Home to Ikea and some of the most fashionable people in Europe, it's no wonder that city breaks to Stockholm have become incredibly popular in recent years.
Families have begun to realise how much there is to discover in the coolest capital of Europe, where designer boutiques and quirky cafes line the medieval streets and the smell of fresh-baked pastries fills the air.
Stockholm is a city which is in fact an archipelago of islands, each of which with its own unique atmosphere. Sodermalm is a haven for those who love to dine out on Scandinavian cuisine. Here you find restaurants serving the most delectable local dishes, such as lingonberries on freshly cooked meatballs. For hip bars and a night out on the town, Gamla Stan is the place to go. Many of its ochre-hued houses have now been converted into lavishly decorated nightclubs and bars.
If history and royalty are where you're interests lie, hop on a boat and head over to Djurgarden, the island on which the Swedish royal family once hunted, or head back to Gamla Stan to visit the beautiful Royal Palace. History enthusiasts will also love Vaxholm island, which houses the famous and fascinating Fortress Museum.
Getting from one place to another is simple in Stockholm, as the centre is so compact and the public transport reliable and cheap. But car hire is available if you prefer.
Unsurprisingly, given how stylish the residents of the city are, the shopping in Stockholm is excellent, with many top clothing brands available, including Lindberg, Bjorn Borg and Acne as well as H&M. The Sodermalm area is particularly good for clothes shopping and there are also plenty of great eateries and funky bars where you can sample Swedish vodka and local beers as well.
If you've had your fill of retail therapy and want an educational day out with the kids, visit the Vasa Museum for the afternoon or Drottiningholm Castle and the Skansen historic park. The picturesque medieval Old Town of the city called Gamla Stan is a great place to while away a few hours too.
Pop-music fans will have the chance to retrace the steps of ABBA on the city's famous walking tour, while art lovers can admire the cutting-edge works in Museet. For those with younger children, the Grona Lund amusement park is a must and it will keep both parents and children amused for hours on end. Stockholm city breaks are guaranteed to be spectacular, whatever time of year you visit.
Weather
June, July and August are the hottest months and this is naturally when the city will be at its busiest. The atmosphere is lively and fun during this time of the year. However, if you prefer things a little cooler and calmer, the weather is Stockholm is relatively mild all year round and autumn, winter and spring offer some beautiful seasonal scenery.
Events
Walpurais Night Celebration takes place at the end of April each year and consists of traditional celebrations which welcome the beginning of spring. There are cosy bonfires and fireworks lighting up the sky along with plenty of Swedish foods to snack on.
Sweden's National Day is on the 6th of June every year. This is a public holiday during which there are parades and the royal family can be seen. Thousands of people flock to Stockholm for this special day and so the atmosphere is electric.
Ingmarssdaaen is a celebratory event held on the island of Ingmarsoin. Families can enjoy the festivities and markets along the shores or they can row a traditional Swedish boat out to the island itself to celebrate with the local residents.
If you are planning a trip to Stockholm this year and need some help, read our fact file below and use TravelSupermarket's search tool to find the cheapest deals.
Best of Stockholm city breaks for...
Families: The loveable children's museum of Junibacken, on the island of Djurgarden, is a fantasy land for youngsters. It has a heavy focus on Swedish writers, including Pippi Longstocking creator Astrid Lindgren, but there are plenty of other recognisable authors and their tales, which have been delightfully captured at this charming attraction.
Active types: Thousands of islands dot the Baltic Sea around Stockholm, including the 14 that make up the inner city. Indulge your active side and get out on to the water with activities including sailing and swimming. 
Shopping:Norrmalm is a great place to start if you fancy shopping for some of that matchless Swedish style. The stores in this area run from independent boutiques and designer brands to high street classics. In winter, the Gallerian provides warmth, shelter and more than 80 stores.
Getting into Stockholm from Stockholm Arlanda Airport
The Arlanda Express train takes 20 minutes to deliver visitors from the airport into Central Station in Stockholm and services are frequent.
Local trains also depart from Arlanda Central Station in SkyCity, which can be found between terminals four and five. These also arrive at Central Station, though the journey is closer to 40 minutes.
Frequent bus and coach services make the journey between Arlanda Airport and central destinations in Stockholm. The journey can take around 40 minutes.
Taxis are available from outside all terminals. The cost is fixed to most areas of central Stockholm for up to four passengers but always ask what this is before you set off.
Getting around on weekend breaks in Stockholm
Public transport: Coming under one umbrella, the public transport services are excellent in Stockholm, and you only need one integrated ticket to use the extensive subway network, known as the Tunnelbana, as well as the city's trains and buses. All areas are well connected, with the Tunnelbana operating via around 100 stations.
On foot: Stockholm is an immensely pretty city and exploration of the inner islands on foot is highly recommended.
Bike: Cycling is a great way to get around, though many bike loan schemes only operate during the warmer months.
