Gay Stockholm
Stockholm is called the "Venice of the North" by some, but really Stockholm is unlike any other city in Europe. The capital of Sweden is made up of 14 islands connected by 30 bridges on Lake Mälaren, which flows past an archipelago of 24,000 islands on its way out to the Baltic Sea. 30 percent of the city is waterways and another 30 percent is dedicated to green space, making this city a truly refreshing visit for any traveler.
Stockholm Gay Scene
Gay life in Stockholm is like the city itself: easily accessible, hugely fun, easy on the eyes, highly varied, warm and welcoming. Stockholm has no specific gay enclaves, but gay and gay-friendly establishments are scattered throughout the city and rainbow flags fly high in many of Stockholm's central districts. The greatest concentration of gay bars and clubs is in two areas: the trendy Södermalm district and Gamla Stan, Stockholm's Old Town, one of the best-kept medieval cities in the world.
Stockholm is often called the gay capital of Scandinavia and the locals are very accepting of the LGBTQ lifestyle, but because of the size of the population, don't expect a large gay scene. One benefit of this widespread acceptance is that gays can be seen in all corners of town, holding hands and freely expressing their identity.
Gay-Friendly Dining
Stockholm features a variety a gay-friendly restaurants that will entertain your appetite.
Mälarpaviljongen
This gay-friendly, international oasis features a magnificently quaint dining atmosphere right along the lakeside walk of Norr Mälarstrand. The gorgeous landscaping makes you feel as if you're in an enchanted garden as you sample the menu of traditional Swedish and international dishes. Mälarpaviljongen hosts regular drag nights, jazz sessions, DJs and more, but this venue isn't just for cheap thrills — they also organize charity work to support LGBTQ rights worldwide.
This traditional Swedish beer hall offers classic Swedish food and beer in a cozy atmosphere. With a history that dates back centuries, the Pelikan is a local gem in Stockholm.
This restaurant, bar and store combined Mediterranean and Swedish ingredients for simple, yet hearty meals. The sidewalk terrace makes this a great place for people watching as you grab a quick lunch or a few evening drinks.
Gay-Friendly Nightlife
From leather bars to dance clubs, Stockholm has plenty of gay bars and nightclubs that will keep the party going.
Torget is one of Stockholm's oldest gay bars. Many people stop here during throughout the night because of its central location in Gamla Stan. Come by for a tasty homemade meal and hand crafted cocktail as you scope out the local gay scene. DJs are featured every Friday.
This restaurant, lounge and wine bar in the Old Town is the perfect place to let loose at the end of a long day. The intimate atmosphere, friendly staff and inexpensive food make this a reliable hangout among the local LGBTQ community.
This charming venue is the go-to place for dancing among the LGBTQ crowd in Stockholm. Featuring DJs Wednesday through Saturday, the Secret Garden will have you moving and grooving within moments of walking into this popular gay nightclub.
Intimate, enjoyable meeting place with a restaurant and bar in the chic-bohemian Nytorget Square on Södermalm. Run by three female restaurateurs. Attracts especially – but by no means exclusively – a female crowd.
Gay-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Stockholm is a fascinating cosmopolitan city with plenty to keep you entertained.
Hit the Water
With Stockholm's many waterways, spending time on the water is by far one of the most popular activities for visitors. You can cruise down the river for over a day, enjoying the sights and the meals prepared by the chef on-board, or simply take a ferry from one island to another, soaking up all Stockholm has to offer.
Skansen is an open-air museum and zoo that originally opened in 1891. The 17-acre site includes tons of exhibits, such as Swedish performers demonstrating traditional crafts. There's also a zoo where you can see exotic Scandinavian animals.
Fotografiska
This photography gallery is the go-to spot to see art in Stockholm. The gallery is constantly being redesigned for each artist it features, so you're guaranteed a completely unique experience each time you go.
Local Tips, Tricks & News
Stockholm is particularly special in the summertime, when sunglasses are worn for more hours than not, cafés brim with life, and gays sun themselves on the rocky shores of Lake Mälaren. Days stretch over 18 hours in midsummer, and shrink to as little as six in the winter. Plan accordingly and select the season that fits with your travel plans or goals!
Founded in 1250, Stockholm's unusual location provides a natural division of the city into three major zones, each split into smaller neighborhoods. Norrmalm, also known as City, is the city's commercial hub, and is considered the true center of Stockholm. Tourists clog the pedestrian shopping street Drottninggaten in the summertime, and a younger crowd flocks to Odenplan Square.
Gamlastan is the historical Old Town of Stockholm, where old buildings, the Royal Palace and the Riksdag dominate cobblestone streets. Södermalm is a former working-class district that has become the bohemian heart of Stockholm. Many of the more than 1,000 restaurants are here, and the many pubs welcome a lively, mixed crowd especially around Citizen's Square.
Stockholm is definitely not cheap, yet its extensive "Tunnelbana" subway system and bike paths make it easy to save money for the things that matter.
Related Blog Posts
Stockholm Named Top LGBTQ Destination of the Year
Travel Stockholm on the Cheap
A Pink Christmas Will Attract LGBTQ Travelers to Stockholm
Stockholm's LGBTQ Pride Parade was Bigger — and Sexier — than Ever
One Couple's Adventures in Progressive Stockholm
Stockholm nominated at 'Style Capital' of the World
Gay Guide to Stockholm, Sweden
Related Blog Posts
View All Blog Posts in Stockholm
-min_500_300_84_s_c1.JPG)
Submit Your Content to be Featured on GayTravel.com
Are you well traveled? Want to contribute content to GayTravel.com, as well as to our widespread readership? From photos to recommendations to travel tips, we would love to see it all! Submit your content to be featured here.
Stockholm Photos:
