Romantic Getaway Stockholm
Stockholm, the Venice of the North in the heart of the Baltic
Treat yourselves and travel more often!
The Swedish capital, Stockholm, is spread across 14 islands. It is considered one of the most beautiful capitals in the world. From medieval buildings and leafy parks to modern skyscrapers and colourful façades, the city is definitely worth visiting.
We will not talk about “must-sees” here, because everyone is different and has different interests. Some people may prefer to ride the SkyView, while others will want to explore Stockholm from the water or visit the Nobel Prize Museum.
The best way to explore Stockholm is by neighbourhood or island. The city is made up of several distinct islands and districts, each with its own attractions, atmosphere and points of interest. By focusing on one area at a time, you can make the most of your time and avoid spending too long travelling from one place to another.
Gamla Stan, the Old Town, is ideal for a full day of sightseeing, with its medieval streets, the Royal Palace, and numerous churches and museums.
Södermalm is perfect for a day devoted to designer boutiques, trendy cafés and the panoramic views from Monteliusvägen.
Djurgården is an ideal island for museum and nature lovers, with attractions such as the Vasa Museum and Skansen.
Exploring Stockholm in this way allows you to discover each neighbourhood fully without rushing, while reducing travel time.
When should you visit Stockholm for a romantic getaway?
The best time for a romantic weekend in Stockholm depends on the atmosphere you are looking for. In spring, the city awakens after winter, the parks burst into bloom and the outdoor terraces come alive, creating a gentle, picturesque setting for walks and picnics.
Summer, with its long days and nearly endless daylight, is ideal for outdoor activities such as archipelago cruises and waterfront dinners. In autumn, Stockholm is adorned in golden colours, making walks through its parks and visits to its museums particularly enjoyable.
Finally, winter transforms the city into a fairy tale, with Christmas markets, festive lights and snow-covered landscapes. It is the perfect season for cosy activities such as ice skating and intimate dinners. Every season offers couples a unique and memorable experience.
How can you get to Stockholm?
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Stockholm from other European countries. Numerous airlines, including Air France, SAS, Ryanair and Norwegian, operate direct flights from major European cities to Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN). The flight takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from Paris.
Fares can sometimes be more attractive if you plan a twin-city break with a stopover in London. Remember that European travellers may need a passport to enter the United Kingdom following Brexit.
Be careful when booking your flights, as Stockholm is served by several airports, each offering different levels of convenience and proximity to the city. Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA), located only seven kilometres west of the city centre, is small and mainly used for domestic flights and certain business routes.
The main airport is Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN), located approximately 40 kilometres north of the city centre. Arlanda is Sweden’s largest airport and the country’s main hub for international and domestic flights. It is well connected to central Stockholm by several forms of transport, including the high-speed Arlanda Express, which reaches the city in around 20 minutes, as well as buses and regional trains.
Two other airports are much farther away. Stockholm Skavsta Airport (NYO) is located approximately 100 kilometres south-west of Stockholm, near the town of Nyköping. Skavsta is often used by low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, making it a popular choice for budget flights. However, the journey from the airport to Stockholm takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours by bus or train, making it a less convenient option for travellers who want to reach the city quickly. Direct buses operate between Skavsta and Stockholm, but remember to factor this additional travelling time into your romantic weekend. The same applies to Västerås Airport, which is around 110 kilometres away.
Where should you stay in Stockholm for a romantic weekend?
Several Stockholm neighbourhoods are perfectly suited to a romantic stay.
Gamla Stan
Stockholm’s historic district is an ideal choice if you are looking for charm and history. Its cobbled streets, colourful buildings and little shops create an intimate atmosphere. You can stroll hand in hand while discovering architectural treasures, cosy cafés and restaurants serving refined local cuisine.
Södermalm
Known for its bohemian and creative atmosphere, Södermalm is perfect for couples looking for a lively, fashionable neighbourhood. You will find art galleries, vintage shops and a diverse culinary scene. In the evening, you can enjoy its trendy bars or take a romantic walk along Monteliusvägen, which offers panoramic views across the city.
