Travel Guide of Sodermalm, Stockholm for: Hotel Rival Rating: 4.0 Pearls

Sodermalm, Stockholm, Sweden

Sodermalm Summary

What It's Like

Sodermalm is an island in Innerstaden, Stockholm's city center. Connected to the rest of the city by a series of bridges, it maintains much of its historic splendor from the 17th century, when it was Stockholm's agricultural hub and the choice summer retreat for wealthy families.

In the midst of gentrification, Sodermalm is now the bohemian area of Stockholm. Art galleries sit alongside beautiful historic homes, and the nightlife scene is the liveliest in Stockholm -- it includes everything from hip, ultra-chic lounges to pumping nightclubs to gay bars. The area hosts annual events that are highly popular, like the Midnight Race in August -- tens of thousands of people meet at midnight to race in a 15k and take part in the surrounding festivities. Sodermalm also offers great shopping options, particularly in the new SoFo area (the Swedish version of New York's SoHo) where boutiques line the streets.

Where to Stay

As part of the city center, Sodermalm is a great place for visitors who want to be near the action. It is the best spot to stay if you're looking forward to checking out Stockholm's nightlife, and it is still close to Gamla Stan, the historic district, and Norrmalm's hub of museums. Visitors may consider staying on the northern end of Sodermalm, where a bridge connects Sodermalm to Gamla Stan.