I’ve just returned from the most wonderfully inspiring trip to Stockholm and let me tell you, my creative cup is overflowing. From timeless interiors to cinnamon-scented bakeries and effortlessly cool boutiques, Stockholm is a design lover’s paradise.
My husband has Swedish roots which I am sure you guessed from our name. He was keen to explore the motherland and I was more than willing to join him! I have long admired their national sense of style but being immersed in it, day after day........ it really is next level. Here’s my guide to the highlights you absolutely mustn’t miss.
STAY: Ett Hem - A Home Like No Other
To truly feel Stockholm's interiors, there’s no better place than Ett Hem. It’s not just a hotel, it’s a living, breathing, beautifully curated home. Every corner is an interiors masterclass: warm wood tones, layered textures and thoughtful lighting. It’s cosy, calm and quietly luxurious.
We didn’t stay overnight (we were in a gorgeous Airbnb nearby) but we did visit for a chic lunch in the garden room. You’ll want to move in…… trust me.
Our Airbnb tip: Stockholm is full of amazing places to stay - we stayed in a great apartment that was perfectly located, super comfortable and oozing with that unfussy Nordic charm.
EAT: Culinary Adventures in Every Bite
Swedish food is having a real moment - humble, seasonal and positively delicious. We genuinely didn’t have a bad meal the entire trip. Here are our faves:
- Lillebrors Bageri: Home to the ultimate cinnamon bun. There’s a queue but it moves fast and it’s worth every second.
- Misshumasshu: Fun, funky fusion with Japanese flavours and super cool interiors.
- Babette: We adored this cosy wine bar and pizzeria. Intimate, stylish and just so Stockholm.
- Lisa Elmqvist: For beautifully cooked fish in the iconic Östermalm Food Hall, there is no other place - a design feast in itself.
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Solen: Our splurge of the trip and quite simply……wow. The space is sun-drenched and joyful………… the food? Next-level delicious. Plus the cocktails are insane!
- Sturehof: An old-school Stockholm classic. Don’t miss the herring or Swedish meatballs.
- Omaka: A vibey, stylish microbrewery - perfect for a relaxed evening drink near our BnB.
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Schmaltz Bar & Deli: Small plates, big flavour and a setting that’s effortlessly cool.
VISIT: Culture & Calm
Between sourcing interiors and scouting boutiques, we soaked up some of the city’s culture:
- Boat Tour of the Archipelago: Peaceful, scenic and the perfect way to take in the city’s beauty from the water.
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Fotografiska: The contemporary photography museum has inspiring exhibits, beautiful interiors and a fab café with skyline views.
SHOPPING: Heaven for Interior Lovers
Honestly? I could have shopped ‘til I dropped. Stockholm is a treasure trove for interiors and design. My top picks:
- Svenskt Tenn: The mothership of Swedish design. Bold, beautiful and full of personality…….I wanted it all.
- Dusty Deco: Glamorous, vintage and incredibly curated. A must-visit.
- Modernity: Serious mid-century design for collectors and lovers of true craftsmanship.
- Nordic Knots: Scandinavian rugs but elevated. Think texture, tone and timelessness.
- Skultuna: Brass perfection: modern classics with a heritage twist.
- Sekelskifte: The go-to for traditional Swedish architectural details.
- Familjen Fogelmarck: Elegant homeware with a fresh, local feel.
- Studio Cathy Nordström: So chic, I absolutely loved it. A beautifully curated design studio with stunning textiles and timeless pieces.
Fashion finds:
- Acne Studios: A Stockholm essential. Clean lines, effortlessly cool.
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Arkivet: A hidden gem for curated, preloved fashion. If you know, you know.
GETTING AROUND: Walk or Whizz on a Lime
Stockholm is super walkable, we wandered for miles through leafy streets, waterfront paths and stylish corners of the city.
But for a bit of fun? We hopped on Lime scooters a few times, which are such a laugh and surprisingly efficient. For longer distances (like getting back from Solen after our big meal), we grabbed an Uber, which was easy and reliable.
TOP TIP: Pack Accordingly
The weather caught us off guard - a few degrees colder than the UK and with a chill in the air. Layers are key. Think warm knits, light coats, scarves and definitely comfy trainers (you’ll be walking a lot). Always leave some room in your suitcase for that journey home……you will need it!
Final Thoughts
A big thank you to our foodie pals at Burnt Toast and our lovely friends at Scheme for the brilliant recommendations and insider tips - you made our trip extra special.
Stockholm, you have my heart (and yes, a fair bit of my money too). I came home buzzing with ideas and brimming with inspiration. If you love interiors, design, great food and that effortless Scandi style then book a trip quick! Trust me you won’t regret it.
With love,
Chloe x
