Stockholm might be the land of IKEA, Vikings, and way too many blond people, but don’t let the fancy Swedish Krona fool you—you can explore it on a budget. If you’re craving Scandi cool vibes, medieval backdrops, and that quintessential Fika moment without going broke, you’re in the right place. Buckle up, and let’s dive into how you can experience Stockholm like a baller on a budget.
How to Get from the Airport(s) on the Cheap?
Stockholm’s got two main airports: Arlanda and Skavsta. Arlanda is the “fancy” one (aka closer), while Skavsta is for budget flights (aka far, like really far).
- Arlanda: If you want to save those Swedish Kronor for some meatballs, skip the Arlanda Express (which costs around 299 SEK and takes 20 minutes). Instead, take the SL commuter train (‘Pendeltåg’) for about 157 SEK and 40 minutes, or the Flygbussarna, a shuttle bus that’s cheaper (around 129 SEK) and only takes 10 minutes longer.
- Skavsta: You’re basically in the middle of a forest, but there’s hope. Hop on the Flygbussarna (about 159 SEK). Yeah, it’s 90 minutes to the city, but Ryanair gave you a cheap flight, so let’s be thankful.
Public Transport – Worth It or Nah?
Absolutely worth it. Stockholm is massive, and unless you’re a fan of hardcore walking marathons, get yourself an SL card. Pro tip: the 72-hour card (330 SEK) is a bargain and will get you on buses, trams, and even boats. Plus, the metro stations are an art gallery—seriously, every Gen Zer’s Insta dream. Don’t sleep on the blue line—you’ll find quirky cave-like stations with neon lights and murals that’ll make your feed pop.
How to Enjoy Stockholm on the Cheap (or for Free)?
Now we get to the good part—the cool, cheap, and free stuff. Let’s explore.
1. Window Shopping in Quirky Spots
Stockholm is full of trendy neighbourhoods, but if you’re window shopping, Södermalm is where the cool kids hang out. Wander down Götgatan, and pop into second-hand stores like Emmaus Vintage or Beyond Retro, quirky boutiques selling handmade Swedish crafts, and vinyl shops such as Pet Sounds Records. You’ll feel like the protagonist of an indie film that’s just so aesthetic. Make sure to stop by Stockholm Stadsmission for unique finds on a budget. Hornsgatan is also full of art galleries like Gallery Kontrast and Hornsgatspuckeln where you can enter for free and pretend you’re a sophisticated art critic (or just take selfies, whatever works). Plus, don’t miss the street art that decorates several corners—it’s like an open-air gallery perfect for those candid shots.
2. Nature Is Always Free (And Gorgeous)
If you love nature (and who doesn’t like saving cash and having pretty backgrounds?), go to Djurgården. It’s this massive green island right in the city, and perfect for a DIY picnic. Grab some local goodies from a supermarket (IKEA-style cinnamon buns, anyone?) and head to Rosendals Trädgård to eat among blooming gardens, where you can also explore their organic farm, greenhouses, and pick-your-own flowers. Alternatively, take a leisurely walk along the Djurgårdsbrunn Canal, which offers stunning waterside views and cozy spots to relax. You can also rent a bike and explore the island on two wheels, making it easy to check out attractions like the Nordic Museum or Gröna Lund amusement park (even if you don’t go in, it’s fun to watch from outside). Or just enjoy the waterside views, which are basically a live-action Windows wallpaper. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the adorable, curious deer that roam around the park!
You can also enjoy some urban exploring by heading to Monteliusvägen—a scenic walking path on Södermalm that offers breathtaking views of Lake Mälaren and the iconic city skyline. It’s completely free and particularly stunning during sunset. Pack a small snack, sit on one of the benches, and enjoy the view. You can also explore Katarinahissen (the Katarina Elevator), which provides a unique, elevated view of the waterfront. Though the elevator itself is no longer in service, the viewing platform is accessible via a staircase, and it’s totally free to enjoy.
3. Hop on a Free Walking Tour
There’s no better way to see a new city than walking around, and Stockholm has free walking tours with local guides who genuinely know their stuff. For an immersive experience, consider joining Free Tour Stockholm. They offer engaging tours of the medieval old town, Gamla Stan, providing rich insights into Swedish history without the classroom vibe. Tours usually last about 1.5 to 2 hours, and while they’re free, a tip of around 100 SEK is appreciated.
4. Cheap Eats: Taste the Local Vibes
For street food on a budget, Strömmingvagnen is a must. It’s basically a herring stand near Slussen where you get traditional Swedish fried herring on the cheap (around 60-70 SEK). If you’re in the mood for something heartier, Nystekt Strömming at Södermalm also offers similar tasty fish dishes at comparable prices, often with sides like mashed potatoes or lingonberry jam.
For something a bit more adventurous, try surströmming—fermented herring that’s notorious for its strong smell. Many Swedes will tell you it’s an acquired taste, and it’s definitely not for everyone. It’s similar to Scotland’s haggis in that it’s a traditional delicacy that some outsiders might find a bit… unusual. You can find it in specialty stores or join one of the ‘surströmming parties’ held in late summer, where people gather to eat it outdoors (trust me, you’ll want to stay outdoors). A can of surströmming typically costs between 50-100 SEK, depending on the brand and size.
