Stockholm isn’t described by locals as ‘beauty on water’ for no reason. If you can tear yourself away from the picture-postcard harbourside, you will discover a dynamic and every-changing city. Spread across 14 islands Stockholm is surprisingly easy to navigate both on food or via the efficient public transport. Whilst the city is modernity defined in some respects, the old town (Gamla Stan) still boasts some incredible historical gems, from tall cathedrals to tiny cobblestone streets. Design is at the heart of the city too, whether amongst the minimalist fashionistas on the streets or iconic Scandinavian interior design. It’s no surprise that some of our favourite hotels in the city offer 5-star service but looking incredibly chic while doing so….
Miss Clara
Once the largest girls’ school in Sweden, this historic building is now an exclusive boutique style hotel which is part of the Nobis Group. Conveniently located in downtown Stockholm, the hotel takes its name from a former headmistress at the school, and also in a nod to its historic past, it retains many original features which are complimented by hip furnishings and an Art Nouveau style. Each of the 92 rooms and suites have been designed to communicate a stylish yet intimate expression and this flows throughout the entire hotel. Grand windows within guest rooms present beautiful views across the city, some rooms feature chaise lounges, and some suites include sitting areas, and some are split-level.The hotel restaurant has a modern vibe and pays tribute to its Italian roots, it’s a beautiful setting in which to enjoy everything from a business breakfast through to a leisurely lunch or cosy dinner. The Miss Clara bar is the place to enjoy a good selection of fine wines, playful cocktails and get down to the beat of a live DJ on a Friday night.
Nobis
With old charm style, Nobis encompasses two 19th century buildings and is situated close to Stockholm’s exclusive shops and bars. Classic architecture sits artfully alongside the buzz of Stureplan nightclub district as well as the city’s theatres. Accommodation benefits from air conditioning and modern designed rooms, with added luxurious touches like marble bathrooms. Home comforts include flat-screen TVs, DVD/CD players and free Wi-Fi. State of the art leisure facilities features a gym for morning workouts, with a steam room/sauna to wind down. Guests can savour cocktails in the golden mirrored opulence of the Gold Bar. Foodies will love the fine cuisine served in Restaurant Noi and Italian dishes in the Bistro.
Grand Hotel
A short walk from the beach, the Grand looks onto the Royal Palace and is close to the Old Town and Central Station. Luxury defines the Grand, boasting haute cuisine and waterfront views. Air-conditioned rooms feature minibars, LCD TV with satellite and 24-hour room service. The Nordic spa is well equipped, including a heated pool and a range of beauty therapies. Guests can dine in the Michelin starred Matbaren restaurant, while Rutabaga serves delicious vegetarian cuisine. The Cadier Baren offers a la carte breakfasts and lunches, as well as popular cocktails. Chauffeur-driven limousine transfers are also available to guarantee a hassle-free city break.
Rival
Based in Sodermalm, this stylish Art Deco hotel enjoys a verdant location in Mariatorget Square. Accommodation features luxurious beds with Egyptian cotton linen, and the rooms display scenes from vintage Swedish cinema. Every modern convenience is available, including iPhone docking stations and flat-screen TVs with Blu-ray. Free Wi-Fi access comes as standard. Reception provides gratis DVD rental, and there are free hot refreshments with biscuits available day and night. The Bistro serves traditional cuisine complemented by a premier wine list, and Rival’s bar is an elegant backdrop for enjoying a cocktail.
At Six
Centrally based, this up-to-the-minute hotel is within walking distance of exclusive shopping districts and Stureplan nightclub area. Rooms provide coffee and cocktail making facilities, plus flat-screen TVs with streaming options. Guests can enjoy rain showers or tubs, with luxurious organic toiletries. Drinks are served in the wine bar’s outdoor terraced area during the summer, and sampling the hotel’s enticing punch bowls is recommended. Relaxing brunches are available at weekends, while afternoon teas are served throughout the week. The on-site bakery produces delicious bread and pastries. Guests relax in the listening lounge, checking out weekly music events showcasing new artists.
Freys
This family-run hotel, only several minutes from Central Station, features the Belgobaren with its almost 300 Belgian beers. Accommodation is designed in bright, modern tones, rooms equipped with cable TV, plus free Wi-Fi as standard. Guests can enjoy a laid-back room service breakfast, while the restaurant serves mouth-watering classics including marinated mussels. In warmer weather, guests can dine on the restaurant’s street side terraced area. There are free sauna facilities, the hotel is environmentally responsible and is rightly proud of its Green Key eco-certification. Nearby are popular shopping areas and attractions, with friendly staff happy to recommend interesting places to visit.
Berns
Located less than 15 minutes from the beach, Berns is an upmarket, boutique hotel near Nybrokajen Harbour. This distinguished building boasts a historic dining area, and there is a Scandinavian travel shop in the lobby. Rooms are decorated with individual flair and placed in nine categories as an interesting touch. Since the 19th century, Berns has had an excellent reputation as the place to chill and be seen. Hotel guests can enjoy access to the LE! nightclub which is adjacent to one of the hotel’s eateries. It is only a short walk to Stureplan, for indulging in luxury shopping and vibrant nightlife. Berns Asian serves the finest cuisine from that continent, brunch through to dinner, while the Bistro offers intimate, Gallic charm – a seasonal menu is washed down by the best wines encompassing most French regions.
Lydmar
Near to the beach, this elegant waterfront hotel has views of the Old Town and Royal Palace. Accommodation is airy and spacious, rooms individually designed and complemented by wooden flooring. All modern amenities are provided including air conditioning, TV and minibar, with Wi-Fi free as standard. The hotel has beautiful surroundings of note, featuring authentic stucco plasterwork, wooden beams and lofty windows. The restaurant serves haute cuisine, including escargots, steak and freshly caught fish. Guests can enjoy a chilled beer or glass of wine on the terrace during the summer months. Boat tours are accessible from the nearby Stromkajen Harbour, with the Stureplan shopping and nightlight district a few minutes away. Helpful staff can assist with recommendations for sightseeing and excursions.
