The accommodations at Hotel Rival are designed with both style and serenity in mind. Each room serves as an individual sanctuary, featuring custom furnishings and a play of rich colors and textures. Guests can choose from the well-appointed Standard Double or Twin Rooms, which offer a perfect blend of comfort and functionality. Every room is equipped with high-quality linens, air conditioning, and a curated selection of Swedish design elements. Large windows invite natural light and provide views of either the tranquil courtyard or the bustling Mariatorget park. Attention to detail is paramount, with modern technology integrated seamlessly into the vintage-inspired decor to ensure a restful and sophisticated stay.

Amenities

Location

Address

Mariatorget 3, Stockholm, Sweden

Dining, Drinks & Socializing

Culinary life at Hotel Rival is centered around the Bistro, a local favorite known for its classic Swedish flavors and international flair. The dining room, with its high ceilings and leather booths, offers a timeless European feel. For a more casual experience, the hotel’s café serves up expertly brewed coffee and light bites, perfect for people-watching at the square. As evening falls, the cocktail bars become the heart of the hotel. Skilled mixologists craft inventive drinks in a setting that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Whether you are enjoying a slow breakfast before heading out to explore Södermalm or ending your night with a glass of champagne, the food and beverage offerings here are a highlight of the Stockholm experience.

The Neighborhood

Södermalm is Stockholm’s most creative and eclectic district, and Hotel Rival sits right at its heart on Mariatorget. Known for its independent spirit, the neighborhood is a treasure trove of vintage boutiques, cutting-edge Swedish fashion, and cozy neighborhood bars. Mariatorget itself is a beautiful leafy square, perfect for a morning stroll or people-watching. The hotel is within walking distance of the historic Old Town (Gamla Stan) and the scenic Monteliusvägen viewpoint, offering the best panoramic vistas of the city. With excellent subway connections, the rest of Stockholm's attractions are just minutes away.

About Hotel Rival

Hotel Rival is a landmark of Stockholm’s Södermalm district, blending 1930s Art Deco elegance with a modern, creative spirit. Originally a grand movie palace, the building was transformed in 2003 into Sweden’s first boutique hotel, owned by musician Benny Andersson. This heritage is felt throughout the property, from the original cinema theater that still hosts nightly performances to the film-inspired decor of the guest corridors. The hotel features 99 uniquely designed rooms, including comfortably appointed Standard Double and Twin options that cater to the modern traveler. Each room is a masterclass in boutique style, offering a peaceful retreat from the vibrant streets of Södermalm. Guests can enjoy views of the historic Mariatorget park or the hotel’s quiet inner courtyard. Social life at The Rival is vibrant and inclusive. The Bistro serves up elevated Swedish classics, while the selection of bars—including the Art Deco cocktail lounge—attracts a sophisticated local crowd. For a more relaxed pace, the hotel’s own bakery and café offer the perfect spot for a traditional Swedish 'fika'. Positioned perfectly for exploring, Hotel Rival is surrounded by the independent boutiques, trend-setting galleries, and cozy coffee shops that define Södermalm. With the subway just steps away and Gamla Stan within walking distance, it serves as the ultimate base for those who wish to experience Stockholm like a local, with a touch of red-carpet glamour.

A Cinematic Escape in the Heart of Södermalm

Located on the leafy Mariatorget square, Hotel Rival is not just a place to stay; it is a Stockholm institution. Owned by ABBA’s Benny Andersson, this former 1930s Art Deco cinema has been meticulously transformed into a vibrant boutique hotel that hums with creative energy. From the moment you step into the red-carpeted lobby, you are enveloped in a world of nostalgic glamour and contemporary Swedish cool. The hotel seamlessly blends its cinematic heritage with modern luxury, offering guests a front-row seat to the best of Södermalm’s culture, fashion, and nightlife. Whether you are here to explore the city's design district or simply to soak in the artistic atmosphere, The Rival provides an unforgettable backdrop for your Stockholm story.

The Rival Experience

Staying at Hotel Rival is an immersive cultural experience. The building’s history as a grand movie house is echoed throughout, from the plush velvet furnishings to the movie star photography adorning the walls. The atmosphere is social and electric, particularly in the evenings when locals and guests mingle in the various bars and the grand bistro. The hotel serves as a community hub, often hosting live shows and events in its spectacular theater. Despite its bustling social scene, the hotel maintains an air of exclusive intimacy, ensuring that every guest feels like a VIP. It is a place where history meets harmony, making it one of the most sought-after addresses in the Swedish capital.

Original Art Deco cinema architecture
Vibrant bistro and cocktail bars
Live theater and performances on-site
Prime location on Mariatorget square
Boutique design with a musical soul

Book Your Stockholm Spotlight

Choosing Hotel Rival means choosing a stay with character, history, and unparalleled service. As one of Stockholm's most beloved boutique hotels, it offers a rare combination of cinematic grandeur and cozy neighborhood charm. Its location in Södermalm puts you at the center of the city’s creative pulse, with independent boutiques, art galleries, and world-class restaurants right at your doorstep. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway or a business trip with a twist, Hotel Rival promises a stay that is as memorable as a classic film. Secure your room at Mariatorget 3 and experience the vibrant soul of Stockholm from its most iconic stage.

The Nova Collection Says

The hotel is housed in a legendary 1930s Art Deco cinema, retaining much of its original architectural grandeur and cinematic heritage.

Historic Splendor

The hotel's interiors and exterior preserve and showcase the distinctive geometric patterns, rich materials, and luxurious feel of the Art Deco era.

Art Deco Gems

The hotel features vibrant, cinematic-themed interiors that blend its historic past with modern design sensibilities.

Design Forward

The hotel is situated on Mariatorget square in Södermalm, directly immersing guests in one of Stockholm's most creative districts with independent boutiques and local bars just steps away.