Where to Stay in Stockholm: The Best Areas & Hotels – Tips from a Local

Last Updated on March 26, 2026

I have been calling Stockholm my home for over ten years and since I moved here I’ve explored almost every corner of the city. Besides blogging about Stockholm, I also photograph local hotels, Airbnbs and I also guide tourists who visit the Swedish capital. Thanks to this, I discovered all city parts including those where tourists almost never go. Now, it’s time to finally answer the question which I frequently get: Where is the best place to stay in Stockholm? The answer isn’t simple but the truth is that Stockholm offers accommodation for every type of traveller. Whether you are looking for a budget stay, a comfortable mid-range hotel, or a luxury experience, you will find plenty of options here. In this guide, I will show you the best areas to stay in Stockholm, including some well known districts as well as a few hidden gems that many visitors overlook. At the end of the article, I will also share a map with my personal best hotel tips with you. Let’s go!

Small note before we start: All the photographs below are my own. I’ve spent years wandering Stockholm with a camera, and every image comes from places I know well.

How long should you stay in Stockholm?

Before I tell you the best areas and hotels to stay in Stockholm, you might wonder how long time you should stay in the Swedish capital… Here is my advice:

Stockholm is one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe. The city spreads across 14 islands connected by dozens of bridges, surrounded by water and nature. Wherever you go you will see historic buildings, viewpoints, paths along the waterfront and boats sailing between the islands. That’s why I love Stockholm and you will too!

What makes Stockholm unique is the combination of history, nature and modern Scandinavian lifestyle. In just a few minutes you can walk from the medieval streets of Gamla Stan to trendy cafés in Södermalm or quiet parks by the water. Because the city is built on islands and hills, there are also many viewpoints offering incredible panoramas over the city and the surrounding nature. If you enjoy views as much as I do, check out my guide to the best Stockholm viewpoints, where I share my favourite places to see the city from above.

Many visitors only spend a day or two in Stockholm, but the city deserves much more time. In fact, I am still exploring new places after more than ten years of living here. There are many neighbourhoods to explore, beautiful nature just outside the centre and you can organize plenty of interesting day trips. The longer you stay, the more Stockholm starts to reveal its character. This is what you can experience during your Stockholm visit:

1–2 days in Stockholm – just some of the must-see highlights

If you only have one or two days, your itinerary will focus mainly on the most famous places such as:

• Gamla Stan (Old Town)
• The Royal Palace
• City Hall
• Djurgården
• Vasa Museum
• Nobel Museum
• ABBA museum
• Skansen
• Scenic viewpoints

Unfortunately, you won’t even manage all of them. You will get a nice first impression of the city, but the visit will feel too fast. Please, don’t miss at least my favourite viewpoint at Mariaberget. I promise you it will persuade you that Stockholm is an extraordinary city.

3–6 days in Stockholm – you will start to understand the city

With three to six days, you can explore Stockholm at a much more relaxed pace. Besides the main attractions you will have time to:

• visit all most interesting museums
• discover different neighbourhoods (we go through them in detail below)
• try amazing local restaurants and cafés (yes, you will be surprised but the food in Stockholm is amazing!)
• enjoy the waterfront walks
• experience local life

This is the amount of time when Stockholm starts to reveal its charm. My personal tip is to stay at least 5 days. During my first stay of Stockholm (before I moved here), I stayed here 4 days and it still felt too short!

7+ days – time for day trips

If you stay a week or longer, Stockholm becomes a perfect base for exploring the surrounding region. You can take a day or even longer trips to:

• the Stockholm archipelago (for instance my favourite islands Gällnö or Rödlöga)
• historic towns and villages around Stockholm, such as Sigtuna or Mariefred
• castles and nature reserves, such as Drottningholm
• national parks, such as Tyresta national park
• nearby cities like Uppsala

Sweden is incredibly beautiful and many of these places are less than an hour away. On top of that, you will be able to experience many of local adventures both in summer and winter like ice skating in Stockholm on the image below.

Best areas to stay in Stockholm – quick comparison

We start with a quick comparison of the different Stockholm neighborhoods before going into details later. What is your preferred travel style? Stockholm offers something to everyone.

