With its narrow alleys, cobbled streets and fascinating old buildings, Gamla Stan ('the Old Town') is one of Stockholm's most beautiful districts. Not only is it one of the largest and best-preserved medieval city centres in Europe, but it is also where Stockholm was founded in 1252. No wonder walking around Gamla Stan feels like stepping back in time!
Not much seems to have changed in the area over the centuries. Fittingly, some interesting items (which no doubt once adorned the buildings) can be found in some of the few antique shops in the area.
Those with a passion for antiques and collectors of all kinds will have a field day in Gamla Stan. One of the most popular antique shops, Brinken, has a perfect location next to the Royal Palace and displays a superbly curated collection of antiques including furniture, ornaments, clocks, cameras and more. Other shops sell beautifully carved wooden toys, crystal figurines, Darlana horses, artwork and more. Affären is probably the best shop in Stockholm for antique lighting, and even those with no particular interest in these items are sure to find something to fit their home.
Although tempting, try to resist buying the first thing you fall in love with in the antique shops of Gamla Stan. Some prices are inflated as this area is very popular with tourists, so it is worth shopping around to find the best deals.
In addition to the antique shops in Gamla Stan, this area of the old town is also home to small craft shops and shops specialising in local handicrafts, ceramics, glassware and textiles, all made locally, as well as shops with unique furniture, homeware and jewellery collections. Västerlånggatan in particular is a wonderful stop for tourists looking for an authentic and tasteful souvenir. All in all, Gamla Stan is truly the place to indulge in local delicacies.
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