Story Hotel Riddargatan - JDV by Hyatt

"The first solo trip had me elevating my legs against the wall due to excruciating foot pain."

"These days, a hip design hotel isn’t worth its salt unless it’s also home to an almost painfully trendy bar. But when Story Hotel first opened in 2009, on the border of two of Stockholm ’s coolest neighborhoods, it set the standard to which all of the city’s subsequent boutique hotels would be held. The Story formula is deceptively simple: take one historic building in an achingly cool European capital and strip it down to exposed brick and concrete, and original hardwood floors, before decorating it with a sleek, unpretentious style that epitomizes Scandinavian design. Add a sprinkling of colorful graffiti art, and pair faded Persian rugs with collaged photographs and leather chairs. Make sure some rooms are small and affordable, while others are spacious and decadent. The cuisine needn’t be fancy, but it ought to be high quality, just as the cocktails must be inventive and delicious. And don’t let the DJ-accompanied scene turn pretentious; everyone should feel welcome, and among friends. Story’s formula works, and there’s a reason this original boutique hotel is still one of Stockholm’s best."

"Located in the bustling Östermalm neighborhood, the Story Hotel Riddargatan is on a quieter street that’s just a stone’s throw from a lot of the action (we’re talking about some of the best shopping in Stockholm.) We loved the room's moody but modern design and took every chance we could get to use the original elevator in this historic building. If you’re like us and enjoy a drink or a meal at a great hotel, Story also has the wonderful Ling Ling and a top-tier bar – though our favorite meal was candle-lit continental Swedish Breakfast included in the stay." - Coolstuff Team