Stockholm or the Venice of the North

Perhaps Ikea and ABBA are two of the names you think about when it comes to Sweden. Although they are the best ambassadors of Sweden, today we will speak of Stockholm, the capital of the country, a city full of charm and elegance. Built on 14 islands, Stockholm rises from the waters like a jewel in saffron and terracotta – thecolors of the buildings in the old city center.

Located at the intersection of Lake Mälaren with the Baltic Sea, Stockholm was originally a fortress that gradually expanded towards the mainland and the surrounding islands. According to any tips and tricks travel magazine, Stockholm is a much-appreciated destination for curious travelers, who enjoy the combination of German and British influences.

At every corner in Stockholm you can see the three golden crowns of the City Hall Tower, a symbol of the city and the entirecountry. You will recognize themfor sure, since you get to see them each year, during the televised Nobel prize ceremony.

Why Stockholm?

You’ll love Stockholm for the Vasa, a huge ship, decorated with golden leaves and bronze weapons. It is the only ship from the seventeenth century that has survived to this day and retains nearly all its original components. The Vasa has spent 333 years on the seabed. King Gustav II Adolf overloaded this war vessel with 700 sculptures (including one that depicts the moment when he was crowned in his childhood) and 48 guns,so the Vasa sank on its first trip, before ever being involved in any confrontation. But its destiny had other things in store for it, much more important that a war mission: to be revealed to this day,before millions of people, as a grand window to the past. The Vasa Museum draws more visitors than any other museum in Scandinavia, which is why they say Stockholm is worth visiting, even if only for the Vasa ship itself.

You will love wandering through Stockholm, in the streets of Gamla Stan (Old Town). “Armed” with hats, sunglasses, and cameras, as any careless travelershould be, you will become one with the history of the city. Be prepared to meetthe aristocracy of centuries past. At no. 4 Kind stugatan Street, make sure you stop at the Ol of Torne, a statue of the man who made his fortune from scratch and became mayor. Do not forget Dr. Johan von Hoorn, at no. 8, the first obstetrician in Sweden.

Gripsholm Castle, a history lesson

We recommend you book one day for a boat trip to the idyllic town of Mariefred, where the Gripsholm Castle stands, looking like it was taken out of the most beautiful fairy tales. Built in 1537, the castle is packed with over 400 years of history in its many rooms and passage ways, all of them just waiting for you to discover them. A trip to Gripsholm is a lesson in the history of Sweden, and at the same time a romantic setting,for an enchanting experience.

It boasts the title of “one of the most beautiful cities in the world” and is called “Beauty on Water”. Ithas preserved its past with respect and, at the same time, Stockholm is a vibrant, modern city with plenty ofbars and top clubs for the modern tourist.

Author bio:

Angela Halpert is currently planning her second vacation this year and for this trip she has chosen Europe. With the help of a tips and tricks travel magazine, Angela is sure she will make the right decision and choose a country suitable for her outgoing personality.