The Perfect Stockholm Getaway: Hotel Rival Review
“You can dance, you can jive, having the time of your life.”
Planning your upcoming trip to Stockholm and looking for a nice play to stay? Say no more. Nestled in the heart of Stockholm's vibrant Södermalm district, Hotel Rival is not just a regular spot but a destination brimming with history and charm. Originally opened in 1937 as a cinema, this iconic building was transformed into a boutique hotel by ABBA's Benny Andersson in 2003, seamlessly blending its rich past with modern luxury.
In this review, I'll take you through my entire experience at Hotel Rival, covering everything from the stylish and comfortable rooms to the breakfast spread, the hotel's prime location, and all the essential details you need to know before booking your stay. Whether you're a history buff, a luxury seeker, or just planning a visit to Stockholm, this review will help you decide if Hotel Rival is the perfect choice for your next getaway.
Curious to find out more? Let’s review Hotel Rival while we cover all aspects of the property, from the rooms to the location.
The Location
Hotel Rival is perfectly located in the lively yet relaxed Södermalm district. Just a short walk away, you'll find the Mariatorget subway station, making it super easy to get around the city. Stockholm's Central Station is only a couple of stops away, so getting to and from the airport is a breeze. Even though the hotel is in a central spot, the area around it has a nice, calm vibe that doesn’t feel crowded or busy. With trendy shops, cozy cafes, and lovely parks nearby, Hotel Rival is the perfect place to enjoy the best of Stockholm's vibrant excitement and peaceful charm.
The Rooms
The rooms at Hotel Rival are modern and spacious, providing everything you need for a comfortable stay. Each room features a bathtub, USB charging ports on both sides of the bed, and a well-stocked minibar. The bed is incredibly comfortable, ensuring a good night's sleep. There's also a nightly turn-down service that adds an extra touch of luxury. Some rooms even have a balcony, but even if yours doesn’t, the floor-to-ceiling windows open up so you can still enjoy a bit of fresh air from your room.
If you're a light sleeper like me, you'll appreciate that the curtains close completely, making the room very dark, and there's minimal noise from the streets. The atmosphere is incredibly homey, making it a wonderful place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
The Restaurant
Although I didn't dine at the hotel restaurant for lunch or dinner due to the abundance of nearby dining options, I did have breakfast at Hotel Rival. In my opinion, the breakfast choices were somewhat limited, but the quality of the food was good. You can order from an à la carte menu that includes a variety of egg dishes, pancakes, and avocado toast. For those looking to start their day with a touch of celebration, there's even champagne available for breakfast. I also visited the hotel bar in the evening, and I must say, the cocktails were delightful, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring Stockholm.
The Amenities
At Hotel Rival, you'll find everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Need to keep up with your workout routine? No problem! The hotel's fitness center is well-equipped and ready for you. When you're in the mood to unwind, head to the cozy lounge area – it's perfect for relaxing with a good book or catching up on some work.
If you're here for business, the modern meeting rooms have got you covered with all the tech you need. And don't forget the hotel's own cinema! It's a cool touch that pays homage to the building's history, and you might even catch a special screening during your stay.
The Verdict
My stay at Hotel Rival was truly wonderful. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I felt welcomed by the relaxed and informal atmosphere, which instantly made me feel right at home. The rooms were modern and spacious, offering all the comforts one could ask for, including an incredibly comfy bed and those lovely floor-to-ceiling windows that let in just the right amount of fresh air and enjoy the sun overlooking the local park. Overall, my experience at Hotel Rival was lovely, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy and charming place to stay in Stockholm.
I hope this was helpful. If you have any more questions, you can always slide into my DMs here or on Instagram, and I’m more than happy to answer any of your questions. Happy Travels!
