Södermalm is a neighbourhood and island in Stockholm's inner city which is well-known for its relaxed atmosphere and creative spirit. The area is packed with unique shops, quirky and cozy cafés, and many interesting museums and buildings. Södermalm is often mentioned in the same breath as its vibrant cultural scene, with one of its most emblematic venues being the Museum of Photography (Fotografiska). This old industrial building hosts visual art photography from some of the world's most well-known photographers and has become an incredibly popular tourist spot in Stockholm. Also on the island lies the prestigious Södra Teatern which is a renowned venue for concerts, theatrical performances and stand-up comedy. The theater was built around the year 1852 and is one of the oldest theaters in Sweden which is still active today. Södermalm is also home to the smaller Folkoperan (lit. the People's Opera), and if you are interested in Swedish handicrafts, be sure to check out the Galleri Workshop on the corner of Götgatan and Åsögatan.
Södermalm in Stockholm - one of the highlights of 10 Things to Do for Couples in Stockholm and 10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Stockholm (Read all about Stockholm here)
What are the highlights of Södermalm?
Södermalm is a great place for a leisurely stroll even if the island is generally quite hilly. The hills give rise to several pleasant lookout spots and you'll never be far from the water in this part of town. The top of Skinnarviksberg is 53 meters over sea level and a great place to look out over Gamla Stan and Kungsholmen. Walk along the listed wooden buildings on the streets of Mäster Mikaels Gata, Stigbergsgatan, Åsögatan, Kvastmakarbacken and Bergsprängargränd and be sure to stop by the iconic Münchenbryggeriet building on the waterside street of Söder Mälarstrand. Nowadays this characteristic Renaissance building is used as an events and conference center but it was previously home to a large brewery. Continue your walk along Monteliusvägen which follows the cliffs and offers gorgeous views over Kungsholmen. On the opposite side of the neighbourhood lies a pleasant walking path which goes along the water, as well as Katarinavägen which climbs up from the busy transportation hub of Slussen offering great views over the Riddarfjärden Bay and the most central parts of the city. In the summer you can visit some of the popular small beaches in Tantolunden for a dip and perhaps even a picnic.
Where to shop and eat on Södermalm?
When it comes to food and shopping, Södermalm is primarily known for its second-hand shops selling both cheaper and more exclusive brands. Götgatan has the widest range of shops, but Södermalm is also home to a number of smaller malls and shopping malls. The Hornstull Market is held every Saturday and Sunday from the end of spring until the beginning of autumn. Vendors there sell vintage clothes, art, antiques, delicacies, food and much more. Södermalm has a very varied and enticing food and drink scene with a large array of restaurants and cafés operating in different price brackets. Treat yourself to a dinner comprised of traditional Swedish dishes 104 meters above ground level or visit a lively food court serving dishes from some of the most well-known chefs in Sweden. Or if it's just a quality coffee and a bite to eat you're after, you couldn't have come to a better place. Several cafés in this neighbourhood have been recognized for their superior coffees in local food guide, the White Guide. Many of the most charming cafés are to be found around Mariatorget Square and they typically offer seating both indoors and out.
Good to know about Södermalm
As Södermalm is a very centrally located neighbourhood, it is pretty easy to get to. The Slussen Metro Station is just two stops away from Stockholm Central Station and it takes only 35 minutes to reach Södermalm from the center by foot. Once in Södermalm, it is pretty easy to get around either by foot, by bike or by using the streetcars and buses. Many of the area's highlights are within walking distance of one another. If you prefer to use public transportation to get between stops, buy an SL Card (SL-kort) which will give you unlimited travel on services operated by local company Stockholms Lokaltrafik. The card activates automatically when you use it for the first time and you can choose between 1, 2, 3 or 5-day options. If you decide to take the automobile, you'll find multi-storey carparks at various places around the island.
Södermalm in Stockholm
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Where to stay in Stockholm
Haymarket by Scandic
Radisson Blu Royal Viking Hotel, Stockholm
Hotel Birger Jarl
Elite Palace Hotel & Spa
Downtown Camper by Scandic
Scandic GO, Sankt Eriksgatan 20
Comfort Hotel Xpress Stockholm Central
Scandic Sodra Kajen
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