Our most recent visit in mid-May was for the Taylor Swift concert. Naturally, she stayed at Grand Hôtel, the go-to hotel for visiting megastars. Despite her presence, the ambiance remained undisturbed, save for a few extra security personnel and the occasional police car drive-by.
The guests we did notice were mostly American luxury cruise passengers, especially at breakfast, when they are very chatty with each other. And of course, the Swifties added a unique touch to the atmosphere.
Room 5506
When Grand Hôtel is at its best, it’s virtually unrivaled. Unfortunately, our experience hasn’t always been smooth. A while back, during a sweltering day with temperatures hitting 30 degrees Celsius, our room, desperately in need of renovation, felt like a sauna. Conversely, on a more recent visit with milder 23-degree weather, the hotel’s cooling system performed admirably.
We did not care to look at the Swedish Castle. We scouted for Taylor Swift…
The location of Grand Hôtel is not just a major draw; it is the major point, offering an excellent spot right in the heart of Stockholm. The Cadier Bar excels in service and in drinks, and breakfast at the Veranda is generally commendable, though we’ve noticed a slight decline in the buffet’s details.
Our last stay in Stockholm was at the Penthouse Executive Terrace Suite of Bank Hotel. Despite its luxury, the suite was worn and noisy, with disturbances from the rooftop terrace above. It begs the question: why did Emmanuel Macron choose Bank Hotel over Grand Hôtel? Perhaps the latter was fully booked.
For those seeking an alternative, Ett Hem offers a smaller, cozier, and more personal experience. Ultimately, choosing between Grand Hôtel and Ett Hem boils down to your preference for style and location.
A couple of times
May 2024
3
Superior Suite
None
Ok
75%
Great
Ok
Yes, but we will probably first try Ett Hem after their new extension.
Sometimes yes, sometimes no.