Area	Best for	Atmosphere	Distance to city centre
Norrmalm	Short stays, transport connections	Busy city centre with many hotels and shops	Central
Södermalm	Views, nightlife, restaurants	Trendy, creative and lively	Very central
Östermalm	Luxury hotels, shopping	Elegant and upscale	Very central
Vasastan	Local life, cafés	Relaxed residential neighbourhood	Close
Gamla Stan	History, charm	Romantic but touristy	Central
Djurgården	Museums and nature	Green, peaceful island	Close
Kungsholmen	Calm stay near the centre	Residential with beautiful waterfront walks	Close
Hammarby Sjöstad	Modern waterfront district	Contemporary, relaxed atmosphere	Slightly outside centre
Nacka	Nature and waterfront views	Quiet and scenic	Outside centre
Lidingö	Nature and peaceful surroundings	Green island with local atmosphere	Outside centre
Solna	Events and sports	Modern district with arenas and shopping	Outside centre

Best place to stay in Stockholm for a short visit (1–2 days)

If you only have a short stay in Stockholm, the most practical location is near the central train station. This area is located in the district of Norrmalm and it is extremely convenient for travellers.

Advantages of staying at Norrmalm are:

• easy transfer from Arlanda Airport (check out my article about the best transport options to Stockholm’s main airport)
• excellent public transport connections
• walking distance to Gamla Stan, the City Hall and other main tourist attractions
• many restaurants, shops and services nearby

For short stays this area simply saves time because everything is close and easy to reach.

The only downside is that it feels more like a busy city centre and less like the charming neighbourhoods Stockholm is known for.

Best hotels very close to main train station in Stockholm (T-Centralen)

Budget

• Comfort Hotel Xpress Stockholm Central – a simple and affordable hotel located just a few minutes from the central station. The rooms are compact but modern and it is one of the most practical options for travellers who want to stay right in the centre.

Mid-range

• Downtown Camper by Scandic – this is my secret tip because Downtown Camper is a hotel for adventure travellers like me 🙂 It has an elegant natural design and offers an amazing wellness and rooftop pool with a wonderful view of Stockholm City Hall.
• Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel – this is the most popular hotel near the station with modern rooms and beautiful views over the water. The location is excellent for both sightseeing and transportation connections.

Luxury

• Hobo Hotel Stockholm – besides comfortable rooms, it also offers also an amazing rooftop restaurant TAK with fantastic restaurant, cocktails and views. It’s my favourite spot to take friends and tourists for a drink with a view.

What is the best area to stay in Stockholm for longer trips?

If you stay 3–7 days, the best location depends more on your personal travel style. Stockholm’s districts are quite different from each other and each one has its own atmosphere. Here is a quick overview of the main areas:

Norrmalm – modern city centre

If you walk just a bit further from the main central station, you can find some cosy accommodations – the best hostel in Stockholm, hotel with a culinary experience and one of the best rated luxury hotels in Stockholm.

Best hotels in Norrmalm

Budget

• Generator – a trendy design hostel located close to Drottninggatan shopping street. It offers stylish dorms and private rooms, a lively bar and social areas, making it a popular choice for young travellers.

Mid-range

• Hotel with Urban Deli – a unique boutique hotel located above the popular Urban Deli food market. The rooms have a modern minimalist design without windows, but guests enjoy access to excellent restaurants, cafés and a vibrant local atmosphere.

Luxury

• Grand Hôtel Stockholm – Stockholm’s most iconic luxury hotel located on the waterfront opposite the Royal Palace and Gamla Stan. It offers elegant rooms, several renowned restaurants and a famous spa, making it probably the most prestigious places to stay in the city.

Södermalm – the creative heart of Stockholm

Södermalm is my personal favourite neighbourhood in Stockholm. Historically it was a working-class area, but today it has become the creative and cultural centre of the city. You will find here:

• trendy cafés
• vintage shops
• art galleries
• great restaurants
• lively nightlife

Many of the best viewpoints in Stockholm such as Monteliusvägen and Skinnarviksberget are also located here. I love the combination you get from Södermalm – you can enjoy here nice walks, views, excellent restaurants and you can end up the day in one of many local bars. What about my favourite one Bar Central, for example?

