Weekend in Stockholm: 48 hours

Stay as centrally as possible at the Hotell Grand Central. This is Scandic's signature hotel, housed in a historic building with elegant details. The rooms are comfortable and stylish and there's a popular bar and restaurant. 

This hotel has a special place in Stockholmers' hearts thanks to its beautiful waterfront location and intimate atmosphere. As well as personal service in luxurious surroundings, the Diplomat is passionate about art and culture, so if you're lucky there'll be an exhibition on during your stay. Otherwise, enjoy good food and drink in one of the restaurants and bars.

As the name suggests, this hotel is in the area of Södermalm known as Nofo (north of Folkungagatan). They've channelled the neighbourhood's creative atmosphere, creating a hotel that's ideal for globetrotters looking to explore one of Stockholm's hippest districts.  

Stay at comfortable Hobo in Brunkebergstorg in the heart of the city. If you like being surrounded by cool, well-designed spaces, this could be the place for you. The hotel has its own bar and restaurant where you can enjoy lively evenings with a cocktail in hand, and Japanese-inspired breakfast is served on the 13th floor with spectacular views. 

If you like the sound of cream cake and bubbles for breakfast, book into Ruth or Frantz. The sister hotels are in different parts of town - Ruth in Vasastan and Frantz in Södermalm - but both will suit anyone looking for a personal experience with special extra touches. 

Imagine you're at a French bistro, but in Manhattan - that's the vibe at Brasserie Balzac. Choose from everything from hamburgers to Caesar salad and moules frites, served in lively surroundings. The drinks menu includes everything from milkshakes to champagne.

Many regard Tjoget in Hornstull as one of the city's best bars, whether you prefer beer, wine or cocktails. There are three different options under one roof; Ölkaféet which serves tapas alongside drinks, Bodegan which focuses on wine and Linje Tio – a cocktail bar and Mediterannean restaurant. Take your pick!

Sweden's very first apothecary no longer sells medicine, but remedies in the form of exciting cocktails. Pharmarium is one of the city's most unique and renowned cocktail bars, thanks to their award-winning cocktails and the charming, historic apothecary interiors. 

Step inside and downstairs to the bar in Astoria, star chef Björn Frantzén's slightly more relaxed but still ambitious restaurant. The luxurious main bar opposite the entrance is the place to drink cocktails in stunning surroundings, while the smaller Lilla baren provides a more intimate experience. 

Chandeliers, stuccowork and colourful interiors set the tone at this popular spot. It's always packed at weekends, so if you're looking for a lively place to enjoy a delicious cocktail on a Friday night, head to Grodan.

Ling Long, inside the Story Hotel serves Asian food with flavours primarily from the Sichuan province, Bali and Singapore and the cocktail list has a complementary Asian theme. Thirsty city dwellers drop by for exotic drinks from early afternoon until late evening.

Las Brasas is one of those restaurants that ticks all the right boxes: delicious food, charming service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The menu includes meat dishes and tapas infused with Spanish, South American and sometimes even Nordic influences. The team behind the restaurant are also passionate about finding exciting wines that pair perfectly with the food. 

If you love Asian fusion food, book a visit to Miss Voon. Asian cooking meets Swedish ingredients in a combination that has become the restaurant's signature. Food is served as medium-sized dishes ideal for sharing round the table, including the lobster tacos they're famous for. 

With well-loved sister restaurants including Nybrogatan 38, Paraden and Nytorget 6, expectations are high when visiting Österlånggatan 17 in the Old Town. The restaurant provides a warm, intimate indoor restaurant and a large outdoor dining area among the cobbled alleyways of the old town in the summer months. This is a classic neighbourhood restaurant with an emphasis on flavour-packed international food.

This may well be one of Stockholm's favourite restaurants. Farang takes diners on a flavour odyssey through Southeast Asia, but the luxurious fusion flavours are like nothing you've ever tasted before. Combine with innovative cocktails for the full experience.

