Valentine’s Day in Stockholm for solo travellers: where to eat, stay, and explore

Valentine’s Day in Stockholm for solo travellers: where to eat, stay, and explore

It’s that time of year again – when restaurants fill up with couples, flower shops cash in on overpriced bouquets, and heart-shaped confectioneries take over every store shelf. If you’re single, you might be tempted to roll your eyes and hibernate until the love fest is over. But why should the ‘most romantic day of the year’ be reserved for couples? We think that Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to self-indulge and celebrate the most important relationship in your life: the one you have with yourself. And there is no better place to do so than the ‘Venice of the North’. Here are some of our favourite ways to enjoy a solo Valentine’s Day in Stockholm.

Wander through Royal Djurgården

If there’s one place in Stockholm where you can spend the entire day without running out of things to do, it’s Djurgården. With a mix of green spaces, waterfront views, and top-tier attractions, this island is truly an all-encompassing destination on its own. It’s home to some of the city’s most famous museums, including the Vasa Museum and the ABBA Museum, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves a deep dive into Swedish history (or a little pop nostalgia).

Its walking paths offer a chance to slow down and take in the scenery, whether that means spotting boats along the canals or finding a quiet bench to just exist for a moment. And when you need a break? The island is filled with cosy cafés, perfect for a fika stop before heading to your next adventure.

Indulge in a spa escape at Villa Dagmar

If you truly want to lean into the art of self-pampering this Valentine’s Day in Stockholm, then do yourself a favour and book a stay at Villa Dagmar. This boutique hotel in Stockholm’s Östermalm district offers 70 elegantly designed rooms and suites, each featuring hand-picked Scandinavian and Italian furnishings, wooden floors, and stunning marble bathrooms.

Beyond its luxurious accommodations, Villa Dagmar is home to Dagmar Spirit & Retreat, a wellness centre that offers a variety of soul-soothing treatments and therapies. Book a deep-tissue massage or a hydrating facial, or try a Japanese lifting massage, then float over to the hotel’s wine bar for a post-spa toast to you.

Dine solo at AIRA

The idea of dining alone can be intimidating for all of us. You picture yourself seated between two couples, awkwardly twirling your fork while eavesdropping their romantic whispers. You picture the waiter removing the place setting at the other side of the table while giving you that sympathetic smile. But AIRA, Stockholm’s two-Michelin-starred gem, offers a different experience – one where the food is the true focus, not the social dynamics.

Located in Djurgården, this sleek, modern restaurant is a temple to Scandinavian gastronomy, where every dish is a work of art, and every bite demands your full attention. Here, you won’t feel out of place dining solo because, frankly, no one cares. No awkward small talk, no distractions – just you, an incredible tasting menu, and a sommelier to guide you through the perfect wine pairings. Think of it as a dinner date with the chefs.

Escape to the Stockholm Archipelago

If solitude and stunning views sound like your ideal Valentine’s Day date, a trip to the Stockholm Archipelago is a must. This vast collection of 30,000 islands and islets offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Sweden, perfect for exploring solo with minimal distractions. Of course, don’t go too far out on your own – we don’t want you to get lost!

Hop on a boat from Strömkajen and head to Vaxholm, where colourful wooden houses and waterfront cafés set the scene for a slow, reflective afternoon. Or venture further to Grinda, where you can take a nature walk and warm up by the fire at a cosy inn. No schedules, no obligations – just the freedom to explore on your own terms.

Dance like nobody’s watching at Club Backdoor

Valentine’s Day as a singleton? That’s no reason to stay in. If anything, it’s the perfect excuse to head to the club. “Which one?” you ask. For us LGBTQ+ folk in Stockholm, the answer is a no-brainer.

For those unfamiliar with Club Backdoor, consider it the city’s ultimate evening meeting ground for Stockholm’s queer singles. Tucked beneath Tele2 Arena in Johanneshov, this legendary nightclub is known for its electric atmosphere, stellar DJ lineups, and a dance floor that never seems to slow down. With a reputation as “the gayest club north of Ibiza,” it attracts a vibrant mix of locals and visitors, all looking to dance, connect, and celebrate. Whether you’re there to let loose with friends, make new connections, or see where the night takes you, Backdoor is the place to be.