How to celebrate Ramadan in Stockholm as a visitor

What Ramadan means in Sweden

Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims when Muslims around the world abstain from food from dusk to dawn. It is one of the five pillars of Islam which is considered a bootcamp to exercise restraint and patience. The ultimate aim is considered to become spiritually close to God. It is a time of reflection, prayer, charity and community. One of the main focus is to read the Holy Quran every day from the beginning to end during the month.

Sweden’s diverse population makes Ramadan a meaningful period of cultural exchange and mutual understanding. For many Muslims living in Sweden, the month is both spiritually grounding and socially enriching. Across Sweden, many cities host community iftars and cultural gatherings that bring people together. Iftar is the evening meal eaten at sunset to break the fast. Each day, fasting lasts from sunrise to sunset and is followed by the Maghrib prayer. The month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a joyful celebration marked by prayer, charity, and family gatherings. Many local businesses and corporations in Sweden are not only promoting products traditionally consumed during Ramadan, but are also beginning to align their campaigns, partnerships, and community initiatives with the spirit and values of the holy month.

As a Muslim, my favourite aspect of Ramadan is the opportunity to slow down. It is a time to detox mentally, spiritually, and physically. It allows space for reflection and gratitude, for faith, for food, and for family. At home, we prepare special meals and traditional dishes. At the same time, we also enjoy supporting local restaurants, especially those offering halal and culturally familiar cuisine.

Stockholm Mosque (Zayed Mosque) on Södermalm – a place for community, prayer, and cultural events during Ramadan.

My tips for experiencing Ramadan in Stockholm

For Muslim tourists and visitors to Sweden, particularly those visiting Stockholm, here is my recommended list of things to do and places to enjoy iftar during Ramadan:

1. Visit a Mosque for Taraweeh Prayers

The Stockholm Mosque (Zayed Mosque) welcomes worshippers for evening prayers and lectures. People offer and share their meals with others.

2. Join a Community Iftar

Many mosques, cultural and political organizations host open iftars. These gatherings promote interfaith dialogue and inclusion.

3. Explore Muslim-Friendly Neighborhoods

Areas such as Skärholmen, Rinkeby, and Kista offer diverse food shops and halal markets.

4. Engage in Charity (Zakat & Sadaqah)

Support local initiatives or volunteer with Swedish humanitarian organizations.

5. Prepare for Eid Celebrations

Before Eid al-Fitr, markets and shops sell sweets, clothing, and gifts. Families gather for prayer, meals, and cultural celebrations.

The Stockholm metro’s Blue Line towards Rinkeby and Kista passes several of the city’s artistically decorated underground stations.

Where I break my fast (iftar) in Stockholm

Stockholm’s Muslim communities come from the Middle East, the Horn of Africa, the Balkans, Turkey, Iran, Central Asia, and South Asia. Ramadan here is therefore culturally rich and beautifully diverse.

Below is a balanced selection of restaurants and experiences representing different traditions. These restaurants reflect different Muslim cultural backgrounds present in Sweden.

Visitors are encouraged to confirm halal status and Ramadan hours in advance but many restaurants offer extended hours during Ramadan.

Middle Eastern & Arab Traditions

• Sweet and Salti – Palestinian cuisine in a beautiful and cosy restaurant near Odenplan
• Beirut Café – Lebanese classics in a welcoming setting.
• Damascus Gate – Traditional Syrian dishes and sweets.

Turkish Cuisine

• Mangal BBQ – Turkish grill specialties.
• Pascha Kolgrill – Charcoal-grilled meats and shawarma.
• Kebab House – Popular Turkish fast-casual option.
• Nefis Baklava & Börek House – Highly rated for fresh baklava and börek in Norsborg and Handen.

Persian / Iranian

• Diwan – Persian stews and kebabs in a calm atmosphere.

Somali & East African

• Hooyo’s Café – Somali-inspired café on Skärholmsvägen serving classic Somali comfort foods and snacks like basbaas sauces and [traditional dishes]. (Not business-entity listed but well known locally.)

Afghan & Central Asian

• Arya Restaurang – Afghan rice dishes and grilled meats.

South Asian (Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi)

• Jalvi Pakistani & Indian Food – Flavorful BBQ and curries.
• Kista Garden
• Chilli Masala

Ramadan in Sweden is primarily a religious and spiritual observance but in Sweden, it is also a living example of multicultural Sweden. It reflects coexistence, respect, and shared public space. For visitors, it offers an opportunity to experience Sweden beyond stereotypes, through hospitality, food, faith, and community.