STOCKHOLM

2024
As a Stockholm-born travel writer and blogger for ELLE Sweden, with years spent living abroad, I’ve come to see my hometown with fresh eyes. Stockholm is more than its picture-perfect archipelago and historic cobblestone streets—it’s a city of contrasts, where timeless Scandinavian design meets multicultural influences.
In the past decade, Stockholm has blossomed into a hub of creativity and innovation, with new restaurants, wine bars, and cultural experiences popping up in every corner.
In the past decade, Stockholm has blossomed into a hub of creativity and innovation, with new restaurants, wine bars, and cultural experiences popping up in every corner. It’s a city that celebrates diversity, with a growing number of third-culture kids (myself being Finnish-Ugandan) contributing to its dynamic energy.
It’s a city that celebrates diversity, with a growing number of third-culture kids (myself being Finnish-Ugandan) contributing to its dynamic energy.
To truly understand Stockholm, you need to go beyond the postcard-perfect views. Take the tube to its neighborhoods and suburbs, where authentic culinary gems, local art, and warm communities await. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, this guide is your key to experiencing Stockholm like a local.
COURTYARD’S TOP PICKS FOR THE SWEDISH CAPITAL
Words by Nicole Kavander, ELLE blogger and Stockholm-native.
As a Stockholm-born travel writer and blogger for ELLE Sweden, with years spent living abroad, I’ve come to see my hometown with fresh eyes. Stockholm is more than its picture-perfect archipelago and historic cobblestone streets—it’s a city of contrasts, where timeless Scandinavian design meets vibrant multicultural influences.

In the past decade, Stockholm has blossomed into a hub of creativity and innovation, with new restaurants, wine bars, and cultural experiences popping up in every corner. It’s a city that celebrates diversity, with a growing number of third-culture kids (myself being Finnish-Ugandan) contributing to its dynamic energy.

To truly understand Stockholm, you need to go beyond the postcard-perfect views. Take the tube to its neighborhoods and suburbs, where authentic culinary gems, local art, and warm communities await. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, this guide is your key to experiencing Stockholm like a local.

Stay

Stockholm’s hotel scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from opulent design hotels to cozy, local gems. Whether you’re looking for a castle experience outside the city or a stylish boutique stay in the heart of Södermalm, you’ll find a perfect base here. Here are my top picks:

Ett Hem (Right)(Above)
Sköldungagatan 2, 114 27

This boutique hotel is a design lover’s dream, this luxury boutique hotel offers an intimate and curated experience, perfect for those seeking understated elegance.

Ellery Beach House
Elfviks udde, 181 90 Lidingö

Ellery Beach House offers a coastal spa retreat on Lidingö with excellent Lebanese-inspired cuisine and a laid-back luxury vibe.

Bank Hotel
Arsenalsgatan 6, 111 47

This luxurious spot features a rooftop bar with incredible cocktails and a chic vibe.

NoFo Hotel
Tjärhovsgatan 11, 116 21

Located in Södermalm, this historic building boasts a cozy courtyard and its own wine bar.

Ellery Beach House
Elfviks udde, 181 90 Lidingö

Ellery Beach House offers a coastal spa retreat on Lidingö with excellent Lebanese-inspired cuisine and a laid-back luxury vibe.

Görvälns Slott
Görvälnsvägen, 175 46 Järfälla

This castle stay just outside Stockholm is a true gem. The locally sourced food and spectacular breakfast make this a standout experience.

Bank Hotel
Arsenalsgatan 6, 111 47

This luxurious spot features a rooftop bar with incredible cocktails and a chic vibe.

Villa Sanda
Strängnäs NV, Sweden

Located in Strängnäs, just outside Stockholm, this Airbnb gem includes a jacuzzi, multiple bedrooms, and an orangery perfect for dinners.

EAT/drink

Stockholm’s dining scene has exploded in recent years, offering everything from fine dining to hidden street food gems. Here are some must-visit spots:

EAT/drink

Stockholm’s dining scene has exploded in recent years, offering everything from fine dining to hidden street food gems. Here are some must-visit spots:

Kanon
Tjärhovsgatan 33, 116 28

A curated grill menu inspired by the Middle East, the Mediterranean and South America.

Cane Rum Society
Ninni Kronbergs Gata 1, 171 64 Solna

Caribbean-inspired bites and and Scandinavia’s most extensive rum selection’ Don’t miss their Soca brunch.

Sweets by Camilla
Stjärntorget 2, 169 79 Solna

Baked goods made with love and creativity by the inspirational pastry chef Camilla Hamid.

Dubbla Deli
Sergels Torg 29, 111 57

New York Italian-style sandwich shop, perfect for takeaway subs and quick meals.

Amo Restaurang
Rågsvedsvägen 6, 124 65 Bandhagen

Home to Stockholm’s best falafel, Amo has a limited menu—packed full of flavor.