Best hotels in Södermalm

Budget

• Citybox Stockholm – a modern budget hotel offering simple, functional rooms with self check-in. It is a great choice for travellers who want an affordable stay in one of Stockholm’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.

Mid-range

• Hotel Rival – a beautiful boutique hotel owned by ABBA’s Benny Andersson. Located at Mariatorget, it offers spacious rooms and a lively restaurant
• Hilton Stockholm Slussen – a large waterfront hotel located on a hill above Slussen with spectacular views over Gamla Stan and Lake Mälaren. Many rooms and the restaurant offer panoramic views of Stockholm’s old city, making it one of the best places in the city to watch the sunset.

Luxury

• Hotel Frantz – a stylish boutique hotel located in a historic building near Slussen. It offers elegant rooms, fantastic service and a very intimate atmosphere.
• Stockholm Stadshotell – a new luxury boutique hotel combining classic architecture with modern Scandinavian design.

Östermalm – elegant and stylish Stockholm

Östermalm is the most elegant district in Stockholm. If you enjoy shopping, good food and a slightly upscale atmosphere, this is a fantastic choice. I worked in this area as a consultant for a while and it was a a very nice time of my life. You will find here:

• designer boutiques and luxury shops
• beautiful architecture
• great restaurants and cafés
• the famous Östermalm food hall (Saluhall)

Pros:

• clean, safe and stylish
• close to Djurgården and museums
• excellent restaurants

Cons:

• more expensive accommodation

Best hotels in Östermalm

Budget

• Nomad Gärdet Hostel – There isn’t really a budget option in Östermalm but there is a very nice hostel nearby. Nomad Gärdet Hostel is a modern and affordable hostel located in the quiet Gärdet neighbourhood near Östermalm. It offers clean dorms and private rooms in a recently renovated Scandinavian-style building, with easy metro access to the city centre and Djurgården attractions.

Mid-range

• Mornington Hotel Stockholm – a very popular hotel among visitors thanks to its cosy atmosphere and excellent location. The hotel is known for its impressive library lounge and good breakfast.
• Elite Eden Park Hotel – a stylish hotel located next to the beautiful Humlegården park. It offers modern rooms, great service and two excellent restaurants, making it a great choice for travellers looking for comfort in a central yet calm area.

Luxury

• Villa Dagmar – one of the newest luxury boutique hotels in Stockholm located right by Östermalmstorg. The hotel combines elegant Scandinavian design, fantastic restaurants and a vibrant atmosphere in one of the most exclusive parts of the city.
• Lydmar Hotel – a sophisticated boutique hotel overlooking the Royal Palace and Stockholm waterfront. Known for its stylish rooms, lively restaurant and relaxed luxury atmosphere, it is one of the most iconic luxury stays in the city.
• Hotel Diplomat – an elegant historic hotel located on Strandvägen, one of the most beautiful waterfront boulevards in Stockholm. The Art Nouveau building offers stylish rooms and wonderful views over the harbour and Djurgården, combining classic charm with a fantastic central location.

Vasastan – local life and cosy cafés

Vasastan is one of the most pleasant residential neighbourhoods in Stockholm and a favourite area among locals. It feels calmer and more authentic than the busy city centre, but it is still located only a short metro ride or walk from the main attractions.

The district is known for its beautiful streets lined with classic Stockholm buildings, cosy bakeries and small neighbourhood restaurants. It is also home to several lovely parks such as Vasaparken, which is a popular place for locals to relax during sunny days.

Another big advantage of staying here is the proximity to Brunnsviken, a scenic bay surrounded by parks and forests. It is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Stockholm and a wonderful place for a walk, a bike ride or a run. I used to live nearby and I ran almost every week in this amazing park.

Vasastan is a great choice if you want to experience Stockholm beyond the main tourist areas while still being close to the city centre.

Best hotels in Vasastan

Budget

• Ibis Styles Stockholm Odenplan – a comfortable budget-friendly hotel located right next to Odenplan metro station. The rooms are modern and colourful, and the location makes it very easy to reach the city centre.

