Traveling Stockholm on a Budget: A Comprehensive Guide

Stockholm, the stunning capital of Sweden, is known for its picturesque scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, it also has a reputation for being an expensive city, where even a glass of wine can set you back around €10. While it’s true that Stockholm isn’t the cheapest destination, it offers exceptional quality in return. The city provides top-notch services, whether you’re staying in a hotel, dining out, or exploring its many attractions. But with a bit of planning, you can enjoy all that Stockholm has to offer without breaking the bank. Here’s how to experience Stockholm on a budget.

Accommodation

Stockholm offers a variety of unique and affordable accommodations, from hostels to budget hotels. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, there are hostels on boats and even in a former prison. However, if the thought of sharing a room with strangers isn’t appealing, consider staying at a Scandic hotel. Scandic hotels are a well-known chain throughout Sweden, and they frequently offer promotions that can significantly reduce costs. It’s best to book directly through their website rather than third-party booking sites like Booking.com.

During my stay, I was able to book a room for just under €90 per night. This might sound steep, but for that price, I enjoyed luxury services, including a hearty breakfast buffet, access to a gym and sauna, and a large, comfortable bed with individual duvets. The breakfast alone is worth the price, offering everything from hot dishes to a variety of breads, pastries, and lactose-free options.

For the best experience, I recommend choosing a Scandic hotel in the Södermalm district, often referred to as the “Brooklyn” of Stockholm. This area is vibrant, filled with trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques. A particularly good option is the Scandic Malmen, located near Nytorget Square, a lively area perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere. I stayed at a Scandic in Norrmalm, and while it was comfortable, the area felt a bit detached and less interesting compared to Södermalm.

Food and Dining

Stockholm’s dining scene is renowned, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. If you’re staying at a Scandic hotel, take full advantage of their breakfast buffet, which can keep you satisfied until late afternoon. For lunch, many restaurants offer reasonably priced dishes and salads for around €10. If you’re on the go, you’ll find kiosks on nearly every street corner selling hot dogs with sweet mustard for just €2-3—a must-try for fans of Swedish street food.

Dinner is where prices can rise, with main dishes often starting at €15-20. Alcohol, in particular, can be pricey, with a glass of wine costing upwards of €15. To keep costs down, consider limiting your alcohol intake and opting for hearty, filling dishes like Swedish meatballs (köttbullar). Another great option, especially in the summer, is to have a picnic in one of Stockholm’s beautiful parks. Pick up some gravlax (cured salmon), Swedish bread, and a 3.5% beer (stronger spirits are sold only in government stores that close early) from a local grocery store, and enjoy a meal for about €10.

 

Shopping

Stockholm is a haven for design lovers, but high-end furniture and designer items can quickly eat up your budget. If you’re looking for affordable souvenirs or home decor, consider stores like H&M Home or Granit, which offer stylish items at reasonable prices. For those who appreciate natural materials and handcrafted goods, Hantverk Iris is a great place to find wooden and textile items that won’t break the bank.

When it comes to clothing, Stockholm offers plenty of opportunities for budget-friendly shopping. In addition to popular chains like H&M and Monki, the city has a thriving second-hand scene. Emmaus Stockholm, located in Södermalm, is a must-visit. This charity shop features two stores: one large and one smaller with a vintage focus. Prices are very reasonable—I found a skirt for €3 and a dress for €8. Another great option is Stadsmissionen, a charity shop near Nytorget Square, where I spotted high-quality clogs for just 320 SEK, a fraction of the price you’d pay at a designer store.

Getting Around

Stockholm is a large city, and exploring it on foot can be exhausting. Many hotels offer free bicycle rentals, which is a fantastic way to see the city, though be prepared for some steep hills. The metro is another convenient option, but it can be expensive. If you plan to use public transportation frequently, it’s worth purchasing a travel card that you can load with credits based on the number of trips. Interestingly, it’s often cheaper to buy and recharge this card at a newsagent rather than at a metro ticket office.

If you’re interested in exploring Stockholm’s archipelago, ferries are available, but prices vary depending on the distance. A popular and affordable option is the small island of Fjäderholmarna, just an hour away by boat for around €10. While it’s a busy spot in summer, offering lovely views of the lake (note that the water here is not as clear as the sea), it’s a great way to experience the relaxed Swedish lifestyle without leaving the city.

 

Is It Worth It?

In a word, absolutely! Stockholm is a city that’s easy to fall in love with. It’s peaceful, spacious, green, and full of life. The atmosphere reminded me of a more polished, upscale Berlin. I particularly enjoyed the Södermalm district, home to the Fotografiska Museum, which was showcasing a stunning exhibition by Sebastião Salgado during my visit. The area also boasts Hermans, a vegetarian restaurant with a beautiful garden and hammocks, as well as Nytorget Square, where children splash around in the fountain and locals relax in the sunshine. Another highlight was the allotment gardens of Tanto, a lush, colorful oasis that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Stockholm may be expensive, but with careful planning, you can enjoy a memorable trip without spending a fortune. Whether you’re exploring its stylish neighborhoods, savoring its culinary delights, or simply soaking in its serene beauty, Stockholm is a city that’s well worth the visit.

Travelogue and Photos by: Simplette