Famous for its progressive politics, high standard of living, trend-setting design, inventive cuisine, Scandi Noirs, and seventies pop bands, the cool, easy-on-the-eye capital of Sweden is becoming an increasingly trendy travel destination.
Stockholm’s famous fashion sense and love of design are so world-renowned it could almost be intimidating, but that’s what makes their hotels so intriguing. From quirky boutiques to sleek, trendy, and chic, here are my favourite cool and unusual hotels in Stockholm, Sweden (in no particular order)…
Our Top 3 Best Cool and Unusual Hotels
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The Story
If you like your Scandinavian hotel experience to be cool and quirky with a focus on good music and good service then the 4-star exceptionally rated Story Hotel Stockholm offers a superb choice. This small centrally located boutique hotel (based in the central Östermalm district) is full of unusual art and decor courtesy of talented local artists but this place isn’t just styled over substance, it’s the full package!
The hip and stylish rooms range from suites to singles all adorned with a creative and striking style and lashings of original artwork. Plenty of mod cons also feature and upgraded rooms feature balconies and/or in-room tubs with glass partitions.
If you have a hankering for Asian cuisine you can head to the hotel’s very own Asian-inspired restaurant ‘Ling Long’ or just relax with a cocktail in the trendy terrace or bar offering live music. The perfect hotel for a cosy and unique weekend city break in Stockholm!
Pros
Cool modern design
Focus on local arts and artisans
Located in a vibrant area
Outdoor patio for al-fresco dining
Cons
Bathrooms can be small
Standard rooms can be small
Some outside noise
Mr. C
This creative contemporary hotel is located in the heart of the city just a 2-minute walk from T-Centralen metro station.
The 4-star highly rated Mr C Hotel Stockholm has been beautifully thought out with artistic rooms that feature photo wallpaper of Stockholm as well as cosy furnishings and plenty of mod cons.
Aside from their onsite modern gym and an atmospheric restaurant which is a cross between an American diner and an Italian family restaurant one of the stand-out features at this cool accommodation is the free organic breakfast buffet served up in designer surroundings.
Although one of the most fun draws of this hip Stockholm hotel is their onsite Icebar – the first ever permanent ice bar anywhere in the world. Offering drinks from ice-made glasses it’s quite an experience, just don’t forget to bring your gloves!
Pros
Hipster-friendly retro-chic decor
First permanent Ice Bar in the world
Fun party bar
Central location in the city
Cons
No minibar in rooms
Some street noise
Not for introverts
Ett Hem
From modern urban to picturesque historical 4-star exceptionally rated Ett Hem Hotel Stockholm is situated in a beautiful turn-of-the-century Arts and Crafts residence in a quiet suburb.
The small and elegantly hip Stockholm boutique hotel offers a slice of tranquillity just minutes from the city centre.
Here guests are encouraged to make themselves at home with lovely communal spaces and a sheltered courtyard garden managed by attentive staff.
With 12 bright airy bedrooms furnished lovingly with antiques that accentuate the character of the building, Ett Hemm is a secret city wilderness that you won’t want to escape from.
Pros
24-hour health club and spa
Well-equipped library
Spacious garden with seating
Some rooms have four-poster beds
Cons
15-minute walk to the center
Intimate vibe might not be for everyone
Not for a budget-friendly crowd
At Six
Featuring a contemporary feel, especially in its décor, the 5-star exceptionally rated At Six Hotel Stockholm is a chic and creative Stockholm establishment two kilometres from Moderna Museet Art collectors and less than 10 minutes from the Royal Palace.
One of the coolest and most popular hotels in Stockholm, spacious rooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows, fine linens, a Ruark streaming sound system, organic toiletries and many of the rooms offer superb city views and balconies.
Enjoy in-room dining with a menu tailored by the chef and features fresh pastries and bread made in-house, sip wine in the trendy outdoor terrace bar or enjoy live music At Six’s listening lounge, where music events are held several days of the week.
