Neighborhoods to explore while you’re in Stockholm:

- SOFO: Hippie meets hip. You can find raw vegetarian restaurants and hip coffee shops. We went to Chutney for lunch which has a fantastic vegetarian buffet option at an affordable price. You can even get seconds if you’re still hungry!

- Vastatan: A more upscale residential neighborhood with lovely cafés, parks and restaurants. A great place to relax and experience local life.

- Gamla Stan: The old historic town, this island is full of narrow, winding cobble-stone streets with some touristy things and lots of little gems if you get off the main roads.

- Djurgarden: The island of museums. For getting your museum itch filled, head to this island. They have everything from the Vassa Museum on martine time to the fan-centered ABBA museum and the full open-air zoo, Skansen.

Great eats:

- Shibumi: Japanese ingredients meets Scandinavian style. Built in a refurbished cellar, this intimate spot has an incredible drink list and menu of complex and surprising flavors. The head chef was Michellin-starred restauranteur from the Esperanto group. Their website is mysterious, but trust me. Reservations recommended.

- Mathia Dahlgren: If you are looking for a culinary experience, this talented chef has not one, but three restaurants that offer a very special experience. He plays with Swedish tradition while integrating some global influences and flavors. Reservations far in advance are required.

- The Veranda: If you are looking for less of a high-end experience, but still want to experience the high-end Swedish dining, head to the Grand Hotel for a delicious traditional smorgasbord lunch or a la carte dinner. You get an incredible view and service, and the flavors are top notch.

- For an afternoon snack (the Swedes call it fika), try one of their famous cinnamon / cardamon rolls with an espresso at any local café.

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