Kasten achieves the feat of combining elegance with simplicity, and on top of that, it provides really great service. The flavours are Swedish-French, the ingredients are seasonal, and the wine list is carefully curated. The decor, which follows a classic French bistro style, contributes to the relaxed yet thoughtful atmosphere.

This bright burst of colour will put a smile on anyone's face. The decor alone makes Leoparden worth a visit, but the menu and drinks list also deliver. Pizza and small dishes are the concept, along with all kinds of drinks. Drop-in is the order of the name of the game here, but it doesn't usually take too long to get a table.  

At Bar Nordic in the heart of the city, you can toast with wines made from the Nordic pantry's treasure – berries! Along with Swedish dishes such as meatballs, moose charcuterie, bleak roe, and other delicacies, this becomes an experience to remember.

At Copine, inspiration comes from across Southern Europe, with a particular emphasis on French cuisine. The foundation of everything served is local seasonal ingredients, which are transformed into finely crafted dishes in both smaller and larger formats. Enjoy a classic three-course meal or order a little of everything to share, in the elegant dining room or at the chef's counter, where the chefs at work creates a slightly more vibrant atmosphere. 

This restaurant with its large bar on Hornsgatan is one of Södermalm's most popular hangouts. Spot the odd well known face among large groups of friends. There are lots of different areas to choose from, right at the back you'll find a slightly quieter bar for intimate chats.

Gigantic outdoor club during the summer months; techno and house club in the winter. Its tucked-away location under Skanstull bridge makes it feel quite secret, even though it draws in crowds of revellers all year round. If you prefer R&B there's also a dance floor for you.  

If you're in the mood to mingle, head to "the square" at Boqueria. Regulars and locals alike flock to this buzzy spot where the atmosphere gets more and more lively as the evening progresses. DJs play everything from hip hop to techno.

Dance your socks off to soul, funk and motown at Fasching, which has been drawing in jazz-loving Stockholmers for over thirty years. Their two club concepts are Afterglow, which plays R&B, and Club Soul which focuses on soul and funk.

If you like belting out well-known pop hits at the top of your lungs, this is the place for you. The club often draws in a slightly more mature crowd and houses three dance floors and five bars, one of which is a karaoke bar. 

At Mahalo you can enjoy delicious food without feeling the least bit guilty. Everything is made from scratch, with ingredients that are beneficial for both body and soul. The menu includes smoothie bowls, sandwiches and freshly pressed juices.

Wake up gradually as you break your fast and drink your first cup of coffee in peaceful, relaxed surroundings. Systrarna Andersson in Vasastan is a classic café which has been around since 1930. Everyone is welcome, including four-legged friends, for a gentle start to the day.

Pom & Flora has an all-day breakfast concept, so you there's no need to drag yourself out of bed early after a big night out. You need to be prepared to stand in line though, as their sandwiches, bowls and porridge are very popular. 

This interiors shop has stocked a wide range of things for your home, whether you're after a gift or need help designing an entire home. You'll find products from Asplund Collection, as well as a selection from other designers. The Östermalm store sells soaps, candlesticks, lamps and rugs, among other desirable decorative items.

Lund & Lund on Sturegatan mixes classic menswear with modern influences, placing great emphasis on craftsmanship and quality that lasts. A must-visit stop for those looking to shop for personalised clothing while in Stockholm.

Treat yourself to something really exclusive to wear on your wrist. This elegant watch boutique stocks several exclusive brands, both classic and trendy, and the staff are happy to help you find the right one. 

For more than 90 years, Tranan has been a place to meet up, have something to eat and a glass or two of wine. A real Stockholm institution, in other words. The menu changes according to the seasons, but two dishes that are always available are fried herring and meatballs - the latter of which isn't actually listed on the menu but can always be ordered.  

Ok you're enjoying your weekend in Stockholm, but don't we all always slightly wish we were in Capri? Head to the rooftop terrace of the Åhléns department store for sunny Italian vibes, complete with Italian food, cocktails and al fresco post-work socialising when the weather allows.  