There’s also an onsite state-of-the-gym, sophisticated international restaurant, a relaxed cafe, two ultra-hip bars and concierge services so you can discover all the hidden treasures of Stockholm. A dreamy upscale hotel you’ll probably never want to leave!
Pros
Minibar for mixing cocktails
Live music events
A lively rooftop bar
In-house bakery
Cons
Busy at times
Ultra-modern design might not suit everyone
Showers can be small in some rooms
Blique by Nobis
Located in a warehouse designed in 1950 by the famous Swedish architect Sigurd Lewerentz, Blique by Nobis, Stockholm, a Member of Design Hotels™ is an art community that includes a hotel, restaurants and bars, and courtyard and rooftop spaces.
It’s set in the up-and-coming district Hagastaden where it meets Vasastaden, in an area known for its art galleries.
One of Sweden’s top architectural firms, Wingårdhs, helped to turn the former warehouse into a hotel, preserving the building’s large windows and high ceilings.
Rooms and suites are done in a minimalist design with very comfortable beds, and some suites have views of the city. The hotel also offers windowless sleeping rooms for those who prefer this option.
A buffet breakfast is served every morning, and the Arc rooftop restaurant and bar has a Korean-style sharing menu and an outdoor terrace with stunning city views.
Pros
The Arc Rooftop Bar with spectacular city views
Arc's Omakase
a 5-course tasting menu
Onsite sauna
Themed inner courtyard
Cons
Parking can be expensive
Standard rooms can be small
Some rooms don't have windows
Malardrottningen Yacht Hotel
For a unique Stockholm accommodation experience with beautiful water views, you can’t really beat the highly rated Malardrottningen Yacht Hotel moored on Lake Mälaren (a 10-minute walk from Stockholm Palace). As the name suggests it is a yacht and guests stay in clean comfortable cabins.
The interior of the hotel is full of traditional old-style charm and guests can enjoy a free jacuzzi, a sauna, an excellent breakfast spread and of course panoramic lake views.
The cabins range from small bunk bedrooms to larger and more luxurious doubles. If you want a twin room but don’t want to wrangle with bunk beds, be sure to select that option when you book! Stylishly quirky Stockholm accommodation that will ensure something a little bit different!
Pros
Housed in a historic ship
Stunning view of the lake
Short walk from the train station
Gorgeous wooden interior spaces
Cons
Bathrooms can be small
Some cabins can be small
No lift
Elite Hotel Carolina Tower
Whether you’re travelling for business or a conference or with family, the Elite Hotel Carolina Tower in Hagastaden is an exceptional choice.
It is close to Stockholm City Hall and Strandvagen and well connected by bus. It’s also convenient, if you’re sightseeing, to get to the Royal Palace, Drottningholm Palace, and Rosendal Palace.
The rooms are spacious with clean, modern decor, flat-screen TV with Chromecast, air conditioning, and a minibar. A breakfast buffet is served every morning, and Haga Bottega has a sharing menu with Italian fare.
There’s also a sauna and a fitness room, and eco-conscious travellers will be glad to know that the hotel has a Green Key eco-label certification.
Pros
Onsite Italian restaurant
Chromecast streaming
A gym sauna
and relaxation area
Cons
No onsite spa
A little far from the city on foot
Beds can be too soft for some
Haymarket by Scandic
If you’re nostalgic for the Roaring ‘20s, this Art Deco hotel in central Stockholm is the right choice. The landmark 1920s building draws inspiration from cinematic glamour, in honour of Greta Garbo who once worked here.
The decor at Haymarket by Scandic is elegant and nostalgic, with plush, chandeliers and gold accents everywhere. The rooms too have special wallpaper, wood floors and touches of rose gold. Some suites come with views of the Haymarket.
It’s within walking distance to the farmers’ markets, cinemas and concert halls, the central station and entertainment and nightlife at Stureplan. Or you may just want to stay in and enjoy a meal at the elegant and chic restaurants on site.
