Three reasons to visit Stockholm
<p>Stockholm has so much more to offer than bucket loads of beautiful blondes. Known as the cool capital of Scandinavia, from food to fashion and from service to sites, it’s our new “It destination” for a European getaway. Here’s our round-up of must-dos and local treasures.</p>
<p><strong>EAT<br /></strong>Swedes are so passionate about coffee and spending time in cafés that the activity has its own verb: fika. With excellent cafés and bars almost everywhere, do not miss the opportunity to relax in true Stockholm style. For breakfast, brunch or lunch, head to Urban Deli. One of a few combined grocery shops, seafood bars and restaurants in the city, its menu runs the gamut from breakfast to traditional dishes including shrimp salads. </p>
<p><strong>SHOP</strong><br />From one-off boutiques to slick shopping centres like Mood, it’s no wonder the Scandies are so well dressed. Grandpa is a must-visit with fashion, interiors and a basement full of carefully selected vintage items like old lab bottles, school chairs and biology posters. </p>
<p><strong>SEE</strong><br />If you’re not drawn to a bike ride around the parks or taking a boat on the archipelago (both of which are utterly serene experiences), then opt for a stroll around The Old Town. It’s especially beautiful in wintertime with all the Christmas decorations. One not to miss is the remarkable Vassa Museum. This 17<sup>th</sup>-century Swedish warship sadly sank on her maiden voyage with all hands on board, but now sits, 95 per cent intact, in a purpose-built museum. The personal effects and mind-blowing facial reconstructions of the crew are as incredibly moving as they are fascinating and instructive.</p>
<p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>
