Wild water ripples below, and a warm fall breeze stirs the trees surrounding Riksplan Park. For a city, there’s a calm stillness about it. I’m following a herd of locals on bicycles as they ride the paths over the many bridges connecting one part of the city to another.
35 countries later and all seasons explored, had I just discovered one of the most underrated destinations in Europe to visit in the fall?
Perhaps it was the peep of red spreading like wildfire across the treetops, the lavishly decorated buildings, or the boats coming and going, but there is something magical about this charming capital city along the Baltic Sea.
Delightful Neighborhoods
With a diverse flurry of neighborhoods and islands spread across the city and connected by bridges, Stockholm leaves no room for boredom. During the fall months, as the chilly weather ensues, these charming areas are filled with local eateries, chatty locals, and quaint bars to grab a pint or two.
The multi-colored buildings of Gamla Stan are enough to draw anyone to its cobblestone streets and winding walkways. Home to the Royal Palace, Nobel Prize Museum, and Storkyrkan Cathedral, it’s the ideal hideaway to experience all the delights of a Swedish fall.
Looking for a change of pace? Head on over to the Bohemian area of Södermalm. Despite being a hub for the city’s nightlife scene, you’ll also find a slew of traditional restaurants, cozy cinemas, concert venues, and local hangout spots stewed in alternative culture.
If your idea of a fall day well spent is museum hopping, then the tranquility of Djurgården is where you need to be. Home to an abundance of museums along the shores, you’ll have plenty to do here!
From singing your heart out at the ABBA Museum to seeing the only 17th-century ship salvaged, this area of the city is truly a museum-lovers oasis.
A Hotel Fit For Fall
An urban oasis in the heart of the city, Downtown Camper by Scandic offers an outdoorsy vibe mixed with chic Scandi style. The hotel doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to interior design, with wooden accents throughout and an array of plants scattered around the lobby area.
In the industrial area of Brunkebergstorg, it truly is a nature escape in a concrete jungle. Open spaces and bar areas invite social mingling and coworking, while daily activities inspire adventure and relaxation. We’re talking sound meditation, a running club, and marshmallow roasting around the indoor fire pit.
While the daily breakfast buffet and craft cocktails around the bar are certainly standouts, the highlight here is the rooftop bar area and wellness center, ‘The Nest.’
For a small entry fee, guests and locals can enjoy panoramic views from the hotel’s ninth floor, followed by a dip in the heated infinity pool or some relaxation in the nest-shaped indoor sauna.
Activities Galore
You know what screams fall? Making the most of the crisp weather by filling your schedule with a mix of activities here and there. Luckily, Stockholm offers a little something for everyone.
- Hop On and Off Boats/Buses: If you’re looking for a leisurely lap around the city, then make the most of the bus and boat tours. You can stay on for the entirety of the trip or hop off whenever you want! (I recommend the companies Stromma or Red Sightseeing for tours).
- Day Trips: The ideal fall day trip? A boat ride to the beautiful region of Vaxholm. In Stockholm’s archipelago, the area is lined with fishing cottages and colorful wooden houses.
- Museums, Museums, and More Museums: With fall sometimes comes the rain, and Stockholm has you covered here with hundreds of museums across the city to spend time indoors.
My recommendations are: Skansen Open-Air Museum and Zoo, the Royal Palace and Exhibits (definitely see the Royal Apartments), Vasa Museum, and Fotografiska Museum.
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