For decades, the profits of Sweden's post-war prosperity have poured into the boutiques and stores of Stockholm. The result is a shopper's paradise. The area around Biblioteksgatan has most major European fashion designers, while antique shops can be found around Odengatan.

Open all day at Östermalmstorg, Östermalms Saluhall is arguably northern Europe's loveliest covered food market, although locals will more often be thronging the grocery at Stockholm's department stores or malls like Pk-Huset, Hamngatan 10. NK (Nordiska Kompaniet), Hamngatan 18-20, has over 100 departments, selling everything from crafts to health food. Gallerian, Hamngatan 37, is another large shopping complex.

The pick of Swedish glass is on hand at Nordiska Kristall, Kungsgatan 9, over 80 years old, or the arts and crafts emporium Konsthantverkarna, at Södermalms Torg 4. Norrgavel, Birger Jarlsgatan 27, has a great selection of cool home furnishings. Nordiska Galleriet, Nybrogatan 11, excels in furniture design, and Designtorget, Götgaten 21, in eclectic curiosities.

Standard Swedish shopping hours are Monday to Friday 0900-1600 and Saturday 0900-1400. In Stockholm, however, many stores are open for longer and on Sunday. Visitors leaving the country may reclaim the standard VAT tariff of 25% within 30 days of purchase - only available at shops displaying the ‘tax free shopping' sign. The receipt and unopened goods must be presented at the airport for a refund. Global Refund (tel: (04) 104 8450; website: www.globalrefund.com) can provide further information.