A touch of five-star Swedish style
Housed in an old market hall, The Renaissance Malmö Hotel is located slap, bang in the centre of Malmö - and conveniently only a short walk from the central station - making it the ideal spot for getting around the city and seeing the sights.
It goes without saying that the Swedish do interiors well and this fresh and bright hotel certainly doesn’t disappoint; from the reception desk to the bedside lights, the attention to detail is undeniable. Rooms are bright and spacious – and being a listed building there are plenty of character features, which sit happily alongside the contemporary decoration.
All the rooms are either 'Deluxe' or 'Prestige' standard, so luxury is a given - in fact, everything about this hotel quietly screams five star, except the rates which are surprisingly reasonable.
There are plenty of areas to relax too, with the stylish, vibrant blue dining area and the raspberry pink sofas and armchairs in the bar and lounge perfect for sinking into with a cocktail or two after a day exploring the city.
And by the way, the cocktails here are superb and skillfully prepared. There is also a wine list dedicated to rosé, which is having a bit of a moment here - so it’s no wonder the bar is quite the hot-spot for locals out and about at the weekends.
However, being surrounded by many bustling eateries, in Lilla Torg (the little square) and great shopping, not to mention the design centre and many galleries, there is plenty to lure you away from the comfort of the hotel.
Despite being part of the large Marriot group, this hotel has it’s own unique character - maybe it’s because the staff are so very welcoming, helpful and professional, or perhaps it’s simply the historic surroundings of Malmö, but it a must-stay if you are in town.
Details: The Renaissance Malmö Hotel, Mäster Johansgatan 15, Malmo, SE-211 21 Sweden (+46 402 48500)
Until 15 August, the rates for deluxe rooms at the Renaissance Hotel including breakfast are 1290 SEK (about £115) Sunday to Thursday, and 1190 SEK (about £106) Friday and Saturday. The rest of the year the room rates during weekend breaks are 1190-1290 SEK and during the week around 2000 SEK (about £179).