Hotel Royal

Hotel Royal is a small, traditional hotel on Drottninggatan, a street in the old town district that runs close to the canals and the shopping streets. It is the kind of place that appeals to travellers who prefer character to polish: an older building with a sense of history, a compact reception, a breakfast room and rooms that vary in size and layout. The position is excellent for exploring on foot. Central Station, the Nordstan shopping centre and the canal boats are a short walk, and the Haga district, the fish church and the Kungstorget market hall are within easy reach. Prices are generally lower than at the large chain hotels nearby, which makes it a good-value way to stay in the middle of the city.

Because the building is older, rooms are not uniform. Some are compact, some are larger and some look onto the street while others face a quieter courtyard, so check the room category and read what is included. Bathrooms may be private or shared depending on the room type, so confirm this before you book.

Expect simple furnishings and a quiet atmosphere rather than a long list of facilities. Breakfast is generally available and is a good start before a day of walking or a boat trip, and staff can usually give tips on trams, tickets and what is open.

Gothenburg is a very walkable city, and this hotel makes the most of it. Spend the morning on the canals, take a cinnamon bun in Haga, ride a tram to Liseberg or Universeum, and return for a rest before dinner. For the archipelago, take the tram to Saltholmen and board a ferry, which makes a pleasant half day in summer.

In winter, the old town is cosy, with warm cafes, lights in the trees and a calm atmosphere that suits a long weekend. Light sleepers should ask for a courtyard room, as streets can be lively at weekends.

Hotel Royal suits couples, history lovers, solo travellers and budget-conscious visitors who prefer a traditional stay. It is less suited to travellers who want modern conveniences such as a pool, a spa or a large restaurant, or those who need step-free access, since older buildings can have stairs. Book early for summer and event weekends, compare flexible rates and check the cancellation terms, the check-in hours and whether a lift is available before you confirm.

Reception hours at smaller hotels can be shorter than at large chains, so tell the hotel your arrival time in advance if you expect to come in late. Bring a small bag for the day, because the old town is best explored on foot with a stop for coffee and a cinnamon bun whenever the weather turns.