Mid-range

• Hotel Birger Jarl – a stylish hotel known for its Scandinavian design and relaxed atmosphere. It offers spacious rooms and a convenient location within walking distance of many cafés and restaurants in Vasastan.
• Hotel Ruth – a charming boutique hotel with a cosy atmosphere and beautiful interior design. Guests especially appreciate the excellent breakfast and the quiet neighbourhood location.

Luxury

• Blique by Nobis – a trendy design hotel located in a former industrial building. It offers spacious modern rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a lively social atmosphere that attracts both travellers and locals.

Gamla Stan – stay in the historic heart of Stockholm

Gamla Stan is one of the best preserved medieval city centres in Europe. Its colourful buildings, narrow streets and historic squares make it one of the most magical places in Stockholm. Staying here means you are right in the historic centre. I myself love especially the less busy streets of Gamla Stan, they are full of charm. Be aware though that the most famous ones can get a bit touristy during summer.

Best hotels in Gamla Stan

Budget

• Castle House In – a simple but charming hotel located in a historic building in the old town. It offers affordable rooms and an unbeatable location within walking distance of all main attractions.
• Castanea Old Town Hostel – a small and cosy hostel located in a historic building in the heart of Gamla Stan. It offers clean private rooms and dorms in a quiet courtyard setting, just steps away from Stockholm’s main historic sights.

Mid-range

• Lady Hamilton Hotel – a cosy boutique hotel decorated with antique Swedish furniture. Its historic atmosphere perfectly matches the medieval character of Gamla Stan.
• Victory Hotel – a unique maritime-themed hotel filled with ship models and nautical decor. The hotel also has an excellent restaurant and a cosy pub.

Luxury

• Hôtel Reisen – a beautiful waterfront hotel located near the Royal Palace. The rooms offer wonderful views and the hotel also features a spa and an excellent restaurant.

Djurgården – nature and museums

Djurgården is one of the most unique parts of Stockholm. This island feels more like a large park than a city district, yet it is only a few minutes from the city centre. Besides the nature and waterfronts, the island is famous for its world-class museums. Some of Stockholm’s most popular attractions are located here, including:

• Vasa Museum
• Skansen open-air museum
• ABBA Museum
• Gröna Lund amusement park with the longest summer music festival in the world

Staying here means you will be surrounded by nature and culture at the same time, although the evenings are quieter than in the city centre. I love Djurgården for its nature and it is also popular among runners as you can make a wonderful 10km loop around it.

Best hotels at Djurgården

Budget

• STF Stockholm Skeppsholmen Vandrarhem – Unfortunately, there is no budget hotel on Djurgården but you can stay in one of the most unique hostels in Stockholm located on a neighbouring island Skepssholmen. From there you can make a short boat ride by public transport to Djurgården. From summer 2026, STF Stockholm Skeppsholmen Vandrarhem will also be offering stay at af Chapman Hostel after a long renovation. It will offer accommodation inside a historic sailing ship at a fantastic location and twith beautiful waterfront views.

Mid-range

• Hotel Hasselbacken – a charming historic hotel located near all important Djurgården museums and attractions. It combines classic Swedish elegance with comfortable rooms and a peaceful park setting.

Luxury

• Backstage Hotel Stockholm – a stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Djurgården, right next to the ABBA Museum and the famous Gröna Lund amusement park. The hotel opened in 2022 and features individually designed rooms inspired by music and theatre, making it a fun and creative place to stay while exploring Stockholm’s cultural island.

Kungsholmen – calm island close to the city centre

Kungsholmen is a large residential island located just west of Stockholm’s city centre. While it is not as famous among tourists as Södermalm or Gamla Stan, many locals consider it one of the most pleasant areas to live in.

The island is known for its beautiful waterfront walks, especially the popular walking path that circles the entire island. It is also home to the Stockholm City Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquet takes place every year.

Kungsholmen offers a more relaxed and local atmosphere compared to the busy city centre, while still being within walking distance of many attractions. Because of this, it can be a good option for travellers who want a quieter place to stay but still remain close to everything. My secret tip for Kungsholmen is to rent a floating sauna. It will take you on a ride on Riddarfärden lake and you can jump into the water just in front of the city hall.

