Södermalm Tour - Hipster Stockholm with a Local

Walking Tour

3 hrs

Stockholm

The old working class district was the first of Stockholm's islands to be populated, and has since played an important role as a grittier counterpart to the governmental grandeur and wealth of the historical city center. On this Södermalm Tour, we explore the atmosphere and culture of the neighborhood, which presents itself with bohemian flair and a bustling city life not found anywhere else in Stockholm. The creative class has made its mark on the city, but still small details from the district's past are visible to the trained eye.

Södermalm Tour - Humble Beginnings

The area of Södermalm today is a prime example of 21st-century urbanism and renewal, even taken to gentrified extremes in certain corners. After being trumpeted as one of Europe’s “coolest” neighborhoods, it would seem that Söder’s status has been cemented as the 'It' place to be in Stockholm. But these hilly streets weren’t always populated with stylish young people and chic minimalist cafes. Once a upon a time, this borough was home to agriculture and industry, a rural area where the poor working class of the city made their home. On our walk together, we’ll unpack these historical facts to discover why Södermalm’s rocky cliffs and sweeping views have always been ripe for rediscovery and regeneration.

For more on the city's history, try our Gamla stan Walking Tour.

Beginning at Slussen, the locks that separate Södermalm from the neighboring island of Gamla Stan, we’ll ascend into the steep hills and tread through old streets around the neighborhood nicknamed “Häckelfjäll.” Here stories of superstitious residents still lend an eerie atmosphere to the otherwise charming alleyways. We’ll use this opportunity to discuss social stratification in Swedish society and the historical circumstances that caused this inhospitable topography to become a major urban district.

Birth of the Cool

As we continue through the streets of Södermalm, we’ll emerge from the past into the vibrant areas that define the district today and earned Södermalm the reputation as one of the coolest neighborhoods in Europe. From exuberant nightlife along Götgatan, to cultural institutions at Mariatorget, to the independent and vintage shopping boutiques that are liberally scattered along both sides of nearly every avenue, we'll find the streets that have earned this area its reputation. Although we may stop to enjoy the local tradition of “fika” (a break for coffee and cake), we’ll also ask questions about the effects this new swing towards the upper class is having on the city’s demographics and future urban planning. With Stockholm in the throes of a housing crisis, many residents are waiting for years for the chance to move out of the suburbs and closer into the center. We’ll ponder the future of the district as Sweden on the whole becomes increasingly urbanized.

Take Aways

Depending on the day and the interests of the group, we may even make it as far as Eriksdalsbadet, the outdoor swimming complex and miniature concrete jungle at the southern edge of Söder. Here, we’ll find ourselves retreating from the hipster heaven of the more northerly roadways and discover how this site underscores the renewal of the cityscape and encapsulates the district’s flair for reimagining and recycling its shared spaces. From working class industry to the 21st century’s version of stylized aristocracy, our time together will help us unravel this neighborhood and the reasons why it can’t be pinned down.

Care to take a closer look at modern Sweden? See our Swedish Socialism Tour.

Book a Tour

From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.

Södermalm neighborhood
Mariatorget

Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.

Included

English-speaking expert guide
Tours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
Intentionally sized groups
A smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
Tickets and entrance fees
All entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
Headsets
Headsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.

Excluded

Gratuities

We encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
Food and drink

Refreshments are only included during a tour when clearly noted.
Transportation to and from the meeting point

Guests organize pre- and post-tour transport themselves - this service can be added by request.
Hotel pickup or drop-off

Unless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.

Map of Södermalm Neighborhood Tour general meeting point area

Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.

Dos:

Wear comfortable footwear
Check the weather and dress appropriately
Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
Feel free to ask your Expert anything

Don'ts:

Bring firearms or weapons
Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments

Any questions? You can always contact us.

34 Reviews

Lars gave us an insider’s view of a neighborhood we might not have explored otherwise. It was fascinating to see how past and present occupants lived and worked —— and how the city’s changing needs shaped its evolution. Sodermalm has a special vibe and he helped us feel it and appreciate it. Thank you, Lars, for an enlightening and most interesting walk!

Photo Shared by Barbara with their review

Barbara Mar 7, 2026

It was a delight for us to See Anna again, having toured with her in Stockholm nearly years ago. This time we had our daughter with us and we all really enjoyed experiencing the Södermalm neighbourhood together. Anna has great knowledge of Swedish history but also interesting information and anecdotes about Swedish life and culture. We hope to see her again one day for another interesting tour and excellent conversation!

Emma Oct 7, 2025

Anna was awesome! Lots of great information both factual and anecdotal. Saw lots of interesting spots and thoroughly enjoyed her descriptions. Warm and engaging personality, could not have asked for more!

Bill May 4, 2025

Join passionate experts on intimate walking tours that reveal a city’s unique stories, spark conversations, and leave you seeing the world—and yourself—a little differently.

Structured, never scripted

Your interests guide your Expert, leading to stories and perspectives that matter to you.

Crafted for conversation

With ten or fewer guests, ask questions, engage with your Expert, and fully immerse yourself.

Experts, not guides

Explore with 1,200+ Experts—from historians and architects to archaeologists and chefs.

History

Stockholm

3:00

Södermalm Neighborhood Tour

Discover urban Scandinavian cool, where old meets new in Stockholm - with a local expert

Södermalm Tour - Humble Beginnings

Birth of the Cool

Take Aways

Make the Most of Your Tour

Don’t just take our word for it

Let Your Curiosity Shape Your Journey

You May Also Be Interested In…

Stockholm Royal Palace Tour

Introduction to Stockholm Tour

Modern Sweden Tour: Exploring the Klara District

Stockholm Political History Tour