Stockholm is a city that knows how to enjoy itself – but not without a few rules. If you’ve ever heard about “that weird country where you have a special store for alcohol,” you’ve heard right.
Buying alcohol in Sweden is a little different from most places in Europe, and if you’re visiting Stockholm for the first time, it’s worth knowing how it all works before you find yourself staring in confusion at an empty supermarket shelf.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about where to buy alcohol in Stockholm, what the Swedish alcohol laws mean in practice, how much you can expect to pay, and a few local tips on how Swedes enjoy their drinks responsibly and stylishly.
Understanding Alcohol in Sweden
Let’s start with the basics. Alcohol in Sweden is regulated by the government, and has been for over a century. The idea isn’t to make life difficult for you; it’s to promote public health and reduce alcohol-related problems.
Back in the 1800s, drinking in Sweden got a little out of hand. To tackle the issue, the state introduced a monopoly system, meaning that only one organisation – called Systembolaget – can sell stronger alcoholic drinks (above 3.5% ABV) for home consumption.
So, when you’re buying alcohol in Sweden, you’ll quickly learn that while you can pick up a low-strength beer at the supermarket, anything stronger – wine, spirits, craft beer, or cider – needs to come from a Systembolaget store.
The funny thing is, once you get used to it, the system makes a lot of sense. You won’t find flashy deals or “buy two, get one free” offers. Instead, you’ll find an incredible selection of wines, whiskies, and local craft beers curated purely on quality, not profit.
What is the Legal Drinking Age in Sweden?
The legal drinking age in Sweden depends on where you’re buying or drinking.
- To buy alcohol in Systembolaget, you must be 20 years old.
- To buy drinks in a bar or restaurant, the legal age to drink in Sweden is 18.
If you look young, expect to be asked for ID – even locals are. Swedes take this seriously, and Systembolaget employees won’t hesitate to refuse service if you’re underage or lack identification.
Don’t be offended; it’s just part of how Swedish alcohol laws work. They’re designed to promote moderation rather than abstinence, and locals generally appreciate the balance.
Where to Buy Alcohol in Stockholm
So, where can you actually buy wine in Stockholm or pick up a few beers before a night with friends? Let’s go through your options.
Systembolaget: Sweden’s State-Run Alcohol Store
Welcome to Systembolaget, the state-owned chain where nearly every bottle of Swedish alcohol you’ll see outside a bar is sold. There are around 80 stores across Stockholm, each with the same policy: responsible, informed sales.
Here’s what to expect:
- A calm, well-organised shop floor (no chaos or last-minute bargains).
- Knowledgeable staff who actually enjoy helping you find the right bottle.
- A huge international selection – from South African Shiraz to small-batch Swedish gin.
If you’re looking for a particular wine in Stockholm, chances are you’ll find it here. You can even browse the Systembolaget website before visiting; it lists every product and which store currently has it in stock. The chain is not about profit, so prices are set consistently across the country, and you won’t find advertisements or special deals.
Buying Wine and Beer
If you’re only after light beer (3.5% ABV or less), you can buy it at any supermarket – ICA, Coop, Hemköp, or Lidl all stock it. But anything stronger falls under Systembolaget’s domain.
Want to pick up a bottle of rosé for a picnic on Djurgården or a crisp craft lager to sip at your Airbnb? Then Systembolaget is your go-to.
For something local, try:
- Nya Carnegie Bryggeriet – a Stockholm craft brewery whose beers often feature at Systembolaget.
- Bränneriet – a distillery on Södermalm producing Swedish gin and aquavit.
- Poppels or Omnipollo – both Swedish favourites offering inventive, flavour-packed beers.
Opening Hours and Rules
Here’s where visitors often get caught out.
- Weekdays: Most Systembolaget stores open around 10:00 and close by 18:00.
- Saturdays: They close early – usually 15:00.
- Sundays: All stores are closed.
That means if you’re planning a dinner party or weekend celebration, buy your drinks ahead of time. There’s no sneaking into a corner shop for wine at 10 p.m. here.
Bars and restaurants, however, operate as usual. You can enjoy a drink with dinner any day of the week, as long as you’re ordering it to be consumed on-site.
How Much Is a Beer in Sweden?
Let’s talk prices, because buying alcohol in Sweden can surprise visitors.
Here’s a rough guide to what you can expect to pay in Stockholm:
| Drink | Average Price (SEK) | Approx. EUR | Approx. USD |
| Pint of beer in a bar | 90–110 SEK | €8–9 | $8.50–9.50 |
| Bottle of wine (Systembolaget) | 120–200 SEK | €10–17 | $10.50–18 |
| Cocktail in a bar | 150–200 SEK | €13–17 | $14–18 |
| Bottle of local craft beer (Systembolaget) | 30–45 SEK | €2.50–4 | $2.70–4.20 |
Prices are higher than in many European cities, but the quality is excellent. And when you remember the city’s high wages, fair taxes, and quality-of-life balance, it all makes sense.
Where to Enjoy a Drink in Stockholm
Stockholm has a knack for style, even when it comes to something as simple as a glass of wine. You’ll find cosy corners, rooftop bars, and waterfront spots that make enjoying a drink part of the experience.
