Stockholm’s unique composition of 14 islands connected by 57 bridges creates a picturesque and vibrant city bursting with culture and adventure. The impressive buildings, the greenery and the proximity to the water are all distinctive traits of this city and make it an ideal honeymoon getaway. Also home to the world’s first city National Park, The Royal National City Park, though you may not at first consider the Swedish capital as a paradigm of romance, as a city full of culture, history, intrigue, passion and creativity it remains for me one of Europe’s best.
Most of the city’s main attractions can be reached by foot so visitors can experience a lot of things in a short time; perfect if you’re escape is limited to a shorter period or part of a broader tour. With its rich architectural history one of the most rewarding activities is simply enjoying a leisurely walk around Stockholm to take in the sights and sounds of this busy but very homely city. A wide selection of world-class museums and attractions will keep you entertained during the day before sampling one of the city’s many outstanding eateries on an evening.
One of Stockholm’s main attractions is the impressive City Hall. An inimitable silhouette on the city’s skyline, the City Hall also provides fantastic views across the Stockholm from its grand tower . It is one of the country’s leading examples of national romanticism in architecture, designed by Ragnar Ostberg and opened in 1923. The hall was constructed using more than 8 million bricks and its tower which stands at 106m in height is elaborately adorned with an ornament representing the three crowns, the Swedish national coat of arms. Guided tours are held daily and during the summer in both Swedish (if you’re trying to touch up on some foreign language) and English.
The world’s first national urban park forms an arc more than six miles long stretching around and through Stockholm, creating a beautiful green space in the cityscape. The park joins with the forests around the city, inhabited by varying flora and fauna. This is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic picnic or simply a leisurely stroll while spotting deer, hare, foxes and even moose in this idyllic spot.
You could also choose to explore Stockholm’s network of picturesque waterways with a boat sightseeing tour. There are many tours to choose from depending on your
interests. Under the bridges of Stockholm, Royal Canal Tour, and the early Good Morning Stockholm Tour concentrate on central Stockholm. If you want to get off and explore as you go, choose the Hop On Hop Off Tour, perfect for experiencing much of Stockholm on a short trip. An attraction for many visitors is the Stockholm Archipelago, the largest archipelago of Sweden and one of most eclectic in the Baltic Sea. The Archipelago Race sightseeing tour offers a chance to see the archipelago for those who don’t have that much time. In a speed boat you get a feel for the archipelago and its 30,000 islands in less than two hours.
Stockholm has a staggering selection of modern gourmet restaurants offering innovative dining experiences. The city has no less than five Michelin-starred restaurants – perfect for that luxurious honeymoon treat. Sample some authentic Swedish Cuisine at one of Sweden’s best known restaurants, Lux Stockholm. Serving contemporary Swedish and international fare with locally produced ingredients you are in for a culinary treat. Alternatively try Pontus, a modern, sophisticated restaurant ranging over several levels in central Stockholm; featuring an oyster bar and an Asian themed bar this is definitely dining with a difference!