Best hotels in Kungsholmen

Budget

• Nomad City Hostel – a modern budget hostel close to Stockholm Central Station. It offers clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms with a simple Scandinavian design, making it a convenient and affordable base for exploring the city.
• VANDER Kungsholmen Stockholm – a modern budget-friendly aparthotel offering spacious studios with kitchen facilities. It is a good option for travellers staying several days who want extra comfort and flexibility.

Mid-range

• Clarion Hotel Amaranten – a stylish hotel located near the waterfront and close to metro stations. It offers comfortable modern rooms, a popular breakfast buffet, and a lively hotel bar.

Luxury

• Courtyard by Marriott Stockholm Kungsholmen – a modern four-star hotel located on the western side of Kungsholmen close to beautiful waterfront walking paths. It offers spacious contemporary rooms, great views from higher floors and easy access to both the city centre and nearby parks.

Hammarby Sjöstad – modern Stockholm by the water

Hammarby Sjöstad is one of the most impressive modern districts in Stockholm. Built as a sustainable urban development, the area is known for its modern architecture, canals and again waterfront walks. I might be repeating the word waterfront a bit but it’s really almost everywhere in Stockholm 🙂

The neighbourhood offers a relaxed atmosphere with many restaurants, cafés and walking paths along the water. It is also located next to Hammarbybacken, another hidden gem of Stockholm. It’s city’s ski slope which offers great views over Stockholm. You can ski here both in summer and winter and the hill is also perfect for a short hike. I even once tented on the top and it was an uforgettable experience.

Does it look remote on the map? Despite being slightly outside the centre, the district has excellent tram and ferry connections which make it easy to reach Södermalm and the city centre.

Best hotels in Hammarby Sjöstad

Budget

• Motel L Hammarby Sjöstad – a stylish design hotel offering excellent value for money. The rooms are modern and comfortable, and the tram stop right outside the hotel provides quick access to the city centre.

Mid-range

• Unity Hammarby Sjöstad – a modern aparthotel offering spacious rooms with kitchen facilities. It is a great option for longer stays or travellers who prefer more independence.

Luxury

• There is no luxury hotel in Hammarby Sjöstad but check out nearby hotel Elite Hotel Marina Tower in Nacka. For more information about this hotel, check ouut the next paragraphs

Nacka – waterfront area with beautiful views

Nacka is located just outside Stockholm and it is one of my personal secret tips for travellers. The area offers beautiful nature, waterfront views and a much calmer atmosphere compared to the city centre. Don’t miss one of my favourite walks here – Nacka strandpromenad and Hellasgården in the local nature reserve where you can go for a swim, sauna or try various winter sports.

Despite feeling peaceful and local, Nacka is still very accessible thanks to boats, buses, and metro connections.

Best hotels in Nacka

Budget

• ProfilHotels Nacka – a comfortable and affordable hotel with modern rooms and good transport connections to Stockholm city centre. It is a practical option for travellers looking for good value outside the busiest areas.

Mid-range

• Hotel J – a beautiful waterfront hotel located in Nacka Strand overlooking the entrance to Stockholm’s archipelago. Guests can enjoy the popular Restaurant J, sauna and wellness experiences by the water, while ferries from the nearby pier connect the hotel with central Stockholm in about 15–20 minutes.
• Home Hotel Tapetfabriken – a stylish hotel located in a renovated historic factory building. It offers unique interior design and a cosy atmosphere that reflects the industrial heritage of the area.

Luxury

• Elite Hotel Marina Tower – one of the most beautiful waterfront hotels near Stockholm. The building used to be a mill and today offers elegant rooms, a spa and fantastic views over the harbour.

Lidingö – peaceful island life

Lidingö is a green island located just east of Stockholm. It feels much calmer than the city centre and it is known for its beautiful nature, forests and many different walking and running paths. It is also a home of one of the most popular running event in the city – Lidingöloppet and a place where you can find the impressive Millesgården Museum.

Many Swedes consider Lidingö one of the most desirable places to live in the Stockholm region. The island offers a relaxed atmosphere while still being only a short tram ride away from the city.

It is an excellent choice for travellers who want nature and quiet surroundings.

