From Vasa to Fika: Our Stockholm Adventure

A few weeks ago we finally made it to Stockholm, our first time there! We were struck by how clean the city was, how walkable, and how friendly everyone seemed. One thing we noticed in both Stockholm and Copenhagen: strollers everywhere. So many babies and young families out walking the cobblestone streets and waterfront paths.

A highlight for me was exploring the ABBA Museum (yes, I sang along) and the more moving Avicii Experience, which gave a powerful look at his life, music, and legacy. We also loved wandering Gamla Stan, the city’s Old Town, and we logged a ton of steps every day.

One of the most fascinating stops was the Vasa Museum, home to the 17th-century warship that famously sank on its maiden voyage and was later salvaged almost fully intact. Standing beside the massive wooden ship felt like stepping straight into history.

And of course we made time for the Swedish ritual called “fika,” their beloved afternoon coffee break. The coffee was strong and delicious, and we loved pausing to watch city life stroll by.

And then there was the food… from smorgasbords piled with tiny pink shrimp to Swedish meatballs with mashed potatoes and lingonberries, cardamom-spiced pastries, tons of dill and even pickled herring. Check out the Eating Well section where I share about the food in Stockholm.