A Couple's Guide to Romantic Stockholm

A honeymoon is as unique as the couple. While many opt for a serene escape by an azure ocean, indulging in romantic candlelit dinners by a moonlit sea, others seek the thrill of exploring new cultures. For adventurous souls, a honeymoon in romantic Stockholm is a captivating choice.

Metropolitan Stockholm, built upon an archipelago of 14 islands, is part of the larger Stockholm archipelago, which boasts over 30,000 islands. The city is renowned for hosting the Nobel Prizes in Physics, Chemistry, Physiology or Medicine, Literature, and the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences (the Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo, Norway), making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll through history and innovation. For first-time visitors, Stockholm offers a plethora of romantic sights, activities, and sounds that couples can only partially experience on a short honeymoon. Yet, once you visit, you’ll likely leave a piece of your heart in this enchanting city.

Activities

Surrounded by water, Stockholm offers a myriad of aquatic activities such as swimming, kayaking, fishing, and boating. History enthusiasts will delight in the city's 50 museums, ranging from the Vasa Museum, which houses a well-preserved 17th-century ship, to the Nobel Prize Museum, celebrating the achievements of laureates. Music lovers can immerse themselves in the ABBA museum located on the island of Djurgården, where interactive exhibits bring the iconic band's legacy to life. This island also hosts Skansen, an open-air museum showcasing historical buildings and demonstrations of traditional Swedish life, complete with costumed interpreters and live animals. For a touch of romantic allure, take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens of Rosendal during sunset or enjoy a scenic boat tour around the archipelago. Additionally, couples can explore the serene beauty of the Stockholm Archipelago by taking a ferry to one of the many picturesque islands, perfect for a day of adventure and relaxation. For those who love the arts, a visit to the Fotografiska Museum offers an inspiring collection of contemporary photography, providing a perfect blend of culture and creativity.

Swedish Cuisine

Swedish cuisine is among the finest in Europe, offering a culinary journey that is both delightful and memorable. From traditional dishes like meatballs with lingonberries to innovative modern cuisine, Stockholm's dining scene is a feast for the senses. Couples can enjoy a romantic Stockholm dinner at one of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants during sunset or savor fresh seafood at a cozy waterfront bistro. Don't miss the chance to indulge in fika, the beloved Swedish coffee break, complete with delicious pastries. Each meal in Stockholm is an opportunity to experience the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Sweden. For a truly unique experience, consider dining at one of the city's rooftop restaurants, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the skyline while savoring exquisite dishes. For a more intimate setting, book a private dining experience on a boat, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal while cruising through the tranquil waters of the archipelago.

Discover Quaint Cafés and Bistros

You'll often find unexpected surprises and unique dining experiences in the most unexpected places, and Stockholm is no different. Gamla Stan (Old City in Swedish) is our preferred place to find hidden gem restaurants that offer both charm and culinary excellence. Several excellent restaurants can be found in Stortorget square, the heart of Gamla Stan, where you can dine while soaking in the historic ambiance. One of our personal favorites is Kryp In, a cozy eatery known for its intimate atmosphere and delectable Swedish cuisine. Kryp In has a location in Gamla Stan and, in the last few years, has opened a second location in Södermalm, another vib

rant district of Stockholm. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic Stockholm dinner in the medieval setting of Gamla Stan or exploring the trendy vibes of Södermalm, Kryp In promises a memorable dining experience. Be sure to try their signature dishes, which highlight the best of local ingredients and traditional flavors. For a sweet treat, visit one of the many artisanal chocolate shops scattered throughout the city, where you can indulge in handcrafted confections. Additionally, the city's numerous food markets, such as Östermalms Saluhall, offer a delightful array of local delicacies and gourmet products, perfect for a casual yet delicious meal.

