If you’re planning a trip to Sweden, Västerås is often overlooked in favor of more well-known cities like Stockholm or Gothenburg. However, Västerås, located just an hour west of Stockholm, is one of Sweden’s oldest cities, rich in history and modern attractions. I can confidently say that Västerås offers a refreshing, less-crowded alternative for anyone looking to explore Swedish culture while enjoying the peace and beauty of a smaller city.
One of the most essential aspects of any trip is finding the right place to stay. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing a wide variety of accommodations in Västerås, from boutique hotels to charming bed-and-breakfasts. This article will share my personal experiences with five of the most comfortable and convenient hotels in the city center. These places not only offer comfort but also provide a perfect base for exploring everything Västerås has to offer.
1. Elite Stadshotellet Västerås
Location: Stora Torget 7, 722 12 Västerås
Overview:
The Elite Stadshotellet Västerås is the perfect mix of historical charm and modern amenities. Located right in the heart of Västerås, this hotel occupies a grand, early 20th-century building with a beautiful façade and luxurious interiors. The central location means you’re within walking distance of top attractions such as Västerås Cathedral, the Västerås Art Museum, and the picturesque Djäkneberget Park.
As soon as I stepped inside, I was taken aback by the stunning combination of classic architecture and contemporary design. The lobby, with its grand chandeliers and dark wood paneling, creates a welcoming atmosphere, and the reception staff were friendly and efficient.
Features and Advantages:
- Historic charm meets modern luxury: The hotel’s historic appeal has been preserved, yet it’s equipped with all the modern conveniences you’d expect. The rooms are beautifully furnished with a blend of classic and contemporary touches, and some offer stunning views of the square.
- Restaurant and Bar: The on-site restaurant, “Bistro 7,” is an excellent place to enjoy traditional Swedish cuisine with a modern twist. It also offers a cozy bar, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
- Facilities: The hotel provides a fitness center, sauna, and even a small spa area, making it ideal for relaxation after a day of exploring.
- Proximity to attractions: With its central location, I found it incredibly easy to walk to several local attractions, including the Västerås Castle and the Västmanlands County Museum.
Reviews and Ratings:
Elite Stadshotellet is consistently highly rated, with guests praising its historic ambiance and comfortable rooms. Many travelers have mentioned the exceptional service, and the central location makes it a favorite for tourists. On booking platforms like Booking.com and Hotels.com, it enjoys an impressive average rating of 8.5-9/10.
Booking Tips & Price:
- Price Range: Prices typically range from SEK 1,200 to SEK 2,500 per night, depending on the season and room type.
- Best Deals: To secure the best deal, I recommend booking through Booking.com or Expedia. Elite Stadshotellet often offers discounted rates and exclusive deals for early bookings.
2. Västerås Konserthus & Hotel
Location: Västerås Konserthus, 721 30 Västerås
Overview:
The Västerås Konserthus & Hotel is another excellent option for those looking to stay in the city center. As the name suggests, the hotel is part of the Västerås Concert Hall complex, which means it offers not only a great place to stay but also easy access to cultural events. Whether you’re attending a concert, a performance, or simply want to be near the heart of the city’s cultural life, this is an excellent choice.
During my stay, I was particularly impressed by the hotel’s unique, modern design and the high-quality amenities offered. The rooms are spacious and clean, with large windows that provide an excellent view of the city.
Features and Advantages:
- Modern design and spacious rooms: The rooms are sleek and minimalist, offering plenty of space to relax. Most rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, minibar, and free Wi-Fi.
- Cultural hub: Staying at this hotel means you’re just steps away from concerts and other cultural events. If you’re a fan of classical music or theater, this could be the perfect place to book your stay.
- Breakfast and restaurant: The hotel offers a great breakfast with a range of Swedish delicacies. The restaurant is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, offering contemporary Swedish cuisine.
Reviews and Ratings:
Guests often rave about the modern style and quiet atmosphere of this hotel. Many guests appreciate the location and proximity to the concert hall, making it perfect for cultural tourists. On TripAdvisor, it has an average rating of 4.5/5.
Booking Tips & Price:
- Price Range: Rates typically start at SEK 1,100 per night.
- Best Deals: I recommend checking Trivago for price comparisons or Hotels.com for special offers.
