Stockholm

Stockholm often call the Venice of the North as a city on 14 islands.

City Overview

Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and the city stretches across fourteen islands where Lake Malaren flows into the Baltic Sea.

Just outside the city and along the coast is the island chain of the Stockholm archipelago. The area has been settled since the Stone Age and was founded as a city in 1252 by Swedish statesman Birger Jarl.

Stockholm has hosted Euro Pride twice in recent years and most of the gay bars and clubs can be found in Sodermalm and Old Town (Gamla Stan).

Due the Swedish openness and tolerance there are not a large number of strictly gay and lesbian venues as everyone is welcome at just about any bar or club.

Do not miss the gay beaches which attract sun loving guys who want to bask on the hot rocks (no sandy beaches here) in the summer.

Airport Transfer

All four of Stockholm’s airports are connected to downtown by trains, airport coaches or buses.

Stockholm Arlanda Airport is located 40 kilometres (25 miles) north of Stockholm City.

From Stockholm Arlanda Airport you can take the high-speed train service Arlanda Express to the city centre which runs every 15 minutes with a journey time of 20 minutes.

Flygbussarna Airport Coaches depart every 10-15 minutes between Arlanda Airport and the City Terminal (located next to the Central Station) with a journey time of 35-45 minutes.

Bromma Stockholm Airport, Skavsta Airport, and Vasteras Airport you can take the Flygbussarna Airport Coaches with average journey time of 20 minutes (Bromma), 80 minutes (Skavsta) and 80 minutes (Vasteras).

Taxi service operate from all airport but are not regulates so journey costs vary from company to company. You should check cost with driver before departure.

Places to stay

Stockholm due to the open-minded nature of the Swedish people has a number of very gay friendly places to stay. It is a city that has many conventions and corporate events so it is always wise to book your accommodation in advance to guarantee availability and choice.

Most of the nightlife can be found in Subdermal and Old Town (Gamla Stan) so it is recommended to stay in these parts of the city.

Sightseeing

Often referred to as the "Venice of the North," Stockholm lies on a number of islands and peninsulas. The charm of the cities setting lies in the intermingling of land and water.

Gamla Stan (Old Town) dating from the 1200s and is crammed attractions, cafés, authentic restaurants, boutique shops. Stockholm Cathedral, the Nobel Museum, and the Royal Palace are all located in the Old Town. The Stockholm Palace is the official residence and principal workplace of the Swedish monarch

The Vasa Museum is the Vasa battleship which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. An amazing salvage operation took place in 1961. This is the most visited museum in Sweden. Address: Galärvarvsvägen.

Interestingly, the Queen's residence lies elsewhere, on the beautiful island and UNESCO World Heritage Site Drottningholm (Queen's island), about a 45-minute ferry ride from Stockholm. Dating from the 18th century and Baroque in style.

Stockholm Beaches

Karson is a nice place to work on your tan in the nude among other friendly gay guys. It's a big and cliffy area so there is a lot of room to find your own spot if you prefer. There are some cruising going around, but if that's not your thing the "cruisers" will respect that and leave you to your tanning.

Once you arrive at the forest, take a left up the hill until you see the water on the other side. This side is more of the gay area and you can find guys all over the place.

You can take a taxi close to restaurant Brostugan and walk through to find a trail leading under the road and then through the grass.

Bars & Clubs

The majority of bars and clubs in Stockholm are gay friendly due to open minded nature of the Swedish people. There are of course a couple of exceptions.

Torget is a popular gay bar in Old Town with crystal chandeliers and velvet drapes. They have different themes each night. It's popular for drinks after work or cocktails later in the evening. Torget attracts good local DJs. Address Old Town, Malartorget 13

Scandinavian Leather Men (SLM) is a member only leather club for men with strict dress code enforced. Leather, rubber or uniforms generally required.

Main LGBTQ Events

The annual gay pride celebrations is held at end or July or early August every year.

Other

Currency – Swedish Krona (SEK)

Language – Swedish 

Visas – Not needed for travellers from the US, Canada and Europe

Best Time To Visit – March - November

Timezone – Central European Time (GMT+2)

Homosexual Activity – Legal