Gamla Stan is Stockholm's old town, a knot of medieval lanes on its own island. The bars here trade on history, from vaulted stone cellars to one of Europe's oldest restaurants, with a few serious modern rooms among them. Compare them with our best cocktail bars in Stockholm and the full Stockholm bar guide.
Stortorget · $$$
Pharmarium sits on Stortorget in a former 1600s apothecary, mixing Nordic led cocktails with house bitters under stone arches. It is the old town's most ambitious bar and a strong pick for a special occasion.
Gamla Stan · $$$
The Flying Elk, from chef Björn Frantzén's group, runs a gastropub with a serious beer and cocktail list beside elevated bar food. The downstairs room is the one to ask for.
Lilla Nygatan · $$$
Djuret pairs a meat led restaurant with a small bar on Lilla Nygatan, strong on Swedish spirits and a careful wine list. It suits a quiet, grown up evening in the old town.
Österlånggatan · $$$
Den Gyldene Freden has served since 1722 and is owned by the Swedish Academy. The vaulted cellar bar pours classic drinks in one of Europe's oldest continuously running restaurants.
Gamla Stan · $$
Stampen has hosted live jazz in a cluttered Gamla Stan cellar since the 1960s. Bands play most nights and the room stays loud and friendly until late.
Gamla Stan · $$
Aifur runs a Viking themed hall with mead, horns, and live music in a candlelit old town cellar. It leans theatrical and books out with visitors, so reserve.