Stockholm in December
In mid-December 2004, I visited Northern Europe for the first time during the winter half of the year. I wanted to experience Stockholm in its Advent atmosphere. Though there was no snow, the pre-Christmas mood was unmistakable - especially in the narrow streets and on the Christmas market in the Old Town (Gamla Stan), where strolling around was a genuine pleasure. I hardly felt that it was all about commerce.
The short days also contributed to the overall atmosphere. The sun, often hidden in low stratus clouds, had already set shortly after 2 p.m. By 3 p.m., the sky above the city was already dark again.
Accommodation
One of the best places to stay in Stockholm is the youth hostel “Skeppsholmen & af Chapman,” located east of Gamla Stan on the island Skeppsholmen. The “af Chapman” is a historic sailing ship converted into a hostel, with cabins, toilets, and washrooms. In 2004, prices were around 22–25 EUR per night - booking in advance is highly recommended.
Many of my night photos were taken without a flashlight, using exposure times of 8–12 seconds to capture the Advent atmosphere.
Link Tips
- Guided Citywalks through Stockholm
- Stockholm at Wikipedia
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... more of Stockholm:
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... more winter city - Tallinn:
