Södermalm Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat and drink in Södermalm, Stockholm. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Södermalm, a small island neighborhood in Stockholm, Sweden, is a trendy haven for locals and visitors alike. Once a working-class district, Södermalm has now become one of the hippest areas in Stockholm owing to its vibrant culture, impeccable scenery, and abundant recreational opportunities. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural excursions, or simply amending your Instagram profile, Södermalm is the place to be.

Introduction to Södermalm

Located in the heart of Stockholm, Södermalm is a scenic island neighborhood characterised by its colorful streets, cultural diversity, and trendy atmosphere. The area’s history dates back several centuries, and it was once a working-class district. Nowadays, Södermalm is known for its unique blend of vintage shops, trendy restaurants, and electrifying nightlife. Södermalm’s charm is infectious, and you’re sure to have a great time exploring this trendy island neighborhood.

List of Places to Visit in Södermalm

Södermalm is a diverse neighborhood with plenty to offer, from cultural attractions to natural marvels. Below is a list of some of the must-see places in Södermalm.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Stockholm boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage, and Södermalm is home to a variety of cultural attractions, such as museums and historical landmarks.

Fotografiska Stockholm

Fotografiska Stockholm is a contemporary museum that showcases photography exhibitions from renowned artists around the world. The exhibitions are usually thematically organized, and they often deal with sentimental, social, or political issues.

Södermalm’s Museum

Södermalm’s Museum is a small but charming museum in Södermalm that showcases the island’s history. The exhibitions are interactive and fun, making it a great place for all ages.

Natural Attractions of Södermalm: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Södermalm may be an urban neighborhood, but it’s known for its beautiful parks and green spaces.

Mariatorget

Mariatorget is a small park in the heart of Södermalm. The park is an ideal spot for picnics, socializing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Tantolunden

Tantolunden is a large park in the southern part of Södermalm. Apart from the scenic views and beautiful walking trails, the park has a beach, swimming pools, and a mini-golf course.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Södermalm

Södermalm boasts some of the best hiking and biking routes in the city. Below are some of the trails ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Mälarhöjden

Mälarhöjden is a scenic trail that encompasses the entire perimeter of Södermalm. The trail offers breathtaking views of the lake Mälaren, and it’s ideal for hikers, walkers, and joggers.

Södra Djurgården

Södra Djurgården is a beautifully landscaped hiking and biking trail that connects Södermalm and Djurgården. The trail offers beautiful views of the lake Mälaren and the archipelago.

Best Things to Do in Södermalm: Activities and Tours

Södermalm is a haven for travelers and locals alike, with a variety of things to do and see.

Stockholm Old Town Tour

The Stockholm Old Town Tour is a walking tour that runs through the historic Old Town, Gamla Stan. The tour takes you through cobbled stone streets, unique shopping boutiques, and some of the city’s notable landmarks.

Stockholm Kayaking Tour

The Stockholm Kayaking Tour is a popular adventure tour, led by professional guides, who take you through the city’s picturesque waterways. The tour offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and some of its famous landmarks you wouldn’t see on land.

Week-Long Itinerary for Södermalm

Considering all the Södermalm’s must-do activities and attractions, we have established the ultimate week-long itinerary for your exploration.

Day Activity
Day 1 Stockholm Old Town Tour
Day 2 Mariatorget and Tantolunden walking tour and picnic
Day 3 Södra Djurgården hiking tour or Kayaking tour
Day 4 Fotografiska Stockholm - contemporary photography gallery
Day 5 The Södermalm’s Museum
Day 6 In the evening, witness one of Södermalm’s popular concerts
Day 7 Enjoy the neighborhood’s vibrant nightlife

Food and Drink Scene of Södermalm

Södermalm is known for its cosmopolitan food and drink scene, with everything from traditional Swedish cuisine to international fusion.

Must-Try Dishes

Swedish Meatballs

It’s one of the classic Swedish dishes that Södermalm’s residents are fans of - tender meatballs, tasty gravy with lingonberry sauce, and mashed potatoes.

Toast Skagen

A classic Scandinavian dish with lightly sautéed shrimp, dill, mayonnaise, and sourdough bread.

Local Beverages

The Martini

The iconic Martini originated in Stockholm, by the Martini family in the late 19th century and for over 150 years 1900-cocktail bar has become the spot to sample Stockholm’s excellently mixed cocktail.

Slånbärsglögg

A warm mulled wine made with sloe berries, a winter classic to enjoy in the city.

Where to Stay in Södermalm: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Södermalm boasts a variety of accommodation options suited to all budgets and preferences. Here are our top picks:

Luxury Hotels

At Six

Sleek and stylish, At six is the new kid on the block when it comes to sumptuous accommodation. The décor is tastefully modern and very arty, with frequent temporary exhibitions and an after-work hotspot in the 6th-floor cocktail bar.

Budget Hotels

Motel L

Motel L is an affordable option but still manages to be modern and well-designed with comfort and convenience in mind complete with a restaurant, lounge area and game rooms.

Hostels

Generator Stockholm

Generator Södermalm is a modern hostel with all the amenities you could need. It features a beautiful bar and restaurant, comfortable rooms, and a vibrant atmosphere.

What to Buy in Södermalm: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Södermalm, you should consider taking a piece of its spirit home with you. Here are some unique souvenirs to look out for:

Handmade Clothes

Södermalm is known for its artsy vibe, and there is a thriving community of designers, artists, and small business owners that sell handmade clothes and accessories. You can find them in the vintage stores and independent boutiques of Södermalm.

