Stockholm Practical Information
Your comprehensive guide to Everything Stockholm
The native language is Swedish but English speaking visitors have no problem communicating with locals.
Currency, credit cards, and currency exchange
Although Sweden is a member of the European Union it still has its own currency, the Swedish Krona (SEK or kr). Many of the larger shops and department stores will accept euros but it´s advised to use Swedish kronor (Krona in plural).
Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Diner Club are accepted almost anywhere, from larger hotels to the smallest of boutiques. The only place that does not accept them is the State-owned liquor stores.
Cash may be withdrawn from ATM´s („Bankomat“ in Swedish) that are located around the city. They accept both debit and credit cards but require PIN code.
If you have to exchange foreign currency we recommend you use bureaux de change chains such as Forex and X-change. They often offer a better exchange rate than local banks. Exchanging currency at your hotel is likely to be the most expensive option of all.
Tipping
Generally tipping is not customary in Sweden. Obviously, if you feel like you have gotten exceptional service somewhere; the waiter is likely to accept it with pleasure.
Time
Local time in Stockholm and Sweden in general is Central European Time (CET) that is equal to GMT+1.
Safety
Stockholm is a safe place to visit but like anywhere else reasonable cousouness is advised. During summertime and in crowded areas tourists and locals are sometimes the victims of bag snitchers and pocket pickers.
Police is Stockholm are very helpful and usually speak good English. Police officers on patrolling foot or in a car are a common sight in the city but mounted officers are also used at special events.
Telephones & Internet
With almost every Swede owning a mobile phone the country has seen phone booths rapidly lose their numbers in recent years.
Most mobile service companies have agreements with Swedish service providers so it´s very likely that your mobile will work without problems once you arrive. Please be advised that rates are sometimes very high so contact your service provider prior to your arrival.
Internet (often wireless) is available in all hotels and many cafés and restaurant throughout the city. Sometimes it´s without any charge but in other cases you pay by the hour.
Getting around
Stockholm city center is compact and easy to navigate and get around. More often than not walking is the best way to get around. If you plan to venture somewhere out of walking distance we recommend that you use the underground tubes (Tunnelbana). Almost every sight and attraction is easily reachable via the tube. Tickets can be bought for every trip, one day three days or even one month. Tickets can be bought at the train stations.
Busses are also available but sometimes are not as convenient as the trains. You might be required to switch busses a few times to reach your destination.
Obviously taxis are also available but are a little more expensive than trains or busses. Taxis may be ordered to any location in Stockholm as well as being available at designated places in the city center.
