Hotel Snapshot
Housed in a 1910 Renaissance-style building that once served as a prestigious bank, Stockholm’s Bank Hotel is where historical grandeur meets contemporary elegance. From its bronze doors and Venetian chandeliers to thoughtfully considered Swedish art and plush velvet furnishings, this property in the heart of the city exudes theatrical flair without losing its refined, Nordic edge.
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Book Now With Perks
- Credit of $50 or $100 per room
- Breakfast for 2 daily
- Room upgrade (subject to availability)
- Early check-in, (subject to availability)
- Late check out (subject to availability)
- Benefits applicable to stays of 2 nights or more
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Design & Character
The setting is decidedly dramatic and distinctive without being over-the-top or gaudy. Many of the building’s original elements are still firmly in place, including the two oversized bronze doors that open into the former bank’s lobby, now reimagined as a stylish precursor to your stay. The public spaces feature elements such as custom-made glass chandeliers, rich velvets, marble floors, mahogany walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows- all juxtaposed beautifully with contemporary Swedish art.
The Rooms
The 115 rooms range from the cozy Elegant Essential to the sprawling Penthouse Executive Terrace Suite, where you can overlook Stockholm and beyond from the full-length terrace. I had the good luck of getting upgraded to the latter and felt like I had my own exclusive apartment complete with a luxe velvet sofa in this chic European capital city.
No matter the category, the accommodations are designed with Scandinavian minimalism and soft art-deco accents. Natural materials, bespoke furniture, and artwork from emerging local artists make each space a retreat and inspiration at the same time. The Bank’s bathrooms feature sleek marble vanities, high-end fittings, and divine-smelling Diptyque toiletries. In the suites, expect oversized soaking tubs, walk-in showers, and warm lighting that relaxes you after a full day of seeing the sights.
Food & Drink
Bonnie’s, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is set in the soaring former banking hall and serves an expansive international menu with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Here, you can enjoy the cuisine in a retro-glam setting. The breakfast buffet of Nordic specialties- here’s looking at you, smoked salmon- from Sweden’s top food producers makes for a delicious way to kick off your day.
To imbibe, you have your pick of four bars. Callouts go to the intimate Papillon Bar, formerly the bank director’s office, which also serves small plates, and Le Hibou, a rooftop lounge with panoramic views and a chic Parisian twist. The wine, spirits, and cocktail lists at both are extensive and creative.
Amenities
In a destination where the number of high-end boutique hotels is growing by the day, Bank’s staff is what makes it a leader in the game. Everyone I encountered welcomed me like a friend, was ready to help me with anything I needed, and even offered to look over my itinerary and give me recommendations on the latest “it” places and must-dos.
I’m not a gym rat by any means, but the property does have a well-equipped gym that’s open 24/7.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
Stockholm is a walker’s dream with its pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and thoroughfares, and Bank’s prime location in the city’s heartbeat near every attraction imaginable is hard to beat. I was able to get around on foot everywhere. My top picks include the legendary, more than a century-old home accessories and design store Svenskt Tenn, the leafy, serene Humlegården park, and two fantastic museums: the Vasa, which houses the well-preserved eponymous 17th-century warship, and ABBA, dedicated to the famous Swedish pop band.
Buzzy restaurants like the seafood-centric classic brasserie Sturehof, which is a Stockholm institution, are also a stone’s throw away.
Fast Facts
Location: Stockholm, Sweden
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: Super sexy with unmistakable edge and an eye on design, but not in an overwhelming way.
Room Count: 115 across 11 categories
Starting Rate: From approximately SEK 2,500 per night, the equivalent of around $265
Food + Drink: Bonnie’s is the signature restaurant and open for breakfast through lunch. Come time for libations, there are four bars to pick from. The callout goes to Le Hibou, a Parisian leaning rooftop space with panoramic city views.
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The friendly, on-the-mark service courtesy of hip, plugged-in locals who I wanted to befriend.
Closest Airport: Around 40 minutes from Stockholm Arlanda Airport
