How long does it take to walk the heights of Södermalm?

The full route takes between 2 to 3 hours. This allows for walking time between the six stops and 15-30 minutes at each location for photos and exploration.

Is the walk to Skinnarviksberget difficult?

It is a moderate walk. While the terrain is mostly paved, there are some steep uphill sections to reach the viewpoints and uneven granite rocks at the top of the hill.

Where are the best photo spots in Stockholm?

Monteliusvägen and Fjällgatan are top-tier photography locations. They provide elevated, unobstructed views of the Stockholm skyline and the Baltic Sea entrance.

Is Södermalm worth visiting for first-time travelers?

Absolutely. While Gamla Stan is the historic heart, Södermalm offers the best views, the most vibrant local culture, and the famous 'SoFo' shopping district.

Can I do this self-guided walk at night?

Yes, the route is safe and the city lights from the viewpoints are stunning at night. However, be cautious on the rocky areas of Skinnarviksberget after dark.

What is SoFo in Stockholm?

SoFo stands for 'South of Folkungagatan.' It is a play on New York's SoHo and is the city's most creative neighborhood, centered around Nytorget.

Are there public toilets along this walking route?

Yes, you can find public restrooms at the start near Mariatorget and at the end in Nytorget park. Many cafes in between also have facilities for customers.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Södermalm, often called "Söder" by locals, is Stockholm’s coolest district, blending a gritty industrial past with a vibrant, creative present. This self-guided walk takes you through the "Heights of Södermalm," a route defined by dramatic cliffs and cobblestone lanes that offer the city's most breathtaking panoramas. Unlike the flat streets of the city center, this neighborhood stroll invites you to climb the ridge that overlooks Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea. You'll begin in the historic Mariaberget area, where 18th-century timber houses cling to the rocks. This walking tour Stockholm provides is a dream for photography enthusiasts, especially as you traverse the narrow path of Monteliusvägen. From here, the views of the City Hall and Gamla Stan are unrivaled. As you continue toward Skinnarviksberget, the highest natural point in central Stockholm, you'll see why locals gather here with picnics to watch the sun dip below the horizon. The journey then shifts toward the east, exploring the spiritual and social heart of the island. You'll visit the striking Katarina Kyrka, a church with a resilient history, before reaching Fjällgatan. Known as the balcony of Stockholm, this street preserves the atmosphere of the 1700s. Finally, the walk concludes at Nytorget, the epicenter of the "SoFo" district. This area is famous for its eclectic boutiques, world-class coffee shops, and artistic energy. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this neighborhood stroll offers a perspective of the Swedish capital that is both intimate and grand. Exploring at your own pace allows you to linger at the viewpoints or duck into a hidden courtyard whenever curiosity strikes. This is not a traditional guided tour Stockholm visitors might expect; it is an independent exploration of the soul of the city.

Highlights

Panoramic views from Monteliusvägen over Lake Mälaren

Sunset at Skinnarviksberget, the city's highest natural point

The 18th-century wooden houses of Mariaberget

Historic architecture and resilience of Katarina Kyrka

Fjällgatan, often called the 'Balcony of Stockholm'

The trendy vibes and cafes of Nytorget in SoFo

Tour Stops (6)

Mariaberget

Set foot in one of Stockholm's most preserved historic areas. Mariaberget is a testament to the city's endurance, featuring narrow alleys and houses that survived the great fire of 1759. These steep streets were once home to the working class, but today they offer some of the most sought-after views in the capital. As you walk along Bastugatan, look for the intricate doorways and the way the buildings seem to grow directly out of the rocky ridge. This area perfectly captures the 'old Söder' atmosphere before the neighborhood became the trendy hub it is today.

Monteliusvägen

This 500-meter long wooden walking path is arguably the most romantic spot in Stockholm. As you walk along the cliff's edge, you have a front-row seat to the iconic City Hall, the Riddarholmen church spire, and the colorful buildings of the Old Town. It's a prime spot for photography, especially during the 'blue hour.' The path is named after Oscar Montelius, a famous Swedish archaeologist, and it serves as a literal bridge between the urban island of Södermalm and the watery expanse of the Riddarfjärden below.

Skinnarviksberget

At 53 meters above sea level, this is the highest natural point in the city center. It’s a favorite local hangout, free from fences and commercialism. The smooth granite rocks are perfect for sitting and soaking in the 360-degree views of Kungsholmen and the shimmering waters of the Riddarfjärden. The name comes from the 'skinnare' or tanners who used to work in this area during the 17th century because the water was nearby and the smells were kept away from the more affluent parts of the city.

Katarina Kyrka

This bright yellow church is a landmark of the Södermalm skyline. It has a dramatic history, having been rebuilt twice after devastating fires in 1723 and 1990. The most recent reconstruction was a massive community effort, ensuring the church remained a symbol of the neighborhood's spirit. The surrounding cemetery is a peaceful oasis, where famous Swedes like assassinated politician Anna Lindh and beloved troubadour Cornelis Vreeswijk are laid to rest. The architecture is a beautiful example of the Dutch Palladian style.

Fjällgatan

Often called the most beautiful street in Stockholm, Fjällgatan is lined with well-preserved wooden buildings from the 1700s. The view from the edge overlooks the entrance to Stockholm's harbor, the island of Djurgården, and the amusement park Gröna Lund. It feels like stepping back in time before the city's modernization. Many of these houses were saved from demolition in the early 20th century thanks to cultural activists who recognized the historical value of Södermalm's unique cliff-side architecture.

Nytorget

You’ve reached the heart of SoFo—South of Folkungagatan. Nytorget was once a site for public executions and a poor working-class square, but today it’s the center of Stockholm’s hipster culture. Surrounded by vintage stores, independent boutiques, and trendy cafes, the park is the perfect place to end your walk and observe the local lifestyle. Whether you're looking for a world-class cinnamon bun or a unique Swedish design piece, this square and the surrounding streets are where Stockholm's creative energy is most palpable.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 'Heights of Södermalm' route is widely considered the best for views. It includes Monteliusvägen and Skinnarviksberget, offering panoramic vistas of City Hall and the Old Town.