Elite Stadshotellet Västerås

We were able to walk downtown to the university, where my daughter is doing an exchange program, and there are lots of shops and several good restaurants nearby. The location is great for getting around downtown. Our standard room had a view of the chapel. It was clean and cozy, just right for two, and the daily breakfast buffet had lots to choose from: waffles you make yourself, bread and jams, eggs, bacon, meatballs, sandwich and salad ingredients, juices, milk, coffee, and tea. The building is old, but many areas have been remodeled and updated. The lobby is classic and comfortable, and the ballrooms are beautiful. The hallway smelled musty, and weekend noise at night was obnoxious, going on until 2 or 3 am. That wasn't the hotel's fault, but bring earplugs. I'd stay again. It's fun to be in historic buildings with character.

The main issue was my first-floor room. It was nice enough, but there wasn't any fresh air, and the bathroom smell made it seem like someone had just washed a dog in there. I couldn't open the windows to air it out because the road was right outside and people walked very close to them. I had reserved parking and had no trouble with that, and the staff were helpful. The building itself is beautiful, right in the city center, with a great lobby and a nice restaurant serving breakfast. Breakfast was good. Some rooms have been fixed up and look okay, while others need a bit of work.

The location is excellent, and I could see myself staying there again. The old building has lots of character, and the facilities are nice. I liked the pillow menu. The bathroom was small and cramped, though, as you'd expect in an older building. You need to book the sauna, and I couldn't find the way to the fifth floor until I realized you have to take the lift. I'd been using the stairs during my stay. Housekeeping didn't leave fresh tea options, so I had to ask for more. Breakfast was adequate but nothing special, and I missed having something filling like porridge. The fruit seemed to lack flavor, though maybe that's normal in Sweden.

Check-in was quick and easy, and the receptionist was super nice and welcoming. The room was spacious and clean, with a minibar, which is nice to have even though I never use it. It's a beautiful hotel in a lovely area. Parking was a bit hard, but that doesn't take away from the five stars. I'll stay here next time I'm in the area.