Staying at Nomad Gardet Hostel, Stockholm, Sweden — My Experience
Intro
Nomad Gardet Hostel makes an excellent base in Stockholm, even though it’s slightly off the beaten track. It’s just a short ride on the number one bus and tucked away in a quiet location — a welcome contrast to the bustle of the city centre during high season. If you’re looking to volunteer, this is also a hostel that welcomes extra help.
📍 Location & Getting There
The hostel is about 3.9 km from Stockholm’s main railway and bus station. Getting there is straightforward if you plan ahead:
Bus: Take the number one bus from the city centre.
Tram: Take the number 7 tram to the bridge and walk the last 1.5 km (ask the conductor if unsure).
Scooter: The best option — Lime, Bolt, or Voi scooters are widely available. Costs about €2.30 versus €4 for a tram ride.
Senior Tip: Bring sturdy walking shoes for Stockholm’s cobblestone streets.
👋 First Impressions
Entry is via door codes sent on the day of arrival. Generally, someone is on hand to welcome guests, explain facilities, and go over house rules. My own arrival at 9:30 pm was unstaffed, which made settling in less smooth, but the hostel usually provides a warmer welcome.
🛌 Rooms
Nomad Gardet Hostel offers both private rooms and mixed dorms. Rooms are more spacious than many hostels, and beds are sturdy with:
Fresh linen & towel (a real bonus)
Small shelf & locker (bring your own padlock or rent one)
Privacy curtains & power outlets
Ensuite toilet/shower (plus a spare toilet near the kitchen)
Staff thoughtfully reserved me a bottom bunk as requested — make requests before you arrive.
Note: Guests arriving late at night may need to make their own bed, which can disturb others in the room.
Suggested improvements:
Pre-made beds for late arrivals
Softer, individual bedside lights (current ones are bright)
Air conditioning for hot summer nights
🍳 Common Spaces & Facilities
The kitchen is well-equipped with a fridge, microwave, rice maker, air fryer, toaster, and TV. The large dining area is the heartbeat of the hostel, encouraging guests to gather and share stories. Free tea and coffee are available all day.
A few things could make the space even better:
Adding a stove for full cooking
A sofa or couch to create a more relaxed lounge area
Dedicated workspace for digital nomads (currently limited to the kitchen)
The hostel enforces a no-shoes policy (indoor slippers are provided). Wi-Fi is strong throughout.
💰 Value for Money
I paid €122 for 4 nights in a 6-bed dorm in early September (around €30/night). This is slightly higher than some hostels given the location, but with the added towel, free tea/coffee, and good facilities, it represents reasonable value outside high season.
♿ Accessibility
The reception is located downstairs in the basement and is only accessible by stairs. This may be a challenge for seniors or travellers with mobility concerns.
Reception hours are 3 pm–11 pm, with limited staff presence outside these times, so plan arrivals carefully.
On the positive side, the staff were thoughtful and ensured I had a lower bunk, which was greatly appreciated.
👥 Who This Hostel is Best Suited For
Seniors & mature travellers: Spacious rooms, quiet location, and thoughtful staff (though stairs could be a challenge).
Budget travellers: Reasonable value, especially off-season.
Digital nomads: Strong Wi-Fi, though the workspace is limited to the kitchen.
Volunteers: Opportunities to lend a hand and be part of the community.
Small groups/friends: Large dining area makes socialising easy.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Nomad Gardet Hostel is a well-run hostel with strong potential. With just a few small tweaks — like softer lighting, a proper lounge area, and pre-made beds for late arrivals — it could go from very good to excellent.
I stayed 4 nights and would recommend it to travellers visiting Stockholm.
⭐ My Ratings
Staff: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8/10)
Room: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (9/10)
Location: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8/10)
Common Spaces: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8.5/10)
Facilities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8.5/10)
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8.4/10)