Gamla Stan and Skeppsholmen

Gamla Stan (Old Town) sits between two of Stockholm's main islands, and is the site of the medieval city. Just east of Gamla Stan is the island of Skeppsholmen, whose twisting cobble streets are lined with superbly preserved old buildings. As the site of the original Stockholm, history, culture, and a dash of old Europe come thick and fast around here. Understandably, Gamla Stan is also a magnet for tourists. Consequently there are plenty of substandard shops and restaurants ready to take your money in return for shoddy goods and bad food. Because of this, locals often make a big show of dismissing the area as a tourist trap, but don't believe them. Secretly they love Gamla Stan and Skeppsholmen. And who wouldn't? With its divine hideaway alleys and bars, gorgeous architecture, specialty shops, and great restaurants, it's impossible to resist.