City Information

You can visit Sweden any time throughout the year. The northern region has a cool temperate climate throughout the year whereas the southern quarter of the country is comparatively warmer. Sweden’s weather can be influenced by high pressure buildups over Russia but is protected from the rainy weather systems of the Atlantic. Stockholm has about 9 hours of sunshine every day from May to July and very comfortable temperatures so it’s a very good time to check out the sites and sounds of the city; however it is just as good at any other time of the year!

1 AED = 1.86034 SEK 1 SEK = 0.537536 AED 1 EUR = 9.49941 SEK 1 SEK = 0.105270 EUR

Location: Södermanland province, eastern coast of Sweden. Stockholm is situated at the point where the vast Lake Malaren flows into the Baltic Sea. Dialing code Country: 46 City: 8; Emergency numbers: 112 This number covers the following emergency services: police, ambulance, fire, rescue corps, dentist, doctor, mountain rescue corps, information on poison. Fire department In all cases, except for emergencies, look in the green pages in the local telephone catalogue (Fire department=Brandstation). Hospitals and emergency rooms In all cases, except for emergencies, look in the blue pages in the local telephone catalogue (Hospital=Sjukhus, Emergency room=Akutintag). Police In all cases, except for emergencies, look in the red pages in the local telephone catalogue (Police=Polis).; Stockholm Tourist Centre:: +46 8 508 285 08

January: Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany (Religious); February: ---; March: Good Friday: The Friday just before Easter Sunday. (2009:April 10) Easter Sunday: The Sunday just after the full moon that occurs on or closest after Good Friday. (2009: April 12) Easter Monday: The day after Easter Sunday. (2009:April 13)

The locals of Stockholm are among the most friendly and courteous people around. With English being a second language there, they are very helpful and will always greet you with a smile. 90% Swedes, 3% Finns, 0.15% Sami (indigenous Lapp inhabitants).

Non-EU citizens may need a Schengen visa to visit Sweden for up to 90 days. Visa requirements depend on nationality and circumstances; the Swedish Migration Agency explains eligibility and application routes.

Dating back to the 13th century, Stockholm is one of the oldest civilizations in the country that started off as a mining colony and as a naval base set up by Birger Jarl to protect Sweden from a sea invasion. The strategic location of the city made it an important centre of trade, and in developing relations with the adjoining areas and kingdoms, made Stockholm one of the most important places in Sweden. The 16th century was marked with bloodshed and massive executions at the hands of the Kalmar Union but also resulted in the collapse of the Union. The 16th and 17th century saw Sweden and Stockholm grow into a major European power and the city became the capital of the Swedish empire in 1634 as well as its trade centre. The 18th century brought with it the Great Northern War which tore the city apart; however Stockholm continued to develop after the war and regained its lost economic status by the second half of the 19th century. Even then, the city was primarily composed of immigrants and less than 40% of the population was native to the city. By the end of the 19th century, the city was expanding and gradually developed itself further, and by the end of the 20th century, it became one of the most modern and technologically advanced cities of the world. Though many historical buildings were torn down and replaced with modern designs and industries, it still kept its cultural heritage relatively intact.

Stockholm is one of the most stunning capitals in the world. With a huge number of waterways spread out around the city, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit. With over 60% of the city consisting of waterways and parks, it is also among the cleanest of cities in the world. The Old Town or Gamla Stan is at the center of the city and is a very well preserved historical area that complements this oasis superbly. It is littered with several hotels, bars, restaurants and shops, all doing great business all year round! The modern areas of the city are prime evidence of Sweden’s innovative designs and construction standards and the city thrives on information technology. Several of the world’s leading IT companies are massing up in the city center or the new business parks on the outskirts of the city. Today Stockholm is a superb European city that is filled with chic boutiques, pavement cafes, and fashionista! It is filled to the brim with culture and a lifestyle that makes the best of them drool. With 15% of the population composed of first generation immigrants, it is quite literally the most diverse city in the country and possibly the continent! With superb summers and fascinating winters, the city is a great place for tourists to rest and enjoy a great and memorable vacation.

Non-EU citizens may need a Schengen visa to visit Sweden for up to 90 days. Visa requirements depend on nationality and circumstances; the Swedish Migration Agency explains eligibility and application routes.