Heidi Stockholm’s a lovely city, but the weather can sometimes be a bit of a pain. Don’t worry though, even if it’s pouring, there’s loads to do in the Swedish capital! Discover a whole host of fun indoor activities that’ll make your holiday one to remember.
No bad weather, just bad clothing
Right, first things first: don’t let a bit of drizzle get you down! Maybe I’ve just been lucky, but I’ve hardly seen a spot of bad weather on most of my trips to Sweden. And even if it does turn out a bit grim, I always come prepared for a bit of wet or cold. They’ve a saying in Sweden, you know: there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!
And if you do fancy cosying up indoors, I’ve got some brilliant ideas for indoor fun down below.
Museums and art galleries
There are dozens of museums and art galleries waiting for you. Some of my favourites are:
- Vasa Museum: Absolutely brilliant. A 17th-century warship, salvaged after 333 years on the seabed. You won’t see anything like it.
- ABBA Museum: Guilty pleasure? Don’t be shy! Belt out those ABBA classics in this interactive museum. Pure fun.
- Fotografiska: If you’re into photography, this is the place. Constantly changing exhibitions with stunning photos from all over the world.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
I always leave room in my suitcase! My wardrobe’s practically Swedish these days, and bits of my furniture and decorations are too.
- Nordiska Kompaniet & Åhléns: Think Harrods or Selfridges. These massive department stores have everything – clothes, shoes, beauty, homeware… you name it.
- Södermalm: Head to Södermalm for quirky boutiques and vintage finds. It’s the trendy bit.
- Westfield Mall of Scandinavia: One of the biggest shopping centres in Scandinavia. All the shops under one roof.
- Clas Ohlson: A bit like Wilko or B&Q. Great for practical bits and bobs, tools, electronics. My power bank’s from there, and I once bought some duct tape to repair my suitcase.
Fika
Fika is a must. It’s the Swedish coffee break, and they take it seriously. Loads of cosy cafes everywhere. As for the chains I like Fabrique, Bröd & Salt and Espresso House. Check out the classics like Vete-Katten, and other gems like Gildas Rum and Tårtan Café. I’ve got a whole list of fika spots.
Relax and Unwind
I recently had a lovely weekend at Högberga Gård on Lidingö. Bliss! And I loved the sauna at The Nest on the rooftop of Downtown Camper by Scandic.
- Sturebadet & Centralbadet: Treat yourself to a spa day. Massages, saunas, the works.
- Sauna (Bastu): A proper Swedish experience. Get yourself in a sauna (or bastu as they say) – it’s the perfect way to chill out.
- Yoga & Meditation: Find your inner peace. ‘Nuff said.
Cultural
- Royal Dramatic Theatre: Catch a play at this famous theatre. Proper culture.
- Royal Swedish Opera: Opera lovers, this one’s for you.
- Live Music & Comedy: Stockholm has a great music scene. Get out and about!
Escape rooms
Brilliant fun! Solve puzzles, escape the room. I did one with colleagues in Södermalm. We didn’t escape, but had so much fun. There are escape rooms in English too.
So, even if it’s chucking it down, you won’t be bored in Stockholm. Loads to do indoors. Pack your raincoat and get exploring!
Top Tip: Book ahead, especially for the popular places.
Any questions about Stockholm? Check out this link.