3. Scandic Västerås
Location: Hälla, 721 31 Västerås
Overview:
If you’re looking for a reliable, chain hotel with consistent quality, Scandic Västerås is an excellent choice. Located a little outside the immediate city center but still within a short drive or bus ride, this hotel offers comfort and convenience. The Scandic brand is known for its eco-friendly practices and modern amenities, and the Västerås location lives up to this reputation.
Features and Advantages:
- Eco-friendly focus: Scandic Västerås places a strong emphasis on sustainability. From energy-efficient rooms to organic food options, the hotel’s green initiatives make it an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious travelers.
- Spacious and comfortable rooms: The rooms are bright, airy, and equipped with all the essentials, including free Wi-Fi and a work desk. There’s also a fitness center on-site.
- Restaurant: The on-site restaurant offers a delicious breakfast and a variety of Swedish and international dishes for lunch and dinner.
Reviews and Ratings:
Scandic Västerås is highly praised for its comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and excellent breakfast. It enjoys an average rating of 8/10 on Expedia, with many guests noting its clean and modern facilities.
Booking Tips & Price:
- Price Range: Nightly rates typically range from SEK 900 to SEK 1,600.
- Best Deals: I’ve found the best rates on Scandic’s official website and Booking.com, especially if you book well in advance.
4. Clarion Collection Hotel Etage
Location: Stora Gatan 22, 722 12 Västerås
Overview:
The Clarion Collection Hotel Etage is a wonderful option for those who want to experience the charm of a boutique hotel while being close to all the action in Västerås. This property is located in a historical building in the center of the city, offering a cozy, personalized experience with a high level of service.
Features and Advantages:
- Homely atmosphere: The hotel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with beautifully decorated rooms and a cozy lounge area where you can unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- Inclusive perks: Guests at Clarion Collection can enjoy a complimentary evening meal, which I found to be a great bonus. It’s a perfect way to save some money while enjoying a hearty, home-cooked meal.
- Fitness and relaxation: The hotel offers a small fitness center and a sauna, providing opportunities for relaxation after a busy day.
Reviews and Ratings:
Guests regularly mention the exceptional service and comfort of the rooms. It holds an impressive rating of 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, with visitors highlighting the hotel’s quiet yet central location.
Booking Tips & Price:
- Price Range: Rates typically start at SEK 1,200 per night.
- Best Deals: Hotels.com often offers great promotions and discounts for Clarion Collection, so it’s a good platform to check for the best rates.
5. Hotell Västerås
Location: Kopparbergsvägen 10, 722 13 Västerås
Overview:
Hotell Västerås is a fantastic, budget-friendly option that still offers a comfortable and pleasant stay. While it may not have the same luxurious touches as some of the higher-end options, it’s clean, well-maintained, and perfectly located for those who want to explore the city on foot. The hotel is just a short walk from Västerås’ main shopping street and a 15-minute walk from the train station.
Features and Advantages:
- Great value for money: Hotell Västerås offers affordable prices while still providing comfortable rooms with all the basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and modern bathrooms.
- Central location: The hotel’s location is unbeatable for anyone wanting to explore Västerås on foot. Attractions like Västerås Cathedral and the city’s many shops and restaurants are just around the corner.
Reviews and Ratings:
Many guests appreciate the hotel’s affordability and clean rooms. It holds a solid rating of 7.5/10 on Booking.com, with reviewers often mentioning the great location and value for money.
Booking Tips & Price:
- Price Range: Rates typically start at SEK 800 per night.
- Best Deals: For budget-friendly options, I recommend checking Booking.com or Agoda for special deals.
Choosing the Right Hotel for You
Whether you prefer a luxurious, historic hotel like the Elite Stadshotellet Västerås or a more budget-friendly option like Hotell Västerås, the city offers a variety of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. With its central location, excellent amenities, and proximity to cultural attractions, Västerås is a wonderful destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of Sweden in a peaceful, welcoming setting.
For booking accommodations in Europe, I highly recommend using platforms like Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and Trivago, which offer competitive rates, user reviews, and the ability to compare prices across multiple sites. Be sure to book in advance for the best deals, and don’t hesitate to take advantage of early bird discounts or loyalty programs for added savings.
No matter where you choose to stay, Västerås promises a memorable experience with plenty of history, culture, and scenic beauty to enjoy.
