As a Stockholm local, I can assure you that choosing the right neighborhood is key to a great stay in our beautiful city. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to consider, along with hotel suggestions for each area. Whether you’re interested in history, luxury, nightlife, or just a calm night, Stockholm has an area which suits your need.
Stockholm has around seven different areas, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this guide, I’ll cover them all. If you’re visiting Stockholm for the first time, I recommend staying at Hotel Reisen in Gamla Stan. This hotel is ideally located on the waterfront in the heart of the city, with all major sites within walking distance. However, don’t spend all your time in Gamla Stan as it’s a tourist trap!
Alternatively, consider staying at Villa Dahlia in Vasastan. This area offers a calmer atmosphere, near the beautiful Tegnérlunden Park. You’ll get to experience local life more authentically while still being within walking distance of the main attractions.
Continue reading to discover which area in Stockholm fits your needs.
Areas in Stockholm
Gamla Stan
Advantages:
Gamla Stan, or the Old Town, is the historic heart of Stockholm and also the tourist hotspot. It’s a charming area filled with cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and colorful architecture. Staying here means you’re surrounded by history and just a short walk away from many of Stockholm’s top attractions like the Royal Palace, Stortorget, and the Nobel Museum. Gamla Stan is also known for its cozy cafes, traditional Swedish restaurants, and unique boutiques. Location-wise Gamla stan is excellently situated in the absolute center of Stockholm and within walking distance of nearly all tourist attractions.
Disadvantages:
On the downside, Gamla Stan can be very crowded, especially during the tourist season, it’s literally packed with tourist which might make it feel a bit overwhelming at times. It is also important to note that nearly no locals live in the old town of Stockholm, so you won’t get a good feel for local life. The narrow streets, while charming, can also be difficult to navigate with large luggage. Additionally, prices for dining and shopping in Gamla Stan can be higher due to its popularity among tourists.
My recommendation: Choose Gamla Stan if you want to be in the middle of Stockholm, with close proximity to both Södermalm and Norrmalm, and don’t mind the touristy atmosphere that the area has.
Hotels:
- Hotel Reisen: This waterfront hotel offers historic charm with modern amenities. The rooms have a classic decor, and the hotel features a spa and an excellent restaurant.
- Victory Hotel: A boutique hotel with a nautical theme, perfect for history buffs. The hotel is filled with maritime antiques and offers a warm, intimate atmosphere.
- Lady Hamilton Hotel: A cozy and unique hotel right next to the Royal Palace. Each room is individually decorated with antique furniture, and the hotel has a charming courtyard.
Kungsholmen
Advantages:
Kungsholmen is another island on which Stockholm is built above, that offers a less stressful feel while still being in the city center of Stockholm. It’s known for its beautiful waterfront promenades (Norr Mälarstrand and Kungsholms Strand), parks like Rålambshovsparken, and a more residential feel. Here many locals live in comparison to Gamla Stan, myself included, which will give you a taste of the life of a local Stockholm:er. Kungsholmen is ideal for those looking for a peaceful stay while still being close to the city center. The neighborhood also has a variety of restaurants and bars, especially along the popular street, Hantverkargatan.
Disadvantages:
On the flip side, Kungsholmen is slightly removed from the main tourist attractions, so it might require more travel time to visit popular sites. The nightlife is more subdued compared to Södermalm or Norrmalm, which might not appeal to those looking for a lively nightlife.
My recommendation: Stay on Kungsholmen if want beautiful water promenades, a calm neighborhood to stay in (with the exception of Fridhemsplan) and want to see local life. You should also not mind walking a bit in order to reach the city center.
Hotels:
- Courtyard by Marriott Stockholm Kungsholmen: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant. It’s located close to Rålambshovsparken and has good transport links.
- Scandic Go: A budget-friendly option with simple, clean rooms and easy access to public transportation.
- Clarion Hotel Amaranten: A stylish hotel with modern amenities, including a spa and a restaurant, conveniently located near the metro.
Södermalm
Advantages:
Södermalm is known for its bohemian vibe, trendy shops, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a great place for young travelers and those looking for a lively atmosphere. Here you’ll find eclectic boutiques, hip cafes, and beautiful views from spots like Monteliusvägen and Fjällgatan. Södermalm is also home to many cultural venues, such as the Fotografiska museum and Mosebacke, a popular outdoor concert venue. The best areas on Södermalm are the areas of SoFo (south of Folkungagatan), Mariatorget and Mosebacké
Disadvantages:
However, Södermalm can be noisy, especially in areas with many bars and clubs, which might not be ideal traveling with family and looking for a for a quiet place to stay. Additionally, some areas can feel a bit gritty compared to more upscale neighborhoods of Östermalm,
My recommendation: Södermalm is for those of you that are young at heart, enjoys nightlife and want to visit the trendiest cafe’s and stores in town.
Hotels:
- Hotel Rival: Owned by ABBA’s Benny Andersson, this hotel offers chic rooms and a popular bar. The hotel also features a concert hall and a bistro serving delicious Swedish dishes. The location is 10/10.
- NOFO Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel in a 1780s building. The rooms are individually designed, and the hotel has a cozy wine bar with a great selection of wines.
- Hellstens Malmgård: A charming hotel with a historic touch and modern comfort. The hotel is located in a 1770s building and offers a beautiful garden where guests can relax.
