After four incredible days in Oslo, we packed our bags and headed to Stockholm, Sweden’s vibrant capital. We chose Norwegian Airlines for this leg of the journey, with tickets costing us 180 euros (2,067 Swedish Krona) for two, including one 23kg checked bag each. Unfortunately, the trip didn’t start as smoothly as we had hoped—one of Nim’s suitcase wheels was completely ripped off upon arrival. These are the unpredictable joys of travel, but we took it in stride.
We arrived in Stockholm in the late afternoon and headed straight to our hotel, ProfilHotels Nacka. This hotel was a gem! Its decor was atypical and full of character, making it stand out. We stayed in a spacious, comfortable room with breakfast included. The buffet was an absolute delight, with a wide variety of sweet and savory options. Out of all the hotels we stayed at during our Scandinavian trip, this one was hands down the best. A solid 10/10 experience!
Viking Adventures and Mead Tastings
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Viking Museum, an unmissable stop for Nim, a huge fan of Viking history and Norse mythology. To get around Stockholm, we used public transportation. We downloaded the SL app, which is essential for navigating buses, trains, trams, and ferries. We purchased a 72-hour ticket for 31 euros (360 Swedish Krona) per person, which was incredibly convenient and cost-effective.
The Viking Museum was fascinating. It’s rich in history, offering immersive exhibits about Viking life, their seafaring adventures, and their influence on Scandinavian culture. One of the most memorable parts of the visit was the mead tasting at the end. Mead, an ancient honey-based alcoholic beverage, was a staple of Viking culture. We sampled six different varieties: VAR (Spring), Suttunger Brew, Lind (Lime Tree), JARL’s Brew, Branden PA Orten (The Fire in the Hood), and SOMMAR (Summer). Each had a distinct flavor profile, and it was an extraordinary way to step back in time and experience Viking traditions firsthand. For the museum entry and mead tasting, we paid 60 euros (673 Swedish Krona).
The museum’s restaurant was another treat. We indulged in Swedish delicacies, including deer sausages, hot smoked salmon, and seafood Wallenbergare. Every bite was a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Sweden.
Dancing Queen: The ABBA Museum
As a lifelong fan of ABBA, I couldn’t leave Stockholm without visiting the ABBA Museum. This interactive museum is a tribute to the legendary pop group, showcasing their costumes, memorabilia, and even a chance to perform virtually with them! It was a joyous and nostalgic experience that every ABBA fan should have.
After the museum, we strolled through Djurgården, home to other attractions like the Nordiska Museet, which celebrates Nordic culture. The island’s serene environment, with its mix of medieval and modern elements surrounded by the sea, was breathtaking.
The Magic of Gamla Stan
No trip to Stockholm is complete without exploring Gamla Stan, the city’s enchanting Old Town. Its cobblestone streets, colorful medieval buildings, and narrow alleyways feel like stepping into a fairy tale. We wandered through its quaint shops and stopped to enjoy a slice of Sweden’s famous Princess Cake, a delicate dessert with layers of sponge, jam, cream, and a green marzipan coating. Gamla Stan’s charm is undeniable and makes it one of the most picturesque areas of the city.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of our Stockholm adventure, where we explore the city’s vibrant lifestyle, indulge in its culinary delights, and share our experience of ice-skating and more!
