique cultural experiences when getting to know Stockholm like a local.
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Södermalm: The Hipster’s Paradise
The name Södermalm, or ‘Söder’ as it is often called, is a cool bloke neighborhood, home to trendy shops and a bohemian atmosphere. Have a walk up Götgatan, the main street, and visit the strange little boutiques, vintage stores and independent coffeehouses. If you’re passing by, don’t miss out on seeing Slussen, Mariatorget, Hornstull and other places. Today, Fotografiska is a contemporary photography museum that is also located on Södermalm and hosts fascinating exhibitions.
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Djurgården: Nature and Culture
Stockholm has an island called Djurgården that has perfect combination of nature and culture. Djurgården Park is a vast green oasis offering you a chance to dip away from the hustle and bustle of the city life as you take a leisurely walk there. See the famous museum of the Vasa Warship, a well preserved 17th century warship. Gröna Lund is assumed if you’re a book lover of amusement parks with thrilling rides and live entertainment. Skansen is an open air museum illustrating Swedish history and culture, and prior to flying out don’t forget to check it out.
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Gamla Stan: Medieval Charm
Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s charming old town, step back in time with it. Also roam around narrow cobblestone streets with colorful buildings and medieval architecture. You may visit the Royal Palace which is an official residence of the Swedish Royal Family. One of the cozy cafés grab a cup of traditional Swedish coffee with a cinnamon bun. Boutiques built nearby for souvenirs and handicrafts must not be forgotten. Joining a guided ghost tour is a good way to experience this for a unique experience and to hear Stockholm’s haunted history.
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Östermalm: Upscale and Stylish
If you are feeling the need for luxe, head out to Östermalm. It is an upscale shopping hub, classy restaurants and modern architecture. Biblioteksgatan is where famous fashion brands and designer boutiques are located and where you can stroll. Strengthen yourself with one of the lovely Michelin starred restaurants, or take a picnic in Humlegården Park. Do not miss Östermalm’s food market, Östermalms Saluhall to stroll around and eat from a broad selection of typical local delicacies.
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Södra Teatern: Cultural Hub
The cultural institution Södra Teatern is situated in Mosebacke Square. This well known building is holding concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions etc. The rooftop terrace offers the most beautiful panoramic views of the city while you sip on a refreshing drinks. The Södra Teatern also has several restaurants and bars so it is an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploration.
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Street Art in Stockholm
Stockholm will not disappoint you if you appreciate street art. Check out neighborhoods such as Hornstull, Södermalm and Vasastan, to find what street art and murals exist in this metropolis. Look out for the famous artist duo Yash and Sofles whose work can be seen all over the city. Let the art take you on an alternative Stockholm adventure on your time and wander the streets of Stockholm.
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Fjäderholmarna: Island Escape
Fjäderholmarna is a tranquil archipelago island just a short boat’s ride from the centre of Stockholm and has a rather charming atmosphere. Go around the local crafts shops and have a traditional Swedish meal at one of the calm best restaurants. It is recommended to take a guided tour, as well as visit the Fjäderholmarnas Brewery to sample some of the local beers. When you have the time, this is nuts for a quick day trip compared to who you are dealing with.
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Cafés and Fika Culture
Stockholm is full of cozy cafés where you can experience the famous Swedish concept of Fika (meaning coffee break), Swedes take their coffee breaks seriously. Enjoy a cup of coffee and enjoy cinnamon buns and cardamom rolls. While visiting Vete-Katten, Fabrique or Café Saturnus are some of the most popular cafés to visit. Don’t feel pressured to tear into your Fika, Fika is a chance to slow down, relax, gather with those close or just be alone.
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Stockholm Archipelago: Island Hopping
If you are in Stockholm, it is worth visiting the amazing Stockholm Archipelago. With over 30,000 islands, it provides limitless natural beauty and each and every landscape itself is a picture perfect one. You can take a ferry to visit islands like Grinda, Visafverkestrans on summer season, Vaxholm or Sandhamn on guided tours. If you like it hiking, swimming or lounging in the serenity of the archipelago, do it. Since some of the islands have limited facilities it’s a good idea to pack in snacks and drinks.
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Unique Food Experiences
Stockholm is a city that is a food lover’s paradise and the city offers a variety of unique culinary experiences. Eat traditional Swedish dishes including köttbullar (meatballs) with lingonberry sauce, gravlax (cured salmon) or a smörgåsbord (a smorgasbord, or plate, equivalent to a hot or cold meat and dishes – and a lot more). An excellent place to check out some food and produce is to visit Östermalms Saluhall, a famous food market. Not to be missed if you feel adventurous, Niklas Restaurant surprises you with its menu which changes according to fresh ingredients of the day.
Conclusion
Visiting Stockholm is synonymous with the city’s famous landmarks, but exploring the alternative side of town will give you a glimpse of a totally different aspect. Alternative Stockholm has something to offer you whether you’re researching hip neighbourhoods, experiencing the Fika culture, checking out local street art or anything else. Therefore do it off the beaten path and wander around locally, being part of the culture, seeing things you never thought existed.
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