19/12/2025
🇸🇪Exploring Stockholm
Our flight landed early, and we wasted no time sailing through passport control and hopping on the Arlanda Express—the fast and efficient train into central Stockholm. Our hotel, the Radisson Blu Waterfront, was just a stone’s throw from the station, and we were delighted to be offered an early check-in.
After dumping our bags, we set off on foot for Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s historic old town, about a 15-minute walk away. We found the main square and stopped for lunch, enjoying some classic Swedish meatballs that were absolutely delicious.
Next came a wander through the Christmas market, which was charming and full of unique Swedish items. We picked up some local cheese before starting a GPS My City walking tour of the old town. The cobbled streets, narrow alleys, and colourful buildings were utterly enchanting—so atmospheric and full of character. We paused for a beer in a cosy historic pub before retreating to the hotel for a nap, the early start finally catching up with us.
Revived, we headed back to Gamla Stan for a historic pub crawl. We popped into the cathedral to watch evensong, then crossed over to Kaffegillet, a remarkable historic pub with a stunning 14th-century cellar complete with a secret passage leading to the cathedral. Candlelight, stone arches, and a cold beer made it feel very special. We also sampled a small plate—Lappkata—toast topped with smoked reindeer and horseradish cream. Delicious… sorry, Rudolf!
Our next stop was Movitz Bar, another atmospheric old pub with wooden walls and a great buzz. We enjoyed some bar snacks, including chorizo sausage, before moving on.
From there, we descended into Aifur—a Viking-themed bar hidden in the cellars of Gamla Stan. Warm, lively, and delightfully eccentric, the staff were dressed in Viking attire and drinks were served in clay bowls. Live traditional music added to the medieval feel, and the menu was full of local specialities. We couldn’t resist ordering the meat-sharing board, which included yet more reindeer—and even reindeer heart. Surprisingly (and wonderfully), it was absolutely delicious.
We finished the evening with a gentle walk around the quieter perimeter streets of Gamla Stan, admiring the beautiful architecture before heading back to the hotel for a final Swedish whisky dram.
A brilliant first day exploring Stockholm—an incredible city and a fantastic place to visit.
