Stockholm is a notoriously expensive European city, but that is not to say that you have to rule it out as a destination if you are a budget traveller. As always, with a little careful planning and research you can enjoy this city without your wallet feeling the strain too much. Here are some tips on free sights, cheap accommodation and student discounts in the Swedish capital.
The first piece of advice I would give to anyone staying in Stockholm for more than 2 days and looking to save money is to invest in a Stockholm Card. This card can be bought at the tourist information office and will allow you to enjoy free public transportation and entry to over 70 of the city’s museums and attractions. It costs SEK 375 for 24 hours, SEK 495 for 48 hours, and SEK 595 for 72 hours for adults. If that still seems a little expensive to you, then you should consider just heading to the free sights and museums which include the National Museum, Army Museum, National Maritime Museum, Historical Museum, and Royal Coin Cabinet, as well as the city’s Cathedral which is free from May to August. If you are a holder of the ISIC (International Student Identity Card) you are eligible for discounts on all kinds of tourist attractions and even meals out in restaurants and travel deals in travel agents.
As for cheap accommodation in Stockholm, it is not particularly easy to come by but there are definitely cheaper and more expensive areas that you can book in. As you may expect, Gamla Stan is the most popular with visitors for its central location and picturesque appearance, and it is therefore the most expensive neighbourhood in terms of tourist accommodation. An alternative is Sodermalm. Sodermalm is in the southern part of central Stockholm and is full of alternative restaurants and bars and slightly more affordable hotels. It is a little further away from the tourist attractions but that really doesn’t have to be an issue as the city is pretty small and the public transport is very efficient.
Hopefully, with these tips in mind you can enjoy a fun holiday in Stockholm without your budget suffering too much!
