Note: This article was first published in September 2022 and some details may be out of date.
– You appreciate Stockholm more when you’ve lived abroad for as many years as I have.
After a few years when we could only dream of getting on a plane abroad, we’re finally more or less back to normal again. Many of us probably feel that it’s a little extra tempting to dig out the passport and set off on new adventures after quite a while when a holiday in Norway was the only option. And then it’s nice to get some tips from people who know the place you’re going inside out.
Because where do you eat the tastiest food in Paris, what are the coolest shops in Copenhagen and which is the best rooftop bar in Barcelona?
In this series, Melk & Honning talks to influencers, fashion people and celebrities to get their tips on big-city favourites around the world.In this week’s city guide we talk to Thérèse Hellström about Stockholm.
Hellström is fashion director for the Danish brand Custommade and also writes for ELLE Sweden. She grew up in Sweden, but has lived in Paris for the last few years. At the moment she is renovating her dream apartment in Stockholm.
– The new apartment is in Östermalm in Stockholm and it’s turning out incredible! We’ve put all our love and time into the renovation, but soon it will finally be ready, Hellström tells Melk & Honning.
– Vaulted ceilings, original stucco and chevron floors are just some of the details we’ve chosen. I have to admit there’s a dose of Paris and Haussmann in this apartment too, haha…
What’s the first thing you think of when someone mentions Stockholm?
– My dear home town! I grew up here and will always think it’s an incredible city – so beautiful and fantastic.
– And you appreciate Stockholm more when you’ve lived abroad for as many years as I have.
Which parts of the city are your favourites?
– I love every part of Stockholm depending on what I’m doing, but Östermalm is my favourite place to live and Vasastan for nice places to hang out. And there are lots of lovely places outside the city right by the water.
Which hotels can you recommend?
– I have to say Villa Dagmar and Hotel Diplomat – depending on what you want! Close to the city or close to the water.
Where do you prefer to have breakfast and lunch?
– For breakfast I like the courtyard at Villa Dagmar or Nybrogatan 38.
– An old favourite from when I lived on Nybrogatan myself, says Thérèse Hellström.
And what about dinner?
– For dinner and dancing, Ciccios on Nybrogatan is the place! Always a great atmosphere as the evening goes on. Or Brasserie Astoria.
– I’ve also heard the new Riche is supposed to be very good…
Where do you prefer to have drinks or go dancing in Stockholm?
– Pre-drinks at Hallwylska and dancing at Fou (or a nice house party!) never fail. Or, as I said, drinks at Ciccios… or Lilla A right next door.
Which shops do you prefer?
– I love strolling around Biblioteksstan, visiting the lovely shops on Birger Jarlsgatan or spending a few hours at NK. It all depends on what I’m looking for. Fashion, interiors, food and so on.
What are your cultural favourites there? (Museums… galleries… other things?)
– I think Fotografiska always has such creative exhibitions, it’s a must in Stockholm.
– Otherwise, NK actually tends to have fashionable installations that are worth a visit.
Read also: M&H city guide: London