For a modern twist, try K25 in Norrmalm—a trendy food hall with reasonable prices (meals around 100-150 SEK) and all sorts of options ranging from dumplings to gourmet burgers. Another great choice is Hötorgshallen, a bustling food market where you can find everything from fresh Swedish seafood to Middle Eastern falafel—all at wallet-friendly prices.
Oh, and don’t forget to pop by a local cafe for Fika (coffee + cinnamon bun break); Vete-Katten offers some affordable, legendary buns (around 50 SEK), but if you’re in Södermalm, you could also visit Café Pascal, where the vibe is chill, and the pastries are to die for (around 45-60 SEK).
5. Museums, but Make it Free or Cheap
Museums can be a drain on the budget, but Stockholm’s got you covered. The Moderna Museet (Museum of Modern Art) is free for everyone, and it features a diverse collection of contemporary art from both Swedish and international artists. Love photography? Fotografiska is not free (165 SEK), but it’s cheaper than most and worth it for the epic views from their cafe alone, not to mention the rotating exhibits that are always fresh and inspiring. On Wednesdays, the Nordiska Museet (Nordic history) is free after 5 p.m., offering a great way to learn about Swedish culture, traditions, and daily life.
For something a little quirky, check out the Spårvägsmuseet (Tramway Museum). It’s not your typical museum—it’s all about the history of public transportation in Stockholm, and it even has vintage trams you can walk through. Entry is free, and it’s an unexpectedly fun spot to explore, especially if you want to get off the beaten path and experience a bit of local history in an interactive way.
6. Offbeat Locations: A Cemetery, Really?
Okay, hear me out. Skogskyrkogården (The Woodland Cemetery) might sound morbid, but it’s actually super peaceful and UNESCO-listed, plus Greta Garbo is buried here—talk about old-school Hollywood glam. The beautiful landscape, designed by famous Swedish architects, is serene and offers an almost spiritual escape from the city’s hustle. It’s a great place to stroll, and reflect.
If you’re into more unusual spots, don’t miss Stadshuset Tower (Stockholm City Hall Tower). This iconic building not only hosts the annual Nobel Prize banquet, but it also offers an incredible panoramic view of the entire city from its tower. Climbing the tower (for around 60 SEK) gives you a breathtaking perspective of Stockholm’s mix of historic architecture and waterfront beauty. It’s a bit of a hidden gem compared to other crowded viewpoints, and the experience of winding through the narrow staircases feels like stepping back in time.
7. Local Hangouts: Where the Cool Swedes Are
To truly experience Stockholm like a local, go to Mosebacke on Södermalm. It’s a laid-back outdoor terrace with amazing views of the city. Drinks are not the cheapest (around 80-100 SEK), but they have concerts and events you can just watch from the side for free. For a more low-key vibe, check out Bleck in Lilla Blecktornsparken—a cozy outdoor bar that’s perfect for chilling with friends, especially in the summer. Drinks are reasonably priced, and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.
For a night out without a high cover fee, try Trädgården in the summer—an under-the-bridge club that’s basically a rave-meets-carnival. If you’re looking for something even more alternative, head to Fasching, a legendary jazz club that often features open mic nights and local talent. It’s an affordable way to enjoy some great live music and a uniquely Swedish night out.
Another spot worth mentioning is Folkbaren near Mariatorget. It’s a favorite among locals for its laid-back vibes, affordable drinks, and intimate live performances. You can grab a beer, have a chat, and sometimes catch an impromptu gig—all without the hefty cover fee.
8. Tourist Trap: The Vasa Museum
Yeah, everyone goes here to see the 400-year-old ship that sank 20 minutes into its maiden voyage. It’s cool but, let’s be honest, also kinda extra. If old boats aren’t your thing, skip it and head for a local bar instead. Entry is 190 SEK, so consider if it’s worth it.
Best Time to Visit Stockholm
Summer is king. Think June-August: it’s warm enough for outdoor shenanigans, everyone’s outside, and the city’s buzzing. Winter? Unless you like 3 hours of sunlight and losing feeling in your fingers, skip it. Spring and early autumn can also be nice if you like a chill vibe and fewer tourists.
How Expensive is Stockholm?
- Food: Street food lunch: ~$10 (100-120 SEK). Decent sit-down dinner: ~$20-25 (200-250 SEK).
- Drinks: Coffee (Fika is a must) ~$4 (40-50 SEK). Beer ~$7 (70-80 SEK) (stay away from the clubs if you’re broke).
- Accommodation: Hostels from $25/night (250 SEK). Budget hotels? Around $80/night (800 SEK).
In Conclusion: Stockholm On a Budget is a Vibe
Stockholm is the definition of a cool city, and if you’re smart about it, you can experience everything—from history to food to nature—without going broke. Just stick to local hangouts, walk as much as possible, take the SL card, and hit up the free spots. And always, always remember to take a Fika break—after all, chilling is the Swedish way.