We’re bringing you the best local secrets with some of the world’s top bloggers, influencers, and travel journalists in our new City Insider series. From where to find the perfect brew to that little-known bar that plays the best tunes, vintage record stores and green outdoor spaces, consider this your checklist for an amazing city break in Stockholm.
We’re diving into all the best spots in Stockholm, with a quick-fire interview with local city expert Maria Grigorenko (behind popular Instagram @stockholm), telling you her favourite places and expert tips. Maria is originally from Moscow but has been living in Stockholm for more than 11 years. Her friends call her “Stockholm Wikipedia”, because she stays updated on restaurant news, exhibitions, happenings and basically anything that interests her that happens in the city. Her favourite thing about Stockholm (and her Instagram account) is the community!
Best of Stockholm: Ultimate Insider’s Guide with Maria Grigorenko
1. Favourite Overall Restaurant?
I’m weak for French food and relaxed vibes, so for me it’s definitely La Bergerie in Stadshagen. It’s rotisserie-style food with wine served in carafe.
2. Best Restaurant for Date Night?
La Vecchia Signora – an intimate yet cosy Italian restaurant.
3. Local Foodie Secret?
There’s a restaurant called Jebena located inside the metro station Rådhuset but don’t let the location fool you! Their injera is amazing.
4. Best Burger?
Funky Chicken food truck – they make superb burgers! Check their Instagram for location.
5. Best Place for Coffee?
For delicious brews and pastries – Café Pascal; Sempre for Italian cappuccino with cannoli.
6. Best Pizza?
Bitza – they make pizza with Arabic flavours: tahini, zaatar, shawarma, mmm.
7. Best Place for Vegetarian/Vegan Food?
Although a lot of places are veg & vegan-friendly, I’d say Mahalo.
8. Best Place for Brunch?
I have to name two – Sthlm Brunch Club and Greasy Spoon. Be prepared to queue though..
9. Where to Get an Amazing Budget-Meal?
La Neta – you can easily get full here for less than 100 kr.
10. Bar for Drinks with Friends?
If everyone in the group drinks wine, then Savant all day every day! Otherwise Omnipollo for beer.
11. Best Cocktail Bar?
Hands down Tjoget. Their signature cocktails Beets by Tjoget and Salty Caramel are my favourites.
12. Bar/Club for a Big Night Out?
Trädgården – an outdoor summer club located under a bridge in Södermalm. It’s even fun if you’re not that into techno (I’m not).
13. Best Place for a Sweet Treat?
Mjuk Mjuk has only been in Stockholm for roughly a year but I have been obsessed since day 1. Delicious soft serve with homemade toppings.
14. Unmissable Thing to Do in the City?
Experience the city by water by taking a ferry from Djurgården to Slussen, for instance.
15. Favourite Place for a Staycation?
Visby in Gotland – walking there basically feels like you have travelled to a Viking era.
Photo Cred: @familytravelsinacampervan
16. How to get Around the City Like a Local?
Bus number 2 – it will take you from Vasastan to Södermalm through Gamla Stan. Or walk – Stockholm is best experienced on foot.
17. Favourite Outdoor Space for Chilling Out?
On the top of Skinnarviksberget – the highest natural point in Stockholm. The view is stunning so imagine the sunsets..
18. Best Market in the City?
Hornstull Market (Hornstulls marknad) in Södermalm takes place every weekend from April to September.
19. Top Workout in the City?
Fightbox and SPR Athlete factory if you’re into martial arts and boxing. Otherwise Djurgården where you can combine a great running track with sightseeing.
20. Must-Visit Independent Store?
FabLab is an eclectic concept store that carries brands that cannot be found anywhere else in Sweden.
21. Best Things to do with Kids in the City?
Visit Junibacken museum and get on the Story train – your kids will love it and you will too!
