How to Spend a Day in Norrmalm and Östermalm
By Billie Miro Breskin
School: Brown University, Class of ’25
Major or concentration: English, History of Art and Architecture
Semester abroad: Spring ’24
Between the old-world charm of Östermalm and the bustling modern hub of Norrmalm, see all central Stockholm has to offer.
The neighboring districts of Norrmalm and Östermalm couldn’t be more different, yet they both represent impactful parts of Stockholm’s history—and its present. While Norrmalm used to look more like the island of Gamla Stan (if not a little shabbier), everything changed after plans to modernize came into effect in the 1960s and 70s. While many locals are still upset by the change, the development is symbolic of economic growth in Sweden, and a large increase in the city’s population. Alongside Norrmalm is Östermalm, which underwent little modernization in comparison. The neighborhood now is best known for its stunning (yet eye-wateringly expensive) apartments, views over the water, and cultural institutions.
Start your day at Stockholm’s Central Station, and head down Klarabergsgatan to Sergels Torg. Here you can see how the newer sections of the city butt up against the old. Just compare the fountain in the center of Sergels Torg to the architecture of Saint Clara’s Church a couple blocks away, and the change is stark. Stroll further into Östermalm, stopping by parks like Kungsträdgården and Berzelii Park. At Berzelii, make sure to find the monument to Raoul Wallenberg, a Swede who saved thousands of Jews from Hungary throughout the Holocaust and World War II.
Across the street, in front of the Kungliga Dramatiska Teatern, find the statue of Margareta Krook, a beloved Swedish actress. Krook didn’t want a statue built in her honor, as she found them too cold and inhuman, but after her death the theater decided to build one anyway, keeping it heated to 37 degrees Celsius as a loophole. Next, head to Östermalms Saluhall, a lively food hall with many options. Explore the stalls, and enjoy some traditional Swedish lunch or fika.
Next, head to the National Museum, a grand building right on the water. Filled with fascinating temporary exhibitions and an impressive permanent collection, the museum is a must-see in Stockholm, and a great way to soak up some culture. Follow their permanent collection from the 16th century to the modern day, viewing works by Rembrandt, Goya, and Leyster. Not only filled with paintings and sculptures, the museum also houses a collection of important historical design objects, many of which come from the Nordic countries. When you’re hungry for dinner, make a stop at B.A.R., a restaurant that specializes in seafood. Pick something off the menu, or head up to the counter to choose your fish yourself!
After dinner, make a final stop at the Royal Opera House. Whether you go to see a concert, ballet, or opera, you’re sure to be wowed by the grandeur of the building and the sheer skill of the performers. Student and under-26 tickets sell for as low as 125 SEK, making a night out at the opera accessible. Just as the juxtaposition between new and old shows up in the architecture and city planning of Östermalm and Norrmalm, so too does it appear here; in the ornate golden theater, you’ll likely find daring new works and adaptations being performed, an affirmation of innovation in the city.
