Stockholm
This city is also known as Venice of the North!
Summary
We visited this country in 2013 with my friend Thanasis, it was August 15th when we were there for the first time, I remember we were staying at Slagsta Motelย a few kilometers away from Stockholm, it was late at night and I wanted to smoke so I went outside the hotel and the temperature was minus 7 C.
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Why to visit this country!
It would not be an exaggeration to say that Sweden is one of the most beautiful countries in the world! Sweden is home to 29 national parks and more than 100,000 lakes, making it a dream destination for hikers and camping enthusiasts. Sweden’s nature is easily accessible, even from big cities. Access to nature is considered a public right and there is even a word for it – allemensrรคtten!
This allows everyone to roam freely in the countryside, swim and travel by boat in the waters of Sweden and search for mushrooms (truffles) and berries.
From snow-capped mountains to white sand beaches, Sweden’s nature is strikingly diverse. Winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding are just as popular as summer activities such as swimming and fishing.
You can see the spectacular Northern Lights during winter in the north of Sweden, and you can see the Midnight Sun in the same region of Swedish Lapland during summer! Whenever you choose to visit Sweden, natural beauty will be in abundance!
Things to Do in Stockholm
It's one of the happiest places on Earth!
Swedes attach great importance to living a balanced life and definitely take the time to stop and smell cinnamon buns. Maybe it’s fika culture, maybe easy access to nature, or maybe a strong emphasis on social equality and work-life balance. Either way, Sweden consistently ranks among one of the happiest countries in the world.
There are many reasons to be happy in Sweden and this is shown by the friendly locals! Although Scandinavians are not always seen as the friendliest of Europeans, they are more shy and introverted than rude or hostile. In general, Swedes are open-minded and hospitable to all travelers! English is widely spoken and is usually more than willing to help.
It's full of must-see design and architecture
As the birthplace of IKEA and major fashion companies such asย H&M,
it won’t surprise many to learn that Sweden is a top design destination. Many modern Swedish buildings and their interiors feature stylish and modern design features that combine functionality with natural elements and light textures.ย
Only in the capital of Sweden there are so many architectural delights to see.
ย Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town, which is one of the largest and best preserved medieval centers in Europe, (absolutely a must visit). Stockholm is also home to the Avicii Arena (formerly the Ericsson Globe), the largest spherical building in the world, and the Baroque Royal Palace, the official residence of the Swedish royal family.
It's always time for fika
The closest English term we have to describe a Swedish fika is a coffee break. However, a fika is much more than that. It is an indispensable part of Swedish life and an integral part of Swedish culture. ฮฃฮฏฮณฮฟฯ ฯฮฑ, ฮญฮฝฮฑ fika Includes coffee and sweet delicacies. However, the social aspect of communicating with friends, family or colleagues is just as important as eating and drinking. In fact, many Swedish companies are adding a clause to their contracts giving workers the right to fika breaks!
Explore Stockholm's waterways
You may have heard the Swedish capital referred to as the “Venice of the North,” thanks to its many waterways and wonderful early modern architecture. However, the similarities end there, and the city’s nickname doesn’t really live up to Stockholm’s relationship with the water that surrounds it.
The entire Stockholm archipelago stretches over 80 kilometers (50 miles) and over 30,000 islands, separated by canals that you can explore by boat. These range from the tiniest uninhabited islets to well-developed and busy holiday resorts.
No visit to the city would be complete without going on the water. In fact, it could be one of the most romantic things in Stockholm.
Get lost in the vast Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is also one of the largest palaces in Europe, with more than 600 rooms. But the King of Sweden is still working here today, so you won’t be able to visit them all on your own.
The Royal Palace is also one of the largest palaces in Europe, with more than 600 rooms. But the King of Sweden is still working here today, so you won’t be able to visit them all on your own.
Nevertheless, the Palace offers an amazing amount to see and do. Royal Apartments, for example, give you a glimpse into the real life of the Scandinavian kings. And the Museum of Antiquities is known for its collection of 17th-century Italian sculptures.
Stroll around the tourist port!
A very nice walk in the sunshine along the harbour, plenty of stop off’s for food and drink.
Pretty apartment buildings line the waterfront street and there are many old boats to look at on the waterfront. Ideal for walking or if you go to see the Abba museum or other near museums.
Ice Bar
The famous Ice Bar
My friend Thanasis and me visited the famous Stockholm Ice Bar, the experience was unique!
(watch the video below)
Photo Gallery