Bleck quickly became one of the town's trendiest spots, not least thanks to its sunny terrace where guests flock when the weather is fine. But it's also popular on weekends during the colder months of the year, when the restaurant's glazed outdoor room becomes like a cosy living room. The summer menu features starters and main courses with a vegetarian selection, inspired by Europe and other parts of the world, while in winter they serve weekend brunch.

Take a break with a freshly-fried falafel at Falloumi in Skanstull. Their falafels are served in a creative way with masses of colourful and innovative sides in pita bread, wraps or bowls. Food comes fast and tasty. 

Visit Stockholm's largest open air museum and animal park. Learn about Sweden's history and visit Nordic animals including moose and bears. On certain days they have special events, markets and workshops. Don't miss visiting one of their cosy cafés for coffee and cake.

Take a well-deserved afternoon break at Boulebar and challenge your friends or family to a boules match. Combine your game with a refreshing French beer or something to eat if you're peckish. Fun for adults and kids alike. 

Having trouble choosing among all the wonderful restaurants, bars, and cafés in Stockholm? Take a food tour with Moveat, and you'll get to explore the city while also filling your belly with tasty treats. The walk is done using an app where you get all the info you need, so you can go between the restaurants at your own pace and in the order you prefer, without having to be dragged along with a guide or a organised group. The number of stops varies between different walks, but they usually total 6–8 stops over 4–5 hours.

You may want to skip lunch if you've booked in for afternoon tea at the Hotel Diplomat; their cake stands groan with scones, sandwiches and cakes and pastries, both classic and with a more modern twist. The tea salon at this luxury hotel is reminiscent of a forest glade in a fairy tale. 

Prins Eugen Waldemarsudde on beautiful Djurgården was once the home of Prince Eugen – and it's now an art museum. Take the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful exhibitions and combine your visit with lunch or a snack at the restaurant Prinsens kök, where much of the original furnishings have been preserved.

Sweden's royal history is full of fascinating stories. Find out about some of them at Livrustkammaren, the Royal Armoury, which is full of ceremonial equipment, weapons and costumes from as far back as the 17th century. 

Once you've seen Sergels torg and the view from Monteliusvägen, it could be fun to experience something completely different. Head to the Paradox Museum in the Hötorget underground station, where they've gathered exciting optical illusions and paradoxes that are equally enjoyable for adults and children alike.

The Royal Opera is in the heart of the city, housed in one of Stockholm's most magnificent buildings. If you have a couple of hours to spare, you can catch one of the performances, or why not go on a guided tour? Whatever you choose, don't miss the chance to visit the Guldfoaljén, the Golden Foyer, whose gilded interiors and crystal chandeliers look like something out of a fairy tale.

Experience Stockholm as it was around 1900 - in its most luxurious guise. The Hallwyl museum was built as a private palace for the von Hallwyl couple, who were one of Sweden's richest families at the time. Today it looks just as they left it in 1920 and the baroness's huge art collection remains. Either wander round at your own speed, listen to a live or audio guide or go on a dramatised tour. 

Learn all about the history of Sweden at Historiska museet, which, with more than ten million exhibits, is one of the country's largest museums. Join a guided tour or wander round on your own among the Viking treasures and relics. During the summer they put on activities in the inner courtyard so you can try your hand at prehistoric crafts and games.

Stockholm's centre for contemporary photography is a popular must-see for tourists and locals alike. As well as one of Stockholm's most spectacular views, the building houses several exhibitions of modern, iconic art.

Take a deep dive into the Nobel Prize and the stories of its laureates from the early 20th century onwards. The Nobel Museum in the Old Town features exciting exhibitions, guided tours, and activities for all ages. There is also a museum shop where you can buy gifts.

