The Best Shops in Stockholm
Discover Stockholm’s top shops for design, vintage finds, and local crafts.
Stockholm is a shopper’s paradise, blending minimalist Scandinavian design with eclectic vintage finds and local craftsmanship. Whether you’re searching for designer furniture, handmade soaps, or retro clothing, the city offers a diverse range of shopping experiences. From flagship department stores to hidden vintage gems, here’s a guide to the best shops in Stockholm.
Swedish Design Stores
Stockholm is renowned for its minimalist, functional design. The city’s shops reflect this ethos, offering everything from furniture to textiles and home accessories.
Svenskt Tenn
Located in the upscale Östermalm district, Svenskt Tenn is Sweden’s most famous interior design store. Founded by Estrid Ericsson, the store has shaped Swedish tastes for decades. Its signature style features bold fabrics designed by Austrian émigré Josef Frank, which are perfect for adding a pop of color to any space. The store also houses a charming tea shop on the upper floor, making it a delightful stop for both shopping and refreshments.
Modernity
For those who appreciate rare antiques and exclusive ceramics, Modernity in Östermalm is a must-visit. This shop specializes in handmade jewelry, textiles, art, ceramics, lighting, and glassware. While the prices can be steep, the quality and uniqueness of the items make it worth the splurge for collectors and design enthusiasts.
Designtorget
Designtorget was created to showcase new designers and their creations. The store offers fun and affordable items, making it an ideal place to find unique Scandinavian souvenirs. From bicycle earrings by Julia Nielsen to colorful plaid pillows by Simon Key Bertman, Designtorget is perfect for those seeking quirky, locally made gifts.
Vintage and Retro Shops
Stockholm’s vintage scene is thriving, with shops offering everything from Victorian-era attire to 1990s grunge-rock fashion.
Beyond Retro
Beyond Retro is the premier spot for retro shopping in Stockholm. The flagship store is located in a 300-meter-square basement once used by fishmongers, and it boasts over 35,000 items across its six stores. Shoppers can find Victorian-era attire, 1920s beaded flapper dresses, elegant gowns from the 1930s, and much more, spanning the 1900s to the early grunge-rock–inspired 1990s. A sister two-story store is located along Stockholm’s famous pedestrian drag, Drottninggatan.
Emmaus
Dating back to the late 1960s, Emmaus is now a collection of three interlinked stores: a children’s store, a designer/vintage store, and the original general shop. This shop is perfect for those looking for unique vintage finds and designer pieces at reasonable prices.
Bacchus Antik
For rare antiques and exclusive ceramics, Bacchus Antik is a top choice. The store carries expensive porcelain and Art Nouveau ceramics from the early 1900s, as well as high-priced art glass, tableware, and lamps. It’s a treasure trove for collectors and those seeking unique home décor.
Department Stores and Local Crafts
Stockholm’s department stores and craft shops offer a mix of international brands and local craftsmanship.
NK Stockholm
NK Stockholm is the city’s finest department store, often compared to a Baltic Barneys or a Swedish Selfridges. Located in the heart of the city, NK boasts over a hundred separate departments, including restaurants, bars, cafes, florists, sports goods, and top luxury brands. The store also offers tax-free shopping, personal shoppers, and currency exchange services, making it a convenient one-stop shop for visitors.
Iris Hantverk
Iris Hantverk in Norrmalm is known for its well-priced goods made from natural materials. The store offers everything from scrubbing brushes and birdhouses to bread boards and table linens, adding a touch of Scandinavian charm to any home. The focus on traditional crafts and natural materials makes Iris Hantverk a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Palmgrens
Established in 1896, Palmgrens is the go-to destination for excellent leather goods. The store has evolved over the years, adding modern items like iPad cases and hot-pink make-up bags to its covetable inventory. Whether you’re looking for a new handbag or gloves, Palmgrens offers timeless quality and style.
Local Markets and Specialty Shops
Stockholm’s local markets and specialty shops offer unique experiences and one-of-a-kind finds.
SoFo District
The SoFo district, located south of Folkungagatan, is Stockholm’s answer to New York’s SoHo. This bohemian neighborhood is home to a mix of vintage shops, eclectic cafes, hip clubs, local dive bars, and ethnic restaurants. It’s the perfect place to while away time, people-watch, and shop for funky limited-edition sneakers at Sneakersnstuff or browse rows of vintage clothes at Beyond Retro.
Medborgarplatsen
Medborgarplatsen, or “Citizen Square,” is a central and iconic plaza on the island of Södermalm. The square is prime for people-watching and offers a true cross-section of Stockholm’s diverse residents. As night falls, it becomes one of the city’s active nightlife spots, with lounges, clubs, and live music in nearby Debaser.
Shopping Tips for Visitors
- Stockholm’s shops are known for their minimalist design and high-quality craftsmanship.
- Many stores offer tax-free shopping for international visitors.
- Local markets and specialty shops are great places to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
- Don’t miss the SoFo district for vintage finds and eclectic cafes.
- Department stores like NK Stockholm offer a wide range of international brands and luxury goods.
FAQs
What are the best shops for Swedish design in Stockholm?
The best shops for Swedish design include Svenskt Tenn, Modernity, and Designtorget. These stores offer a range of minimalist and functional design items, from furniture to textiles and home accessories.
Where can I find vintage clothing in Stockholm?
Beyond Retro and Emmaus are the top destinations for vintage clothing in Stockholm. Both shops offer a wide selection of retro fashion, from Victorian-era attire to 1990s grunge-rock styles.
Are there any local markets in Stockholm?
Yes, the SoFo district and Medborgarplatsen are popular local markets in Stockholm. These areas offer a mix of vintage shops, eclectic cafes, and local crafts.
What is the best department store in Stockholm?
NK Stockholm is the city’s finest department store, offering a wide range of international brands, luxury goods, and tax-free shopping for visitors.
Where can I find unique souvenirs in Stockholm?
Designtorget and local markets like SoFo and Medborgarplatsen are great places to find unique souvenirs and gifts in Stockholm.
Conclusion
Stockholm’s shopping scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from minimalist Swedish design to vintage fashion and local crafts. Whether you’re looking for designer furniture, retro clothing, or unique souvenirs, the city’s best shops have something for everyone. Happy shopping!
