Stockholm is a city that feels effortlessly elegant, a place where centuries-old history meets modern Scandinavian design. Built across 14 islands connected by bridges and ferries, the Swedish capital offers distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm. Choosing where to stay in Stockholm can shape your entire experience, from the pace of your mornings to the energy of your evenings. Having explored the city multiple times, I’ve learned that finding the right base is about more than location; it’s about atmosphere, lifestyle, and how you want to experience this magical Nordic city.
Whether you prefer cobblestone streets and royal palaces, artistic cafés and vintage shops, or elegant waterfront views, there’s a part of Stockholm that feels made for you. In this Stockholm accommodation guide, I’ll walk you through the best neighborhoods to stay in, what makes each special, and where you’ll find the best hotels for your travel style.
1. Gamla Stan (Old Town): For First-Time Visitors and History Lovers
If it’s your first visit to Stockholm, Gamla Stan, the Old Town, is the perfect place to stay. This is where the city began in the 13th century, and it still feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Narrow cobblestone alleys wind between colorful 17th-century buildings, and the scent of fresh cinnamon buns drifts from tiny bakeries. The area is filled with historic landmarks, including the Royal Palace, Storkyrkan Cathedral, and the charming Stortorget Square, lined with cafés and boutiques.
Staying in Gamla Stan means you can easily walk to most of the city’s major attractions and enjoy the romantic glow of lantern-lit streets at night. I personally love wandering here early in the morning before the shops open. The streets are quiet, and you can almost feel the layers of history beneath your feet.
Best Hotels in Gamla Stan:
- Hotel Reisen: A waterfront five-star hotel with beautiful harbor views and a luxurious Scandinavian spa.
- Collector’s Victory Hotel: Filled with nautical antiques and charm, it feels like stepping into a sailor’s world.
- Castle House Inn: A budget-friendly yet stylish option located near the Royal Palace.
Who it’s best for: First-time visitors, couples, and anyone who loves architecture, history, and a cozy old-world atmosphere.
2. Södermalm: For Creative Travelers and Nightlife Seekers
Across the water from Gamla Stan lies Södermalm, often simply called “Söder.” This island is Stockholm’s artistic and bohemian heart, where creativity spills out onto the streets. Once an industrial area, Södermalm has transformed into a hub for artists, writers, and musicians. Today, it’s filled with vintage shops, independent boutiques, small galleries, and cafés that feel more like living rooms.
What I love most about Södermalm is how local it feels. On weekends, the Hornstull Market buzzes with life as locals browse secondhand books, handmade crafts, and street food stalls by the water. In the evenings, bars and bistros fill with laughter and conversation, especially around Nytorget and Skånegatan. For panoramic views of the city, climb up to Monteliusvägen, where sunsets turn the skyline golden.
Best Hotels in Södermalm:
- Hotel Rival: Owned by ABBA’s Benny Andersson, this boutique hotel combines personality, comfort, and an unbeatable location.
- NOFO Hotel: A charming boutique stay inside a 1780s building with a courtyard café and wine bar.
- Hellstens Glashus: A stylish and affordable hotel with artistic interiors and excellent breakfast options.
Who it’s best for: Solo travelers, young couples, and creative explorers who love a vibrant local scene and a bit of nightlife.
3. Norrmalm: For Shoppers and City Lovers
If you prefer to stay at the center of it all, Norrmalm, Stockholm’s modern downtown, is ideal. It’s home to major shopping streets like Drottninggatan, upscale department stores, and countless restaurants and cafés. The area buzzes with energy, making it perfect for travelers who want convenience and easy access to public transport. From here, you can walk to Gamla Stan in minutes, explore museums, or take the metro anywhere in the city.
Norrmalm also offers some of Stockholm’s most iconic hotels. Many feature rooftop terraces where you can watch the city lights reflect off the water at night. Staying here means everything is at your doorstep: culture, dining, nightlife, and transportation.
Best Hotels in Norrmalm:
- At Six: A luxurious design hotel featuring contemporary art, an elegant wine bar, and one of the best breakfasts in Stockholm.
- Haymarket by Scandic: Housed in a 1920s art deco building where Greta Garbo once worked, it’s stylish, social, and full of character.
- Hobo Hotel: Trendy, eco-friendly, and filled with local art, perfect for digital nomads or creative travelers.
