First Hotel Reisen

The First Hotel Reisen is a waterfront property located in two adjoining historic buildings dating back to the mid-1700s. They were originally used as a storage facilities for goods prior to shipment. The hotel's square yellow facade is accented with top dormer windows and green patinated awnings. Large arched windows on the ground floor are finished with outdoor window seats and accompanying tables lining the sidewalk. The lobby is stylish and full of natural light, with a chic sitting area furnished with elegant armchairs, a sofa, and a black rose-shaped area rug; fresh flowers add an upscale touch. Interiors here mix a traditional aesthetic with modern elements, with lots of wood floors, a wellness area with original vaulted brickwork, and classic furnishings like Persian rugs tastefully paired with contemporary dining chairs and bar stools. The small library is particularly charming, with brown leather Chesterfield sofas and armchairs, exposed brick and wood paneled walls, inset wood bookcases, painted wood beam ceilings, and a fireplace. Maritime accents are dotted throughout, such as the glass-encased model ship in the library. The hotel attracts tourists and leisure travelers, particularly couples.

The First Hotel Reisen is located on a busy main street that runs directly parallel to the waterfront on the Eastern side of Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town, which is set on a small island and dates back to the 13th-century. The area is full of quaint medieval alleyways and narrow cobbled streets. Charming boutiques, cafes, and other eateries are all in easy walking distance from the hotel. Stortorget Square, the city's oldest square and home to the famous Old Town Christmas market as well as the Nobel Museum, is a four-minute walk from here. The Royal Palace and museums (Kungliga slottet) are a six-minute walk away, while the Parliament House is an eight-minute walk. There are plenty of public transport options available nearby (both by land and by sea), and the walk to Galma Stan metro station is seven minutes. Central Station is one stop away and connects directly to Arlanda Airport (about 40 minutes total travel time via public transport). The hotel provides valet parking (cars are parked at a nearby garage), but it costs an extra fee.

All rooms include work desks, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Wardrobes include irons and ironing boards and fans, but no safes. Rooms also have stocked minibars, but no coffee/tea facilities, though room service is available 24/7. Bathrooms are stocked with hairdryers and free individual toiletries. There is no AC.
Upper-category rooms have more stylish decor and added features like balconies, whirlpool tubs, or even in-bathroom saunas. The largest multi-room suite measures nearly 500 square feet.
Rooms higher up and facing the water have better views, but guests do sometimes complain of street noise from the busy road below. Some entry-level rooms only have views of the neighboring building.

First Hotel Reisen checks off most of the expected features for an upscale hotel, but some, like the wellness facilities, are rather limited and might leave some guests underwhelmed. The hotel has a stylish restaurant that's open for all meals during the week and serves up Swedish cuisine, light meals and snacks, and a free breakfast buffet with extensive options. There's also an atmospheric bar that's popular with guests and locals alike. Room service is available 24/7.
Wellness facilities include a small gym, pool, sauna, and spa that are located in an atmospheric basement area with original vaulted brickwork. The pool is small and chilly and is generally used as a plunge pool post-sauna. The gym is also small and offers limited equipment, including a stationary bike, treadmill, yoga mats, an exercise ball, and a few dumbbells. The spa includes two treatment rooms and a full menu of massages, facials, waxes, and other treatments.
The hotel has meeting and banquet rooms for up to 80 guests as well as stylish sitting areas like the quaint library, a charming spot with a fireplace and tufted leather sofas and armchairs. The front desk is open 24/7 and can assist with concierge services such as reservations, recommendations, ticket assistance, dry cleaning, and laundry service. Valet parking is available (cars are parked at a nearby garage), but it costs an extra fee. Pets are allowed in certain rooms, but also incur an extra charge. Wi-Fi is free throughout.