Östermalm
For a more luxurious stay, Östermalm is the neighbourhood to choose. It is Stockholm’s elegant district, with stylish avenues, high-end fashion boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants. A waterfront walk along Strandvägen followed by dinner in one of the neighbourhood’s many fine-dining restaurants will make your stay even more memorable.
Djurgården
For greener surroundings, Djurgården is an excellent choice. This island neighbourhood, filled with parks and museums, is ideal for couples who love nature and culture. A walk through the Rosendal gardens or a visit to the Vasa Museum followed by a picnic beside the water can be wonderfully romantic.
Each neighbourhood has its own charm and caters to different expectations, but all of them promise couples a memorable stay.
What should you see and do during a romantic weekend in Stockholm?
For a romantic sightseeing weekend in Stockholm, there are three places you should not miss. Gamla Stan, the Old Town, and Djurgården are among the most romantic places in Stockholm. At the end of the day, complete your visit by heading to Monteliusvägen.
Located in Södermalm, this panoramic walkway offers spectacular views of central Stockholm and Lake Mälaren. Monteliusvägen is particularly romantic at sunset, with breathtaking views of Riddarholmen, Stockholm City Hall and the rest of the illuminated city.
With their combination of historic charm, peaceful nature and panoramic views, these three places create the perfect atmosphere for a romantic getaway in Stockholm.
Explore Gamla Stan differently
Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s historic district, located in the heart of the city. It is known for its cobbled streets and colourful houses, as well as its numerous monuments and historic buildings. Gamla Stan is one of Stockholm’s most visited neighbourhoods and is ideal for strolling around and discovering the city’s history.
You will find lively shopping streets, picturesque squares and historic churches. The neighbourhood is also known for its many restaurants and cafés, as well as its souvenir and gift shops.
Make sure you visit the Royal Palace in Gamla Stan, one of the city’s main attractions. You can also visit Stockholm Cathedral, one of Sweden’s most important churches, or the Nobel Prize Museum, which explores the history of the Nobel Prizes and their laureates.
If you are short on time, we offer a private two-hour express tour of this picturesque Old Town, or a more relaxed three-hour experience. Our favourite tour featuring Gamla Stan combines sightseeing with food tastings and also takes you through other Stockholm neighbourhoods.
Discover Swedish gastronomy together!
Discovering Swedish gastronomy is a genuine journey for the senses, where tradition meets innovation. Stockholm offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from historic markets and romantic restaurants to vibrant food trucks and food courts.
Östermalms Saluhall is one of the jewels of Stockholm’s culinary scene. Located in the elegant Östermalm district, this historic food hall is an iconic covered market where you can discover a wide variety of fresh produce, Swedish specialities and artisan food.
Dating back to 1888, the recently renovated building is as impressive as the culinary selection it houses. Its stalls offer local products such as pickled herring, smoked salmon and Swedish cheeses. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the country’s traditional flavours, and you can sample them in the small restaurants and cafés inside the market.
Beyond its traditional markets, Stockholm’s food trucks and food courts bring a modern touch to the city’s food scene. These venues are perfect for a more relaxed experience while still enjoying quality food. At food courts such as K25 or Teatern in Södermalm, you can sample contemporary interpretations of Swedish specialities or international dishes in a friendly setting. Food trucks, often gathered in strategic locations such as Hornstulls Marknad or around the city’s parks and public spaces, offer a wide variety of cuisines, from Swedish meatballs to gourmet burgers and vegetarian dishes.
Among the local specialities, do not miss the famous smörgåsbord, a traditional Swedish buffet featuring a wide range of dishes, including marinated fish, potato salads and assorted breads. Gravlax, salmon cured with dill and sugar, is another classic, as are köttbullar, Swedish meatballs served with cream sauce and lingonberry jam. More adventurous visitors may want to try surströmming, fermented herring, for a truly unique experience, although its particularly powerful smell is worth bearing in mind!
For couples looking for a romantic dinner, Stockholm also has many charming restaurants where you can taste these specialities in an enchanting setting. We have put together a small selection for you.
Whether you are drawn to tradition or innovation, Stockholm will delight your taste buds through its markets, iconic dishes and wonderfully charming restaurants.
Visit the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace of Stockholm is a historic building located in the heart of the city on the island of Stadsholmen. It is the official residence of the Swedish royal family and one of Stockholm’s main tourist attractions.
The Royal Palace is an imposing building with grand façades and sloping roofs. It is surrounded by green spaces and offers panoramic views of the city. You can discover the history of Sweden’s royal family by visiting the Royal Apartments, which are decorated in Baroque and Rococo styles.
You can also visit the richly decorated Royal Chapel and explore the areas surrounding the palace, which are ideal for walking and enjoying the views. Discover the history of Sweden’s royal family while admiring panoramic views of the city.
Wander through Södermalm
Södermalm is a Stockholm neighbourhood known for its fashionable, cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is one of the city’s most popular districts and is ideal for strolling around and discovering another side of Stockholm.
You will find lively shopping streets, trendy restaurants and bars, as well as fashion and design shops. The neighbourhood is also known for its many green spaces and parks, together with its panoramic views across the city.
I recommend visiting Monteliusvägen to enjoy panoramic views of the city and Stockholm’s waterfront.
You can also explore Hornstulls Marknad, one of Stockholm’s most popular markets, or visit Tantolunden Park, an ideal place for walking and relaxing. Södermalm is the perfect neighbourhood in which to discover Stockholm’s nightlife and culture.
Reach new heights with SkyView
SkyView is located just south of Södermalm. Its glass gondolas travel up the outside of the Avicii Arena and offer panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The Avicii Arena is also one of the world’s largest spherical buildings.
The gondola takes you to the top of the arena, approximately 130 metres above sea level, where you can enjoy sweeping views across Stockholm and its surroundings.
This activity is best enjoyed in clear weather.
Visit Fotografiska
Fotografiska is a photography museum featuring temporary exhibitions of contemporary photography. It is known for welcoming internationally renowned artists. The museum also organises workshops, talks and film screenings for visitors.
Fotografiska is housed in a renovated historic waterfront building and offers panoramic views of the city. It is open every day of the week and is ideal for anyone interested in contemporary photography.
Its exhibitions cover a wide variety of subjects, from fashion and street photography to nature photography. You may also discover works by famous photographers such as Annie Leibovitz and David LaChapelle. If you are looking for a cultural activity, I recommend visiting Fotografiska.
Discover the green island of Djurgården
For a varied day out, take a boat to Djurgården, a beautiful island combining extraordinary museums, parks, artificial canals and an amusement park.
One day will not be enough to visit all the attractions on Djurgården. You will need to choose which places you most want to see to make the most of your day on the island, although nothing prevents you from spending two days there if you are staying in Stockholm for several days.
You can also book our private tour to optimise your romantic visit and learn more about Sweden. The tour can be personalised according to your interests.
Make a beeline for the Vasa Museum
The closest museum when you step off the boat on Djurgården is the unmissable Vasa Museum.
You simply cannot miss this unique attraction. Commissioned by King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden, the Vasa sank on the day of its maiden voyage in 1628. The ship was rediscovered near Stockholm in 1956 before being raised and restored. Today, it is considered one of the best-preserved ships from the early modern period and a masterpiece of naval engineering.
The museum features numerous exhibitions on the history of the ship, shipbuilding techniques of the period and life on board. You will also see authentic objects including weapons, tools and clothing, together with models of the ship and its cargo. The Vasa Museum is unmissable for anyone interested in maritime history.
Discover its history inside a museum built especially to house this magnificent 17th-century warship and witness to the past.
Immerse yourself in Viking culture
Stockholm’s Viking Museum is located very close to the Vasa Museum. It is devoted to the history of the Vikings in Scandinavia.
The Viking Museum features numerous exhibitions exploring Viking history, culture and everyday life. You will discover authentic objects such as gold jewellery, ceramics and tools, along with models of Viking ships and reconstructed Viking villages. The museum is ideal for learning more about Scandinavian history.
Enjoy an immersive visit to Skansen
Skansen is an open-air museum, also located on Djurgården.
It explores life in Sweden during different periods and features numerous exhibitions on the country’s history, culture and everyday life.
