The phase "capital of cool" gets thrown around a lot in magazine copy, but, when it comes to Scandinavian capitals, Stockholm is a worthy winner of the title. Whether your interests lie in clothing, food or kitting out your pad with the sleekest interior, the city's current cultural and creative boom is second-to-none in Europe.
More than that, it's simply one of the most beautiful cities on the Baltic. Built on a series of islands, Stockholm has a mix of opulent, traditional architecture in the form of royal palaces and state buildings, as well as the sleek minimalism the country is famous for today - and districts with distinct characters, from Ostermalm's high-end vibe, to Gamla Stan's historic winding street or the East London overtones of Sodermalm. But one thing that's sure to strike you is the sheer selection of food available in the city - with a buzzing restaurant and bar scene that a city four times its size would struggle to compete with.
And while this might be the most heavily populated city in Scandinavia, the population of 1.3 million makes it only slightly more busy than Glasgow - meaning that it's a city break you can use to relax and take at your own pace, without having to elbow your way down packed streets to get to anything worth seeing (sorry, London).
Here are the best things to do and see in Stockholm, as well as the best places to stay, eat, drink and how to get there - not to mention what you need to wear while you're in town.
Where to stay…
Only a short walk to Blaise-Holmen and Ostermalm by bridge, this hotel (formerly a barracks built in 1699 to house Sweden's Royal Marines) sits surrounded by greenery on the South-Eastern corner of Skeppholmen Island - also home to the Moderna Museet (Modern Art Museum). Right in the centre of Stockholm, but also refreshingly separate from the city centre, this is the hotel for those who want a truly Scandinavian place to crash. Rooms are bright white and minimalist with pale wood floors, blue and yellow furniture and, if you're lucky, sweeping views across the water. Food is traditionally Swedish whatever meal you're sitting down to in the informal blue and birch restaurant downstairs (which spills out onto the adjoining patio in warmer months). However, if you're going to prioritise a time of day to go, the breakfast here - complete with boiled eggs, fresh pastries and fennel bread - is one of the most impressive you'll find in the city.
Hotel Skeppsholmen, Grona Gangen 1, 111 49 Stockholm. hotelskeppsholmen.se
Originally opened as a girls' school in 1910, this small 92-room hotel - named after former headmistress Clara Stromberg - is cosy, handsome and packed with its original art nouveau features. Located within walking distance of the central train station and Gamla Stan (the Old Town) - as well as a cool crop of cafes and bars in the local area - the Superior rooms have dark parquet floors, crisp white bedding and large windows overlooking the picturesque church and garden at the corner of Sveavagen Boulevard. Miss Clara, Sveavagen 48, 111 34 Stockholm. missclarahotel.com
If you are after a hotel that's rich in history then look no further than The Bank hotel. Completed in 1910 at the tail end of the art nouveau movement, the building was originally a head office of the Södra Sverige Banking company. Throughout the course of its life, the hotel has undergone many changes and transformations to become the luxury hotel it is today. The Bank Hotel itself boasts 6 variances of rooms, perfect for every sort of stay; whether you are after a cosy room with a view, a large room with a bath-tub or even a suite, they have something for everyone. Situated in the heart of Stockholm, explore the city at ease and be welcomed to rooms traditional yet modern. When it comes to rest, the luxurious beds are finished with bespoke artwork that will see you wake up feeling fresh and inspired. They also have a renowned restaurant and rooftop bar, so make sure you pay them a visit too!
Bank Hotel, Arsenalsgatan 6, 111 47 Stockholm, Sweden
The best places for breakfast, brunch and coffee
Located on the southern island of Sodermalm in the Hornstull district (think of it as the East End of Stockholm), this restaurant serves cocktails themed on European capitals and hearty, bistro-style food: roast chicken and tomatoes, grilled artichokes, fried octopus and chorizo. Don't be fooled by the bland Seventies-style building - inside you'll find a vibrant place packed with friendly staff and locals.
