Things to do in Stockholm in winter – top activities and tips

Visiting Stockholm in the winter months, you’ll notice something interesting: the city leans into its short days, long nights, and cold weather. From mid-november the city switches on the Christmas lights and the streets feel cozy. From there it’s just under a month to Lucia on December 13 (a candlelit tradition with choirs and saffron … Read more

Guide to the best day spas in Stockholm

Deck chairs by a twig-covered wall and tall cocktails with orange garnish at a day spa lounge

Visiting a day spa is one of the simple pleasures of spending time in Stockholm and works in every season. A few hours in warm water and a quiet relaxation room can ease jet lag and help you recharge after days spent exploring the city’s museums, restaurants, and sights. If you’d rather recharge outdoors, our … Read more

The best places to see Christmas lights in Stockholm

Fairy lights fan out over the statue at Kungsträdgården's ice rink at night

Every November, Stockholm lights up with elaborate Christmas displays, turning the Swedish capital into an atmospheric winter destination. Streets and squares turn into open-air galleries of decorations, sculptures and light installations. When you walk the streets this time of year, look up at the windows of residential buildings. You will see glowing Christmas stars, Advent … Read more

Mahalo Södermalm

A vegan bowl of black rice, sweet potato and red lentils with coconut yogurt, lime and herbs, served with coffee at Mahalo

A pink neon sign spelling “Mahalo” glows against the building’s yellow brick facade. Inside, weekend brunchers are filling the lively café. It smells of freshly brewed coffee and toasted grains. We already know this will be a good experience. Mahalo is a plant-based café serving breakfast and lunch. They serve breakfast until 11 am on … Read more

Best Christmas Markets in Stockholm 2026

Crowds and a lit Christmas tree with a 'Varm Glögg' stall at Stortorget market in Gamla stan

Stortorget in Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s oldest and most famous Christmas market, held on the Old Town’s main square since 1837. It’s far from the only one. From mid-November until December 23, markets pop up in royal stables, design-school greenhouses, neighborhood squares and castle courtyards in and around the city. Below you’ll find our picks, … Read more

Misshumasshu Stockholm Review: Tokyo Meets Stockholm in a Historic Arcade

Illuminated vertical sign reading 'Misshumasshu' at the restaurant's entrance in the arcade

Misshumasshu is a Japanese-European fusion restaurant located in Stockholm’s historic Birger Jarlspassagen arcade. Its unique concept combines the culinary traditions and flavors of Tokyo and Stockholm, with a name derived from the Japanese pronunciation of the word “mishmash”. When is Misshumasshu open, and how do you book? Misshumasshu, sometimes searched as Mishumashu, serves lunch and … Read more

Swedish clothing brands to buy in Stockholm

Wall display of Fjällräven Kanken backpacks in dozens of colors at a Stockholm store

One of the best things about shopping in Stockholm is discovering clothes from Swedish brands. Many department stores feature a wide selection, but what makes Stockholm special is that so many of these brands have their flagship stores here. Fashion is a big part of the city’s identity, and Swedish design is known for being … Read more

Where to see autumn colors in Stockholm

Stockholm’s autumn is a quiet kind of magic. The city’s parks and islands turn golden and red, the air gets crisp, and the low northern light makes everything feel calm and cinematic. Whether you’re strolling through central parks or taking a short trip into nearby nature reserves, there are plenty of beautiful spots to enjoy … Read more

Swedish Christmas food: A simple guide to the Julbord

Open sandwiches with egg and pickles laid out on a julbord table with candles and a glass of drink

Sweden’s Christmas feast is built around the julbord. It’s a buffet-style meal that families serve on Christmas Eve and many restaurants offer throughout December. You eat it in rounds with a fresh plate each time. Start with herring, move on to other fish, then cold cuts, hot dishes, and finally desserts and sweets. It’s simple … Read more