There are plenty of reasons to visit a new city – the sights, the food, the culture, you know how it goes. But if we are to be completely honest with ourselves, there’s another less-talked-about but equally enticing reason many of us eagerly venture abroad: to experience the local dating scene. This is especially true for gay men touching down in Stockholm. With a reputation for being home to some of the most charming, handsome, and downright delightful men, the Swedish capital is a magnet for those in search of love. But as with any vibrant metropolis, not all gay men in Stockholm are cut from the same cloth.
So, if you’re hoping to swipe right on some local talent, here’s your guide to the seven types of gay men in Stockholm, and the best spots to find them.
The Outdoorsy Guy
If it involves fresh air, this guy is all over it. He’s the one dragging you out of bed at dawn for a jog through the park or convincing you that a weekend kayaking trip in the archipelago is the best idea ever. Fit, health-conscious, and with a soft spot for dogs, he’s likely to drop phrases like “Lion’s Mane mushrooms changed my life” into casual conversation. Family-oriented with a heart as big as his biceps, he’s just waiting to settle down – with someone who can keep up.
Where you’ll find him:
The Green Queen – A vegetarian haven with a menu of meze-style dishes that are packed with flavour. Think hummus, burrata with honey melon, and creamy baba ghanoush with bread.
Hotel Skeppsholmen – This eco-friendly waterfront hideaway offers easy access to nature without needing to leave the city, and its spacious rooms and suites are ideal for decompressing after a day of adventure. Did we also mention that it’s home to the first outdoor tennis court in Sweden?
www.thegreenqueensthlm.com | www.hotelskeppsholmen.se
The Fashionista
Most gay men in Stockholm know a thing or two about style, but this guy takes it up a notch. His wardrobe is a shrine to Scandinavian minimalism or vintage thrifting, and his Instagram feed is more curated than an art gallery – but don’t worry, he’s actually super down-to-earth and fun to be around. Always on trend, yet effortlessly chic, he’s the one turning heads in Stockholm’s most fashionable neighbourhoods.
Where you’ll find him:
Blique by Nobis – A design-forward hotel where the lines between art, architecture, and fashion blur. Every corner of this place is Instagram-worthy, making it a second home for the style-conscious.
The Blue Oyster – Set in the up-and-coming neighbourhood of Hornstullis, The Blue Oyster is where the city’s ‘cool kids’ gather – and for good reason. This cocktail bar was the winner of QX magazine’s ‘Best Place’ prize in 2022.
www.bliquebynobis.se | www.blue.se
The Good Times Guy
Life’s a party for this guy, and he’s the one who makes sure you’re invited. His charisma is off the charts, and his calendar is jam-packed with social events. But don’t let his social butterfly persona fool you – he’s also the best person to binge-watch Netflix with on a lazy Sunday. He knows how to have a good time, whether it’s out on the town or curled up on the couch with horror movies and popcorn.
Where you’ll find him:
Mälarpaviljongen – This gay-owned floating bar and restaurant is a favourite summer hangout for many gay men in Stockholm. It’s the perfect spot to kick off a night out with friends, offering great drinks, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere.
Club Backdoor – Scandinavia’s biggest gay club of course. This is where you’ll find our fun-loving gay bachelor dancing until the break of dawn.
www.malarpaviljongen.se | @clubbackdoor
The Culture Connoisseur
A walking encyclopedia with a taste for the finer things, The Culture Connoisseur knows his Vermeer from his Van Gogh and can quote classic literature without missing a beat. He’s the type who’ll take you to an art film and then discuss its existential undertones over a glass of fine wine. Think Edward Cullen vibes, but minus the whole drinking blood thing.
Where you’ll find him:
AIRA – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a fine dining experience that appeals to refined palates. The food here is as much about presentation as it is about taste.
The Royal Palace – Whether attending an exhibition or simply exploring the state rooms, The Culture Connoisseur finds endless inspiration within these royal walls.
www.aira.se | www.theroyalpalace.se
The Nomad
Always on the move with a passport full of stamps, this guy has likely landed in Stockholm for one of two reasons: either to find love or to check our Open City off his ever-expanding bucket list. Despite his love for the road, he’s keen to make connections, seeking out local haunts that make him feel at home, even when he’s miles away from where he started. His Instagram is an envy-inducing travel diary, filled with snaps from meditation retreats in Bali to craft markets in Marrakesh.
Where you’ll find him:
Pelago – A vibrant rooftop restaurant located in Stockholm’s city centre, Pelago surfs up barbecue dishes with Middle Eastern and Argentinian influences.
Miss Clara by Nobis – Stylish and centrally located, this hotel is The Nomad’s base when he’s in Stockholm.
www.pelagosthlm.se | www.missclarahotel.com
The Urban Viking
He’s got the beard, the tattoos, and a penchant for flannel, but beneath it all is a guy with a heart of gold. The Urban Viking is the type to fix your bike, cook you a meal, and then take you on a hike to forage for wild mushrooms. He’s big on sustainability, Swedish heritage, and keeping it real. Don’t be surprised if he asks you to meet his parents after the third date.
Where you’ll find him:
Bino – A restaurant that champions the simplicity of nature, serving wholesome meals that would satisfy any foodie.
Vasa Museum – Home to the world’s best reserved 17th-century ship, it makes sense that The Urban Viking feels right at home here.
www.nobis.se/bino | www.vasamuseet.se/en
The Blue-Blooded Bachelor
The Blue-Blooded Bachelor is Stockholm’s very own Prince Charming. He’s polished, refined, well-mannered, always impeccably dressed, and knows his way around a wine list. He’s looking for a guy to join him on romantic boat trips through the archipelago or horseback rides in the countryside – preferably someone who looks great in tweed.
Where you’ll find him:
Teatergrillen – This establishment has one of the oldest preserved restaurant interiors in Stockholm, and a menu of sophisticated dishes like Maine lobster, steak tartare, and caviar on butter-fried toast.
Drottningholm Palace – As the official residence of the Swedish royal family, Drottningholm Palace is practically this bachelor’s natural habitat.
www.teatergrillen.se | www.royalpalaces.se
Found your match? Now, all you need is the perfect date spot. Seal the deal with a dinner at one of the Open City’s most romantic restaurants!