Östermalm
Advantages:
If you’re looking for luxury, Östermalm is the place to be. This upscale neighborhood is home to high-end shops, gourmet restaurants, and stunning architecture. It’s also close to attractions like the Swedish History Museum, the Royal Dramatic Theatre, and Djurgården island, which houses several museums and the popular Skansen open-air museum. Östermalm is perfect for those who enjoy fine dining and elegant surroundings.
Disadvantages:
On the flip side, Östermalm can be expensive, especially for dining and shopping, which might not suit every budget. The area around Stureplan also houses many nightclubs and bars. Additionally, there are limited budget accommodation options in this upscale neighborhood.
My recommendation: Choose Östermalm if you enjoy luxury and elegance and don’t mind to paying for it price.
Hotels:
- Hotel Diplomat: A luxurious hotel with beautiful views of Nybroviken. The hotel features a stylish blend of classic and contemporary design, with spacious rooms and a renowned restaurant.
- Nobis Hotel: A modern design hotel in a historic building. The hotel offers sleek, minimalist rooms and is known for its excellent service and beautiful atrium.
- Story Hotel Riddargatan: A trendy hotel with a relaxed atmosphere and stylish rooms. The hotel is known for its contemporary art and design, and it has a popular bar and restaurant.
Norrmalm
Advantages:
Norrmalm, also known as City, is the bustling commercial center of Stockholm. It’s not the prettiest part of Stockholm, but you will be in the heart of the action, with easy access to shopping, dining, and major transport hubs. Popular places like Kungsträdgården, Drottninggatan and Kungsgatan (two shopping streets) are all nearby. Norrmalm is also home to the central railway station, making it a convenient base for exploring the city and beyond. For ideas on where you can travel from Stockholm by train. Be sure to check out my blog post here.
Disadvantages:
On a more negative note, Norrmalm can be very busy and crowded, especially during peak hours, which might be overwhelming for some visitors. The area also lacks the historic charm found in other neighborhoods, especially the area around T-centralen and Sergels Torg is not particularly charming. Noise from traffic and construction can also be an issue in the area for those that are sensitive.
My recommendation: Stay here if you want to be right where the action is and don’t mind a bit of stress and noise.
Hotels:
- Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel: Conveniently located next to the Central Station. The hotel offers modern rooms with stunning views of the city and Lake Mälaren, as well as a restaurant and bar.
- Haymarket by Scandic: An art deco hotel in the historic PUB building. The hotel features stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a vibrant bar and restaurant.
- Clarion Hotel Sign: A modern hotel with a rooftop pool and city views. The hotel also offers a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Nordic cuisine.
Djurgården
Advantages:
Djurgården is a serene and green island perfect for families and nature lovers. Djurgården is a favorite among locals to take a stroll during sunny days and connect with nature and escape the sometimes hectic city center of Stockholm. It houses many of Stockholm’s top museums and attractions, such as the Vasa Museum, Skansen, Gröna Lund amusement park, and the ABBA Museum. Even if you don’t decide to stay here during your stay, Djurgården is a must-visit and a place that I always show to guests visiting from abroad.
Disadvantages:
Djurgården is somewhat isolated from the rest of the city, which will require more travel time to reach other attractions for example in Gamla Stan or Stadshuset on Kungsholmen. There are also limited dining and shopping options compared to other neighborhoods.
My recommendation: Stay here if you are looking for a quiet retreat with close proximity to nature.
Hotels:
The hotel options on Djurgården are limited but here are the most popular ones:
- Pop House Hotel: Located in the same building as ABBA The Museum, this hotel offers contemporary rooms. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar, and is a short walk from other attractions on Djurgården.
- Scandic Hasselbacken: A classic hotel with a rich history and beautiful surroundings. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant with a terrace, and a lovely garden.
Vasastan
Advantages:
Vasastan is a trendy and laid-back neighborhood known for its cozy cafes, trendy shops, and beautiful parks like Vasaparken. Just like Kungsholmen, Vasastan is a great area for those who want to experience local life in Stockholm (minus the waterfront promenades) and is a bit quieter than the city center. Vasastan is also home to several cultural attractions, such as the Stockholm Public Library and Observatorielunden park.
Disadvantages:
Just like Kungsholmen, Vasastan is a bit further from major tourist attractions, which might require more travel time to reach the central areas. The neighborhood has more limited nightlife options compared to Södermalm or Norrmalm (although bars and restaurants are scattered across the area) and some parts of the neighborhood can feel residential and quiet.
My recommendation: Choose Vasastan if want to experience a residential area of town, that still offers a lot in terms of restaurants, bars and cafes (check out Rörstrandsgatan).
Hotels:
- Elite Palace Hotel: A comfortable hotel with spacious rooms and great amenities. The hotel also features a spa, a fitness center, and a British-style pub. Although located a bit far from the city center, Elite Palace Hotel is a good option which is not as expensive as other hotels in town.
- Villa Dahlia: With the same Hotel Diplomat on Östermalm. Villa Dahlia overlooks the charming park Tegnerlunden, this hotel offers a peaceful stay. The rooms are modern and comfortable, and the hotel has a lovely breakfast room with panoramic views.
- Freys Hotel Lilla Rådmannen: A boutique hotel with individually decorated rooms. The hotel offers a warm and friendly atmosphere, and is located close to many shops and restaurants.
Conclusion
So there you have it, all seven areas in Stockholm! Personally, I prioritize a location close to attractions when choosing hotels in a new city. All these areas are within Stockholm’s inner city, so you won’t need to travel far to reach any attractions, no matter where you stay. However, it’s important to know what to expect from each area, as they each have their own unique style and appeal.
