The Best Boutique Hotels in Stockholm
Ett Hem translates to "a home" in Swedish, and this boutique hotel lives up to its name | Courtesy of Ett Hem / Expedia.com
Scattered across 14 islands, Stockholm is known for its colourful Old Town, museum-packed Djurgården and the hipster Södermalm. Whether you’re keen to visit the ABBA Museum or indulge in fika (Swedish tradition of coffee and cake), these are the top places to stay in style.
Courtesy of The Bank Hotel / Expedia.com
The Bank Hotel, in Central Stockholm, sits next to Nybroviken Harbour. It mixes muted art deco design with the heritage of the original 1910 structure. A stay here, in a room or suite with plush, velvety furniture, keeps you in the metropolitan core of the Swedish capital. When the bars close, take advantage of the in-room bartender service, or perhaps opt for the Lazy Breakfast & Bubbles (for late risers) at the weekend.
Courtesy of Berns Hotel / Expedia.com
If looking for class and storied history, the Berns Hotel fits the bill. Opened in 1863, this venue has hosted renowned greats like Marlene Dietrich. Travellers on a budget can choose a Cosy Essential room, or if you’d like to treat yourself, grab a premium suite with a personal jacuzzi. In fact, why not splurge and book the Dietrich “secret” room (with a vista over Berzelii Park) where the star herself stayed. Sauna, steam and massage sessions will melt your stress way before or after you explore Stockholm.
Courtesy of Hotel with Urban Deli / Expedia.com
If you have some burrowing hobbit DNA in you, this hotel might be the hidey-hole for you. Modern-day amenities, like in-room audio-visual gear, are featured – the only notable exception being that all of the rooms are below ground, without windows. Stay here if you want to be in the heart of Stockholm during the day but want absolute quiet at night. This hotel is perfect for people who take sleep seriously — or perhaps are dealing with a spot of vampirism.
Courtesy of Victory Hotel / Expedia.com
If you romanticise 18th-century life, the naval-themed boutique Victory Hotel in Stockholm’s Old Town – named after the HMS Victory – is a divine place to stay. Attractive paintings depicting old sailing ships hang from the walls, and rooms are designed with 18th-century flair; some named after a Swedish sea captain. The Burgundy wine bar has an extensive cellar to choose a bottle from. Settle into a plush leather armchair at the Tweed Bar and sip on your chosen vintage.
Courtesy of The Sparrow Hotel / Expedia.com
Love France? The Sparrow, in Stockholm’s Östermalm District, has been draped with French inspired decor and stocked with the country’s famous wine. Groups should book a larger suite, such as La Chambre de Joséphine, or else opt for a deluxe room, still with plenty of living space, but nothing over the top. Try the Norwegian lobster (with lemon and mayonnaise) or the steak au poivre at The Sparrow Bistro & Wine Bar, before exploring this decidedly Swedish city.
Courtesy of Ett Hem / Expedia.com
Ett Hem translates to “a home” in Swedish, and it is a boutique hotel that lives up to its name. This turn-of-the-century townhouse was redesigned by the owner, Jeanette Mix, and interior designer Ilse Crawford. With plush, comfortable furnishings and eclectic decor, Ett Hem is the very picture of Swedish hospitality. Expect a welcoming, casual atmosphere: you’re invited to have your meal where you please, take the dog for a walk and make yourself truly at home.
Courtesy of Freys Hotel / Expedia.com
Freys Hotel is a family-owned hotel, owned by one of the oldest transport companies in Sweden. It takes it name from a successful endurance racing horse from 1895. Inside, you’ll find traditional opulent suites, just five minutes from Stockholm Central Station. During the summer, enjoy the healthy breakfast buffet outside on the terrace or recline at the hotel’s popular Belgobaren, which boasts nearly 300 Belgian beers. Come winter, there’s a communal sauna to warm up in after a day sightseeing.
Courtesy of Haymarket by Scandic / Expedia.com
Housed in the PUB building right on Hötorget Square, this boutique hotel brings the roaring 1920s into the modern day. The building was converted from a department store, becoming one of Scandic’s most popular hotels. This is a classy hotel with stylish decor: blending art nouveau and contemporary design. Hit the third-floor gym or borrow a bicycle from the hotel to explore the city. Enjoy a craft cocktail at the award-winning Americain bar come nightfall.
Courtesy of Hobo Hotel / Expedia.com
There’s always something going on at this industrial-chic hotel – whether its a live gig or a yoga retreat. Unlike other hotels in Stockholm, the bed is in the centre of the room, offering expansive city views, as well as extra large showers and Bluetooth speakers. Don’t miss breakfast at the Hobo’s restaurant, which serves organic, seasonable food, many of which are vegetarian.
Courtesy of Miss Clara Hotel / Expedia.com
A stay at the Miss Clara Hotel offers a retro vibe with contemporary feel. Once a girls’ school from 1910, award-winning architect Gert Wingård harnessed its art nouveau style – and transformed it into a hotel. Solo travellers on a budget can opt for the snug single room, while suites sleep up to two people in super-soft Egyptian cotton bed linen. Miss Clara’s verdant terrace is the place to sip your morning coffee in the summer. Stay for brunch, complete with New York-style waffles and milkshakes.
Courtesy of Lydmar / Expedia.com
This small boutique hotel is housed in a fabulous historical building, tucked away by the National Museum on the waterfront at Blasieholmshamnen. Its proximity to the Modern Museum of Art is evident in the contemporary art display and styled interiors. Expect high-end luxury rooms with a friendly ambience. You’ll also have access to the Nordic Spa next door in the Grand Hotel, complete with a pool, steam room, sauna, hydro-massage pool and, of course, a traditional Swedish massage therapist.
Courtesy of Story Hotel / Expedia.com
Defining urban chic in a bohemian manner is the Story Hotel, one of Stockholm’s coolest stays, conveniently located off one of the most stylish shopping streets. With doors as headboards, efficient self check-in systems and rooms that feel remarkably homely given the concrete walls, the Story Hotel offers a number of unusual design surprises. The room price includes a breakfast buffet, served in the beautiful restaurant.
Carl Pettit contributed additional reporting to this article.
These recommendations were updated on March 2, 2021 to keep your travel plans fresh.
