Stockholm's best waterfront bars

What is it? Mälarpaviljongen is a true Stockholm classic that has been brightening up the capital for more than 20 years. Mention a bar by the water and most people will immediately think of this lush summer oasis on Norr Mälarstrand.

Why we love it? For its one-of-a-kind atmosphere, with bubbling fountains, happy guests and beautiful ceramic pots of every shape and colour overflowing with flowers. Right in the middle of it all, a duck wanders around in search of crumbs among dogs, children and fluttering Pride flags. On the table you'll find snacks, a crisp glass of white wine and the classic bowl of fresh strawberries that you know you'll order every time, even though it feels like daylight robbery.

Take a seat at one of the classic café tables on the gravel, settle into the lounge by the bar or head right out to the jetty and jump into the water. Few things beat a swim in Riddarfjärden from the gently bobbing pontoon.

Time Out tip: Pack your towel.

Norr Mälarstrand 64, Kungsholmen. Open May-September, daily approximately 11.00-23.00, weather permitting.

What is it? A bar and restaurant located on a pier at Kristinebergs strand on Kungsholmen.

Why we love it? For the friendly staff and the holiday feel you get when you settle in on the narrow waterside terrace, surrounded by palm trees right at the water’s edge. The views across to Traneberg and Pampas are hard to beat, too. As Piren is on the larger side, it’s an easy place to gather the whole group and order a refreshing jug of sangria. Just outside the restaurant, you’ll find the popular swimming jetties, where guests often take a dip before or after their meal.

Time Out tip: Piren’s signature cocktails. We’re going for the ‘How to Kill a Djungelbird’, made with chai, rum, pineapple and coconut cream.

Kristinebergs strand 102, Kungsholmen. Cocktails cost SEK 175 and a jug of sangria is SEK 650. Open daily from 11.30 until late.

What is it? A hidden gem and one of the city’s best date spots, located in Hammarby Sjöstad, south of the city centre.

Why we love it? Because it just so happens to be one of the best places in Stockholm to watch the sun go down. The café’s magical wooden terrace is built like a giant staircase that gradually descends all the way to the water, so you can settle in just centimetres from the surface, raise a glass, watch the perch leap and see the sky turn red. The restaurant is tucked away among the residential buildings and there isn’t much else in the immediate area, but that doesn’t matter – Göteborg is well worth the detour.

Time Out tip: Walk here along Hammarbykajen. You can also arrive by boat – the free ferry M/S Emelie, operated by Ressel Rederi, runs from Nybroplan via Djurgården and stops at Luma.

Midskeppsgatan 31, Hammarby Sjöstad. Open Mon-Thu 16.00 until late, Fri 11.30 until late, Sat-Sun 12.00 until late. A glass of the house wine costs around SEK 145 and a main course around SEK 300.

What is it? A sleek, glamorous waterside hangout with Riviera vibes, located at the far end of Strandvägskajen.

Why we love it? Strandbryggan is the perfect place when it’s time for a daytime party and you want to show off your most expensive sunglasses. The atmosphere is knowingly pretentious. You know the type: dress to impress, and no shorts for men.

People raise glasses of Champagne and ice-cold rosé to the soundtrack of lively DJ sets, while the spot at the very end of the pier means you’ll catch the sun well into the evening. It’s not for everyone, but that’s also part of the appeal.

Time Out tip: Book a table or arrive early.

Strandvägen, Kajplats 27, right by Djurgårdsbron. Age limit: 23. Expect to pay around SEK 92 for a beer, SEK 160 for a glass of wine and SEK 300 for a Caesar salad.

What is it? An elegant building at the gateway to the Royal Djurgården, bringing together three venues under one roof.

Why we love it? Perhaps because it sits at one of Stockholm’s most obvious addresses, it’s surprisingly often overlooked by the city’s own residents. Djurgårdsbron is a brilliant all-rounder that delivers whatever the occasion. You’ll find everything from freshly baked pizza at Bryggan to indulgent sandwiches at Strandhäxan, as well as coffee and cakes at Stockholm 1897. There’s also a sauna available to hire, and if you fancy heading out onto the water, pedal boats can be rented from the small beach.

Time Out tip: The Wednesday soup lunch at 1897. It’s a spot-on choice if you’re after a seriously good budget lunch without compromising on sustainability. Sitting here in the middle of the week with a steaming bowl of soup while looking out over one of the city’s finest views is a great way to add a little sparkle to everyday life.

Djurgårdsvägen 2, Östermalm/Djurgården. Open daily approximately 10.00 until late. A margherita costs SEK 165, while the other pizzas are more expensive. If you opt for a grilled cheese instead, expect to pay around SEK 200.

What is it? A gimmick that genuinely delivers. Södermalm’s floating Thai restaurant has been moored at Skanstull for more than 20 years and is now part of the Stockholm cityscape.

Why we love it? You might think a floating Thai restaurant survives on its setting alone, but the food is every bit as enjoyable as the atmosphere. We’re happy to order the fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce and the papaya salad, followed by their excellent panang curry. The portions are generous too, so you definitely get good value for money.

With its twinkling lights and swaying palm trees, Thaiboat is also a hit with kids, so if you’re looking for a family-friendly restaurant, this is one to add to your list. And there’s something rather special about ordering a Mai Tai, settling onto the floating beach and burying your toes in the sand. Holiday vibes are guaranteed.

Time Out tip: For the past few years, you haven’t had to wait for summer. During the winter season (starting in September), you can enjoy the food in the restaurant’s heated glass igloos.

Kajplats 301, Norra Hammarbyhamnen, Skanstull. Open daily during the summer, although opening hours may vary depending on the season and weather.

What is it? A laid-back waterside bar with a Caribbean feel, hidden away on long floating pontoons beneath Liljeholmsbron.

Why we love it? At Loopen, the atmosphere is genuinely relaxed, with a real come-as-you-are vibe. With plastic palm trees in the corners, slightly wobbly chairs and cold, wallet-friendly beers in hand, it’s hard not to feel at home.

Time Out tip: If you're here at the weekend, make time to browse Hornstulls Marknad, or take a short detour to Tantolunden for a relaxing afternoon in the park.

Expect to pay SEK 75 for a large beer. Open during the summer season Monday-Sunday, 11.30-22.00 (or until the last guest leaves, weather permitting).