Europe’s friendliest city has been revealed, and it’s one that is made up of several pretty little islands, all with their own unique culture. Swedish people are known for being polite and cheerful, so it may come as no surprise that the capital city was named the friendliest in Europe.
What some people may not know, however, is that Stockholm is actually composed of 14 small islands on an archipelago spanning 1,500 square miles. The archipelago includes uninhabited islets, islands with summer houses, communities, historic villages, shops, restaurants, and other amenities. It’s located in the Baltic Sea, just east of Stockholm, and stretches about 37 miles.
The capital city scored 94.07 in Conde Nast Traveller’s 2024 Readers‘ Choice Awards. Other top scoring destinations were Budapest, Valencia, Vienna, and Berlin. Stockholm’s 14 islands make it a unique destination on the list as visitors can immerse themselves in many different cultures, travelling by ferries and sightseeing boats transport.
The city is practically floating, as the islands were constructed where Lake Malaren converges with the Baltic Sea. There’s no sense of overcrowding, and fresh air is plentiful. No matter where you find yourself in Stockholm’s historic centre, you’re either at the water’s edge or crossing a bridge from one island to another.
Over the past two decades, it has significantly bolstered its global reputation as a hub of culture, art, design and exquisite cuisine. Yet, it maintains the same spirit it has had for more than 800 years. The allure of exploring Stockholm’s islands and unique layout is part of its charm.
The cobbled streets and ochre-hued buildings of Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s old town, boast the 13th-century Storkyrkan Cathedral, the Kungliga Slottet Royal Palace, and the Nobel Museum, dedicated to the Nobel Prize. Sodermalm, the former bohemian enclave, is home to trendy hipsters, while Skeppsholmen is known for its wooden boat builders and art academy students.
Gamla Stan is renowned for its ceramicists and souvenir sellers. Meanwhile, on the exclusive Djurgarden, yacht owners and amusement park workers work alongside each other. Stadsholmen is connected to the mainland via several bridges and is home to Stockholm Palace, the official residence and major palace of the Swedish Royal Family. The offices of the King, other members of the family, and the Royal Court of Sweden are also located there.
In conclusion, Stockholm’s unique layout and friendly atmosphere make it a top destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Swedish culture. With its charming islands, historic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods, the city offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world.