Hotel Royal, Gothenburg

In a part of town where the hotel scene is dominated by big, international chains, Hotel Royal comes as a breath of fresh air. Family run, it’s stylish, smart and supremely well managed.

This place first opened for business in 1852, which makes it the city’s oldest hotel. And despite its years – not to mention the arrival of hotels more than twice its size – we think it’s still one of the absolute best places to stay in Gothenburg.

The interiors are fantastical. Tilt your head upwards when you walk into the lobby and you’ll see a grand ceiling made from pieces of hand-painted glass. A splendid wrought iron staircase leads up to the rooms, all of which have their own unique style. Some face the courtyard at the back; others face the street.

These are homely spaces with vases on the windowsills and art on the walls, but they’re high enough quality-wise that you’re just as likely to be rubbing shoulders with a wealthy businessman at breakfast as you are a loved-up couple.

Throughout the hotel’s public areas are mesmerising stone floors and comfy armchairs that invite you to sit down and take in the historic atmosphere. Other thoughtful touches like the free coffee and homemade cake in the lobby may make you linger a little longer.

But the best thing about Hotel Royal is the reasonable prices. We were quoted 1165 SEK for a bright and spacious double facing the courtyard – cheaper than a plain, bed-in-a-box room at some of the chain places nearby.