You've most likely heard of the Vasa warship which sank on her maiden voyage in 1628 and was salvaged from the waters of Stockholm harbour in 1961. At the Vasa museum you can see the ship in all her glory and find out about the lives of Stockholmers at the time. 

Whether you're looking to purchase something to decorate your home or office, or simply want to get your cultural senses tingling, check out WAY in Vasastan. The gallery highlights both new and established artists and creators from around the world, and organises activities such as workshops, lectures and discussions. The keywords are creative, youthful and colourful. 

Golfbaren has created an experience that includes food, drinks and minigolf that suits couples, groups of friends or families alike. If you want to play indoors, Swing by Golfbaren in Vasastan is a good option, while Golfbaren Kristineberg is a centrally located outdoor alternative perfect for sunny summer days. 

The Modern Museum is in beautiful surroundings on the city-centre island of Skeppsholmen, making it an ideal spot for a short outing. Take the boat from Slussen to experience contemporary art, with both free permanent exhibitions and ticketed temporary exhibitions. 

If you want to learn more about the history of Stockholm, a visit to Stockholm City Museum in Slussen is an excellent way to go about it. People, events and places all meet here to tell the story of the city's development from being a small town on the fringes of northern Europe to the modern capital of today. One of the few museums in Stockholm that has free admission, but you'll often have to pay for guided tours. 

Hire a classic bike and get around on two wheels. From the Old Town, it's easy to explore all of Stockholm, from Södermalm to the city centre and scenic Djurgården. At Gamla Stans Cykel, they're happy to offer tips on excursion destinations.

Rolfs Kök is like a warm hug, full of the smells of comforting Swedish homecooking and the friendly sounds of locals and curious new guests. The open kitchen produces dishes made with care and simplicity, such as beef cheeks and fish stew, a couple of the restaurant's signature dishes. 

As the name (which means craftsmanship) suggests, this restaurant is passionate about all things artisan. Nordic flavours combine with international influences for creative flavour fusions. The interiors include plenty of natural materials and woodwork inspired by Nordic landscapes.

Take a walk out to leafy Djurgården and Villa Källhagen's brunch buffet. They lay out popular brunch favourites such as freshly-baked bread and preserves, along with more unusual elements. all in beautiful surroundings with views over the water.  

Get a dose of French flair at Hotel Kung Carl, where you're welcome to an à la carte brunch featuring both larger and smaller dishes. To accompany your meal, you might enjoy a refreshing margarita or a Bellini as you soak up the Parisian atmosphere.

Urban Deli is a go-to meeting place for countless city-dwellers, with its relaxed but lively atmosphere. Families and friends gather here to enjoy a nice Sunday moment. The brunch menu includes fresh shellfish, Mediterranean salads and classic brunch plates.

Bank Hotel serves a “lazy breakfast and bubbles” brunch every weekend in magnificent surroundings, which many regard as being the best in Stockholm. Choose between classic brunch dishes such as egg dishes, waffles and sandwiches, which can be washed down with fresh juices, coffee, tea and a glass of champagne that's included in the price.  

The rooftop pool at Selma City Spa pops up all the time on Instagram and tv - not surprisingly, as the view from up here is unbeatable. Relax with a glass of bubbles in hand and enjoy the views over the the rooftops of Stockholm. Pamper yourself properly with one of the many body and facial treatments they offer.  

Visit an exotic paradise and pick and choose from the list of treatments. Whether you're in Södermalm, Östermalm or Kungsholmen, there's a Sparadiset ready to welcome you and take care of your wellbeing.

Check into The Nest spa on the rooftop of the Downtown Camper hotel. Dive into the the rooftop pool, warm up in the sauna and relax in one of the sun loungers. There are several areas for relaxation, as well as an open bar serving tea, breakfast and fresh juices.

Let yourself relax totally in this modern spa. The pool, which has both indoor and outdoor sections, has views over a leafy park, creating a harmonious atmosphere. There's a poolbar, two saunas, several showers and a relax area. If you're hungry, you can order both food and drink without having to leave the spa.