Best hotels in Lidingö

Budget

• Lidingö Arena Hotel – a simple and comfortable hotel located near the Lidingö bridge. It offers affordable rooms and easy access to both the island and Stockholm city centre.

Mid-range

• Bosön Hotel – a sports and conference hotel located in a peaceful natural setting. It offers comfortable rooms, sports facilities and beautiful surroundings near the water.

Luxury

• Ellery Beach House – a stylish beachfront hotel with a strong focus on relaxation and design. The hotel features beautiful spa facilities, outdoor pools and stunning views over the Baltic Sea.
• Högberga Gård – a charming boutique hotel overlooking the sea, set in a historic villa surrounded by peaceful nature. It offers stylish rooms, a well-regarded restaurant and beautiful views, making it a perfect location for weddings. I was lucky to photograph one here and it was an unforgettable experience

Solna – events, sports and shopping

Solna is located just north of central Stockholm and is known for its major events, sports venues and shopping centres. The area is home to Strawberry Arena, Sweden’s national football stadium, where large concerts and sports events are held throughout the year.

Next to the arena you will also find Mall of Scandinavia, the largest shopping mall in the Nordic countries with hundreds of shops, restaurants and entertainment options.

Although Solna is technically outside Stockholm city centre, it is very well connected by metro, commuter trains and trams, allowing you to reach the centre in about 10–15 minutes.

Solna can be a good choice for everyone visiting Stockholm for concerts, sporting events or shopping, or for those looking for modern hotels at slightly lower prices than in the city centre.

Best hotels in Solna

Budget

• 2Home Hotel Apartments Solna – a simple and affordable aparthotel offering comfortable studios with kitchenettes. It is a practical option for travellers who want a budget stay with easy access to public transport.

Mid-range

• Quality Hotel Strawberry Arena – a large modern hotel located right next to Strawberry Arena and the Mall of Scandinavia, making it an excellent choice for concerts, sports events and shopping. The hotel offers comfortable contemporary rooms, a popular breakfast buffet and a restaurant with views from the upper floors

Luxury

• The Winery Hotel – one of the most unique hotels near Stockholm featuring its own urban winery and wine bar. The hotel offers stylish rooms, a rooftop pool and a lively atmosphere inspired by Italian wine culture.

Where to stay near Stockholm Arlanda airport

If you have an early flight or a late arrival, staying near Arlanda Airport can be very convenient. Many airport hotels offer shuttle buses or are located directly inside the terminal.

Budget

• Måby Park Hotel – a simple and affordable hotel located just a few minutes from the airport. It offers clean rooms and a convenient shuttle service for travellers with early flights.
• Aiden by Best Western Arlanda Airport – a modern budget hotel with comfortable rooms and reliable airport transfers. It is a practical choice for travellers who want affordable accommodation close to the airport.

Mid-range

• Radisson Blu Arlandia Hotel – a comfortable airport hotel offering spacious rooms, a restaurant and regular shuttle buses to the terminals. It is a reliable option for both business and leisure travellers.
• Comfort Hotel Arlanda Airport Terminal – a stylish hotel located directly at the airport terminal. It offers modern rooms, a lively bar and the convenience of being able to walk directly to your flight.

Luxury

• Clarion Hotel Arlanda Airport Terminal – the most luxurious hotel at Arlanda Airport located directly inside the terminal. It offers elegant rooms, an excellent restaurant and a rooftop pool with views over the runway.

Secret hotel tip near Arlanda: Sleep in a castle at Rosersbergs Slott

If you want something truly unique near the airport, consider staying at Rosersbergs Slottshotell. This beautiful castle hotel is located only 10–15 minutes from Arlanda Airport, surrounded by a large English park and the shores of Lake Mälaren. Instead of staying in a typical airport hotel, you can sleep in a historic royal palace and wake up in peaceful nature. It is one of the most unique accommodation experiences near Stockholm.

My personal favourite places to stay in Stockholm

We are slowly coming to the end of this guide. Above, I introduced the most interesting neighbourhoods in Stockholm and shared some of the best-rated hotels in each area, covering options from budget stays to luxury accommodation.

However, after living in Stockholm for many years and working here as a photographer and guide, I also developed a few personal favourites. Some of these places I stayed at myself, others I visited with my clients while guiding them around the city, and in a few of them I even photographed weddings.