Stroll Through the Charming Old Town

The Old Town of Stockholm, known in Swedish as Gamla Stan, is a great place to discover quiet courtyards, unique shops, and delicious bakeries. Stroll through the cobblestone streets at sunset and marvel at the romantic, well-preserved medieval architecture that transports couples back in time. Towns as old as Stockholm also have their quirks. For instance, you can find plaques above many of the old buildings, which historically informed the Fire Department who had paid for extra attention should a fire break out. Visit the Royal Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe, and witness the changing of the guard. Don't miss the Stortorget, the oldest square in Stockholm, where you can enjoy a coffee while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Gamla Stan is also home to the Nobel Museum, where you can learn about the history of the prestigious awards and their laureates. For an added touch of romance, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the narrow streets, offering a fairy-tale experience that you and your partner will cherish. As night falls, the lantern-lit streets of Gamla Stan create a magical ambiance, perfect for a moonlit walk hand in hand.

Romantic Ideas

Walk closely together in the narrowest street in Stockholm, Mårten Trotzigs gränd, where the walls seem to embrace you as you navigate its charmingly tight passage. This hidden alleyway, with its 36 steps, is a perfect spot for a romantic stroll, offering a unique glimpse into the city's medieval past. Afterward, take a tour through the Blue Hall (Blå Hallen) of the City Hall, an architectural marvel where the Nobel Banquet is held each year. Imagine being elegantly dressed as you attend the Nobel Peace Prize awards with your partner, surrounded by the grandeur and history of this iconic venue. The City Hall also offers breathtaking views of the city from its tower, providing a perfect backdrop for a memorable moment together. Don't forget to explore the Golden Hall (Gyllene Salen) with its stunning mosaics, adding a touch of opulence to your visit. For an unforgettable evening, consider booking a private boat tour at sunset, where you can toast to your love while gliding through the serene waters of Stockholm. Another enchanting idea is to visit the Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can wander through the exquisite gardens and enjoy a picnic by the lake.

Travel and Pricing

Stockholm has become busier over the years since we first started visiting. For fewer crowds, consider visiting in May or Mid-to-Late September. There are many flight options available with all the major carriers, American, Delta and United, from most major U.S. and Canadian airports. Flights for the end of May are running from $500 to $700. SAS, the major Scandinavian airline, is headquartered in Stockholm and has flights to the following US cities:

Atlanta,

Boston,

Chicago,

Los Angeles,

Miami,

New York,

San Francisco, and

Washington D.C.

Hotels in Scandinavia are generally simple, clean, comfortable and stylish (think Danish Modern). Crowds will be less if you consider traveling before June and after Labor Day in September. For a 7-day stay in the central part of Stockholm, we found rooms for $1,800 to $2,700, double occupancy. Considering the cost for a 7-day stay in many large U.S. cities, Stockholm is a very good bargain. When you consider that hotels in Europe usually include a Continental Breakfast, hotel prices are really quite reasonable. For people who haven’t traveled in Europe, a Continental Breakfast in Europe usually includes eggs, bread, fruit, cold cuts, juice, milk, coffee, tea and many more options than we’re used to in the United States. We find that a Continental Breakfast at the hotel and an earlier dinner are usually sufficient. It also leaves room for a snack at a bakery or ice cream shop. 

For those who are members of Hilton Honors, World of Hyatt and Marriott Bonvoy, here are some options in Stockholm City Center as well as prices for a 7-night stay, double-occupancy:

Hilton Stockholm Slussen - $2,690

Hôtel Reisen - $3,302

Story Hotel Riddargatan - $2,115

Sheraton Stockholm Hotel - $2,525

Nobis Hotel Stockholm - $2,775

Miss Clara Hotel by Nobis - $2,289

Blique by Nobis - $1,487

Courtyard Stockholm Kungsholmen* - $1,623

*The last time I was in Stockholm, we stayed at this hotel. I liked it because we didn't have to drive into the heart of the City Center, but we were able to walk easily to the central part of the city.

Mark is the owner of Destination Inspiration, a Destination Wedding, Honeymoon and Group Travel Agency. For help planning a Destination Wedding,  Honeymoon or Group Trip contact Destination Inspiration at info@destinationinspiration.com.