Hotel Rival

Hotel Rival is a privately owned boutique hotel on Mariatorget, one of the prettiest squares on Södermalm. It has 99 rooms and combines a hotel with an entertainment venue: the building includes a theatre that seats 735 guests and hosts concerts, shows and events, so the atmosphere in the evenings is livelier than in a typical hotel. Watson's Bar, a cocktail bar and a bistro and café complete the picture, and all are popular with locals as well as guests.

The rooms are designed in a boutique style, and the overall feel is relaxed and slightly theatrical, in keeping with the building. Rooms vary in size, so check the room types when booking, and ask for a room facing the square if you like a view, or one at the back if you want more quiet. The bistro and café is a convenient place for breakfast and light meals, and the bars are a good place to start or end an evening in Södermalm.

The hotel's location is its main strength. Mariatorget is in the heart of Södermalm, the island south of Gamla Stan known for independent shops, vintage stores, galleries, cafés and bars. Drop Coffee is around the corner, Monteliusvägen and its views over the water are a short walk uphill, and Hornsgatan and Götgatan, two of the main streets of Södermalm, are close by. Gamla Stan is two metro stops away, or a walk of around 15 minutes across Slussen.

Hotel Rival suits couples, friends and solo travellers who want a sociable base in a lively neighbourhood rather than in the business district. Check the theatre programme before you travel: staying on the night of a show you want to see is an easy way to combine accommodation and entertainment. Book ahead for weekends and summer, when Södermalm is at its busiest.

Mariatorget metro station on the red line is right by the square, with direct trains to Gamla Stan, T-Centralen and Stockholm Central Station in a few minutes. From Arlanda Airport, take the train to Stockholm Central Station and change to the metro, or take a taxi straight to the door.