Elite Plaza, Gothenburg

Built in the late 1800s, this former insurance company headquarters has found a new lease of life as a top-end hotel.

It mixes modern and neoclassical styles, with lots of subtle nods to the building’s moneyed past. Shiny, gold-coloured doors lead into the lobby area, which is decorated with impressive ceiling paintings. Big chandeliers twinkle just below.

A lofty covered atrium connects the rooms, the cheapest of which are disappointingly small for the money, but are fine for a night or two. One price level up are the deluxe rooms, which are much bigger and accented with the same shades of aubergine and chocolate.

Maze-like corridors lead up to the executive rooms and suites, where sloping windows let light and partial views of the city flood in. Suite 506 especially has very good views across Gothenburg, plus a dining area decorated with hot-pink chairs.

There’s no pool at the Elite Plaza but you do get use of a sauna and a small gym. Alternatively you can kick back in the wine bar just off the lobby – it’s a sophisticated alternative to the English-style pub next door.