Malardrottningen Hotel

The Mälardrottningen, a white-and-blue boat-hotel with 60 cozy, tasteful cabins, is permanently docked on the southwestern side of Riddarholmen, a little island in Gamla Stan that's covered in historic buildings. We'd say the Mälardrottningen attracts an older, more mature crowd than many of the boat-hotels docked off nearby Södermalm, and it's a bit pricier. However, the Mälardrottningen has air-conditioning and en suite facilities in every room, and there is even a sauna available for private booking!

Built in 1924, the 240-foot vessel was once owned by Woolworth heiress Barbara Hutton, who counted Cary Grant amongst her many husbands. The yacht, then called the "Vanadis," was a 19th-birthday present from her father. (Wonder what she got for her 20th?)

The boat has so many cabin configurations that contemplating the menu of rooms may make your head spin. But ultimately, the variations in price are based on three variables: 1) whether the room is on ground level or one floor down, 2) the view (or lack thereof), and 3) the size of your room, which, of course, affects the type of bed is inside.

Cheaper rooms are on the lower level, lack water views, and have narrow bunk or twin beds. All have small writing desks, slim closets, and boat-size bathrooms. In other words, the Mälardrottningen is best for those who don't spend too much time in their rooms.

Dark wood furniture, ceilings, and wall panels give the ship's rooms and shared spaces a rich feel. In sync with the general aesthetic of Stockholm's boat-hotels, the decor scheme is nautical, with navy blue carpeting and blue upholstery on the chairs and couches.

Breakfast is a served buffet style, and the restaurant (dinner only) is open from 6 to 11 PM. The bar opens at 5 PM for a guest happy hour.