Top Activities in Södermalm, Stockholm

With its trendy cafés, retro boutiques, and vibrant artistic atmosphere, Södermalm stands out as the coolest district in Stockholm.

Though technically an island, Södermalm lies right at the heart of the city, connected to the mainland and neighboring islands by a series of charming bridges.

A haven for artists and young Stockholmers alike, this area beckons visitors to explore and mingle with its creative residents.

Affectionately known as Söder, its vibrant nightlife thrives in “SoFo,” the lively area situated south of Folkungagatan.

Best Things to Do in Södermalm, Stockholm for First-Time Visitors:

1. Discover Södermalm’s Iconic Café

For the coffee aficionados of Södermalm, the Drop Café is the go-to spot. Here, hipsters congregate to savor meticulously brewed coffee.

This well-established independent café roasts its own beans, sourcing them sustainably and ethically whenever possible from small farms and cooperatives.

If you have discerning tastes when it comes to coffee, pop into the Drop Café to meet fellow enthusiasts. Choose from an espresso, filter, or slow-drip brew, and immerse yourself in Södermalm’s coffee culture.

2. Experience Photography Like Never Before at Fotografiska

Home to one of the largest collections of contemporary photography, Fotografiska is an essential stop for film and photo enthusiasts.

Housed in a beautifully converted Art Nouveau customs house on the waterfront, the museum showcases a diverse array of works from international photographers, along with regular temporary exhibits featuring names like Cindy Sherman and Sebastião Salgado.

Be sure to secure your tickets in advance, particularly on weekends when crowds can swell.

3. Uncover SoFo (South of Folkungagatan)

Once a gritty working-class neighborhood favored by students, SoFo has transformed into a vibrant hub of chic, creative boutiques. Here, you can explore shops offering designer fashion, jewelry, vintage clothing, and delicious homemade treats.

A magnet for hipsters since the early 2000s, it’s the perfect spot to sip coffee or cocktails while observing stylish Swedes at play.

Each last Thursday of the month, SoFo Nights brings the district alive, with boutiques, workshops, and galleries hosting events and remaining open until 9 PM.

4. Savor International Flavors in Södermalm

If you’re looking to break away from traditional Swedish fare, Södermalm is one of the best neighborhoods for international cuisine, featuring everything from Middle Eastern to Asian dishes.

The area surrounding Nytorget is particularly rich for food lovers, with Raouche standing out as a beloved Lebanese restaurant known for its generous mezze and grilled specialties. Stroll the surrounding streets to discover a variety of independent restaurants offering flavors from around the globe.

Ringvägen is another culinary treasure trove, featuring everything from Ethiopian to Chinese cuisine. Don’t miss China!, which serves some of Stockholm’s finest Chinese dishes, or Reggev Hummus, known for its top-notch Middle Eastern fare.

5. Enjoy an Art-House Film

Söder is home to a number of independent cinemas where you can escape the mainstream and settle in for a thought-provoking art-house film.

Our favorite is Bio Rio, located at Hornstull’s strand 3. This cozy venue, dating back to the 1940s, offers an impressive range of foreign and independent films, complemented by retro neon lights and plush red seating.

6. Picnic in Södermalm’s Parks

Despite its urban vibe, Södermalm boasts a surprising amount of greenery, with several inviting public parks. On weekends, locals flock to the picturesque Vitabergsparken or the expansive Tantolunden to unwind, bask in the sun, or enjoy a leisurely picnic.

Grab some freshly baked bread, a tasty pastry, or a hearty sandwich from Biscuit, a cherished family-run bakery, and make your way to the park for an idyllic picnic experience.

7. Dine Organic at Kalf & Hansen

A beloved café and restaurant located in Mariatorget, Kalf & Hansen has been championing 100% organic cuisine for years. Founded by Rune Kalf-Hansen—a culinary celebrity in his own right—the establishment remains committed to serving a concise menu of local seasonal dishes at reasonable prices.

Expect to find offerings like fresh salads, Danish sandwich wraps, daily soup, and hearty stews, with delicious homemade sausages featured on Friday menus.

8. Stay in a Converted Prison

While it may sound unconventional, the 19th-century prison on Långholmen has been artfully transformed into a comfortable hotel.

Accommodations range from budget-friendly hostel-style rooms in the former cells to airy en-suite doubles with large windows. With stylish communal areas, an exceptional restaurant, and scenic surroundings, this hotel proves to be one of Stockholm’s most intriguing places to stay.

9. Catch a Sunset at Skinnarviksberget

As the highest natural viewpoint in central Stockholm, Skinnarviksberget offers stunning vistas across the water toward Gamla Stan and Kungsholmen. Locals gather here at sunset, bringing picnics, drinks, and friends to revel in the long summer nights.

For equally stunning views with less effort, Monteliusvägen is a scenic pathway that winds along Södermalm’s northern edge, providing breathtaking photo opportunities across Riddarfjärden, with City Hall and Old Town in the backdrop.

While Stockholm has no shortage of viewpoints, these two neighboring spots represent some of the best ways to appreciate the capital’s beauty from above.

10. Treat Yourself to Ice Cream at Mariatorget

Södermalm boasts three outlets of local ice cream brand StikkiNikki, but our favorite is nestled in the charming Mariatorget square. This location uniquely offers 100% vegan ice creams, all handmade, with flavors that change with the seasons. Keep an eye out for distinctive tastes like saffron and coconut, salted licorice, and pistachio and coconut.

11. Swim at Långholmen

Connected to Södermalm by a small bridge, the lush island of Långholmen is a popular swimming spot for locals during warm summer weekends. With a sandy beach, grassy banks for sunbathing, and surprisingly clean water—particularly for a capital city—it’s a refreshing escape.

12. Explore Vintage Vinyl Shops

For fans of vinyl, Södermalm offers an array of shops brimming with pre-loved and newly pressed records, covering everything from classic hits of the 1950s to up-and-coming musicians. Some stores even feature listening booths, allowing you to sample before you buy, ensuring an enjoyable shopping experience.

To dive deeper into Södermalm’s vinyl scene, check out our guide to Stockholm’s coolest record shops.

13. Stay at the Hotel Rival

You won’t be staying with Benny from ABBA, but you can rest your head in the delightful Hotel Rival, a stunning Art Deco gem co-owned by Benny himself. Situated on the picturesque Mariatorget Square, this former cinema also features its own intimate theater showcasing music, comedy, and plays.

We adore the theatrical décor, generous buffet breakfasts, and complimentary tea and coffee available throughout the day.

Explore More of Södermalm, Stockholm

From indulging in artisanal coffee at Drop Café to roaming vintage boutiques in SoFo and enjoying a swim at Långholmen, Södermalm embodies a vibrant blend of experiences that showcase the creative spirit of Stockholm. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, this dynamic district constantly offers fresh discoveries. Have you explored Södermalm? Share your favorite spots or experiences in the comments—we’d love to hear your recommendations!

See also:
Stockholm’s best viewpoints and lookouts
Stockholm’s coolest record shops
Södermalm: a destination guide