Stockholm's Old City is a real gem for locals and visitors alike. The city's pupils and students can often be seen on school trips where they learn more about the city's fascinating past. The Old Town, which goes by the name of "Gamla stan", is like an outdoor museum that often features in the lyrics of famous troubadours Carl Michael Bellman and Evert Taube. This is where Stockholm was founded by King Birger Jarl in order to defend the sea-approach to Lake Malaren and its waterways before Sweden had been unified. The Old Town is the very heart of the Swedish capital. You'll definitely enjoy the terrific atmosphere on your strolls though the narrow cobblestone streets and alleyways.
It's a good idea to find your accommodation in the Old Town a stay in this quaint neighbourhood in the centre of Stockholm means you'll get to enjoy it fully. Explore the Medieval structure of the two main arteries, the pedestrianised Vasterlanggatan and Osterlanggatan. This web of narrow streets and alleyways have barely changed since the city was founded, and it's difficult to conceive that there once were plans to tear down this beautiful neighbourhood in order to modernise it.
Be sure to visit The Castle, the impressiveStorkyrkan, the statue Sankt Goran och draken and The German Church. There are several restaurants that have kept the traditional arched vaults that serve up excellent food, so there's no need to venture far for a delicious lunch or dinner. There are also several bakeries and cafés if you need a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon. Take a stroll along the quays and check out the beautiful old ships, in particular the stunning Malardrottningen. Don't miss the chance to visit the Nobel Museum, located at The Old Stock Exchange right by Stortorget. This was the scene of the horrifying Stockholm Blood Bath in 1520 which was order by Christian II of Denmark. Approximately 80 prominent citizens who opposed the Danish rule were brutally assassinated as the streets of the Old Town were said to run red with their blood.
The Old Town is also a fantastic shopping destination. Locals and visitors alike come here to browse and purchase art, antiquities, handicraft, clothes and shoes. Osterlanggatan is a long row of shops and boutiques that will spark anyone's curiosity, whereas Vasterlanggatan is the ideal spot to pick up souvenirs.
The Old Town has its own underground station, called "Gamla stan". The neighbourhood is almost completely pedestrianised so you can't take a bus into the actual area, but you'll find plenty of connections within a five minute walk.
Be sure to take on the magical atmosphere of this gorgeous Medieval town centre!