Pros
Chic 1920's inspired design
Onsite cocktail bar and small cinema
Fitness center with a glass roof
Onsite Brasserie and Cafe
Cons
Air-con can be temperamental
Can be noisy at night
Not much storage for clothes
The Sparrow
The Sparrow Hotel offers the best version of life as it should be, in Stockholm style. The two 19th-century buildings have been updated for modern comfort while keeping charming features like tall windows with balconies, crystal chandeliers, the occasional sloping ceiling and an interior courtyard.
The hotel is located right in the main shopping district, within walking distance to the Royal Dramatic Theatre, Nybroviken Harbour, Sturebadet Spa and the Östermalmstorg Metro Station.
Rooms have contemporary or period decor, with views of the courtyard or Birger Jarlsgatan street. A breakfast buffet is served every morning, and the bistro by chef Mathias Dahlgren serves a fresh seasonal menu, both of which can be enjoyed in the courtyard when the weather allows.
Pros
Access to courtyard dining in the Summer
In-house restaurant offering buffets
Small patio is accessible for sitting and small gatherings
Innovative cuisine of a renowned Swedish chef
Cons
No elevator
Small wardrobes
Some street noise in some rooms
Hotel With Urban Deli
You’ve heard about Scandinavian innovation anHotel With Urban Deli is certainly a good introduction. Above Hotel With is an Urban Deli with a restaurant, bar, food hall, lounge, café, convenience store, and food studio. The hotel rooms are without windows, below ground and designated as “quiet rooms” for sleeping, with no noise and light to disturb the sleeper.
The rooms have a restful industrial-modern decor and come with air conditioning and wifi. Breakfast is included and for all other meals, Urban Deli with a wide variety of foods is just upstairs.
The location couldn’t be better, next to Stureplan Public Square and close to Casino Cosmopol Stockholm, Adolf Fredrik Church, Sergels torg Public Square and the city centre.
Pros
Funky youthful vibe
Beautiful rooftop with a view
Great central location
Fine food & drink Urban Deli
Cons
Rooftop is sometimes closed
No windows in some rooms
No bathroom locks
Downtown Camper by Scandic
A magnificent and ultra-cool lifestyle hotel with stylishly modern and creative touches galore, the 4-star exceptionally rated Downtown Camper Stockholm struts a lively, curious and artistic atmosphere.
Centrally located and just an 8-minute walk from the Central Station on foot, it’s a buzzy place with trendy retro-chic decor, DJ sets and movie nights, and other onsite activities. Each one of the hip guest rooms is a luscious bang of comfort, with a flat-screen TV and high-speed WiFi, and blackout curtains.
Upgraded rooms feature bathtubs with either an atrium or street view. ‘Campfire’ is the idyllic restaurant and bar which overlooks Brunkebergstorg and serves up international cuisine where guests are allowed to grill marshmallows on the central open fireplace.
The cosy ‘Nest’ aka a Swedish sauna is a must-stop for wellness-minded travellers and the hip Stockholm hotel also features a pool, gym, and sauna on the rooftop and yoga classes. Concierge services are available with kayaks, skateboards, and bikes available upon request.
Pros
Heated swimming pool with beautiful views
A wellness area with rooftop sauna and gym
Yoga classes and cocktail bar
Co-living options for up-to 12 people
Cons
No shelves in the guest rooms
Air con can be temperamental
Parking can be tricky
Miss Clara by Nobis
This contemporary urban boutique-style hotel housed in a former girls’ school in the Swedish capital offers typically stylish Swedish rooms with a continental twist on service.
Located in a superb central location only a 2 minutes walk from Drottninggatan shopping street, the trendsetting Stockholm hotel offers designer rooms with designer linens and flat-screen TVs with built-in entertainment systems. Some have chaise lounges and split levels.
For foodies, the hotel brunch club is a perfect meeting of Swedish staples and New York deli dishes accompanied by jazz and a healthy dose of cool.
Next door to the 4-star exceptionally rated Miss Clara by Nobis is the Giro Pizzeria, a collaboration between the hotel and one of the world’s oldest pizzerias.
Enjoy funky tunes and an innovative drinks menu in the hotel bar and if you fancy hitting the town Miss Clara also offers a nightlife package to help you locate the hottest nightspots the city has to offer.
Pros
Beautiful Scandinavian interiors
Housed in a school building from 1910
Free sauna Access
Near Drottninggatan shopping street
Cons
No coffee-making facilities in the room
Some street noise
Some rooms can be small
Långholmen Prison Hotel
If you like something stylish but a bit different then the much-loved Långholmen Prison Hotel is the ideal place for you. The delightfully quirky and unique Stockholm accommodation occupies the site of the old crown court prison and is situated on an island in the middle of Lake Mclaren.
The island has a rich and captivating history and is now a protected area. Langgholem’s offers both cool hostel and hotel accommodations so will suit all budgets.
The unusual rooms are cleverly designed cells which keep the unique character of the building but have all the comforts that our modern needs dictate.
The on-site Inn occupies a 17th Century Manor house and serves up good hearty Swedish food sourced from local, seasonal and largely organic ingredients after the meal, you can enjoy a lovely jog on one of the well-marked trails or wander down to the lakeside beach for a swim.
Pros
Historic former prison building
Blend of modernity and history
Authentic Swedish cuisine
Free tour to prison museum for overnight guests
Cons
Small rooms
A bit far from the metro
Theme might not be for everyone
Hobo
The centrally located Hobo is more than just a hotel, it’s an innovatively designed community for people who love to travel. It’s a mixture of warm retro vintage and classic clean-cut Swedish charm created by renowned Berlin Based designer Werner Aisslinger and focuses on pure materials, nature and music.
All the rooms at the highly-rated Hobo Hotel Stockholm feature beds that face the windows meaning you can literally lie back and enjoy the view. They are full of clever gadgets and storage solutions to make your stay truly unique – for example, you can order room service via a text message! Opt for a suite and expect superb city views and city views.
The restaurant offers a warm relaxed environment with a delicious seasonal menu and the flexibility of breakfast served until 4pm…yes you did read that correctly! The bar at this funky Stockholm hotel serves up delicious organic beers, fine wines and an impressive cocktail selection. This is a haven for free-spirited arty types, the only trouble is it’s so fantastic you probably won’t want to leave the building!
Pros
Eco-friendly policies
Bikes available to rent
Lots of glass with amazing views
Cons
Lively area might not suit everyone
Breakfast isn’t included
Some rooms can be small
Nordic Light Hotel
The 4-star highly-rated Nordic Light Hotel located on the steps of Stockholm’s central station offers chilled-out, personal service in a large modern chic setting. With its central situation, its private gym and spacious ‘mood’ rooms, this unique design hotel in Stockholm is the perfect place to stay whether it’s for business or for pleasure.
The hotel ’embraces the nuances of Scandinavian light, art and individuality’ and its stylishly fun rooms and restaurant are a reflection of this ethos.
Clean lines, great service, simple well-cooked food, a trendy unique design and a smorgasbord of organic produce to choose from at breakfast – you can’t really go wrong!
Pros
In-house Lykke restaurant house open kitchen
Outdoor terrace
Swedish brand luxury beds
Walking distance from tourist spots
Cons
Air conditioning can be temperamental
Some rooms can be small
Some outside road noise
Freys
Situated right in the centre of the city, this unique contemporary abode in Stockholm is an excellent choice for those of you who want to enjoy your break with a unique boutique style.
The 4-star exceptionally rated Freys Hotel Stockholm‘s 127 boutique rooms are all individually decorated and equipped for cosy comfort. Upgraded options offer desks and balconies, and suites have a kitchenette, living/dining space, and a cute furnished terrace.
The family-run hotel prides itself on being a friendly and relaxed place to stay without compromising on style or atmosphere. With a strong eco-friendly vibe, free breakfast and free WiFi in all the cosy rooms, and delicious beer and mussels served up in the hotel bar it’s a great option to chill out in Stockholm!
Pros
Buffet breakfast each morning
Specializes in Belgian cuisine
Free Sauna
Certified by the eco-label Green Key
Cons
No hotel parking
Air con can be temperamental
Only one lift
Scandic No 53
This funky and modern Stockholm hotel is close to the heart of the old town (and a 5-minute walk from T-Centralen metro station) and offers comfortable chic rooms with a plethora of clever storage solutions.
Rooms feature a contemporary arty design and the communal spaces at the highly-rated Scandic No 53 Stockholm are created to encourage the mixing and mingling of guests and locals with a bright airy lounge and a quirky little outside courtyard.
The chessboard floor tiles and impressive atrium are great features and make sure you don’t leave without enjoying the delicious food in a stylish and relaxed restaurant. A cool accommodation choice for Stockholm travellers on a midrange budget.
Pros
Beautifully designed terrace
Close to a train station
bars
and shops
Safe to walk around at night
Serene and minimalist design
Cons
No place dedicated to clothes in rooms
Some rooms can be small
WiFi can be slow
Scandic Malmen
Situated on the edge of the hip SoFo district (a 1-minute walk from Medborgarplatsen metro station) this effortlessly designed trendy Stockholm hotel offers all the creature comforts you could desire in an ideal location for uber-cool travellers.
Housed in a midcentury building, the large spacious rooms at the 4-star highly rated Scandic Malmen incorporate unique features and absolute comfort the communal spaces are impeccable and the on-site bar and restaurant serves up tasty food late into the evening.
The light, bright rooms feature a stylishly whimsical design with lots of mod cons and upgraded rooms and suites have iPod docks, freestanding tubs, and a 2nd bedroom and bathroom.
There’s a cosy cocktail bar, and live music and with an onsite barber and gym you can keep yourself looking impeccable too – bonus! When you want to venture out you are just seconds away from vibrant bars and boutique shopping in one of Stockholm’s hippest districts.
Pros
Regular entertainment with live music and DJs
Cultural atmosphere
Food influenced from around the world
Cons
No coffee/tea making facilities in smaller rooms
Live music may be a little noisy
Not much storage in rooms
Backstage
Housed in a modern building together with the famous ABBA Museum, the 4-star highly rated Backstage Hotel Stockholm is located on Djurgården island just 5 minutes away from central Stockholm on a tram.
This one is for both music and lovers of contemporary design as the chic Stockholm boutique hotel offers a very high standard of decor along with some themed quirky touches too. Guest rooms feature modern wood floors, Swedish-made beds and floor-to-ceiling windows along with flat-screen TVs, high-end toiletries and most feature a nod to the famous band or Mamma Mia.
Other hotel highlights include a trendy international restaurant, a stylish cocktail lounge and a terrace and if you’re a die-hard seventies pop fan then makes sure you book yourself into the dramatic black-and-gold ABBA suite!
Pros
Housed above a museum
Uniquely refurbished rooms
An in-house restaurant full of art
Cons
Limited cupboard space
Vibe might not be for everyone
Breakfast isn’t included
Hotel Ruth
This quirky boutique hotel in the heart of Vasastan, Hotel Ruth will make you feel at home right away, whether you’re traveling on business or vacation. The nineteenth-century building has been lovingly restored and preserves features like exposed wooden beams and high ceilings.
The rooms and suites are full of character with soothing pastel decor, highlighted with tapestry headboards and throw pillows. They have plush seating and comfortable Elite Sängar beds and some have windows opening to a greenery-filled courtyard.
You can start the morning with an amazing Swedish breakfast with hot and cold dishes including waffles, cheese, cold cuts, fruit, scrambled eggs and bacon, and even cakes and champagne.
The hotel bar and restaurant serve crepes and galettes as well as espresso, beer, and mixed drinks.
Pros
Wide selection of Continental dishes
Beautiful boutique interiors
An onsite art gallery
Free-standing bath tubs
Cons
Bathroom has limited storage space
Some street noise
Wifi difficult to access
The Best Hotels in Stockholm Ranked
Here are the top 20 cool and unusual hotels in Stockholm compared in the table below. You can sort the table on its location, fitness facilities, price range, distance to attractions and the nearby dining options:
Hotel Name Location Price Range (per night) Fitness Facilities Distance to Attraction (km) Nearby Restaurants
The Story Riddargatan 6 $153-$287 Yes 0.2 3
Mr. C Vasaplan 4 $111-$283 Yes 0.9 3
Ett Hem Sköldungagatan 2 $542-$1.9k No 1.1 3
At Six Brunkebergstorg 6 $218-$647 Yes 0.7 3
Blique by Nobis Gävlegatan 18 $101-$201 Yes 2.2 3
Malardrottningen Yacht Hotel Riddarholmskajen 4 $93-$194 No 0.6 3
Elite Hotel Carolina Tower Eugeniavägen 6 $98-$254 Yes 2.7 3
Haymarket by Scandic Hötorget 13-15 $106-$329 Yes 0.9 3
The Sparrow Birger Jarlsgatan 24 $171-$496 Yes 0.9 3
Hotel With Urban Deli $124-$256 No 1 3
Downtown Camper by Scandic Brunkebergstorg 9 $135-$391 Yes 0.7 3
Miss Clara by Nobis Sveavägen 48 $155-$422 Yes 1.1 3
Långholmen Prison Hotel Långholmsmuren 20 $64-$235 No 2.6 3
Hobo Brunkebergstorg 4 $121-$223 Yes 0.7 3
Nordic Light Hotel Vasaplan 7 $175-$483 Yes 0.9 3
Freys Bryggargatan 12 $100-$262 Yes 0.8 3
Scandic No 53 Kungsgatan 53 $98-$256 No 0.8 3
Scandic Malmen Götgatan 49-51 $100-$204 Yes 0.8 3
Backstage Djurgårdsvägen 68 $128-$1.1k Yes 0.8 3
Hotel Ruth Surbrunnsgatan 38 $113-$235 No 1.4 3
Beth Pinches – writer and photographer
Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au-pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin or Facebook.
Great post and great suggestions of hotels from my home country and home town. Stockholm in summer time is absolutely one of the most beautiful capitals in the world (so please come visiting). All the green areas and water in and around the town just blows you away. Stockholm is built on 14 islands connected through 57 bridges and just a must to add on a bucket list. So many things to see and to do 🙂
Thanks for a great blog 🙂
I love Copenhagen but I’ve been three times now so I think a visit to Stockholm is long overdue. Think I need to fit in Helsinki at some point too. Will you be writing a hotel list on this city too?
I love Copenhagen too and yes a hotel post on Helsinki might be on the cards one day soon!
Wow how colourful and fun does the Comfort Hotel and Scandic Malmen look??
Yes they have some great hotels over there – those Scandinavians really love their design!
I’m planning to go to Stockholm soon so this is good timing for me thanks 🙂
Glad to be of help 🙂
Lovely list of hotels in Stockholm. Love the look of Miss Clara which sounds like the perfect place for foodies as well 🙂
Thanks Miriam, good choice 🙂
Awesome list of hotels guys the Nordic Light Hotel looks so cute!
Yes those heart lights are very cute 🙂
Awesome! This is a must visit place with terrific and very accommodating hotels. Indeed an awesome stopover, I would be honored to visit it one day!
Really stunning hotels! Stockholm is indeed a trendy travel destination. Would love to visit it someday. 🙂
Thanks Renuka, yes love Scandinavia!
So proud of my home city, everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime!!
Great place to live, you are very lucky! 🙂
What a gorgeous list of hotels, those Swedes really know how to decorate 🙂
Ha ha yes they sure do! 🙂
Story Hotel and Hobo are my favourites but they all look heavenly, I love Scandinavian design!
Good choices and yes ditto!
Great collection of hotels, now just need to visit Stockholm. I’ve heard great things so I’m sure I would love it!
You would love it I’m sure Scott! 🙂