Planning a Scandinavian or Baltic cruise journey? Well, for OutThere cruise lovers, the Swedish capital is a port of call with heart and soul. Step off your ship into Stockholm’s harbour and you’ll soon be exploring its vibrant neighbourhoods, amazing (queer) history, fabulous attractions, world-class dining and cutting-edge design; all in an easily walkable city and in a place that you are fully welcome, just as you are. It’s time to cruise in the Open City of Stockholm.
But why rush through this amazing destination on a day-trip when you could also start or finish your cruise in Stockholm, stay a few days and experience it properly? The city is beautiful in so many ways – not just in the way it looks, but in its culture, music and people – and it has a charm that will make you want to stay longer.
What makes Stockholm so special is something that you’ll notice straight away when you cruise into the Open City. It feels so easy to be yourself here. Queerness is just part of city life, woven into cafés, streets, history, politics and everyday routines. That’s the real magic of Sweden’s capital – Stockholm doesn’t just make space for its people and visitors to be queer, it celebrates it, loudly and proudly. Bold, progressive, and beautifully layered, Stockholm offers up a place where people come together and ideas thrive. Everyone has a place in the city’s story, no matter where they’re from, how they identify, or who they love. Sweden decriminalised homosexuality way back in 1944 — showing that progress here has deep roots.
The city’s spirit is simple, yet powerful: you show up as yourself, and know that in Stockholm, you already belong.
Culture, cuisine and community without boundaries
If you’re into culture, there’s plenty to see and do. While some places hide their queer history, Stockholm is proud of it. At the Royal Palace, a new Queer Tour tells stories of royal romances, scandals and gender-defying figures who helped shape Sweden’s history.
Lovers of maritime history will enjoy the Vasa Museum with its perfectly preserved 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage just minutes after being launched. Don’t worry – it’s not a bad omen for the rest of your journey – your cruise ship is far more advanced than this ship!
Nearby, ABBA The Museum is every bit as camp and joyous as you’d hope, celebrating the life and music of Stockholm’s most fabulous musical exports. There are also some spaces where queer cruise visitors will feel welcome from the moment they step through the door. From cafés where you can indulge in ‘fika’ like Chokladkoppen (the first business to ever fly a rainbow flag in the city), to some of the city’s fabulous restaurants, like Gondolen (which offer stunning views of the city) or the locals’ favourite, Sturehof.
Like many world capitals, Stockholm is a city of neighbourhoods. If you’ve visited Stockholm before and want to get deeper into its neighbourhoods, head to Södermalm – a district that’s arguably the city’s coolest and most creative. Head for lunch at Bistro Rival or an early pre-departure dinner at The Hills while exploring this vibrant district.
StockholmLGBT, a network of partner hotels, attractions, restaurants, transport providers, and community organisations, ensures every visitor feels safe, welcomed, and celebrated. If you’re staying pre- or post-cruise in Stockholm, check into a partner hotel and immerse yourself in the city’s commitment to belonging.
Photography by Anna Hugosson, Bjorn Olin and courtesy of StockholmLGBT and Visit Stockholm,
This article is in partnership with StockholmLGBT and Visit Stockholm.
Stockholm. You belong here.
To cruise into the Open City and plan your trip, visit www.stockholmlgbt.com – empowered by Visit Stockholm