Swedish Spirits

Swedish vodka and stock are two drinks you should not leave Stockholm without trying and bringing back home. You can buy them at Systembolaget stores or supermarkets.

Local Culture and Customs of Södermalm

Stockholm residents are generally friendly and outgoing, and they appreciate diversity. They’re more than welcome to speak English to tourists, and it can make your interactions more enjoyable.

Best Time to Visit Södermalm

There’s no wrong time to visit Södermalm, but the best time to visit depends on your interests.

Summer is an excellent time to visit Södermalm if you enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, or picnicking in the parks. Winter is an excellent time to visit Södermalm if you’re an avid skier or if you want a holiday mood.

Do’s and Don’ts of Södermalm

Do:

  • Do Go Bar-Hopping in Södermalm’s trendy bars and nightclubs.
  • Do Respect locals’ privacy, especially when you take photos.
  • Do leave tips - tipping is common in Sweden.
  • Do try the local cuisine; Swedish food is delicious and nutritious.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter the streets or public areas; it’s illegal and heavily fined.
  • Don’t get too loud on public transport - Swedes despise noise levels.
  • Don’t forget to carry cash with you; not all shops and restaurants accept credit cards.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for help and directions. Swedes are helpful and friendly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Södermalm

Södermalm is a safe neighborhood, but it’s best to stay cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in congested areas and crowded public transports.

Health in Södermalm

Sweden has an excellent healthcare system, and emergency services are easily accessible, but it’s highly recommended to carry comprehensive travel insurance for peace of mind.

Getting to Södermalm: Transportation Options and Logistics

Södermalm is easily accessible using a variety of transportation options, both public and private.

Airports near Södermalm

Stockholm Arlanda Airport is Stockholm’s primary international airport and is situated about 40 minutes’ drive northeast of the city center. Stockholm Bromma Airport is the nearest airport, just a short 20-minute drive from Södermalm.

Bus Stations near Södermalm

The city has a well-developed bus system that connects Södermalm to other neighborhoods and suburbs. The Stockholm main bus terminal, Cityterminalen, is located in the city center and is the main hub for international and long-distance bus services.

Other options

Taxis and Ubers are readily available. Bike rental is also a popular option with many bike rental companies available.

How to Get Around in Södermalm

Södermalm is a small neighborhood, and it’s easy to get around on foot. Public transportation options are also available, including buses and the subway (T-bana). Bike rental is also a popular option in Sweden, with many bike rental companies available.

Where to Go Next from Södermalm: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Stockholm is a city worth exploring, with many attractions and landmarks to visit nearby. Here are some nearby destinations that you shouldn’t miss:

Djurgården Island

Djurgården is one of Stockholm’s most popular parks, located on a peninsula that juts out into the Baltic Sea. The island is home to many museums, galleries, and theme parks, including Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum.

Stockholm City Hall

Stockholm City Hall is one of Stockholm’s most distinctive landmarks, located on Kungsholmen Island. The elegant building is home to the city council, and visitors can take guided tours of its impressive interior.

Conclusion

Thanks for exploring Södermalm with us. The island neighborhood may be small, but its vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Stockholm. From the must-visit attractions to the delicious food and drink scene, you’re sure to have a blast in Södermalm. Plan your trip and make some unforgettable memories.

Nacka Strand. Nacka Strand. A ferry making its way through the half-frozen Hammarby lake to the ''Sjöstad'' A ferry making its way through the half-frozen Hammarby lake to the ''Sjöstad'' Hornsgatan, one of the main streets of Södermalm Hornsgatan, one of the main streets of Södermalm Stockholm by night seen from Skinnarviksberget Stockholm by night seen from Skinnarviksberget Katarina church. Katarina church. Sofia church Sofia church The ''Stadsmuseum'' at Ryssgården The ''Stadsmuseum'' at Ryssgården Brännkyrkagatan, one of several old-fashioned streets in northern Södermalm. Brännkyrkagatan, one of several old-fashioned streets in northern Södermalm. Hammarby Sjöstad Hammarby Sjöstad Allotment gardens in Tantolunden. Allotment gardens in Tantolunden. Hammarbybacken is Stockholm's most central ski slope, as well as a public viewpoint. Below is Hammarby Sjöstad. Hammarbybacken is Stockholm's most central ski slope, as well as a public viewpoint. Below is Hammarby Sjöstad. ''Globen'' seen from far away ''Globen'' seen from far away Götgatan, a main street for shopping and nightlife. Götgatan, a main street for shopping and nightlife. Nytorget is a grassy square, surrounded by cafés and bars, more relaxed than the venues at Götgatan. Nytorget is a grassy square, surrounded by cafés and bars, more relaxed than the venues at Götgatan. Medborgarplatsen Medborgarplatsen Looking from ''Himlen'' bar down Götgatan towards the Globen at dusk Looking from ''Himlen'' bar down Götgatan towards the Globen at dusk Söder Mälarstrand, the northern waterfront, berths several hotel and restaurant ships. Söder Mälarstrand, the northern waterfront, berths several hotel and restaurant ships. View of the Hammarby Sjöstad, with the Park Inn in the foreground and Södermalm in the background, from Hammarbytoppen View of the Hammarby Sjöstad, with the Park Inn in the foreground and Södermalm in the background, from Hammarbytoppen Södermalm's northern waterfront, including the Hilton, seen from the Gamla Stan side of the Slussen node Södermalm's northern waterfront, including the Hilton, seen from the Gamla Stan side of the Slussen node