Set on 14 islands, the Swedish capital is a magical destination (…also known as the lesbian capital of Scandinavia)
BY DANIELLE MUSTARDE
Those who’ve had the pleasure of visiting Stockholm will often come back saying that it’s one theatrical city. And I think we’d agree.
The Swedish capital is positioned beautifully — set on 14 islands — and is a magical destination to enjoy a holiday. Oh, and they also call it the lesbian capital of Scandinavia. And it’s easy to understand why…
#STOCKHOLMLGBT 🇸🇪
Stockholm will regale you with stories of an “epic lesbian Queen”. It is a place where feminism and being queer is celebrated openly and frequently. It’s the setting for Stieg Largson’s Girl With The Dragon Tattoo.
It’s home to a strong community of lesbian, bi and queer women — not to mention a hip and happening scene.
Last year Stockholm played host to Europride, the third time in three decades that the city has hosted the event. And as the world celebrates 50 years since the Stonewall Riots, Stockholm and Sweden as a whole celebrates 75 years of the decriminalisation of homosexuality.
That’s why locals will often tell you, Stockholm has been “gay since 1944.”
But don’t just take it from us, go and see for yourself. Here are a few theatrical things about Stockholm that will tempt your inner DIVA to visit…
GRETA GARBO FANS REJOICE! 🎩
The fabulous Haymarket by Scandic Hotel, is an Art Deco palace to hospitality was once Stockholm’s chic department store. Actress Greta Garbo worked behind the hat counter at the store before she became famous.
Today, the hotel plays up to that reputation with its silver-screen theme and has become a contemporary social hub for Stockholm’s fashionistas, not to mention a wonderful and central hub for a long weekend in the city.
PARTY IN AND OUT AT BERNS 💃🏿
Berns is a unique, well-preserved 1860s art nouveau entertainment temple, located in the center of the city. Known best as a hotel and fancy pan-Asian restaurant, it also has a large dance floor where you can dance the night away under huge chandeliers, a popular patio and several bars.
It’s perfect for a girls weekend away, especially if you like an after party.
GET CINEMATIC AT RIVAL 🍿
In Stockholm’s hip Södermalm neighbourhood, you’ll find the Rival, owned by Benny from ABBA. It occupies the space of an old theatre, which is actually still in operation today.
Its dining room is a great place for Sunday brunch where you’ll sit among old film cards and posters and relive the magic of the movies of yesteryear.
EPIC VEGETARIANISM 🥑
The location of the Mosebacke Etablissement couldn’t be more theatrical. It is part of the Södra Teatern, entertainment complex, home to concerts, gigs and parties for girls like the infamous Moxy.
But the restaurant is wonderful place to take a date, or spend time with a group of friends with its take on gourmet vegetarian cuisine for all.
SNAP HAPPY 📸
For those with a penchant for the arty, Fotografiska offers up world-class photography exhibitions in a dramatic setting overlooking the water.
Its bar and club space is fun, but its big selling point are the exhibitions hosted beneath it, often featuring queer artists, the most recent being Ellen von Unwerth’s provocative snaps!
QUEER QUEEN 👸🏽
We couldn’t end a round-up of things to see in Stockholm without mentioning the Royal Palace. Here you’ll see the sparkly silver throne of Queen Christina, Stockholm’s alleged lesbian queen.
Ask the guides all about her — they’ll be glad to tell you more.
To find out more about Stockholm LGBT, the collection of hotels, restaurants and attractions passionate about welcoming LGBT travellers to the city, visit stockholmlgbt.com or join the conversation at #stockholmlgbt.
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Great post 😁