The City Of Stockholm Sweden – Exploring The Nordic Venice

It captured my heart on my first visit and if you take your time to explore this city, I am certain it will capture yours too.

Located between the lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea, Stockholm is sometimes called the Venice of the North. And, indeed, there is water everywhere but… you don’t need a gondola to get around. An extensive bus and subway network will get you everywhere.

Stockholm Sweden has a long history, largely defined by the omnipresent water.

The central part of the city is built on fourteen islands of which each has its own characteristics.

The video below is a photographical tour around Stockholm which gives you a charming glimpse of the city. Press the Play button in the player controls below the image to watch the video.

The most famous part of the city is Gamla Stan, the old town centre with its medieval streets, well-preserved houses and royal palace. The commercial heart Norrmalm is on the northern side of Gamla Stan and was largely rebuilt in the second half of the 20th Century.

West of Gamla Stan is Kungsholmen with the magnificent city hall, while south of the old town you’ll find the hilly island of Södermalm, a charming residential area with trendy shops.

The modern office buildings of central Stockholm contrast sharply with Gamla Stan, but that’s even one of its charms, I think. It’s simply a great city for art lovers, architecture fans, culture seekers and shopping addicts.

The Stockholmers are very good in mixing the latest trends and developments in design with ancient Nordic culture and traditions.

Obviously they are helped by the surrounding area, which has an almost magic natural charm. Just make a boat trip in the incredible archipelago or visit one of the many Stockholm parks.

The island of Djurgården, also known for its museums, is an excellent example of how green the heart of a city can be.

The Swedish capital was also the first city in the world to host its own national city park Ekoparken, a nature reserve right inside the capital.

If you know a metropolis that’s greener and cleaner than Stockholm Sweden, let me know!