The museum is divided into different areas representing various periods and regions of Sweden. You will discover traditional houses, windmills, churches and barns, as well as farm animals and gardens.
You will also see many authentic objects, such as furniture, clothing and tools, together with models of Swedish villages and houses. Skansen is also known for its performances and cultural events, including folk music concerts and demonstrations of traditional crafts. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Swedish history and culture.
Take a retro trip back in time at ABBA The Museum
ABBA The Museum is devoted to the legendary Swedish pop group ABBA. It features numerous exhibitions about the band’s music and costumes, as well as their career and their influence on international pop music.
You will discover many authentic objects, including musical instruments, microphones and guitars, together with stage costumes and concert posters.
ABBA The Museum is very popular with fans and is ideal for learning more about the group’s history and musical legacy. You will also discover numerous music videos and interviews with the band, together with stage recreations and interactive screens.
Share plenty of laughter at Gröna Lund
Gröna Lund is an open-air waterfront amusement park on Djurgården. It is known for its rides and live music performances and offers a wide range of activities.
The park is divided into different sections, with attractions suitable for all ages. You will find rides for younger visitors, roller coasters for thrill-seekers and classic fairground attractions such as shooting galleries and games of chance.
Gröna Lund is ideal for spending a fun day or evening as a couple or with your family. The park also organises numerous concerts during the summer and regularly welcomes major artists. If you visit Stockholm in summer, I recommend going to Gröna Lund to enjoy its attractions and outdoor music.
Stop off on Skeppsholmen Island
Skeppsholmen is a small island opposite Djurgården. It is connected to the city by a bridge and is easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
On Skeppsholmen, you will find a selection of art galleries, museums and restaurants. Stockholm’s modern art museum, Moderna Museet, is one of the island’s main attractions and houses a collection of modern and contemporary art. You can also discover important collections of Swedish and international art in Stockholm’s other national museums.
Skeppsholmen is also a lovely place for a walk, with green spaces and gardens. It is a popular place to relax and admire views of the city.
The island also hosts several festivals and cultural events throughout the year, including music and film events. Skeppsholmen is therefore an ideal place to spend an enjoyable day discovering Stockholm’s art and culture.
Stroll through the elegant Östermalm district
Östermalm is located north-east of Gamla Stan and is known for its elegant, cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is one of Stockholm’s most exclusive districts and is ideal for strolling and shopping.
Östermalm is divided into several smaller neighbourhoods, each with its own charm. You will find lively shopping streets, luxury restaurants and bars, as well as prestigious fashion and design shops. The district is also known for its many green spaces and parks, together with panoramic views across the city.
You can visit Östermalms Saluhall, explore Humlegården Park, one of Stockholm’s most popular parks, or head to Stureplan, the centre of Östermalm’s nightlife and fashion scene.
Östermalm is ideal for discovering Stockholm’s nightlife and culture and is perfect for anyone looking for a chic and cosmopolitan experience.
Go shopping in Norrmalm
Norrmalm is a central Stockholm district located north-east of Gamla Stan. It is one of the liveliest and most cosmopolitan parts of the city, with numerous shops, restaurants and bars.
Norrmalm is also Stockholm’s business district and is home to many office buildings and luxury shops. Sergels Torg is one of the district’s major landmarks and is surrounded by fashion shops and fashionable restaurants.
The district contains major attractions such as the shopping street Drottninggatan and Kulturhuset, an important cultural centre. It is also known for Kungsträdgården, a popular park, and Stockholm Central Station. With its lively nightlife, shops, restaurants and bars, Norrmalm is an essential place in which to experience the cosmopolitan energy of the Swedish capital.
Norrmalm is also a pleasant place for a walk, with parks and gardens where you can relax and enjoy Stockholm’s natural beauty. If you are looking for a lively and cosmopolitan area in Stockholm, Norrmalm is an excellent choice.
Discover Stockholm Public Library
You will not necessarily find this stop in every guidebook. Stockholm Public Library is one of Sweden’s largest libraries and is located in the city centre. Bus 2 takes you close to the library, as does bus 57.
