Europe’s friendliest city has been crowned, with Stockholm topping the charts, earning itself accolades as an outstanding choice for a weekend jaunt or a love-infused urban escape.
Stockholm and its welcoming vibes have garnered high praise from globe-trotters who participated in Conde Nast Traveller’s poll, placing the Swedish capital at the zenith of Europe’s friendliest cities for their 2024 Readers Choice Awards.
In second place was Budapest, closely followed by the Spanish coastal city of Valencia, which also secured its spot in the top three.
The esteemed travel mag was all praises, expressing: “Swedes are open-minded, polite and cheerful, so Stockholm’s title as the friendliest European city is well-deserved.”
Adding to the city’s allure, Conde Nast Traveller highlighted the local social ritual, noting: “A few days in the Swedish capital will introduce you to ‘fika’, literally meaning ‘coffee break’, but representing an important tradition of socialising more than the hot drinks themselves.”
Comprising an archipelago of 14 islands, Stockholm promises a distinctive travel experience, enchanting visitors as they hop on ferries to meander around its many isles and indulging in picturesque boat tours along the waters, reports the Express.
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On the roster of must-visit spots is the Royal Palace in Stockholm, home to Sweden’s monarch, currently presided over by King Carl XVI Gustaf. Despite the official label, he primarily resides with Queen Silvia in Drottningholm Palace, leaving the grandeur of the city palace for enthusiasts of regal architecture to admire.
The palace is nestled in Gamla Stan, the historic heart of Stockholm and its central island. Here you can wind your way around its cobblestone streets and admire the distinctively colourful buildings. Just a stone’s throw away over the bridge lies the quaint island of Riddarholmen, home to the renowned Riddarholm Church – the only medieval church still standing in Stockholm.
For museum enthusiasts, there are plenty of options, from the Vasa Museum, which displays the ill-fated Vasa Warship that capsized and sank in 1628, to the Historiska Museet, a treasure trove of Viking artefacts and medieval exhibits.
Visitors should also make a beeline for Gamla Filmstaden, Sweden’s own Hollywood, offering a nostalgic peek into the era when Sweden was a major player in the film industry.
