This relatively densely-populated island in central Stockholm has long attracted a more alternative crowd and retains a bohemian look and feel.
Södermalm was named one of Europe’s coolest neighbourhoods by U.S. Vogue magazine in 2014. While no longer just up-and-coming today, “Söder” is still a trendy place to hang out.
On your visit to Södermalm, do as the locals do. Shop in vintage shops and at flea markets, admire the historic architecture and contemporary street art, browse quirky designer’s stores or modern art galleries, and duck into crowded watering holes to listen to live music.
Stroll through Tantolunden Park or follow Södermannagatan to mingle with groups of friends and couples, who hang out on picnic blankets and café terraces until late at night in summer.
Those looking to get inspired may want to visit Fotografiska, a centre for contemporary photography, with a prestigious restaurant that acts as a meeting place for photographers and foodies alike. Take your camera to the top floor café for a great opportunity to capture’s Stockholm’s skyline at sunset.
Even from street level, along Fjällgatan, the view is worth capturing for eternity. You’ll be looking directly at the colourful houses and spires of Gamla Stan and can also spot Djurgården island and the museum island of Skeppsholmen. The street itself is lined with charming 18th-century stone buildings and even older wooden houses.
Admire the hilly island’s elegant architecture as you walk around. You can find many of the vintage fashion stores along Hornsgatan in the Mariatorget district. The charity shops of Stockholms Stadsmission and the Röda Korset (Red Cross) are popular with the local hipsters. The island’s pop-up “loppis” (flea markets) in summer are great for bargains too.
Music fans will love the Pet Sounds Bar along Skånegatan, which was already a bohemian hub in the 1990s when Södermalm was still a working-class neighbourhood. Each floor covers a different decade in retro music. Across the street, shop for old LPs at Pet Sounds Records.
Because Södermalm tends to be less expensive than the inner city, budget travellers often base themselves here. Just across the water, connected by a scenic bridge, is Kungsholmen with its crowned City Hall tower and nightlife streets.
