Stockholm

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Department Stores

Shop at major department stores that offer a wide range of fashion, home goods, and luxury items in a single location.

Sections

1. NK (Nordiska Kompaniet)

  • Overview: NK is Stockholm’s most iconic and luxurious department store, often compared to Harrods in London or Galeries Lafayette in Paris. It has been a shopping landmark since 1902 and is located in the heart of the city.
  • Location: Hamngatan 18-20, Stockholm (near Kungsträdgården park).
  • Products and Services:
    • High-end fashion (international and Swedish brands like Acne Studios, Filippa K, and Tiger of Sweden).
    • Beauty and cosmetics (luxury brands like Chanel, Dior, and Swedish skincare products).
    • Homeware and interior design (Scandinavian design items, kitchenware, and furniture).
    • Gourmet food and delicacies (Swedish specialties, chocolates, and wines).
    • Tailoring and personal shopping services.
  • Price Range: $$$$ (luxury and premium pricing).
  • Shopping Hours:
    • Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
    • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), mobile payments (Swish), and cash (though less common in Sweden).
  • Dining Options:
    • NK Saluhall: A gourmet food hall offering Swedish and international cuisine.
    • Cafés and restaurants: Perfect for fika (Swedish coffee break) or a full meal.
  • Cultural Tips:
    • NK is a great place to experience Swedish luxury and design. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s worth visiting for the architecture and ambiance.
    • Tax-free shopping is available for non-EU visitors. Ask for a tax-free receipt at the counter.

2. Åhléns City

  • Overview: Åhléns City is Stockholm’s largest and most popular department store, offering a wide range of products at more affordable prices than NK. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
  • Location: Klarabergsgatan 50, Stockholm (near Stockholm Central Station).
  • Products and Services:
    • Fashion for men, women, and children (mid-range brands like Levi’s, Adidas, and Swedish labels).
    • Beauty and skincare (affordable and premium brands, including Swedish favorites like Lumene and Estelle & Thild).
    • Home goods and interior design (Scandinavian-style furniture, textiles, and kitchenware).
    • Electronics and gadgets.
    • Books, toys, and gifts.
  • Price Range: $$-$$$ (mid-range to premium).
  • Shopping Hours:
    • Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
    • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, mobile payments (Swish), and cash.
  • Dining Options:
    • Åhléns has a food court and several cafés offering Swedish and international cuisine.
    • Great for a quick fika or a casual meal.
  • Cultural Tips:
    • Åhléns City is a one-stop shop for everything you might need, making it ideal for visitors or immigrants settling in Stockholm.
    • Look out for seasonal sales (e.g., January and July) for great discounts.

3. Mood Stockholm

  • Overview: Mood Stockholm is a modern shopping center with a boutique-like atmosphere. While not a traditional department store, it offers a curated selection of shops and dining options under one roof.
  • Location: Regeringsgatan 48, Stockholm.
  • Products and Services:
    • Fashion and accessories (boutique brands and Swedish designers).
    • Beauty and wellness (salons, spas, and skincare products).
    • Home décor and gifts.
  • Price Range: $$$ (mid-range to premium).
  • Shopping Hours:
    • Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
    • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, mobile payments, and cash.
  • Dining Options:
    • Mood Stockholm is known for its excellent restaurants and cafés, offering everything from sushi to Italian cuisine.
    • Perfect for a stylish lunch or dinner.
  • Cultural Tips:
    • Mood Stockholm is more about the experience than just shopping. It’s a great place to explore Swedish lifestyle trends.

4. Gallerian

  • Overview: Gallerian is a popular shopping mall in central Stockholm, offering a mix of international and Swedish brands. It’s a more casual and family-friendly shopping destination.
  • Location: Hamngatan 37, Stockholm.
  • Products and Services:
    • Fashion and accessories (H&M, Zara, and other high-street brands).
    • Electronics and gadgets.
    • Beauty and skincare.
    • Sportswear and outdoor gear.
  • Price Range: $-$$ (affordable to mid-range).
  • Shopping Hours:
    • Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
    • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, mobile payments, and cash.
  • Dining Options:
    • Food court with a variety of cuisines, including Swedish, Asian, and fast food.
    • Cafés for coffee and pastries.
  • Cultural Tips:
    • Gallerian is a great place for budget-friendly shopping and casual dining.
    • It’s often busy, especially on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.

5. Stockholm Quality Outlet (Barkarby)

  • Overview: While not a department store, this outlet mall is worth mentioning for its discounted prices on Swedish and international brands.
  • Location: Flyginfarten 4, Järfälla (about 20 minutes from central Stockholm by car or train).
  • Products and Services:
    • Fashion, sportswear, and accessories (brands like Nike, Adidas, and Björn Borg).
    • Home goods and gifts.
  • Price Range: $-$$ (discounted prices).
  • Shopping Hours:
    • Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    • Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, mobile payments, and cash.
  • Dining Options:
    • Cafés and casual dining options are available.
  • Cultural Tips:
    • This is a great option for bargain hunters. Be prepared to spend a few hours exploring the stores.

General Tips for Shopping in Stockholm:

  1. Language: Most staff in department stores speak excellent English, so communication is rarely an issue.
  2. Tax-Free Shopping: Non-EU visitors can claim a VAT refund (up to 25%) on purchases over 200 SEK. Ask for a tax-free receipt and present it at the airport when leaving Sweden.
  3. Sustainability: Swedes value sustainability, so you’ll find many eco-friendly and ethically produced products in department stores.
  4. Fika Culture: Take a break during your shopping trip to enjoy fika—a coffee and pastry break that’s an essential part of Swedish culture.
  5. Cashless Society: Sweden is largely cashless, so be prepared to use cards or mobile payments for most transactions.

Stockholm’s department stores offer a mix of luxury, practicality, and Scandinavian charm. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, affordable home goods, or a delicious meal, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your needs. Enjoy your shopping experience in Stockholm!