Who it’s best for: City lovers, business travelers, and those who want convenience, shopping, and nightlife in one place.
4. Östermalm: For Luxury, Elegance, and Fine Dining
If you’re looking for sophistication and style, Östermalm is where Stockholm shows off its polished side. This neighborhood is home to embassy buildings, designer boutiques, and tree-lined boulevards where locals stroll in chic coats and scarves. The area exudes understated luxury, with grand architecture and quiet parks that invite peaceful walks.
One of my favorite experiences here was visiting Östermalms Saluhall, an indoor market that’s been serving fresh produce and gourmet food since the 1880s. It’s the perfect place to enjoy Swedish delicacies like gravlax, shrimp sandwiches, or smoked reindeer, all while chatting with friendly vendors. Östermalm is also home to Stockholm’s most exclusive restaurants and elegant hotels, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort and refinement.
Best Hotels in Östermalm:
- Diplomat Hotel: Located in a stunning Art Nouveau building overlooking Nybroviken Bay, offering timeless elegance and harbor views.
- Ett Hem: A boutique luxury hotel that feels like a private home, blending Scandinavian design with warm hospitality.
- Villa Dagmar: A stylish boutique hotel near Östermalmstorg, known for its beautiful interiors and gourmet restaurant.
Who it’s best for: Luxury travelers, couples on romantic getaways, and visitors who enjoy a refined atmosphere with easy access to museums and shopping.
5. Djurgården: For Families and Nature Lovers
If you prefer tranquility and green surroundings without leaving the city, Djurgården is the perfect escape. Once the royal hunting grounds, this island is now a park-like haven filled with museums, gardens, and waterfront paths. It’s ideal for families and travelers who want to balance sightseeing with relaxation.
You can spend the day exploring world-class attractions like the Vasa Museum, which houses a perfectly preserved 17th-century ship, or Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum that combines cultural history with a zoo featuring Nordic animals. ABBA The Museum adds a fun pop-culture twist to the mix. Between visits, you can stroll along leafy trails, have a picnic by the water, or stop for coffee at Rosendals Trädgård, an organic garden café surrounded by apple orchards.
Best Hotels in Djurgården:
- Hotel Hasselbacken: A classic choice near Skansen, with a beautiful terrace and views of the park.
- Pop House Hotel: Located next to ABBA The Museum, modern and family-friendly with spacious rooms.
- Backstage Hotel Stockholm: A new boutique hotel with chic interiors and a peaceful setting surrounded by nature.
Who it’s best for: Families, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a quiet stay close to major attractions.
6. Vasastan: For Local Life and Authentic Charm
Less touristy and more residential, Vasastan is where many locals live, eat, and socialize. The neighborhood is filled with cozy cafés, small bookstores, and beautiful architecture. I love the slower pace here, it feels like discovering the real Stockholm beyond the postcard views.
Vasastan’s main attractions include the Observatory Hill Park, offering panoramic views of the city, and the Stockholm Public Library, a masterpiece of modernist design by architect Gunnar Asplund. The area is also home to Odenplan, a lively square surrounded by restaurants and bakeries where locals enjoy leisurely lunches.
Best Hotels in Vasastan:
- Hotel Birger Jarl: A comfortable and well-designed hotel close to Odenplan and major transport connections.
- Blique by Nobis: A chic industrial-style hotel with a rooftop bar and a great brunch scene.
- Wasa Park Hotel: Budget-friendly and charming, perfect for travelers who want a quieter stay.
Who it’s best for: Returning visitors, longer stays, and travelers who enjoy a local, laid-back vibe.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to stay in Stockholm depends on what kind of experience you want. If you love history and atmosphere, Gamla Stan will sweep you off your feet. For creativity and nightlife, Södermalm’s energy is unmatched. If you prefer luxury and tranquility, Östermalm and Djurgården will make you feel right at home. Stockholm is a city of layers, and no matter which neighborhood you choose, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beauty, water, and design that feels both timeless and modern.
Every visit I make to Stockholm leaves me with new memories, watching the sunrise over Gamla Stan’s rooftops, sipping coffee by the water in Södermalm, or wandering through Djurgården’s quiet parks. Wherever you stay, you’ll discover that Stockholm isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that lingers long after you’ve gone.
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