Södermalm — known locally as Söder — is one of Stockholm's most distinctive neighbourhoods. Sitting on a large island directly south of Gamla Stan, it has long had a reputation for a relaxed, creative and bohemian atmosphere that sets it apart from the more formal parts of the city. For visitors looking to experience a side of Stockholm that feels genuinely local, Södermalm is well worth a half-day or more of your time.
What Is Södermalm Like?
Södermalm is the large island south of Gamla Stan, Stockholm's medieval Old Town. Where Gamla Stan draws crowds with its historic architecture and tourist sites, Södermalm tends to attract those in search of independent shops, creative spaces and everyday Stockholm life. The island has a varied character — some areas feel quiet and residential, while others have a livelier, more urban energy. English is widely spoken throughout Stockholm, so navigating Södermalm as a visitor is straightforward.
One thing worth noting: like the rest of Stockholm, Södermalm is almost entirely cashless. Carry a payment card rather than cash, as many local businesses do not accept it.
Top Things to Do in Södermalm
- Walk Monteliusvägen: This popular free walkway along a cliff edge offers sweeping views over Gamla Stan, the water and central Stockholm. It is one of the best viewpoints in the city and costs nothing to visit — making it a must for any visit to Södermalm.
- Visit Fotografiska: A photography and visual art museum in Södermalm, Fotografiska hosts rotating exhibitions from both Swedish and international photographers. It is one of Stockholm's more distinctive cultural venues and a good choice for art-minded visitors.
- Explore on foot: Much of Södermalm's appeal lies in wandering its streets. You may find independent boutiques, vintage clothing stores, coffee shops and local markets depending on where you explore and what time of year you visit.
- Enjoy the waterfront: The island has several spots where you can sit by the water and look back across to the rest of Stockholm. This is particularly enjoyable in the warmer months when outdoor seating is common.
Getting to Södermalm
Södermalm is well connected to the rest of Stockholm. The metro system, operated by SL (Storstockholms Lokaltrafik), serves the island with several stations, and buses run frequently across the area. You can also walk to Södermalm from Gamla Stan — the two islands are directly connected. Stockholm's metro is famously known as the world's longest art gallery, with artwork featured in around 90 of its 100 stations, so even the journey is worth looking at.
If you are arriving from Stockholm Arlanda Airport, the Arlanda Express train takes around 20 minutes to Stockholm Central Station, from where you can connect to Södermalm by metro or on foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Södermalm worth visiting as a tourist?A: Yes — Södermalm offers a more local, everyday feel compared to the main tourist areas. The free viewpoint at Monteliusvägen and the Fotografiska museum alone make it worth the trip, and simply exploring the island on foot is enjoyable.
Q: Do I need cash in Södermalm?A: No. Like the rest of Stockholm, Södermalm is almost entirely cashless. Card payment is the norm, and you are unlikely to need Swedish kronor in cash during a standard visit.