Stockholm Public Library is divided into several sections, each devoted to a different field of knowledge. You will find books, newspapers, magazines and documents on numerous subjects, from literature and history to science and the arts. The library is also known for its collections of rare and valuable manuscripts and documents.
If you are looking for a cultural place in which to spend some quiet time, I recommend visiting Stockholm Public Library, especially as it has a large selection of books in various languages.
How should you spend a romantic evening in Stockholm?
Stockholm offers many romantic ways to spend an unforgettable evening.
Plan a candlelit dinner
Enjoy a romantic dinner in one of Gamla Stan’s many intimate restaurants, such as the vaulted cellars of Fem Små Hus or the traditional Den Gyldene Freden. These historic venues offer a warm and charming atmosphere, perfect for dinner for two.
Take an evening cruise
Embark on a twilight cruise through Stockholm’s waterways. From the water, you can admire illuminated landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Stockholm City Hall while enjoying views of the archipelago beneath the stars.
Take a walk along Monteliusvägen
Stroll along the Monteliusvägen promenade in Södermalm. This path offers breathtaking views of the Old Town and Lake Mälaren. The city lights reflected on the water create a magical atmosphere, perfect for a romantic walk.
Sip cocktails in a bar with a view
End your evening with cocktails in a bar offering panoramic views of Stockholm, such as the SkyBar at the Radisson Blu Waterfront or TAK, a trendy rooftop bar in the heart of the city. The spectacular views add a special touch to a romantic evening.
Visit the Opera House and attend a performance
For a cultural evening, attend an opera or ballet at the Royal Swedish Opera, known as Kungliga Operan. The elegance of the venue and the quality of its performances create a memorable experience.
The Royal Swedish Opera is an iconic Swedish cultural institution located in the city centre, near Norrström. Founded in 1773 by King Gustav III, the current Neo-Baroque building was inaugurated in 1898 and is famous for its sumptuous interior and excellent acoustics.
The Opera House offers a varied programme including operas, ballets and symphonic concerts, featuring both classical and contemporary works. It plays a key role in Stockholm’s artistic life and offers residents and visitors a rich cultural experience.
Admire a sunset every evening!
Stockholm is a beautiful city in which to watch the sunset, with many places offering spectacular views across the water and the city. Here are some of the best places to enjoy the sunset from Gamla Stan, Södermalm and Djurgården.
Gamla Stan
Skeppsbron
Along the quays of Gamla Stan, Skeppsbron offers breathtaking views of the boats crossing the water, with the golden reflections of the setting sun shimmering on the surface. It is a romantic place for an evening walk.
Stadsholmen
This small island in Gamla Stan offers picturesque viewpoints from which you can watch the sun set behind the Royal Palace and other historic buildings.
Södermalm
Monteliusvägen
This elevated path in Södermalm is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Stockholm. With panoramic views of Gamla Stan, Riddarholmen and Stockholm City Hall, it is particularly popular with photographers and couples.
Fjällgatan
Another magnificent viewpoint in Södermalm, Fjällgatan offers an exceptional panorama of Djurgården and the water. At the end of the day, the sun slowly sets over the surrounding islands, creating a magical atmosphere.
Mosebacke Terrace
This open-air café offers superb views across the city and is the perfect place to sip a drink while watching the sunset.
Located at the Avicii Arena, SkyView takes you to the top of one of the world’s largest spherical buildings for 360-degree views of Stockholm. The sunset from here is breathtaking, especially with the entire city stretching out beneath you.
The café at Fotografiska
Located on the waterfront, the photography museum has a café with a terrace offering spectacular views across Stockholm’s waterfront. It is the perfect place to watch the sunset while enjoying a coffee or dessert.
Djurgården
Gröna Lund
This amusement park on the island of Djurgården offers a unique sunset experience, particularly from its taller rides, such as the Ferris wheel. You can enjoy panoramic views across the water and the city as the sun disappears below the horizon.
Nordiska Museet and the Vasa Museum
The waterfront areas near these museums offer unobstructed views across Stockholm’s harbour. Here, you can admire the changing colours of the sky while surrounded by Swedish history and culture.
