The Red Boat Malaren (Den Roda Batan Malaren)

One of the numerous boat hotels on the northern side of Södermalm, the Red Boat Mälaren is just what its name implies: a red boat floating on Lake Mälaren. The hotel, which consists of two boats, provides 34 guestrooms with both private and dorm-style accommodations.

The Red Boat bills itself as a "hotel/hostel." The hostel consists of 29 rooms, most of which are on the main red boat. The hotel consists of five rooms, all with a nautical name such as "the Admiral" and "the Captain." These five rooms, along with the remaining seven hostel rooms, are on the second boat.

Guestrooms are small and decorated with a nautical theme. (It is a boat after all. But you probably won't forget: The gently swaying light fixtures are a charming reminder that your room is on the water.) The paneled wood walls make some rooms seem dark, but a nice view of the water makes up for it—ask ahead, as some rooms also face a busy street. The shared toilets and showers are clean and basic.

About a ten-minute walk to the middle of both Gamla Stan and Södermalm, the location is great for exploring the nightlife of Söder and the history of the Old Town.

Note: The Red Boat Mälaren can’t really be considered family-friendly. There is a minimum age requirement of 10 years, and the hotel seems especially popular with young backpackers and (concert-goers with the occasional business traveler mixed in).

Also Note: A new rail line is being built very close to the Red Boat Mälaren and construction will continue until 2017. The construction is visible, but not an inconvenience.