Sarah Sjöström: My 5 Stockholm favorites
Publish date: 4 April 2025
Since her breakthrough at 14, Sarah Sjöström has been one of the brightest stars in the swimming world – something that became even more evident after her two gold medals at the Paris Olympics. Stockholm has always been her home base, and here are her 5 Stockholm recommendations.
Sarah Sjöström has won nearly everything there is to win in her sport. At the same time, she has become one of Sweden’s most beloved athletes and has gained international stardom. If you’re into swimming, you definitely know who Sarah Sjöström is. She also has a strong connection to Stockholm. It was here that she took her first strokes, and until recently, she lived in Södermalm – now, she resides in Lidingö instead.
“I enjoy going into the city to take a walk, have coffee, and eat dinner, but I prefer having my home in a calmer part of Stockholm. We really enjoy living outside the city center,” she says.
One major reason she’s stayed in Stockholm is because her coaching team is based here, which has allowed her to focus full-time on her sport while still enjoying life in her hometown. Despite strong interest from Swedish fans to see her compete live, few have had the chance. Since the World Cup stopped hosting competitions in Stockholm, there haven’t been many international events – but that is starting to change thanks to the Malmsten Swim Open Stockholm.
“It’s really fun with a competition that grows every year. It takes place at a time when many swimmers are trying to qualify for championships, which means it’s a great opportunity for Swedish swimmers who don’t have the means to travel abroad to still compete against international athletes,” Sarah says.
In 2025, Sarah won’t be competing – she’s expecting her first child and has taken a year off from elite-level swimming. While she’s scaled back her training, she’s far from idle. She continues to stay active and is currently studying Business Management at IHM Business School in Stockholm. Her goal is to compete in the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028 – and maybe we’ll see her at the Malmsten Swim Open Stockholm again soon.
“I’ve never needed to be at my peak for this competition, since I usually hit the qualifying times anyway. But it’s a good mid-season check to see where I’m at. I’ve been close to the world record a few times, so it can still go pretty fast,” she explains.
Sarah Sjöström’s 5 Stockholm Recommendations
Fika: “I love fika and can’t limit myself to just one recommendation – so here are three different cafés that are all worth a visit. Vattenverket is great if you’re traveling by car or don’t mind a longer public transport trip. It offers a nature-close experience near the city. Two other recommendations are Stora Bageriet and Skeppsbro Bageri.”
Skansen: “Definitely worth at least half a day. I find it super nice – both with and without kids.”
Djurgården: “A perfect place for a walk or a run. Beautiful surroundings and often a fresh breeze from the water.”
Monteliusvägen: “Another great walk with stunning views. I think you should finish with a picnic at Skinnarviksberget.”
Millesgården: “Lidingö’s most famous attraction is worth a visit – the beautiful surroundings and impressive statues are a must. They also have a great restaurant if you’re feeling hungry.”