Freys Hotel

Opened in 1989, this family-owned and run hotel has boutique-level style and is named after Frey, a horse who won an 1895 distance race from Stockholm to Jönköping, which explains the equine decor throughout. The hotel prides itself on its green credentials -- with eco-friendly lighting and laundry practices -- and it also donates proceeds from the sale of teddy bears found throughout the property to local charities. A rather glitzy and classic American-style portico entrance leads guests into a similarly jazzy lobby area complete with sparkling light fixtures, a smart dark wood reception desk, and modern takes traditional-style furnishings. The property is arranged over seven floors, plus there's a pleasant rear courtyard with outdoor seating and greenery, though it's shared with another hotel (Central Hotel located around the corner). The common areas can be busy, a fact that's no doubt fueled by the hotel's prime central Stockholm location, and guests here run the gamut from business travelers to tourist couples and families. 

The hotel is set in Stockholm's central Norrmalm District, and is within walking distance of most of the city's major sights. Norrmalm features Sweden's largest shopping area, complete with underground mall, while the city's charming old town -- on the island of Stadsholmen -- is about a five-minute cab journey from the hotel. Central Station is two blocks from the hotel, where Arlanda Express trains to Arlanda International Airport are available. The trip takes about 30 minutes, or 45 minutes by taxi. The city's metro, or tunnelbana, also stops at Central Station, and trips to iconic Stortorget take about 10 minutes. Stockholm City Hall, an handsome and historic waterfront building, is just over 10 minutes away on foot, while the panoramic views of the city available from Monteliusvagen are 20 minutes away by tunnelbana.

The hotel has 127 rooms, most of which are decorated in light tones, carpeted or light wood floors, and quirky touches such as mounted horse head statues or kaleidoscopic wallpaper. Furniture in some rooms has white veneer surfaces and a whimsical look, while other rooms have more straightforward dark wood desks, tables, and headboards. Most rooms are small -- especially standard level rooms -- though Superior Rooms are more spacious and some have balconies overlooking the street. Features include free and fast Wi-Fi, minibars, and flat-screen TVs with cable channels, while some rooms also feature kitchenettes with hotplates and cookware. Simple, modern bathrooms -- some of which are tiny -- are tiled and have heated towel racks, walk-in showers, and toiletries. All beds come topped with a teddy bear (available for purchase). Poor soundproofing between rooms can be an issue, as can noise from the courtyard. 

The hotel serves a great buffet breakfast of hot and cold items plus to-go options for early departures, all included in the room rate. The dining area can be extremely crowded throughout the morning. For lunch and dinner, the busy Belgobaren restaurant and bar specializes in Belgian classics such as marinated mussels and offers around 300 Belgian beers as well as a terrace for alfresco dining. There's a good choice of meeting and conference rooms, and fast Wi-Fi is free of charge throughout the property. Unfortunately, there are no spa or health facilities on site, and parking is subject to fees.