Rosendals Trädgård
For a peaceful sunset surrounded by greenery, Rosendals Trädgård is perfect. This garden is a tranquil place for an evening walk or a sunset picnic.
These locations offer a wide variety of experiences, from breathtaking panoramas to more intimate surroundings, and are perfect for enjoying the final rays of sunshine in Stockholm.
Explore Stockholm by night
To enjoy Stockholm by night and discover its most picturesque illuminated locations, begin with a walk through Gamla Stan. The lantern-lit cobbled streets of the Old Town create a romantic and timeless atmosphere. Do not miss the majestically illuminated Royal Palace before strolling to Stortorget to admire its colourful façades beneath the evening lights.
Next, head to Södermalm, a vibrant neighbourhood offering breathtaking views across the city. Walk along Monteliusvägen, an elevated path with spectacular panoramic views of central Stockholm and City Hall, which are particularly magical around sunset.
To enjoy Stockholm by night and discover its most picturesque illuminated locations, begin with a walk through Gamla Stan. The lantern-lit cobbled streets of the Old Town create a romantic and timeless atmosphere. Do not miss the majestically illuminated Royal Palace before strolling to Stortorget to admire its colourful façades beneath the evening lights.
Next, head to Södermalm, a vibrant neighbourhood offering breathtaking views across the city. Walk along Monteliusvägen, an elevated path with spectacular panoramic views of central Stockholm and City Hall, which are particularly magical around sunset.
Book your guided tour of Stockholm by night
Explore the archipelago by boat
The Stockholm Archipelago is a group of islands beginning approximately 30 minutes by boat from Stockholm. It contains more than 30,000 islands and islets, offering an extraordinarily varied landscape of lush forests, white sandy beaches and rocky cliffs. Approximately 150 of these islands are inhabited.
To explore the Stockholm Archipelago, you can take a ferry from Slussen or Strandvägen. Several ferry companies operate regular services to different islands throughout the archipelago. You can also hire a boat or join a cruise to explore the islands.
There are many things to see and do in the Stockholm Archipelago. You can walk through lush forests, swim in crystal-clear water or visit one of its many museums and art galleries.
The large island of Vaxholm is the closest, approximately one hour away by boat, and you can visit its fortress from June to September. If you are spending only three days in Stockholm, this is the ideal way to enjoy a boat trip through the archipelago.
Sandhamn Island is particularly popular for its white sandy beaches and fresh fish restaurants. Grinda Island is another popular destination thanks to its beaches and hiking trails. The islands you choose to visit will therefore depend on your interests.
The Stockholm Archipelago is also an ideal place to spend the night, with numerous hotels and guest houses offering comfortable accommodation. Visiting the archipelago allows you to discover Sweden’s natural beauty and enjoy the tranquillity of island life.
Venture out to Drottningholm Palace
Drottningholm Palace is a historic building located approximately one hour by boat from central Stockholm. It has been the private residence of the Swedish royal family since 1981 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The palace is open to the public, and you can visit several parts of the building, including the Royal Apartments, the 18th-century Baroque theatre and the palace gardens. You can book a guided tour in advance for an additional SEK 30 per person on top of the admission ticket. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.
Drottningholm Palace is an imposing building surrounded by leafy gardens and parkland, with beautiful views across its waterfront setting.
You can discover the history of the Swedish royal family by visiting the Royal Apartments, which are furnished in Baroque and Rococo styles. You can also explore the theatre, an exceptional example of Baroque architecture that is still used for performances today. Finally, you can walk through the palace gardens, which are perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.
As you can see, there are many things to see and do in Stockholm, whether you stay for two days, three days, four days or even an entire week.
We have introduced you to several important museums, particularly on the island of Djurgården, but Stockholm has many more. There are around fifty museums in the city, covering a broad range of subjects from art and history to science and technology.
You can browse the list of these museums and select the ones that interest you most. Few museums in Stockholm offer free admission, although the City Museum, the National Sports Museum, Accelerator and the Living History Forum are free. Several other museums offer free admission for a few hours on selected days. Find them here.
A city break in Stockholm passes quickly. For your first visit to the Swedish capital, we recommend prioritising walking tours and boat trips.