Grus Grus (Left)(Above)
Karlbergsvägen 14, 113 27

A cosy neighborhood wine bar with great vibes and the talented Jamaica-Canadian head chef Bill Allison.

Dubbla Deli
Sergels Torg 29, 111 57

New York Italian-style sandwich shop, perfect for takeaway subs and quick meals.

Amo Restaurang
Rågsvedsvägen 6, 124 65 Bandhagen

Home to Stockholm’s best falafel, Amo has a limited menu—packed full of flavor.

Reco’s Chicken and Waffles
Bondegatan 13, 116 23

Proper Southern American comfort food and all day brunch, right in the heart of Stockholm.

“Name of the Place”
Alexanderplatz 7, 10178 Berlin, Germany

These areas offer a blend of artistic vibes, eclectic cafes, and a lively atmosphere. Alternatively, if you seek tranquility, Charlottenburg provides a more relaxed environment, with beautiful parks and historic architecture.Living in Berlin unfolds as a kaleidoscope of experiences

DO

For experiences that go beyond the ordinary, Stockholm has something for everyone. From wellness retreats led by AfroSwedish practitioners to walking tours that delve into untold histories, the city invites you to see it through a new lens.  

Yoga with Weini (Right)

Inclusive yoga classes, courses, and retreats for people of color that focus on mindfulness and self-care. If wellness is your jam, it’s well worth dropping into an event.

AfroSwedish Walking Tour (Bottom Left)

Discover Stockholm’s hidden Black history on this enlightening and inspiring walking tour. 

Bondens Marknad (Top Left)
Skånegatan 70, 116 37

This delightful farmer’s market takes place every Saturday, where you’ll find an endless supply of locally sourced treats and handmade goods.

DO

For experiences that go beyond the ordinary, Stockholm has something for everyone. From wellness retreats led by AfroSwedish practitioners to walking tours that delve into untold histories, the city invites you to see it through a new lens.  

Yoga with Weini (Above)

Inclusive yoga classes, courses, and retreats for people of color that focus on mindfulness and self-care. If wellness is your jam, it’s well worth dropping into an event.

AfroSwedish Walking Tour (Below)

Discover Stockholm’s hidden Black history on this enlightening and inspiring walking tour. 

Bondens Marknad (Below)
Skånegatan 70, 116 37

This delightful farmer’s market takes place every Saturday, where you’ll find an endless supply of locally sourced treats and handmade goods.

Tensta Konsthall
Taxingegränd 10, 163 04 Spånga

A contemporary art hub showcasing global perspectives in one of Stockholm’s most diverse neighborhoods.

see

Beyond the historic sites like Gamla Stan and the Royal Palace, Stockholm offers art and cultural experiences that reflect the city’s evolving identity. Dive into museums, hidden murals, and galleries that celebrate both Swedish heritage and global diversity.

Fotografiska Museum
Stadsgårdshamnen 22, 116 45

A world-class photography museum with ever-changing exhibitions and a view to die for. 

Tensta Konsthall
Taxingegränd 10, 163 04 Spånga

A contemporary art hub showcasing global perspectives in one of Stockholm’s most diverse neighborhoods. 

Stockholm Art Walk

Hop on the blue line for a free underground art tour – Stockholm’s subway system is a gallery in itself.

see

Beyond the historic sites like Gamla Stan and the Royal Palace, Stockholm offers art and cultural experiences that reflect the city’s evolving identity. Dive into museums, hidden murals, and galleries that celebrate both Swedish heritage and global diversity.

Fotografiska Museum
Stadsgårdshamnen 22, 116 45

A world-class photography museum with ever-changing exhibitions and a view to die for. 

Tensta Konsthall
Taxingegränd 10, 163 04 Spånga

A contemporary art hub showcasing global perspectives in one of Stockholm’s most diverse neighborhoods. 

Stockholm Art Walk

Hop on the blue line for a free underground art tour – Stockholm’s subway system is a gallery in itself.

DANCE

Stockholm’s nightlife is where the city’s energy comes alive. Whether you’re into reggae vibes or underground jazz, there’s a scene for every taste.

Under Bron & Trädgården
Hammarby Slussväg 2, 118 60

A summer staple, this club offers eclectic music and a truly Stockholm vibe.

LadiesLove & Cyme Fest (Right)(Below)

Uplifting Black and POC-centered events featuring everything from Afrobeats to hip hop. 

Live Jazz at Erlands Bar
Gästrikegatan 1, 113 62

Perfect for a cozy night out with timeless tunes and expertly mixed cocktails. 

LadiesLove & Cyme Fest (Right)

Uplifting Black and POC-centered events featuring everything from Afrobeats to hip hop. 

Live Jazz at Erlands Bar
Gästrikegatan 1, 113 62

Perfect for a cozy night out with timeless tunes and expertly mixed cocktails. 

Words by NICOLE KAVANDER