Mälardrottningen Hotel

Mälardrottningen is one of the most unusual places to stay in Stockholm: a historic motor yacht, moored at Riddarholmskajen on the edge of the old town, that has been turned into a floating hotel. It lies directly beside Riddarholmen and Gamla Stan, with Lake Mälaren on one side and the towers and rooftops of the old city on the other. From the deck and from the water-facing cabins you can watch the boats go by and the lights come on across the water. For anyone who loves ships, or who simply wants a hotel stay with a story, it is a delight, and it puts you in one of the best positions in the city. Space aboard a ship is limited, and you should expect cabins rather than conventional hotel rooms. About sixty rooms are spread over several types. The cabins are compact and simple, with single or bunk beds, and they suit budget travellers who see the room as a place to sleep. Double rooms are a little larger, with a double or queen bed and some with a sea view. Higher up are the suites and junior suites, with bay views and more room to relax, and the master suite is the grandest option. There is even a larger family cabin and a multi-bedroom unit for groups. All rooms have a private shower, a flat-screen television and free wifi, and the ship's character means that no two spaces feel quite alike. Facilities reflect the setting. There is a terrace on deck, a lobby with television and free tea and coffee, luggage storage and a front desk that is staffed throughout the day and night. A buffet breakfast is available for an extra charge, and many guests enjoy it before setting out. There is no parking on site, which suits a visit focused on walking and the metro, and pets are not allowed. As the vessel is a floating structure, cabins can be affected by the movement of passing boats, but most guests find the sense of being on the water charming rather than disruptive. The location is hard to beat for sightseeing. The Royal Palace is about six minutes away on foot, the Nobel Prize Museum on Stortorget is much the same, and the narrow streets of Gamla Stan, with their cafes, galleries and bookshops, begin almost at the gangway. Riddarholmen Church, with its distinctive iron spire, is next door, and the Royal Swedish Opera and Drottninggatan, the main pedestrian shopping street, are a short walk. City Hall, where the Nobel banquet takes place, is about ten minutes along the waterfront. The Gamla Stan metro station is about five minutes away and Stockholm Central Station is within a quarter of an hour on foot, which makes it easy to reach the airport train. Mälardrottningen suits couples who want romance and character, families who want an adventure, and visitors who care more about the address than about large rooms. It is not the right choice for travellers who need generous space, a spa or a lift-served modern interior. Because the cabins are small, travel light. Rates are moderate for such a central address, with the best value in the shoulder seasons and the highest prices in summer and early December. Free cancellation is available on selected rates, and it is wise to check when you book which room type and which breakfast arrangement come with your choice.