Below are six accommodations that I personally like the most. The first four feature fantastic views. Of course, I like them most, look at the name of my blog 😉 Each of them offers something special – whether it is a unique atmosphere, a beautiful location or unforgettable views over Stockholm. The last two are unique for different reasons. Check out which.

Downtown Camper – for adventurous travellers

Downtown Camper by Scandic is one of the most interesting hotels in central Stockholm. The hotel has a sporty and adventurous atmosphere, inspired by outdoor life and Scandinavian nature.

Guests can join activities such as yoga sessions, urban hiking or kayaking trips around the city. One of the highlights is The Nest, a rooftop wellness area with a pool and sauna where you can relax while enjoying views over Stockholm’s rooftops.

Radisson Blu Waterfront – views over the water and City Hall

The Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel offers one of the best locations in the city, right next to Stockholm Central Station. Many rooms provide beautiful views over the water and the iconic Stockholm City Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquet takes place every year.

Thanks to its location, it is extremely convenient for travellers arriving by train or from Arlanda Airport. At the same time you are only a short walk away from Gamla Stan and many other attractions.

Hilton Stockholm Slussen – the best view of Gamla Stan

Few hotels in Stockholm offer a view as spectacular as Hilton Stockholm Slussen. The hotel sits on a hill above Slussen and many of its rooms overlook Gamla Stan, Riddarholmen and lake Mälaren.

From some rooms and the restaurant you can watch the sunset over the old city – one of the most beautiful views in Stockholm. The location is also perfect for exploring Södermalm and the historic centre.

Hotel Diplomat – Stockholm’s most beautiful waterfront street

Hotel Diplomat is located on Strandvägen, widely considered the most beautiful waterfront boulevard in Stockholm. The historic Art Nouveau building offers elegant rooms and spectacular views over the harbour and Djurgården island.

The location is perfect for exploring the city, with walking paths along the water and easy access to ferries heading into the archipelago. If you want a classic Stockholm experience in a truly beautiful setting, Hotel Diplomat is a fantastic choice.

Rosersbergs Slott – sleep like a king near the airport

If you are looking for something truly special near Arlanda Airport, Rosersbergs Slottshotell is an unforgettable option. The hotel is located inside a historic royal castle surrounded by an English park and the shores of Lake Mälaren.

It is only about 10–15 minutes from the airport, but it feels like a completely different world. Staying here allows you to experience a peaceful royal residence instead of a typical airport hotel.

STF af Chapman – sleep on a historic ship

If you want one of the most unique stays in Stockholm, STF af Chapman is hard to beat. This hostel offered by STF Stockholm Skeppsholmen Vandrarhem is located inside a historic sailing ship permanently anchored near Skeppsholmen island, just a short walk from Gamla Stan and the Royal Palace.

It is one of the most affordable accommodations in central Stockholm, but the experience is truly special. Waking up on a boat with views over the water and the city skyline is something you will remember for a long time.

Note: The ship is under renovation at the moment and it is supposed to reopen in summer 2026. Until that time, the hostel offers accommodation in a traditional hotel and hostel rooms.

Map of my favourite hotels in Stockholm

To make planning of your stay in Stockholm easier, I created an interactive map featuring my six favourite hotels in the city. To navigate better, I marked the Stockholm central train station in red and the recommended hotels in blue. It helps you quickly see where each accommodation is located and compare options depending on which neighbourhood you prefer.

The map automatically compares prices across the major hotel booking platforms such as Booking.com, Expedia and others. This means you can easily check availability and the best available price for each hotel in one place before making your reservation.

Final thoughts

Stockholm offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury waterfront hotels. The best place to stay depends on your travel style, budget and how long you plan to explore the city.

Whether you choose a trendy hotel in Södermalm, a historic stay in Gamla Stan or a peaceful retreat near the water, Stockholm is a city that is easy to explore and full of memorable places to stay.

If you haven’t decided yet, I also attach a FAQ section below to help you. You can also contact me at info@jardazaoral.com if you have any questions.

FAQ – Where to stay in Stockholm

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and services of companies I use and the income goes to keeping the website running.