Stockholm in 48 hours

Only have two days for a visit to the Scandinavian capital city of Stockholm? The good news is there is time to see plenty of wonderful things in this fantastic city. Did you know Stockholm is a set of 14 islands and has 57 bridges connecting them? You will want to explore this city by land and by boat. More fun facts: Stockholm had the first venue for the Nobel Peace Prize, The Royal National City Park was the first national city park in the world and of course the home of IKEA! Pack your most stylish shoes comfy for walking and have an amazing time.

Below you will find a top ten list of things to do and see, but first here are a few things to know before you go.

10 Things To Know Before You Go to Stockholm

1. The currency is the Swedish Krona and credit cards are excepted just about everywhere. You could likely get through your entire two days without having to pull out currency. If you have a credit card with no international fees and you get great points... go for it!

2. Many European countries, particularly Sweden, charge for bags at the grocery store. Make sure to pack a collapsable tote and bring along if you plan to hit up the market.

3. Note the latitude of Stockholm, particularly for the time of year you are traveling to the city. In summer months you will have long days of sunlight (17-18 hours) and in winter months you will only get 6-7 hours a day, depending on the month. This will also affect how you pack, but best to bring layers.

4. The tap water is delicious, so no worries and drink up!

5. Wifi - there are plenty of places throughout the city to find free wifi should you choose to not entertain an international calling plan. Sweden is expensive, so expect to pay more than usual for a SIM card and data here. Tele2 is a common brand used and expect to pay somewhere between $25 and $35 for the data you need.

6. Transportation is easy and great in Stockholm. You may find the Airport, the Arlanda Express (express train from the airport to the city) and the Stockholm Metro (Tunnelbana) to be impressive and clean!

7. Sweden is expensive. Depending on your travel style, plan to budget around $150 per day. Between the costs of meals, any shopping, transportation and attractions, it adds up.

8. What to wear - the people of Sweden are effortlessly stylish. Also remember, this is home to the world famous H&M! You will note locals wearing a lot of minimal hues and clothes that are made of natural fabrics. Be you, but also be mindful.

9. When to go - do be mindful of national holidays taking place, particularly in the summer months. Just about everything will close down and you can miss out on your to do list with limited time in the city.

10. Where to stay: a popular part of town to stay in is Östermalm.

Consider the Story Hotel with multiple locations in Stockholm.

Plan your itinerary based on geography and hours of operation and you’ll have a better chance of seeing what you prefer during your visit.

this map indicates where most things to see/do are located around the city

10 Best Things To Do With Only 48 Hours in Stockholm, Sweden

1. Head to Gamla Stan

Stockholm's oldest part of town and an amazingly well preserved medieval city center. Enjoy strolling through the winding streets, stop at a cafe, browse the shops and look out for art.

2. If you have time, The Royal Palace is also located in Gamla Stan.

And is the residence of the King of Sweden. There are at least 5 museums to explore once inside.

3. Take a sightseeing boat tour or book on the hop on hop off boat.

It's most definitely worth seeing Stockholm from the water, especially if you have a little nice warm sun. You'll get more intimate details about the city and its history and great transportation to your desired stops.

4. Visit City Hall

From the tower you get a wonderful view over the entire city.

5. Go to the Modern Museet (Modern Art Museum) on the island of Skeppsholmen.

Similar in style to the LACMA contemporary exhibits.

6. Spend a couple hours traveling through the metro system to see its incredible art.

90 of the 100 train stations of the Stockholm Metro have been designed by 150 artists. They range in style and technique and each one of the decorated metro stations is like traveling through a mini art gallery.

Check out these noteworthy stations:

Kungsträdgården metro station on the blue line

7. Visit Fotografiska

An excellent museum featuring seriously talented photographers and their artistry.There are also great views from the cafe upstairs. — An excellent museum featuring seriously talented photographers and their artistry.
There are also great views from the cafe upstairs.

an exhibit from June 2016 Bettina Rheimes

8. Shop. . . at H&M!

This is the home of the brand, but there are many shops to experience in Östermalm area.

9. Visit the island of Djirgarden island for Skansen

Skansen is an open air museum and a zoo which shows the old ways of Swedish living.

Tip: Stop at an Espresso House. There are so many located through-out the city, but an easy way to grab a drink, a snack and get free wifi while you power up.

10. The Abba Museum

Does it really need any further explanation?! Opened back in 2013, The Abba Museum is an interactive exhibit of things dedicated to the pop group.

Tip: for great dinner restaurants consider Södermalm for options. This island is trendy with no standard architecture and has a creative vibe. This is also where Fotografiska is located if you want to time ending the here.