Old Town (Gamla Stan)
For atmosphere, Gamla Stan is hard to beat. Think cobblestone streets, medieval facades, and candlelit pubs tucked into centuries-old buildings. Wirströms Pub is a favourite for craft beer and live music, but there are many other places that offer Scandinavian wine pairings that showcase Sweden’s modern food scene.
If you want to explore Stockholm’s craft beer scene while soaking in the history of Gamla Stan, join our Stockholm Craft Beer Tour. This walking tour will take you through the historic heart of the city, visiting local breweries and bars where you can sample some of the best brews Stockholm has to offer, all while hearing fascinating stories about the city’s past.
Södermalm
This is Stockholm’s creative heart, and one of the best areas for nightlife. You’ll find microbreweries, quirky bars, and trendy natural wine spots. Omnipollos hatt serves excellent pizza and some of the best beer in town, brewed by the legendary Omnipollo. For cocktails, try Paradiso or Tjoget, both with a laid-back but sophisticated vibe.
If you’re a fan of craft beer, then our Södermalm Craft Beer Tour will give you the perfect taste of this trendy neighbourhood. On this tour, you’ll explore Södermalm’s craft beer spots, enjoying a variety of local brews while soaking up the area’s creative energy. It’s a fun way to discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
Östermalm
If your evening calls for elegance, Östermalm has plenty of sleek wine bars and hotel lounges. Tyge & Sessil is perfect for anyone curious about biodynamic wines, while Cadierbaren at the Grand Hôtel offers impeccable cocktails with a view over the water.
Bars, Breweries & Wine Spots Locals Love
Locals tend to drink less frequently but more thoughtfully. Here are a few spots that reflect that balance:
- Akkurat (Södermalm): A legendary beer bar with one of the largest whisky collections in Scandinavia.
- Nya Carnegie Bryggeriet (Hammarby Sjöstad): A brewery and restaurant in a converted warehouse by the water – great for both tours and tastings.
- Folii (Södermalm): A wine bar run by sommeliers who know exactly what you didn’t know you wanted to drink.
- Bar Central (Vasastan): A modern take on a Central European beer hall, where pilsner is poured with precision and pride.
If you’re joining one of Ourway Tours’ private guided tours in Stockholm, you’ll likely pass a few of these neighbourhoods. Our guides love to share personal favourites, and sometimes even recommend which bar has the best late-night fika pairing.
Tips for Buying Alcohol in Sweden
- Bring ID – Even if you’re well past your twenties. Systembolaget staff are strict about checking.
- Plan ahead – Remember Saturday afternoon and Sunday closures.
- Avoid drinking outdoors – Public drinking is generally frowned upon, and some areas ban it entirely.
- Take advantage of the variety – Systembolaget carries drinks from around the world; it’s a great chance to try something new.
- Try local brews – Sweden’s craft beer and gin scene is booming. Don’t leave without sampling one or two.
Why Sweden’s Alcohol Laws Work
It might seem restrictive, but Swedish alcohol laws actually contribute to the country’s relaxed drinking culture. There’s no rush to overindulge, no endless happy hours. People drink for flavour, company, and atmosphere, not excess.
The funny thing is, once you get used to it, you might even prefer it. You’ll find fewer loud crowds and more thoughtful conversations over a glass of red by the water.
And if you’re visiting, understanding how alcohol in Sweden is managed gives you a glimpse into the country’s character – measured, respectful, quietly sophisticated.
So, Where Should You Buy Alcohol in Stockholm?
The short answer: Systembolaget. The longer answer: it depends on what kind of experience you want.
If you’re stocking up for a quiet evening at your hotel, the state stores have everything you need. If you’d rather soak up local life, head to a neighbourhood bar in Södermalm or a wine terrace in Östermalm.
Whether it’s a pint in a cosy pub, a glass of chilled white wine overlooking the harbour, or a shot of aquavit with your herring, Stockholm proves that good things really are worth waiting for.
If you want to see more of the city’s food and drink culture through a local’s eyes, join one of Ourway Tours’ food and drink tours in Sweden. From brewery stops to fika breaks, our guides know where the city’s flavour truly lives.
FAQs
You can buy beer under 3.5% ABV in supermarkets, but for wine, spirits, or stronger beer, you must go to a Systembolaget store — the only legal retailer for alcohol over 3.5%.
You must be 20 years old to buy alcohol in Systembolaget, but you can buy and drink in restaurants and bars from age 18.
Systembolaget is the place to go for wine. There are about 80 locations in the Stockholm area, with staff who can help you find wines from all over the world.
Expect to pay around 90–110 SEK (€8–9 / $8.50–9.50) for a pint in a bar, or 30–45 SEK (€2.50–4 / $2.70–4.20) at Systembolaget.
Yes, but they’re fair. Swedish alcohol laws limit sales to specific hours and prohibit discounts or promotions. The idea is to encourage responsible drinking, and it works – you’ll notice Stockholm’s nightlife feels relaxed, not rowdy.