Linje Tio, Hornsbruksgatan 24, 117 34 Stockholm. linjetio.com
After early breakfast, late brunch or just something delicious for dinner, then look no further than Bonnies at The Bank hotel. Situated in the old bankhall under the glass ceiling, the surroundings transport back in time for an experience that is both unique and beautiful. The international menu has something to everyone's taste for all times of the day. If you are a lover of seafood then the Marennes Oleron Fine de Claire oysters are must, but the creme de la creme has to be the Grilled sea bass with Chili butter, potatoes, sautéed spinach. Perfect for all the family, this visit will truly take your breath away! bankhotel.se Arsenalsgatan 6, 111 47 Stockholm, Sweden
Where to get a drink...
As impressive and inventive as the cocktail list is at this hotel bar, they are served in quite possibly the most impressive bar-space in the city - a spectacular room with a ceiling that rises up 28 meters with an eye-catching modern chandelier at its centre. Nobis Hotel, Norrmalmstorg 2-4, 111 86 Stockholm. nobishotel.se
Taking place on the grand staircase and terrace of the historic Royal Academy of Arts building in central Stockholm, not only is this an impressive venue to hear some quality international DJing, but many attendees end the night with a swim in the water across the street. Fredsgatan 12, 111 52 Stockholm.
Situated in the heart of Stockholm at Bank Hotel, Le Hibou rooftop bar boasts some of the best views of the city. The interior has been inspired by a vintage French suite that feels both authentic yet modern. Their extensive cocktail menu has something for everyone and a large selection of non-alcoholic drinks too. The bar closes at 1am on the weekend, so kick back, relax and enjoy! bankhotel.se Arsenalsgatan 6, 111 47 Stockholm, Sweden
The best shops in Stockholm...
Acne has been pumping out slick, quintessentially Swedish style since it was founded in Stockholm in 1996. In the most high profile square in the city, you can visit the global flagship - and while the fresh-off-the-catwalk clothes are killer, if you're a first time buyer go for a pair of the label's near-legendary jeans. For true superfans, take a trip to the brand's store in Norrmalmstorg. Norrmalmstorg 2, 111 46 Stockholm. acnestudios.com
It might be a global high street heavyweight these days, but it started off 67 years ago in Sweden. Now with its global design HQ in Stockholm, this city is also home to the sole menswear-only store from the brand in the world - home to all of the brand's seasonal men's offering split over three superb floors. Norrmalmstorg, Smålandsgatan 16, 11146 Stockholm. hm.com
Sweden is known for its slick streetwear, however for those of you more into the suiting side of menswear Oscar Jacobsen is a must-visit. Specialising in tailoring and all the accoutrements that go with it (shirts, ties and outerwear), the cuts are slim and materials go from conservative block colours to modern takes on checked tweed. Birger Jarlsgatan 10, 114 34 Stockholm. oscarjacobson.com
Founded in Stockholm in 2006 by Ben Gorham, Byredo made its name crafting unusual, small-batch perfumes. Now having branched out into candles and bath products, its bottles with trademark black and white labelling can be found in some of the world's most famous department stores - as well as in the bathroom cabinets of some of the most well-groomed men and women on the planet (our particular favourite is Gorham's light, citrusy Sunday Cologne). Mäster Samuelsgatan 10, 111 44 Stockholm. byredo.com
Sleek, sturdy bags, often cut from canvas with leather detailing. Particularly good for keen cyclists looking to keep things stylish while on two wheels - or for those who have bought one too many souvenirs on their trip… Swedenborgsgatan 3, 118 48 Stockholm. sandqvist.net
Packed with menswear, womenswear and homeware, Grandpa has a homey, curated vibe with a mix of new and vintage, international and homegrown items. There are three shops in town, although we'd suggest going to the Södermalm outpost if you're in town on the last Thursday of the month, as it often stays open until 9pm with free drinks for customers and a DJ spinning records as you browse. Södermannagatan 21, 116 40 Stockholm. grandpa.se
