Södermalm

1.3 miles from downtown

From the bars and shops of Götgatan to the niche restaurants of SoFo, “Söder” is Stockholm’s hipster playground. Grab a cocktail around trendy Mariatorget, then tuck into a hearty dinner at Soldaten Svejk. When summer arrives, Trädgården outdoor club attracts the young and the restless with its incredible DJs and famously long queue.

Places to stay from $15 a night

Kungsholmen

1.4 miles from downtown

After a lie-in, Kungsholmen is a quiet area that's waking up to city life. Light up the barbecue and play a game of Kubb in Rålambshovs Park, have some drinks on the lake at Mälarpaviljongen, or stroll the water’s edge under the towering city hall. For something a bit hip, you'll find the city's BrewDog bar on Sankt Eriksgatan.

Places to stay from $29 a night

Norrmalm

0.1 miles from downtown

The sights, the sounds, the free bus to IKEA! Norrmalm is the face of modern Stockholm. After coffee at the famous Vete Katten bakery, pick out a hand-painted Swedish Dala Horse at NK department store, or croon some karaoke classics at the Golden Hits bar. Go classily local at Rolfs Kök for dinner, with salmon, oysters, and even reindeer.

Places to stay from $10 a night

Östermalm

0.9 miles from downtown

“Home to the crème de la crème of Stockholmers”. You’ll likely hear this announced as the metro arrives at opulent Östermalmstorg. Peruse the boutiques on Nybrogatan and recharge with a coffee at Tures Brasserie. To crown your day, book yourself a seat at the “community table” in Gastrologik to taste fine, new Nordic cuisine at its best.

Places to stay from $49 a night

SoFo District

1.4 miles from downtown

SoFo’s regulars are cooler than polar bears. This area “south of Folkungagatan” is crammed with gimmicky hipster hang-outs, like Garlic & Shots and the kitschy Vampire Lounge. Bone up on the latest local trends at Grandpa boutique, wander the weekend street markets, then feast on one of Bar Central’s roasted pork knuckles.

Places to stay from $34 a night

Gamla Stan

0.6 miles from downtown

This huddle of colourful medieval buildings is Stockholm’s heart and history. Take in the grand parliament and palace from Norrbro Bridge. Wind your way past souvenir shops and craftwork boutiques towards Sundbergs Konditori, the city’s oldest café. Warm up in winter with some mulled wine at the Stortorget Christmas Market.

Places to stay from $13 a night

Vasastan

0.9 miles from downtown

If you want to chill, head to Vasastan. The bustle of the centre is just a few metro stops away, but the dinky bars and laid-back restaurants scattered around Odenplan attract a relaxed and more local crowd. Discover the essence of Swedish “mys” (meaning “cosiness”) with dinner at Fondueboden or a handmade dessert from Storstad.

Places to stay from $14 a night

Djurgården

1.3 miles from downtown

Into museums? Djurgården will be your wonderland. Step back in time at Skansen’s museum village then hit the stage at the ABBA Museum. The Vasa Museum’s colossal 17th-century warship and its accoutrements will leave you speechless. If the Sun’s on your side, head for Josefina’s lounge terraces looking out over the water.

Places to stay from a night