Stockholm city guide
The capital of Sweden sits on the country's south-east coast, straddling a series of islands linked by bridges, where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic. Over a quarter of the city is water and a similar area is devoted to parks and green spaces. As you might expect, Stockholm is clean, attractive and safe, everyone speaks fluent English and yes, Swedes tend to be good-looking.
The Gamla Stan (or Old Town) dates back to the 13th century and among its quaint medieval alleyways and cobbled streets sit many historic buildings, including the Royal Palace, the Stockholm Cathedral and the Stock Exchange. The vast and impressive City Hall lies just to the north, and design stores are scattered throughout the city. The old town can be something of a tourist trap but a visit to Stockholm is not complete without a wonder through these narrow lanes.
The best time to visit Stockholm is between mid-May and mid-September. Summer bathes the city in sunshine and brings the locals to life: in August the sun does not set till midnight. By contrast, Stockholm winters are harsh and dark, even gloomy, and so cold that the waterways freeze hard enough for skating. If visiting Sweden at this time of year make sure to spend significant time in Lapland, possibly at the famous Icehotel.
Drinks related festivals & events
Stockholm Beer and Whisky Festival
Held annually on the last weekend of September and the first weekend of October (from Thursday to Saturday) the festival attracts over 35,000 visitors who sample a selection of beer, whiskey, champagne, wine and spirits alongside chocolates, cheeses, sausages, and street food restaurants.
Bartenders' Choice Awards
Established in 2010 by four bartenders, over the past decade the Bartenders' Choice Awards have grown in stature to be a coveted recognition of excellence in Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Sweden and Finland with international categories (one of which we're proud to have won twice) both respected and much sought-after. With bars provided by respected drinks brands, the gala award ceremony (held the 1st or 2nd Sunday in December) is a great reason to plan a pre-Christmas trip to Stockholm.
General info
Airport: Stockholm Arlanda (ARN)
Time zone: Central European Time (GMT + 1)
Currency: Krona (SEK)
