If you’re after a view in Stockholm, there’s one place you need to visit: Monteliusvägen. That may be a bit of a mouthful, but my goodness, it’s worth it! For the iconic views across Stockholm’s islands, Monteliusvägen is one of the highest points in central Stockholm, Sweden. It’s a wonderful place for relaxing or enjoying a picnic, and the views are incredible. It’s a 500 metre long walking path with views of Lake Mälaren, Kungsholmen, Gamla Stan, the Stockholm City Hall, and beyond.
Breakfast in Stockholm
Knowing I was heading off to Skinnarviksberget on my final day in Stockholm, I wanted to refuel. I headed down to the buffet breakfast on offer in the Elite Arcadia Hotel once again. I stocked up on tasty eggs and sausages, as well as some local food like herring.
Craving a proper coffee afterwards, I set off in search for some of the best coffee in Stockholm. After a quick Google search, I discovered Johan & Nyström just a few blocks away. A drizzly morning in Stockholm, I thought it would be a good place to shelter while I planned out my route to Monteliusvägen.
It didn’t disappoint – my flat white was delicious! I sat and spent some time relaxing while watching the rain outside.
Johan & Nyström also serve up delicious cakes and pastries for fika. One of the dreamiest notions of Sweden, fika is a chance to relax with a coffee and a cake while you take a break out of your day.
Walking to Södermalm, Stockholm
After sheltering for a while, it was time to walk across to Södermalm, the island in Stockholm on which you can find Monteliusvägen. It was a really pretty walk, and I passed several interesting sights.
The first sight along the way was Riksdagshuset – or Parliament House. It’s a majestic building, and visitors can actually go inside to attend a debate, public hearing, or a study visit. If you go while parliament is in session, you can even get a guided tour to see how Sweden is run, as well as learn about the country’s political climate.
I soon reached the waterfront, looking up towards Monteliusvägen, which is where I wanted to be. The walk in total took around forty five minutes from central Stockholm.
I reached the island of Södermalm – it’s a sprawling island full of fun things to see and do. Here, you can grab a fika, picnic, and sunbathe in Tantolunden. There are dozens of chic shops and cafes, parks, and nice architecture to admire. This as well as the wonderful views from Monteliusvägen and Fjällgatan too, of course.
Wandering along the streets of Södermalm is very similar to Gamla Stan, thanks to its burnt orange walls. These look even better in the autumn alongside the ever changing colours of the leaves.
Monteliusvägen, Stockholm
At last, I reached the path of Monteliusvägen. On one side, it’s lined with gorgeous coloured houses. On the other, you get to see the beautiful views across Stockholm and beyond. It’s a lovely track for a slow ramble while taking in the scenery all around.
From the viewpoint, see if you can spot the church of Riddarholmskyrka, the beautiful old town of Gamla Stan, and even the Royal Palace.
It really is an impressive view and was one of my highlights on my solo trip to Stockholm. Along the way, I even met another female solo traveller. It’s always great to meet someone in the same shoes so you can capture each other’s photographs.
All around are the most charming pastel coloured houses.
The view of Monteliusvägen looks even more impressive during the autumn, thanks to the coloured trees. For this reason, I’d highly recommend visiting Stockholm in the fall.
Meatballs for the People, Stockholm
Having worked up quite the appetite from my walk, I was in luck. Famous meatball restaurant, Meatballs for the People, happens to be located on Södermalm. The ultimate in Swedish cuisine, it’s a must visit for anyone looking for good food in the city.
You get free coffee while you wait, which is a great start to a tasty meal! I then went with the Swedish classic. It’s a plate of classic meatballs with potato purée, creamy gravy sauce, lingonberries, and pickled cucumber. It was absolutely delicious, and a great foray into Swedish cooking – far from the likes of Ikea!
On my way back to the hotel to collect my luggage, I took a final walk through stunning Gamla Stan. Along the way, I came across Mårten Trotzigs Gränd. It’s famous as being the narrowest street in all of Stockholm.
I meandered through the cobbled, narrow lanes on the way back, past countless fika cafes and adorable souvenir stores.
Taking one last glimpse across the beautiful city, I really relished my first time in Sweden. I’ll be back again, for sure.
Have you admired the views from Monteliusvägen? What are your favourite things to do in Stockholm?
