An Insider's Guide To Stockholm

Christian Larson is creative director of what might just be our favourite underwear brand: Sweden’s CDLP. He’s also a Stockholm local – and these are his places to know in and around the Swedish capital.

Stockholm Stadshotell

I’ve spent a few years living in London and LA, but Stockholm is a place I always come back to. It has this balance of creative energy and calm. The city is beautiful in a way that doesn’t shout for attention. You’ve got the water, the historic architecture, and then these pockets of modern design. It’s a city where you can be productive but also escape into nature within minutes.

My top places to stay are Ett Hem and the newly opened Stockholm Stadshotell. Ett Hem is refined and personal – it feels like a private home, with service so thoughtful you forget it’s a hotel. Stockholm Stadshotell is a newer option, conveniently close to where I live, and I find myself going there often.

My favourite hotel bar is the Cadier at the Grand Hôtel. It’s a classic, with an incredible view over the water, perfect for a meeting or a casual drink. The bar at Astoria always guarantees a good night.

For dinner with friends, Babette is always my first choice. It’s a casual neighbourhood bistro with great food, a buzzing atmosphere, and the kind of vibe that makes you want to linger for hours.

Skeppsbron

ola ericson

The restaurant and bar at Stockholm Stadshotell is one of the hottest places in the city right now. But I also like to revisit old classics, so I often end up at PA & CO in Östermalm, which remains a safe bet and always has something new to try.

My go-to restaurants for a business lunch are Brasserie Astoria and Riche. Astoria is lively without being too loud, and the food is always stellar. Riche is another timeless classic that always has a great vibe.

When I’m craving traditional Swedish cuisine, I go to Prinsen. It has that old-school Swedish atmosphere — wooden interiors and classic dishes like meatballs and herring. It’s been around for years, and somehow gets better and better.

For breakfast or brunch, I usually head to Café Nizza. They do a great brunch – simple but really high quality.

Ett Hem

My favourite bakery is Svedjan on Södermalm. Their croissants are better than ones you find in Paris (sorry!) and the cardamom buns are incredible. If I’m in a rush, I usually grab something from one of the many Fabrique cafés – they do the best traditional cinnamon buns.

My favourite coffee shop is Crum Heaven, where I go almost every morning. I’ve even become friends with the staff — the vibe is low key, and the team is always super welcoming.

For vinyl and books, Papercut is my go-to. They have everything from indie magazines to design books and limited-edition art publications.

CDLP aside, my favourite local menswear brands are EYTYS and Our Legacy. For jewellery, I like All Blues – it’s run by friends and always has something unique. I also love Jus, a small concept store in the city centre. It’s a little shop that’s always carried the best pieces – from clothes to accessories – and the team there is great.

Prinsen

jessica guzik Fuj/unsplash

Two Scandinavian menswear designers I think everyone should know about are Andy Carson, who always has something interesting on offer, and Saman Amel, who does beautiful, refined tailoring.

For accessories like shoes and sunglasses, I usually source vintage pieces, but I also love Chimi Eyewear, a local brand run by friends.

When I’m looking for vintage or second-hand menswear, I go to Herr Judit. They have everything from designer coats to classic denim. Brandstationen, across the street, is a great spot for reclaimed furniture.

My favourite cultural spots in the city include Moderna Museet and Fotografiska. Moderna always has great exhibitions, and Fotografiska consistently puts on something inspiring for photography lovers.

Archipelago Trail

Roger Borgelid

For scenic walks or parks, Djurgården is my top pick. It’s a beautiful mix of nature and history, with stunning water views.

One hidden gem tourists often overlook is Fjäderholmarna. In spring and summer, take a ferry there for lunch – it’s the quickest way to get a taste of the archipelago.

The place that always inspires my creativity is my home office in an old wine cellar. It has a moody, cave-like atmosphere that’s perfect for focus. When I want exterior inspiration, I hop on one of the archipelago boats and work from there.

My ideal weekend in Stockholm starts with a slow morning at home – coffee, music and ease. Then I’ll meet friends for a long lunch at Stadshotell, go vintage furniture shopping around Södermalm, and finish with dinner at one of my favourite restaurants.

For a weekend getaway just outside Stockholm, head to one of the archipelago islands like Möja or Sandhamn. You’ll discover a completely different world just a boat ride away.

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Ett Hem

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