Michael Kors recently enjoyed a sun-soaked Nordic escape filled with picturesque scenery, tasty food and culture. This is the American fashion designer's must-visit spots across Sweden and Norway
Summer is arguably one of the best times to visit the Nordics – nature in full bloom, perfectly pleasant temperatures, sunshine lingering late into the evening, and a treasure trove of breathtaking places beckoning to be explored.
Renowned American fashion designer Michael Kors recently embarked on his very own Scandinavian adventure, spending his vacation traversing Sweden and Norway, discovering some of the finest our region has to offer. We were lucky enough to get a peek inside Kors’ travel diary, complete with his recommendations for the top spots to visit.
Scroll on for all the gems the designer uncovered during his Scandinavian sojurn.
Sweden
“Sweet on Sweden! The low-key chic of Stockholm, the seaside cool of Gothenburg, the gorgeous islands of the archipelago, and the long sun-filled days – Sweden is magic,” Kors proclaims.
When visiting the Swedish capital, the designer’s choice for accommodation is the luxury sanctuary Ett Hem, nestled in a stunning old townhouse in Östermalm (and just a few steps away from the Vogue Scandinavia head office). “It truly feels like a home away from home,” he says.
The lush nature makes summer the perfect time to visit Scandinavia. Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors
Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors
Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors
While in the leafy neighbourhood, Kors recommends indulging in some shopping and snacks – or a Swedish fika (a coffee break). “Svenskt Tenn has super chic home objects galore and a great café for lunch. But make sure you leave room for a stop at Östermalms Food Hall, a 19th-century market with local favourites,” he notes.
Other Stockholm restaurants he suggests for mouthwatering bites include the legendary “Art Nouveau meets Gentlemen’s Club space” Operabaren, known for its delectable meatballs, and Sturehof, celebrated for its fresh seafood dishes. More of Kors’ must-visit spots include Wedholms Fisk for the tastiest fish, along with the scenic Mälarpaviljongen. “Who doesn’t love a drink on the water? And the lush greenery makes you feel like you’ve left the hustle of the city,” he says.
Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors
Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors
As for other activities to keep you busy during your city break, Kors recommends popping by the popular ABBA museum “for the camp, fun, and memories,” as well as enjoying a little retail therapy by browsing the refined hand-woven rugs at Nordic Knots and the vintage gallery Modernity for “incredibly Scandinavian” preloved treasures.
If you yearn to venture out of the city and into nature, the idyllic surrounding islands offer the perfect getaway. “Spend a day boating in the Stockholm Archipelago,” says Kors. “We love Vaxholm for its charming town. Enjoy a casual lunch at Bistro Magasinet.”
Norway
“Norway is a knockout,” says Kors. “Nature, the Fjords, the modernist opera house in Oslo, divine people, delicious seafood, and, of course, The Scream by Munch. Sensational Scandinavia.”
In the Norwegian capital, the opulent and historic Sommerro hotel, tucked away in Frogner, guarantees the ultimate stay, topped off with an exquisite wellness oasis. “Scandinavian chic fused with Art Deco glamour, and who doesn’t love a dip in a heated rooftop pool after exploring the city?” says Kors.
The aforementioned The Scream and a host of other masterpieces are on display at the National Museum of Norway, where Kors suggests a stroll for an immersive, art-filled experience. If you’re feeling famished, Kors recommends swinging by Engebret Café, a quaint lunch spot in the heart of the city since 1857.
Norway's pristine and breathtaking nature makes it one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors
Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors
Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors
Oslo boasts a wealth of great shopping opportunities, and on Kors’ list are Devold “for classic Norwegian knitwear to keep you warm and dry,” Rains for the most fashion-forward yet functional wet gear, and Steen & Strøm, the must-see, oldest high-end department store in the world. During your wander around town, Kors also suggests taking a walk on the roof of the Opera House, a sight worth checking out just for its cutting-edge architecture. When it’s time for dinner, one eatery remains Kors’ favourite: “St Lars, a velvet-clad bistro with incredible barbecued meats and one of the city’s best burgers.”
Norway is revered for its unparalleled natural splendour, and if you wish to explore it, Kors suggests heading to Bergen or Ålesund, where you can revel in some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. “Spend some time cruising in the Fjords to take in the incredible untouched beauty,” Kors says.
Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors
A very Scandinavian dish, Toast Skagen, in Norway. Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors
Walking on the roof of Oslo's Opera House. Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors