Hotel Rival

This is the leading hotel, and by far the most intriguing place to stay, on the rapidly gentrifying island of Södermalm. In many ways, it's our favorite hotel in Stockholm. Originally opened in 1937, this hotel-cafe-bakery-cinema received a new lease on life in 2002, via funding by former ABBA member Benny Andersson. It was conceived in direct contrast to the Grand Hotel, a grande dame that clings to the haute bourgeoisie of imperial Sweden. The Rival might almost be defined as a sprawling series of nightclubs, bistros, and entertainment lounges, on top of which a network of bedrooms is available for whatever rock star or rock-star wannabe happens to be in residence in Stockholm. Partially wood-sheathed bedrooms are loaded with the electronic equipment you'd need to play CDs or DVDs, and because of the tie-in with ABBA, you'll find a CD of the group's favorite hits in every room. Breakfast buffets, served in a sun-flooded, second-floor room that doubles as the hotel's bistro at lunch and dinner, are appealingly lavish, with wide choices of traditional Swedish food. The more animated, close-to-the-action bedrooms open onto the Mariatorget -- one of Stockholm's loveliest squares. Quieter ones front a rather uninspired courtyard.

Facilities:
2 restaurants; 3 bars; gym; room service; laundry service; dry cleaning; nonsmoking rooms; rooms for those w/limited mobility

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

Back to Top