Stockholm, Sweden Review

Good Points
Clean, vibrant city. Plenty to see, friendly locals.

Bad Points
Expensive beer.....no reason not to go though is it??!

General Comments
Stockholm may not spring to mind when you are considering a weekend city break, but this vibrant waterborne city has a great deal to offer the short stay visitor.



Stockholm in the spring could be the new Paris, with its magnificent architecture, amazingly clean streets and crisp, fresh air filling your lungs with every step. In early April, the ice is still melting and floats down the rivers in huge sheets, accommodating ducks for a free ride.



With flights from many regional airports, and fares starting from as little as £130* it is well worth a closer look.



Accommodation of all types and budgets are available. Business people and backpackers alike will appreciate the comfort of the rooms of the Youth Hostel, with a cosy bar area and substantial breakfasts provided. Ask for a room on the ship moored alongside. The Af Chapman is very secure with swipe cards needed for every door, and the bunk rooms have their own portholes which certainly provide a different view of the city. Members can stay for under £20 per night (www.stfchapman.com)



As with any city break, you'll need to be organised to get the most from your short stay. Stockholm is teeming with over 70 museums, but don't leave without a visit to The Vasa Museum. The unusual building houses a warship which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was brought to the surface in 1961. It is in remarkable condition and a guided tour round the exhibit is excellent, even if museums aren't your normal scene.



The City Hall is another must see for your itinerary. The guided tours offer an insight into the mind of the architect Ragnar stberg whose mind changed often during the building, so much that the 'Blue Room' is made of red brick. That room is extremely famous however, as it hosts the Nobel Prize awards each year, Sweden's most prestigious social occasion.(www.stockholm.se/cityhall). The Golden Hall is outrageously extravagant, but glorious none the less. Climb the tower to get a spectacular view over the city.



You can continue the ceremonial experience by attending the Changing of the guard at the Royal Palace (www.royalcourt.se).



Stockholm is situated on 14 interlinked islands, so your visit is not complete without a cruise on one of the many tourist boats. Most attractions are in close proximity to each other, so as long as you are prepared with comfortable shoes, you can walk around the city easily.



One of the nicest areas to explore is Gamla Stan, the old town. Here the narrow, cobbled streets open into social squares, ideal to rest your weary feet while drinking hot chocolate, and sampling the delightful apple cake.



Scandinavia is well known for being a little on the expensive side, but, in reality, meals out in Stockholm should cost no less than a city centre restaurant in the UK, with many offering main courses for around £10. Fish is certainly a speciality, but why not try Reindeer or Moose for a more unusual taste. Alcohol can be expensive with a pint of beer costing almost £5 in places. Wine with a meal shouldn't break the bank. At least you can guarantee a clear head in the morning to begin your sightseeing again.



No city break would be complete without a spot of shopping. If it's designer outlets you're looking for, head for the trendy SOFO (South of Folkungagatan) area, or for handicrafts to take back to the family, wander in Gamla Stan for hidden treasures.



Stockholmers make you feel very welcome, and most speak immaculate English. So, don't head for Barcelona or even Prague, give the heart of Sweden a try. And not an IKEA in sight.



Check out www.stockholmtown.com for more information.





(*BA off peak (April) price Thur - Sun from Heathrow)