Stockholm

Encompassing 14 islands and more than 50 bridges, Stockholm is a city that blends the modern with its tranquil surroundings. Venture through the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, the Old Town, home to the 13th Century Storkyrkan Cathedral and Kungliga Slottet Royal Palace. Not to be missed is the ABBA Museum, which opened in 2013 and the Vasa Museum, located on the island of Djurgården, one of the most visited museums in Scandinavia. Stockholm offers a smorgasbord of culture, art galleries, world class museums and historically fascinating Royal Palaces. The city is easy to get around on foot or by public transport.

Nature is all around; however within walking distance of the Old Town why not head for Royal Djurgården, the world’s first national urban park with attractions such as Gröna Lund funfair, The Nordic Museum, Rosendal Palace and Skansen, the world’s oldest Open-Air Museum and the Vasa Museum. With a history stretching back to the 15th Century, there’s plenty to see and do on this stunning island.

The extraordinary Maritime Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s most popular attractions. It is the crowning glory with the centuries old ship, The Vasa, which sank on her maiden voyage in 1628 and was recovered in 1961. The museum displays the only almost fully intact 17th Century Ship that has ever been salvaged, the 64 gun warship.

A must see on any visit to Stockholm is the National Museum, which showcases an impressive art collection spanning sculpture, painting and objects dating back to the 16th Century. The imposing building was completed in 1866 and counting the Royal Palace as its neighbour.

This vivacious city has many trendy restaurants with a great food culture. It has a wide culinary span with an increasing focus on sustainable cooking methods and ingredients. New restaurants are continuously emerging, mixing with more traditional eateries. When in Sweden stop and enjoy a typical Swedish Fika, this concept or attitude is a very important part of the Swedish culture. Many Swedes consider it is almost essential to make time for fika every day. It means making time for friends and colleagues to share a cup of coffee or tea and a little something to eat.

Built on Lovön Island, Drottningholm Palace is the private residence of the Swedish Royal Family. It houses an 18th Century Opera House / Theatre, which is still used today with its original stage.

Across the Lake of Brunnsviken from the Royal Park of Haga, is Bergianska Trädgården, the Bergius Botanic Gardens, a wonderfully landscaped and sprawling garden with a history stretching back to the 18th Century.

So when in Stockholm do like the locals and catch a ferry between the many of the islands or take a cruise to see the best views from the water. Enjoy the open spaces or shop in Drottninggatan in central Stockholm, a perfect destination filled with favourite high street staples as well as vintage stores. This city is simply stunning!