Experience the true essence of the city beyond the tourist hotspots, including second-hand shops, coffee rosters that serve the perfect brew, immersing ourselves in the thriving art scene, and indulging in the delectable offerings of slow food restaurants. Get ready to explore Stockholm like a local, where authentic experiences and hidden delights await at every turn.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm

If you land to the Stockholm airport - which is all "A la West Anderson"- you should know that the taxi is (super)expensive. A couple of tips here: some hotels grant you a driver, otherwise you can take the high-speed train direct to the train station.

The app that works in the city to book licensed divers is Taxi Sthlm. You can preview the total cost of the ride before booking. 

The Nordics' culture is very sustainability-focus, in combination with high purchase power and their sense of aesthetics resulting in great fashion second-hand stores! You will be able to find items in great condition (almost new) and new brands/collections too (which is a rarity in other countries).

The guide focuses more on art and photography rather than historic museums. The highlights are the Moderna Museet and the Fotografiska Museum.

In the heart of the city, you'll discover the small island of Kvuateret Luna, where the "old" city is located. Meander through its narrow streets and historical squares, and marvel at the impressive castle. As you continue exploring, you'll reach the city center, where a wealth of main stores and local boutiques awaits you. On the left side, after crossing the river, you'll come across the Townhall, a notable landmark that annually hosts the Nobel Prize ceremony. The Townhall is not only significant for its historical and architectural importance but also for embodying the Nordic vision of prioritizing local resources. The visit to the Townhall is free, and you can easily register upon arrival. Additionally, it offers a breathtaking view of the Sodermalm island, which lies just across the river.

Cost: 13 EUR/ Buy: at the museum (fast) or online / Closed on Mondays

At the Moderna Museet Museum, art enthusiasts will be enthralled by an impressive collection of Nordic and feminist artists, many of whom are not as widely recognized in other modern museums. Embrace an interactive approach to the exhibitions, where you can try your hand at painting, engage in hands-on activities, and get up close to captivating photographic displays. The museum's most modern room showcases artworks by internationally acclaimed artists who are also prominently featured in renowned museums like the MoMa in NYC. 

At the library, you'll find a fascinating feature that allows you to curate your own personal art exhibition. Engage with an interactive screen where you can browse through a wide selection of art pieces and choose the ones that resonate with you the most. Once you've made your selections, prepare to be amazed as a wall descends from the ceiling, adorned with the frames of the artworks you handpicked. It's a truly immersive experience that allows you to step into the shoes of an art curator, creating your own unique art display.

The Fotografiska Museum, keeps gaining relevance internationally and its collections are temporarily. You can check online, however, they host WW known photographers, medium and also rather niche-small ones who will get great visibility next to the big ones. It is a great way to get to know new, and not seen before, exhibitions. I also found very interesting the expose mixed the photography and the sculptures, focusing on the interpretation rather than on the aesthetic.

Cost: 14EUR / Buy: Online: https://tickets-sto.fotografiska.com/ Opened until 11 PM (!!) / Restaurant: great views!

The city is comprised of several small islands, each with its own unique character. One of the most vibrant and active islands is Sodermalm, particularly the area known as SoFo. Here, you'll find a plethora of bars, stores, and second-hand shops, all contributing to its alternative and lively vibe.

As passionate about slow food and not touristic places my recommendations fall into that line. 

specialty coffees, a small menu with toast/sandwiches, and traditional pastries. Avg. price for lunch is 20 EUR.

They use to own another restaurant with a Michelin *. KM 0 restaurant that chooses the menu based on what's available in the season. Amazing food, with some signature dishes from the previous * Michelin restaurant that they kept for a price of a normal restaurant. Avg. Price per person ca. 40 EUR.

Located in Djurgarden island, 20 minutes from the city center with a convenient tram. It is an oasis in the city, an enormous greenhouse and a garden with all types of flowers. The food is really tasty, from the garden and the real highlight is the cakes. 

Average price to eat: ca. 15 EUR per dish / cakes ca. 6 EUR each.

Famous meatballs from Stockholm, you can choose among 2 dishes: either a plate with meatballs with different meat; or, just the classics. All are accompanied by potato pure. 

In the heart of SoFo. Great coffee, it is an art gallery that hosts local artists' exhibitions.

Stockholm

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