Travel Guide - Snus in Stockholm
Welcome to Stockholm! Whether you’re curious about local habits or want to experience something uniquely Swedish, exploring snus is one way to immerse yourself in our culture. We're here to guide you through the journey, starting with what snus actually is, how to use it, the many names and most importantly, where to find it.
What is snus?
Snus is a smokeless tobacco product, typically placed under the upper lip. It has actually been a part of Swedish culture for hundreds of years.
Here’s a fun fact: When powdered tobacco reached Sweden in the 1600s, the upper class inhaled it through the nose. But working-class Swedes needed something more practical, since they were working with their hands. So, they came up with snus – a version you tuck under your lip, leaving your hands free to get on with the day. Today, over one million Swedes use snus daily.
Different snus types
So, what kind of snus can you buy on your Swedish excursion? In Stockholm, you'll encounter the following:
Traditional snus – As you hear in the name, this is the most traditional version of snus. These pouches contain tobacco and come in either loose form or in pre-packed pouches (called “portion”).
You’ll find flavors ranging from tobacco to mint, licorice, citrus, bergamot, and more. Note that the packaged portions can be either white or brown, depending on the moisture level. The white is called “white portion” while the brown is called “portionssnus”.
White snus (also called nicotine pouches or all white) – A tobacco-free alternative of snus.
These often come with a wider selection of flavors, such as berry, mint, tropical, and they also come in higher nicotine levels.
📍 P.s. Keep in mind, snus is a tobacco product and white snus is a nicotine product - in order to purchase any of these you have to be 18 years or older.
How do you use it?
Swedes don’t complicate things. Here is how to use a pouch:
- Take a pouch (called a prilla)
- Place it under your upper lip.
- Leave it for as long as you prefer. For reference, most snusers leave it in for about 10–30 minutes or longer.
- Throw it in the bin, or use the top compartment in the snus can.
- Good to know: Empty the top compartment regularly – nobody likes a forgotten pile of used prillor!
No chewing, spitting, or swallowing needed.
Curious about the snus vocabulary?
If you’re wondering how to pronounce “snus” – it’s something like “snuuus” [snuːs]. In Swedish, the letter “u” is pronounced with rounded lips, a bit like the French “u”. But don’t worry – even if you say “snuss” Swedes will still understand you.
Curious about how locals talk about snus? Here's a short guide:
- Prilla – One pouch of snus
- Dosa – The can that holds your snus
- Snusare – A snus user
- Vitt snus – White snus / nicotine pouch
- Dubbelmacka - Putting two pouches in at the same time. This is pretty uncommon, but not unheard of.
- Baksnus – Baksnus is basically loose snus, and it doesn’t come in pouches. Instead, you pinch and shape it by hand before placing it under your lip.
Now that you are a bit more familiar with our language, let’s move on to where to purchase snus in Stockholm.
Where to buy snus - snus stores in Stockholm
In Sweden, snus is usually sold in most kiosks and supermarkets. You’ll find snus in:
- Convenience stores (like Pressbyrån or 7-Eleven)
- Supermarkets (ICA, Coop, Hemköp)
- Kiosks and gas stations
- Tobacco stores - look for the word “tobak” on the sign.
📍 Look for the small refrigerator near the counter – that’s usually the snus section.
If you want to ask for snus in Swedish, here’s how to do it: “Kan jag köpa en dosa snus?”
Translation: “Can I buy a can of snus?”
Just remember: you must be 18 or older to buy, so bring your ID-card if necessary.
Nearest snus store from your hotel
In Stockholm, convenience stores like Pressbyrån and 7-Eleven are widespread and are usually located within a short walking distance from hotels. If you are staying at any of these hotels - here’s the nearest convenience store for you:
Grand Hôtel
Staying at the Grand Hôtel? Then you're right in one of Stockholm’s most luxurious neighborhoods. Not bad!
The closest convenience store for you is Pressbyrån on Hamngatan 32, and it’s just a 12-minute walk away.
Scandic Malmen
If you are staying at Scandic hotel in Södermalm, welcome to one of the very hip areas of Stockholm!
If you’re on a quest for snus - your nearest convenience store is 7-Eleven. It’s a 5-minute walk up the street, to Götgatan 25.
Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel
From the Radisson hotel, everything you might want to see or do is just a short walk away.
Your nearest convenience store is Pressbyrån at the Central station - Approximately a 3-minute walk away from your hotel.
Can you buy snus online?
You’ll need a Swedish ID to order snus online – so unless you’re staying with a local aged 18 or older who can place the order for you, it might be a bit tricky. However, all shops that sell snus accept international IDs as long as you're 18 or older.
A few notes before you go
Now you hopefully know a little bit more about how to buy snus in Stockholm. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
✅ The nicotine level in white snus (nicotine pouches) can feel stronger than traditional tobacco snus.
✅ Don’t swallow it. Just let it sit under your lip.
✅ Dispose of used pouches responsibly - never on the ground or in the toilet.
✅ If unsure, ask a local. Most Swedes are happy to help. Stockholmers might look like they're in a hurry (and a bit grumpy), but don’t worry – behind the serious face is usually someone surprisingly kind.
From all of us at Snusbolaget, enjoy your stay in Stockholm!
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about buying snus in Sweden.
Yes, in order to buy snus in Sweden you need to show your ID when buying snus at a physical store. Unfortunately, you cannot make an online order at Snusbolaget if you don’t have a Swedish ID.
Yes – you can buy snus at most supermarkets, convenience stores, tobacco stores, and kiosks. Just remember: you must be 18 years or older to make a purchase.
